Lachen, a small town towards Gurudongmar Lake
Destination: Lachen
If you are looking for a quiet getaway near the mountains to enjoy your summer break, then Lachen is the perfect place for you. Located in North Sikkim, Lachen is one of the most loved tourist destinations. This charming settlement is the perfect place to spend inconceivable holidays since it is surrounded by indescribable Himalayan beauty and biodiversity. Most North Sikkim tour packages, including Lachen to Lachung, offer a view of the stunning mountain range, a photographic vista of the beautifully arranged alpine meadows, charming monasteries, and waterways cascading down from picturesque valleys.
Mandatory Documents required to visit Lachen:
It should be noted that you need a permit to enter Lachen because of its critical location. Thankfully, most of the Lachen tour packages include the provision of such a permit. You must always carry your voter id, driver’s permit, passport, and four photocopies of your passport-sized photo with you. Please note that Aadhar card is not accepted as an identity proof for adults. Children must carry four photocopies of the Aadhar card and four photocopies of their passport-sized photo for the permit.
How to Reach Lachen:
Nearest Airport: The closest airport to Lachen is Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri.
Nearest Railway Station: The New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the closest railway station with good road connectivity to Lachen.
Nearest Bus Terminal: The Sikkim Nationalised Transport Bus Terminus is the closest to Lachen.
What to See in Lachen:
Gurudongmar Lake: Lying very close to the Indo-Tibetan border, the pristine Gurudongmar, is a magnificent lake at an elevation of 5425 m that reflects the ice-covered mountains around it on every side. For the people of the Buddhist and Sikh faiths, this lake has sacred importance. The fantastic thing about this holy lake is that in the midst of the coldest winters, a portion of it never freezes. The lake also has healing properties and provides a breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga range and Mt. Siniolchu. If you are a spiritual soul, lover of nature’s wonders or adventurous to the core, this lake should be an integral part of your Lachen tour.
Chopta Valley: This lovely valley in Northern Sikkim, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, orchids, flowing streams, and breathtaking scenery. The area is perfect for hikers and explorers due to its spectacular view of the mountains, pine-covered slopes, and grazing pastures around the river that meanders through the valley. Numerous birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to this location because it serves as a safe refuge for many endangered bird species and wildlife. The river has many fish for anglers and is a delight for water sports enthusiasts.
Kalapatthar: Primarily located in Nepal, with a little portion in Sikkim, Kalapatthar is known as “no man’s land.” Most North Sikkim tour packages do not include this location; however, if you’re looking for snow even in the summer months, you must include Kalapatthar in your itinerary. This tranquil location is free from congestion and offers a fantastic view of the white snow over the black rocks.
Lachen Monastery: A notable landmark in Lachen, this monastery was initially constructed in 1858 AD and later restored by the Sikkim Government. Against the serene backdrop and mesmerising vistas, this monastery offers a quick peek-a-boo of the Tibetan architectural style. Prayer flags and prayer wheels in various colours are displayed across the property. You would not want to miss the annual mask dance event here.
Best Time to Visit Lachen:
Visitors to Lachen may enjoy the lovely weather throughout the summer season, which lasts from March to May. In these months, the highest temperature can reach 30°C, and the lowest temperature is 10°C. The winters may be too chilly for a pleasant time, and monsoons bring with them the hazard of landslides in this region.
Where to Stay in Lachen/ Accommodation in Lachen:
The best part about this tiny hamlet is that it is still unknown to commercialisation. Hence most of the accommodation facilities here are offered by the local people, who can tell you about the place, routes and other delights you might miss out on otherwise. So why wait to stay in the wooden homes amidst the alpine pastures, and live like a local Lepcha in one of our finest homestays? Make your plan for a North Sikkim tour right away!