Lachen

Lachen: An Untouched Treasure of North Sikkim

Hidden deep within the pristine landscapes of North Sikkim, Lachen is a destination that feels untouched by time. Perched at an altitude of approximately 2,750 metres, this peaceful mountain village is surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, open valleys, and crisp alpine air. Far removed from the crowds of popular hill towns, Lachen offers a calm and immersive retreat for travellers seeking solitude, romance, or quality family time amidst nature.

Beyond its natural beauty, Lachen holds strategic importance as the gateway to some of North Sikkim’s most iconic attractions, including Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley. Its offbeat charm, combined with stunning scenery, makes Lachen an essential addition to any thoughtfully planned Sikkim itinerary.

With thoughtfully curated tour packages, travellers can enjoy a seamless journey to Lachen, experiencing tranquil surroundings, panoramic mountain views, and moments of pure relaxation, perfect for a short yet fulfilling getaway.

Top Places to Visit in and Around Lachen

Lachen Monastery: A visit to Lachen is incomplete without exploring the historic Lachen Monastery, also known as Ngodub Choling or Launching Gompa. Established in 1858, this sacred site reflects classic Tibetan architectural styles and houses a magnificent statue of Guru Padmasambhava. Set amidst greenery, fluttering prayer flags, and spinning prayer wheels, the monastery offers a deeply peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

Gurudongmar Lake: One of the highest and most revered lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake sits at an altitude of around 5,154 metres. Considered sacred by both Buddhists and Sikhs, the lake is surrounded by snow-clad mountains and pristine landscapes. During winter, its partially frozen surface creates a surreal and unforgettable sight.

Thangu Valley: Often referred to as the “Valley of Flowers,” Thangu Valley is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The region is adorned with alpine blooms, meandering streams, and rich wildlife. Snow-covered peaks form a dramatic backdrop, making this valley ideal for photography, trekking, and quiet moments of reflection.

Lachung Monastery: Located a short drive from Lachen, Lachung Monastery, also known as Samten Cheoling Monastery, is an important spiritual centre in North Sikkim. The monastery features sacred statues of Buddha, Guru Padmasambhava, and Chenrezig, which were brought from Tibet in the early 20th century. Its annual mask dance festival is a vibrant cultural celebration worth witnessing.

Chopta Valley: Just 13 kilometres from Lachen, Chopta Valley enchants visitors with its lush meadows, colourful wildflowers, and sweeping views of the Himalayas. This scenic valley is perfect for trekkers, birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone seeking peaceful encounters with nature.

Why Visit Lachen?

Lachen is an ideal summer destination, offering refreshing weather, spectacular Himalayan scenery, and untouched alpine landscapes. Its serene environment, cultural richness, and proximity to iconic high-altitude destinations make it a perfect escape for travellers looking to experience the quieter, more authentic side of Sikkim.

Prepare to be captivated by Lachen’s raw beauty, spiritual calm, and breathtaking surroundings. This hidden gem promises memories that linger long after the journey ends.

How to Reach Lachen, Sikkim

Reaching Lachen requires passing through Gangtok, as it serves as the main transit point. Since Lachen lies in a restricted area, travellers must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which is arranged through registered travel agents in Gangtok.

By Air: Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal is the nearest major airport to Lachen, located about 200 kilometres away. From Bagdogra, travellers can hire a taxi or take a shared vehicle to reach Gangtok. After spending a day in Gangtok to complete permit formalities, the journey to Lachen begins early the next morning.

The drive from Gangtok to Lachen covers roughly 107 kilometres and typically takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions. Although Pakyong Airport in Sikkim is closer to Lachen (approximately 135 kilometres), limited flight connectivity currently makes Bagdogra the more practical choice.

By Rail: For those who enjoy train travel, New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in Siliguri is the nearest railway station, situated around 155 kilometres from Lachen. NJP is well-connected to major Indian cities. From the station, travellers proceed by road to Gangtok and stay overnight to arrange the Inner Line Permit.

Once permits are secured, an early morning departure from Gangtok leads to Lachen, covering the scenic mountain route in about 4 to 5 hours.

By Road: Lachen is accessible by road from various parts of Sikkim, but Gangtok remains the essential stopover. The road journey from Gangtok to Lachen spans approximately 107 kilometres and takes around 4.5 hours.

Travellers are advised to spend at least one day in Gangtok to complete permit formalities before continuing their journey. While certain stretches of the road may be uneven, the route is exceptionally scenic, offering panoramic views of valleys, rivers, forests, and distant snow-covered peaks.