Sikkim, a state cradled in the Himalayas, is a symphony of nature’s wonders. Beyond the vibrant tapestry of cultures and snow-capped peaks, Sikkim boasts a treasure trove of serene lakes and viewpoints that will leave you spellbound. Here’s a curated list of 10 such wondering lakes, offering details about their unique charm and location
Gurudongmar Lake: The World’s Highest
Gurudongmar Lake, perched at a staggering altitude of 17,800 feet, holds the distinction of being one of the highest lakes in the world. Located close to the Tibetan border, this lake is a shimmering jewel amidst the stark beauty of the cold desert. Legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava, a revered Buddhist saint, blessed the lake, making its waters sacred. The serene turquoise water reflects the snow-capped peaks, creating a picture-perfect vista. Buddhist flags flutter in the wind, adding a touch of color to the surrounding landscape.
Location: Located in North Sikkim, close to the Tibetan border, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the main attractions among North Sikkim tourist places.
Distance from Gangtok: Gurudongmar Lake is approximately 170 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its serene turquoise waters, snow-capped mountain peaks reflected on its surface, and colorful Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
How to Reach There: Reaching Gurudongmar Lake requires a challenging journey due to its high altitude and remote location. You can take a hired cab from Gangtok or Mangan to reach Lachung, a small town serving as the base camp for Gurudongmar Lake. From Lachung, you can hire a four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach the lake.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is during the summer months (May to June) and early fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the lake is accessible. However, be prepared for cold temperatures even during these months. Gurudongmar Lake remains frozen throughout most of the winter.
Opening Date: Gurudongmar Lake is not subject to seasonal closures and can be visited year-round, weather permitting.
Tsomgo Lake: A Canvas of Colors
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, lies at an elevation of 12,400 feet near the famous Yumesamdong valley. Unlike Gurudongmar’s serene turquoise, Tsomgo Lake presents a mesmerizing spectacle of changing colors. The glacial waters shift hues throughout the day, reflecting the vibrant sky and surrounding landscape. During spring, the area surrounding the lake comes alive with a riot of colors as wildflowers bloom in abundance.
Location: Tsomgo Lake is situated in the East Sikkim district, near the Yumesamdong valley.
Distance from Gangtok: Tsomgo Lake is approximately 38 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its ever-changing colors, vibrant wildflowers during spring, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
How to Reach There: Tsomgo Lake is easily accessible from Gangtok by shared taxis or hired cabs. The road to the lake can be crowded, especially during peak season.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tsomgo Lake is during the spring months (April to May) when the surrounding area is ablaze with wildflowers, However, be aware that the lake may be inaccessible due to snowfall during winter.
Opening Date: Tsomgo Lake is not subject to seasonal closures and can be visited year-round, weather permitting.
Khecheopalri Lake: Wish Fulfilling Waters
Khecheopalri Lake, situated at an altitude of 5,600 feet, is a sacred lake revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Encircled by dense forests, this oval-shaped lake is believed to possess wish-fulfilling powers. Locals tie colorful prayer flags around the perimeter, imbuing the air with a sense of serenity. A small shrine dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava sits on the lakeshore, further emphasizing the lake’s spiritual significance.
Location: Khecheopalri Lake is located in the West Sikkim district, near the village of Pelling.
Distance from Gangtok: Khecheopalri Lake is approximately 147 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its serene atmosphere, colorful prayer flags, surrounding forests, and the spiritual significance held by both Buddhists and Hindus.
How to Reach There: You can reach Khecheopalri Lake by taking a taxi or shared jeep from Pelling. The journey involves a scenic ride through mountains.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Khecheopalri Lake is during the spring months (March to May) when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding landscape is blooming. Opening Date: Khecheopalri Lake is open to visitors year-round.
Yaksum Lake: Birthplace of Sikkim
Yaksum, nestled at an altitude of 8,000 feet, is a historical and scenic lake. This pear-shaped lake holds immense significance as the legendary birthplace of Sikkim. Lush greenery surrounds the lake, creating a picture of tranquility. Historical records suggest that the first Sikkimese king established his capital near Yaksum, making it a place steeped in history.
Location: Yaksum Lake is situated in the West Sikkim district, near the village of Yuksam.
Distance from Gangtok: Yaksum Lake is approximately 124 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its historical significance, tranquil surroundings, and lush green mountains reflected on its surface.
How to Reach There: You can reach Yaksum Lake by taking a taxi or shared jeep from Geyzing. The journey involves a scenic ride through mountains.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Yaksum Lake is during the spring months (March to May) when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding landscape is blooming. The lake can be visited year-round, but winters can get cold not recommended.
Opening Date: Yaksum Lake is open to visitors year-round.
Green Lake: A Haven for Adventure
Green Lake, located near Mangan, is a hidden gem gaining popularity among adventure enthusiasts. This emerald green lake, surrounded by rolling hills, offers breathtaking views and a sense of serenity. Kayaking and paddle boating are popular activities on the lake, allowing visitors to experience its beauty from a unique perspective.
Location: Green Lake is situated in the North Sikkim district, near the town of Mangan.
Distance from Gangtok: Green Lake is approximately 90 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its vibrant green color, surrounding hills, and opportunities for adventure activities.
How to Reach There: You can reach Green Lake by taking a taxi from Mangan. The journey involves a scenic ride through mountains.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Green Lake is during the spring months (March to May) when the weather is pleasant and the lake is ideal for kayaking and paddle boating.
Opening Date: Green Lake is open to visitors year-round, but boating activities may be limited during winter months due to colder temperatures.
