Exploring the Top Tourist Places in Lachen: Lakes, Valleys, and Monasteries

Nestled amidst the pristine mountains of North Sikkim, Lachen is a peaceful Himalayan village that charms every traveller with its unspoiled beauty and simple mountain life. Known as the gateway to Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley, Lachen is not just a stopover but a destination with incredible natural wonders and cultural heritage. This guide takes you through the Top Tourist Places in Lachen – from tranquil lakes to scenic valleys and spiritual monasteries – that will make your Sikkim trip unforgettable.

1. Gurudongmar Lake

One of the most breathtaking attractions among the Top Tourist Places in Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake lies at an altitude of 17,800 feet. Surrounded by barren mountains, this sacred glacial lake is believed to have been blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, and its turquoise waters remain partially unfrozen even in harsh winters. The journey to the lake through rugged landscapes, army camps, and snow-clad peaks is an adventure in itself. Due to its high altitude, visitors are advised to acclimatise in Lachen before visiting.

2. Chopta Valley

Located on the way to Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta Valley is a hidden gem that remains untouched by commercial tourism. Known for its rolling alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and views of snow-covered peaks, the valley turns vibrant with blooming flowers in spring. It is perfect for nature walks, photography, and experiencing the serenity of the Himalayas, making it one of the Top Tourist Places in Lachen.

3. Lachen Monastery

Also known as Ngodrub Choling Monastery, this 19th-century Nyingma Buddhist monastery is perched on a hill overlooking Lachen village. The colourful prayer flags fluttering in the cold breeze, intricate murals, and peaceful environment offer visitors a spiritual retreat. The monastery is a centre of cultural and religious activities for the local community, adding cultural depth to your Lachen exploration.

4. Thangu Valley

Thangu Valley is another scenic spot among the Top Tourist Places in Lachen. Situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet, it is often covered in snow, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, streams, and distant Himalayan peaks. Thangu serves as an acclimatisation point for travellers heading to Gurudongmar Lake and is a great place to experience traditional Tibetan-influenced village life.

5. Green Lake Trek

For adventure seekers, the Green Lake trek is a thrilling yet lesser-explored trail starting from Lachen. It takes you to the base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga through dense forests, meadows, and rhododendron-covered slopes. Though it requires prior permission and good physical fitness, the trek offers panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range and a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the region.

6. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

Although located closer to Lachung, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary can be visited en route from Lachen if you are exploring Yumthang Valley. Home to over 40 species of rhododendrons, the sanctuary blooms into a colourful paradise between April and May, attracting nature enthusiasts, botanists, and photographers from across the world.

7. Chopta Chu

Flowing through Chopta Valley, Chopta Chu is a pristine Himalayan river that enhances the valley’s beauty with its crystal-clear waters. The sight of the river meandering through alpine meadows against the backdrop of snow peaks is mesmerising. It is an ideal spot for quiet contemplation, photography, or simply soaking in nature’s raw splendour.

8. Gurudongmar Viewpoint

Before reaching Gurudongmar Lake, this viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the barren high-altitude landscapes dotted with army camps and prayer flags fluttering against the fierce winds. Travellers often stop here to acclimatise and capture stunning photographs before continuing their journey to the lake.

9. Lachen Village Exploration

Apart from these natural wonders and monasteries, simply walking through Lachen village is an experience in itself. The traditional wooden houses, smiling locals from the Bhutia and Lepcha communities, yaks grazing in the meadows, and authentic Sikkimese food like thukpa and momo offer insights into their unique mountain lifestyle.

Best Time to Visit Lachen

The best time to explore the Top Tourist Places in Lachen is between March and June when the valleys are filled with flowers and the weather is pleasant, and from October to December when the skies are clear with stunning views of snow-covered peaks. Winter months from January to February bring heavy snowfall, turning Lachen into a white wonderland but restricting access to high-altitude spots like Gurudongmar Lake.

How to Reach Lachen

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra (200 km). From there, you can hire a taxi to reach Gangtok and further to Lachen.
  
• By Train: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the closest railway station.
  
• By Road: Lachen is about 120 km from Gangtok and takes 5-6 hours via shared jeeps or private taxis operated by Sikkim Tourism-approved operators.
  

Travel Tips

• Acclimatise in Lachen before visiting high-altitude places to avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
  
• Carry sufficient woollen clothing, gloves, and caps even during summer months.
  
• Photography is restricted in army areas; always follow your guide’s instructions.
  
• Keep your permits ready, as entry to North Sikkim requires special permits arranged by your travel agent.
  

Final Thoughts

Lachen is not just a base to visit Gurudongmar Lake but a destination that offers a complete Himalayan experience – spiritual monasteries, pristine lakes, high-altitude valleys, and heart-warming village culture. Visiting the Top Tourist Places in Lachen will leave you spellbound by nature’s beauty and offer you moments of peace, adventure, and cultural connection.

So, on your next trip to Sikkim, make sure Lachen finds a special place on your itinerary for an unforgettable journey into the magical landscapes of North Sikkim.