Lachung & Lachen Travel Blog | Gurudongmar Lake – North Sikkim’s Hidden Gem

🏔️ Introduction: Into the Heart of North Sikkim

Tucked away in the rugged Himalayas, Lachung and Lachen are two quaint mountain villages in North Sikkim, India. These remote gems offer surreal landscapes, majestic peaks, and access to one of the world’s highest lakes – Gurudongmar Lake (17,800 ft). If you're planning a Sikkim adventure, Lachung and Lachen are must-visit destinations.

📍 How to Reach Lachung & Lachen

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) – approx. 6-7 hrs drive to Gangtok.

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

From Gangtok: Shared or private jeeps available. Travel permits required for North Sikkim.

📝 Note: Foreign tourists are allowed till Lachen and Lachung but require special permits for visiting Gurudongmar Lake.

🛣️ Travel Itinerary: 5 Days in North Sikkim

Day 1 – Arrival in Gangtok

Check-in at your hotel

Get your ILP (Inner Line Permit) for North Sikkim

Local sightseeing (MG Road, Tashi View Point)

Day 2 – Gangtok to Lachen (approx. 6-7 hours)

Scenic drive through alpine forests and waterfalls

Stop at Seven Sisters Waterfall and Naga Waterfall

Night stay in Lachen (around 9,000 ft)

Day 3 – Gurudongmar Lake Excursion

Early morning drive (start by 4 AM) to Gurudongmar Lake

Witness the frozen lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks

Return to Lachen for lunch

Continue to Lachung (approx. 3 hours)

Overnight in Lachung

Day 4 – Yumthang Valley & Zero Point

Visit Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers

Optional trip to Zero Point (need special permission)

Relax in the hot springs

Return to Gangtok in the evening

Day 5 – Departure or Extend Your Stay

Leisure day or travel to next destination (Pelling, Ravangla, etc.)

🌟 Highlights & Must-See Places

✅ Gurudongmar Lake

Altitude: 17,800 ft

One of the highest lakes in the world

Frozen most of the year

Considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus

✅ Yumthang Valley

Blooming with rhododendrons (April-May)

Grazing yaks, snowfields, and hot springs

✅ Zero Point

Close to Indo-China border

Snow-covered most of the year

✅ Lachen & Lachung Villages

Authentic Sikkimese hospitality

Wooden houses, prayer flags, local monasteries

🌦️ Best Time to Visit

Season What to Expect

March - May Clear skies, rhododendron bloom, snow

Oct - Dec Crisp air, great visibility, less crowd

Jan - Feb Heavy snowfall, risky travel conditions

Monsoon (Jun - Sep) Landslides, not recommended

🧳 Travel Tips

Altitude sickness is common. Carry Diamox and acclimatize properly.

No ATMs beyond Mangan – carry cash.

Network connectivity is limited (BSNL and Jio may work).

Warm clothing is essential even in summer.

Permits required for Indian nationals and foreigners.

🛏️ Accommodation

Mostly homestays and basic hotels available in Lachen & Lachung. Book in advance during peak season.

Popular stays:

Apple Valley Inn (Lachung)

Hotel Lachen Deezong

Yarlam Resort (Lachung - upscale)

🍲 What to Eat

Thukpa, Momos, and local Sikkimese cuisine

Basic vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals are available at homestays

Carry dry snacks and bottled water during long drives

📸 Photography Tips

Best light: early morning and post-sunset

Drones are restricted in border areas – check local rules

Carry power banks and spare batteries (cold drains power fast)

💬 Final Thoughts

A journey to Lachen, Lachung, and Gurudongmar Lake is more than just a trip—it's an experience of untouched nature, spiritual serenity, and Himalayan majesty. Whether you’re a backpacker or a family traveler, North Sikkim’s magic will stay with you forever.