Best months
Per-day budget
₹1,700–2,900/day
Getting there
Lachen is a small village in North Sikkim at 2,750 m. It is the gateway to Gurudongmar Lake (5,180 m) — one of the highest lakes in the world, considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs and Hindus. The drive from Lachen to the lake crosses the Chopta Valley and Thangu village. Lachen is also the base for trekking in the Thangu Valley and for the Green Lake Base Camp trek. The village has a Buddhist monastery (Lachen Monastery) and traditional Lachungpa culture. It is a great destination for student backpackers looking for an affordable trip. The area is well-connected to major Indian cities by road, rail and air. The destination offers a mix of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers, from solo backpackers to small groups.
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Why go
Gurudongmar Lake (5,180 m, 70 km from Lachen) is a stunning turquoise lake set in a barren high-altitude landscape. The lake is named after Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Dongmar). The drive from Lachen passes Chopta Valley (4,000 m) with yaks and Thangu village. The lake is frozen from November to May — the best time to visit is June-October.
Lachen is the base for the Green Lake trek (a 7-8 day trek to 4,800 m). The Thangu Valley (5 km from Lachen) has trekking routes. The Lachen Monastery has a view of the village. The Lachungpa people are warm and welcoming.
How to reach
Lachen is 115 km from Gangtok (4-5 hours). Shared jeeps from Gangtok to Lachen (₹400-600) are the main transport. The road via Mangan is scenic. The nearest airport is Bagdogra (175 km). The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri.
What a day costs
| Budget hotel | ₹600–1,000 |
| Food | ₹200–300 |
| Gurudongmar jeep (shared) | ₹500–1,000 |
| Shared jeep from Gangtok | ₹400–600 |
When to go
May to October is best. June-October: Gurudongmar Lake is accessible. October: clearest mountain views. November-March: lake is frozen, heavy snow. April: road opens.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1: Gangtok to Lachen
Drive from Gangtok (4-5 hours). Check in. Visit Lachen Monastery. Rest for acclimatisation.
Day 2: Gurudongmar Lake
Start early (3-4 AM). Drive to Gurudongmar Lake (2.5 hours). Spend 30 min at the lake. Return via Chopta Valley. Depart to Gangtok or Lachung.
Student hacks
- ▸Combine Lachen with Lachung (Yumthang Valley) for a complete North Sikkim trip.
- ▸Gurudongmar Lake is free (no entry fee) — the shared jeep cost is the main expense.
- ▸Share a jeep for Gurudongmar (₹500-1,000 per person).
- ▸Carry warm clothes even in summer — Gurudongmar is freezing year-round.
- ▸Acclimatise in Lachen before going to the lake.
Safety & permits
Indian visitors need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for North Sikkim — arranged by tour operators or available in Gangtok. Altitude sickness is a risk at Gurudongmar (5,180 m) — acclimatise in Lachen for a night. Carry oxygen cylinders (available in Lachen).
FAQs
How do I reach Lachen from Delhi?
Flight to Bagdogra then Gangtok (4-5 hours) then shared jeep to Lachen.
What is Lachen known for?
Gateway to Gurudongmar Lake, high-altitude landscapes.
How many days do I need?
2 days (1 night in Lachen).