Have you ever been to a place that feels like a dream? A place so quiet and untouched that you wonder if time moves slower there? That’s exactly how we felt when we visited. A small but beautiful village in North Sikkim.
North Sikkim – Lachen is not just a place to visit—it’s an experience. The tall mountains, the fresh cold air, the simple village life, and the warmth of the people make it feel special. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop, breathe, and enjoy the moment.
If you’re planning a trip to North Sikkim, let us take you through everything you need to know about Lachen—how to get there, what to see, and what to expect in this hidden paradise.
Getting to Lachen: The Journey is an Adventure Itself
Our trip starts from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The drive itself is nothing short of thrilling—a rollercoaster ride through the mountains! The roads are bumpy, winding, and sometimes unpredictable, but every turn brings a new view that takes your breath away.
The journey takes about 6-7 hours, covering approximately 120 km. Along the way, we passed through Phodong, Mangan, and Chungthang, each offering glimpses into the simple yet vibrant lives of the locals. At Chungthang, the road splits—one way leads to Lachung, and the other takes you to Lachen.
As we drove further, the air became cooler, the roads narrower, and the mountains taller. The stunning Teesta River flowed alongside us, its waters shifting between shades of sapphire blue and emerald green. We made a quick stop at Tingchim, where we had a simple but hearty lunch—rice, lentils, and some local vegetables. It was a humble meal, but in the cold mountain air, it felt like the best food we had ever tasted!
If you’re lucky, your driver might stop at Naga Waterfalls, a beautiful cascading fall that looks straight out of a postcard. However, once you reach Toong Check Post, be ready to show your permits. Since Lachen is near the Indo-Tibetan border, permits are mandatory for all travellers.
After what felt like an endless ride, we finally reached Lachen our home for the next couple of days.
First Impressions: Welcome to Lachen
Situated at an altitude of 9,000 feet (2,750 meters), Lachen truly lives up to its name, which means “Big Pass” in Tibetan. It’s a small village with only about 250 houses, but its beauty is immense.
The moment we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by crisp, cold air and silent surroundings -a contrast to the noisy cities we had left behind. The village looked like something from a fairy tale, with its traditional wooden houses, narrow winding paths, and Lachen Chu, a small mountain stream cutting through the valley.
It was already evening, and as we checked into our cozy homestay, we were handed steaming cups of tea. Trust us—drink it immediately, because within minutes, the tea turns cold in the freezing air!
Why Visit Lachen? The Gateway to Gurudongmar Lake
It is not just a destination—it’s the gateway to one of the most breathtaking places on Earth—Gurudongmar Lake.
The next morning, we woke up before dawn, layered ourselves with warm clothes, and set off on an early morning drive to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at almost 18000 feet (5,430 meters). The journey is rough and challenging, but the moment you see the crystal-clear blue waters of the lake, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, you realize that every bump in the road was worth it.
Many people visit solely for Gurudongmar Lake, but this village has a charm of its own. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the outside world, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and just be in the moment.
Other Tourist Places Near Lachen
While Gurudongmar Lake is the biggest attraction, there are several other places you shouldn’t miss:
1. Lachen Village – The Starting Point
Your adventure begins in Lachen Village, a peaceful place filled with traditional wooden houses, fluttering prayer flags, and friendly locals. Take a morning walk around the village, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and visit the small market. Try the local momos and butter tea before heading towards your next stop. It is more than just a gateway—it’s an experience of Sikkimese culture and warmth.
What to do: Explore the village, try local food, shop for handicrafts.
2. Lachen Monastery – A Moment of Peace
A short walk from the village brings you to Lachen Monastery, a serene place filled with colorful murals, prayer wheels, and monks chanting in harmony. This centuries-old Buddhist monastery is a perfect spot to sit quietly, meditate, or spin the prayer wheels for good luck. The views from here are breathtaking, offering a perfect introduction to Lachen’s beauty.
What to do: Meditate, talk to monks, click pictures, admire the artwork.
3. Thangu Valley – A Meadow in the Sky
After soaking in the monastery’s peace, drive towards Thangu Valley, around 30 km from Lachen. Located at an altitude of 13,000 feet, this valley is covered in vibrant wildflowers in summer and thick snow in winter. It’s a great place for a short nature walk, with tiny wooden houses and grazing yaks adding to its charm.
What to do: Trek, enjoy a picnic, spot local wildlife, click stunning photos.
4. Chopta Valley – A Paradise for Trekkers
From Thangu Valley, continue your journey to Chopta Valley, a hidden treasure of Lachen. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and gushing streams, this valley is a dream for trekkers and photographers. The valley changes colors with the seasons—lush green in summer and white with snow in winter. It’s the perfect place to soak in nature’s beauty.
