DESTINATION TO NORTH SIKKIM

Places To Visit North  Sikkim

Lachung 

It is located at a distance of around 120 km. from Gangtok, Lachung is another beautiful town in Sikkim. Known for it's snow - covered peaks, sparking waterfalls and gurgling streams, the town makes for a perfect destination in Sikkim to have a relaxing stay amidst picturesque beauty. 

Following are some of the tourist attractions that must be included in your itineraries during your visit to Lachung.

• Lachung Gompa - One of the most beautiful Gompas and Buddhist Monasteries in Sikkim, the Lachung Gompa is a must visit during your vacation in North Sikkim. It is situated on a hill top amidst serene settings of apple and peach orchards with a stunning backdrop of towering Himalayan peaks, a visit to the Monastery will surely provided you a feel of peace and tranquility.

Lachung Gompa

• Yumthang Valley - Which is also known as the "Valley of Flowers", this picturesque valley lies at an elevation of around 11,600 ft. above sea level. Winding mountainous roads from Lachung to Yumthang Valley take you through enchanting vistas of sparkling streams, lush slopes and stretches of colourful mountain flowers. As you reach the valley, you are sure to be taken away with it's breath - taking panoramas of vibrant flowers spread across wide stretches of the valley with a mountain river flowing through it's middle and snow - capped peaks of "Pauhunri" and "Shundu Tsenpa" overlooking the valley from a distance. The valley is also home to the "Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary" that is famous for it's numerous species of Rhododendron. The valley and sanctuary gets painted in hues of red during April - May when all these variteies of Rhododendrons are in full bloom - it really is a sight to behold.

Yumthang Valley

• Yumesamdong (Zero Point) - From Yumthang Valley, tourists can further take a drive or trek up to the Zero Point (end of Yumthang Valley), which remains covered in snow throughout the year. If you are lucky enough, you can experience fresh snowfall even in the month of June. Snow and show everywhere in the region is the major draw for tourists visiting this place. Please note that you need to take the inner line permit from the Army authorities before visiting the Zero Point.

Yumesamdong (Zero Point)

• Katao - Blessed with panoramic beauty, Katao Valley lies at  a distance of around 28 km. from Lachung and is often visited by adventure buffs wanting to try their hands at activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Again, the area lies under a restricted zone and one needs to obtain Army permissions before visiting here.

Katao

Lachen

It is  another picturesque hamlet in North of Sikkim, India, Lachen lies at a distance of 125km. from Gangtok. Undulated mountain air, stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and tranquil settings of this small hamlet attract thousands of tourists every year. Often included in itineraries along with Lachung, the town acts as a base to some of the popular Eastern Himalayan treks to Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta Valley and Mt. Kanchenjunga. Special permission need to be taken to enter Lachen. 

Here are some popular attractions that should not be missed during your visit to there beautiful place.

• Gurudongmar Lake - It is one of the highest alpine lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake is not only known for its particular beauty, but is also revered as a sacred lake by Buddhists, Hindus and Sikhs. The lake can be reached via a rugged terrain with little vegetation and human population. Occasional views of high alpine pastures covered with Rhododendron and Yaks and Sheep grazing can be seen from a distance. As you reach the lake, you are welcomed by mesmerizing views of the emerald blue lake surrounded with snow covered peaks of the Eastern Himalayas. It is located in close proximity to the China Border, visit to lake is not permitted for foreign tourists and even Indian nationals require special permission from the Indian Army.

Gurudongmar Lake

• Cholamu Lake - Which is also known as the "Tso Lhamu Lake" , it lies at a distance of 6 km. from the Gurudongmar Lake and is considered to be the highest lake in India. The trek to Cholamu Lake is really challenging with it's rough terrain and very cold weather conditions. But, as you reach the lake, the surreal experience just cannot be described in words - crystal clear azure blue waters, exquisite surroundings and an amazing panorama of the majestic mountains is enough to make you jaws drop.

Cholamu Lake

• Chopta Valley - It enroute to Gurudongmar Lake, lies the Chopta Valley which is picturesque valley known for it's alpine orchards, enthralling lakes and snow - capped Himalayan peaks. A stay at the valley for an hour or so is sure to make you feel the nature at it's best.

Chopta Lake