Aritar Lake: A Paradise for Birdwatchers
Aritar Lake, nestled amidst the scenic hills of East Sikkim, is a haven for birdwatchers. This man-made lake attracts a diverse range of avian species, making it a paradise for those who love observing feathered friends. The surrounding hills offer opportunities for trekking and nature walks, providing a complete escape into nature’s embrace.
Location: Aritar Lake is situated in the East Sikkim district, near the town of Aritar.
Distance from Gangtok: Aritar Lake is approximately 65 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its rich birdlife, scenic location amidst hills, and opportunities for trekking and nature walks.
How to Reach There: You can reach Aritar Lake by taking a taxi from Gangtok or Mangan. The journey involves a scenic ride through mountains.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Aritar Lake for birdwatching is during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) when there’s higher bird activity. The lake can be visited year-round, but winters can get cold not advised to visit.
Opening Date: Aritar Lake is open to visitors year-round.
Seven Sisters Lake: A Cluster of Enchantment
Seven Sisters Lake, a cluster of seven interconnected lakes, lies close to Gurudongmar Lake. Each of these lakes is believed to represent one of the seven sisters who sacrificed themselves for the well-being of their kingdom. The mystical beauty of these interconnected lakes, nestled amidst the rugged landscape, leaves a lasting impression.
Location: Seven Sisters Lake is situated in the North Sikkim district, close to Gurudongmar Lake.
Distance from Gangtok: Seven Sisters Lake is approximately 180 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Due to its location and challenging road conditions, reaching Seven Sisters Lake is more difficult than other lakes on this list.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its mystical story, the unique cluster formation, and the surrounding rugged mountains.
How to Reach There: Reaching Seven Sisters Lake requires a challenging journey due to its high altitude and remote location. Similar to Gurudongmar Lake, you can take a hired cab from Gangtok or Mangan to reach Lachung. From Lachung, you’ll need to arrange special permission and a four-wheel-drive vehicle with an experienced driver to navigate the challenging terrain.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Seven Sisters Lake is during the summer months (May to June) when the weather is pleasant and the possibility of encountering snow is lower. Seven Sisters Lake remains frozen throughout most of the winter.
Opening Date: Seven Sisters Lake is not subject to seasonal closures and can be visited year-round, weather permitting. However, due to the challenging accessibility, visiting during the monsoon season (July to September) is not recommended.
Zero Point Lake: A Panoramic Marvel
Zero Point Lake, situated near Yumesamdong, is a small lake offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The name “Zero Point” refers to the fact that the elevation here is close to the reading on a barometer set to sea level. The lake, though small, reflects the majestic mountains, creating a picture-perfect postcard moment.
Location: Zero Point Lake is located in the East Sikkim district, near the Yumesamdong valley.
Distance from Gangtok: Zero Point Lake is approximately 58 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. However, reaching the lake itself requires covering an additional distance from Yumesamdong, which can be done by foot or pony ride.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in the panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, its reflection on the water surface, and the unique name associated with its elevation.
How to Reach There: You can reach Yumesamdong from Gangtok by shared taxis or hired cabs. From Yumesamdong, you can either trek or take a pony ride to reach Zero Point Lake. Be aware that altitude sickness can be a concern at this high elevation.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Zero Point Lake is during the spring months (April to May) when the weather is pleasant and offers clear views. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions at high altitude. The lake may be inaccessible due to snowfall during winter months.
Opening Date: Zero Point Lake is not subject to seasonal closures and can be visited year-round, weather permitting. However, accessibility can be limited during winter due to snow.
Lungtse Chu (Floating Lake): A Seasonal Wonder
Lungtse Chu, also known as the Floating Lake, is a seasonal marvel located in the West Sikkim district. During the monsoon season (July to September), the rising water levels of the River Rangit create the illusion of a lake floating on a meadow. This unique phenomenon attracts visitors seeking a glimpse of this natural wonder.
Location: Lungtse Chu is situated in the West Sikkim district, near the village of Uttarey.
Distance from Gangtok: Lungtse Chu is approximately 130 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its unique seasonal appearance of floating on a meadow, surrounded by lush greenery.
How to Reach There: You can reach Lungtse Chu by taking a taxi from Geyzing or Darjeeling. The journey involves a scenic ride through mountains.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Lungtse Chu is during the monsoon season (July to September) when the water levels are high enough to create the floating effect. However, be aware of potential landslides and roadblocks during monsoon months.
Opening Date: Lungtse Chu is not subject to specific closures, but witnessing the floating lake depends on the monsoon season and water levels.
Sanglaphu Cho Lake: A New Discovery
Sanglaphu Cho Lake, recently opened to the public, is a hidden gem nestled at an altitude of 16,670 feet. Located close to Yumesamdong, this pristine lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Location: Sanglaphu Cho Lake is situated in the East Sikkim district, near the Yumesamdong valley.
Distance from Gangtok: Sanglaphu Cho Lake is approximately 58 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. However, reaching the lake itself requires covering an additional distance from Yumesamdong, similar to Zero Point Lake.
Beauty Attraction: The lake’s beauty lies in its remoteness, pristine condition, and the majestic Himalayan backdrop.
How to Reach There: You can reach Yumesamdong from Gangtok by shared taxis or hired cabs. From Yumesamdong, you’ll likely need to trek or take a pony ride to reach Sangla Phu Cho Lake, subject to availability and weather conditions due to the high altitude.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Sangla Phu Cho Lake might be during the summer months (May to June) when the weather is pleasant and offers clear views. However, due to the lake’s recent opening and high altitude location, specific details on the ideal visiting season may be limited.
Opening Date: Sanglaphu Cho Lake was recently opened to the public, but specific information on the opening date is unavailable. It’s advisable to consult with local tourism authorities or experienced trekking guides before planning a visit to ensure updated information on accessibility and weather conditions.