What to do: Trek, camp under the stars, birdwatch, enjoy the silence of the mountains.
5. Gurudongmar Lake – The Crown Jewel of Lachen
The next stop is Gurudongmar Lake one of the most famous places to visit. Located at 18,000 feet, it is one of the highest lakes in the world. As you reach, you’ll be amazed by the crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding snowy peaks. Despite the extreme cold, a part of the lake never freezes, making it even more magical. It’s considered a holy lake by Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs.
What to do: Take in the view, offer a prayer, feel the spiritual energy of the place.
6. Tso Lhamu Lake – A Hidden Gem
If you love adventure, take a trip to Tso Lhamu Lake, just a short drive from Gurudongmar Lake. This lesser-known lake is equally mesmerizing, with its untouched beauty and mirror-like waters reflecting the blue sky. Since it’s close to the Indo-Tibetan border, you need special permits, but if you can visit, it’s totally worth it.
What to do: Watch the sunrise, take stunning landscape photos, enjoy the silence.
7. Green Lake – A Trekker’s Dream
For adventure seekers, Green Lake is a must-visit. This high-altitude lake is reached by trekking through thick forests, alpine meadows, and glacial streams. The journey is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range along the way. The emerald-green water and the peaceful surroundings make it a paradise for nature lovers.
What to do: Trekking, camping, photography, enjoy breathtaking views.
8. Lhonak Valley – Into the Wilderness
For those who love remote and untouched landscapes, Lhonak Valley is a dream destination. This valley is reached by a trek from Green Lake and offers some of the most surreal views in North Sikkim. Snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, and complete silence make it feel like another world. It’s an ideal place for those who truly want to escape into nature.
What to do: Trekking, camping, photography, stargazing at night.
9. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary – A Burst of Colors
As you start making your way back towards Lachen, stop at the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. If you visit between April and July, you’ll see the entire valley covered in colorful rhododendron flowers. This place is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. With over 40 species of rhododendrons, it’s like walking through a floral dreamland.
What to do: Walk through flower-filled trails, birdwatch, take lots of pictures.
10. Angora Rabbit Farm – A Unique Experience
End your Lachen journey with a visit to the Angora Rabbit Farm. This small but charming farm near Gangtok is home to fluffy Angora rabbits, known for their soft wool. You can learn how their wool is turned into beautiful handicrafts and even buy souvenirs made of Angora wool. It’s a fun and unique experience before heading back.
What to do: Meet Angora rabbits, learn about wool production, shop for handmade woolen products.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Lachen
Lachen experiences extreme weather, so picking the right time to visit is crucial.
October to June: The best months to visit are October to June, as the weather is mostly stable.
March to June (Summer): Pleasant weather, temperatures between 10°C to 28°C. Great for sightseeing and exploring the village.
July to September (Monsoon): Heavy rains and landslides make travel difficult. It’s best to avoid this season.
October to February (Winter): If you love snow, this is the best time! Temperatures drop to 5°C to -15°C, and the entire village gets covered in a white blanket of snow. However, it gets extremely cold, so pack wisely.
We visited in January and it was perfect winter we ever experiencd! The skies were clear, the air was crisp, and we even saw light snowfall.
A Few Travel Tips for Lachen
1. Carry Enough Warm Clothes – Even in summer, Lachen is cold. Pack woolen sweaters, gloves, and a good quality jacket.
2. Prepare for AltitudeSickness – Since Lachen is at a high altitude, some people might experience mild dizziness. Keep medicines like Diamox handy.
3. No ATMs – There are no/lesser number of ATMs in Lachen, so carry enough cash for your expenses.
4. Limited Mobile Network – Only BSNL and Airtel postpaid SIMs work here technically, and even those can be unreliable. Enjoy the digital detox!
5. Book Permits in Advance – Since Lachen is near the border, permits are mandatory. Your tour operator will usually arrange them, but make sure to check beforehand.
Why We Fell in Love with Lachen
It is not just another hill station—it’s an experience that stays with you. From the thrilling journey through North Sikkim to the quiet beauty of Gurudongmar Lake, everything about this place is magical. The locals, the landscapes, the silence—it all makes you feel like you’ve entered a different world. If you’re looking for a destination that offers peace, adventure, and raw natural beauty, Lachen is the place to be. Trust us, once you visit, you’ll carry a piece of it in your heart forever.
So, when are we planning our Lachen trip together?
