North Sikkim — Lachen & Gurudongmar Lake

Sacred Lakes at 17,000 Feet — The Roof of Sikkim

5N/6D Sikkim Moderate 17,100 ft (Gurudongmar)

Duration5N/6D

Start / EndNJP / Bagdogra

Group Size2–12 persons

Best TimeMar–Jun, Oct–Dec

Places covered: GangtokLachenGurudongmar LakeChopta ValleyLachungYumthangZero Point

Overview

Venture deep into North Sikkim's restricted zone to stand at the edge of Gurudongmar Lake — one of the highest lakes in the world, sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs alike. This tour combines the alpine charm of Lachen village, the high-altitude drama of Gurudongmar at 17,100 ft, the Chopta Valley, and the legendary Yumthang Valley. Only accessible by special permit, this is Sikkim at its most raw and majestic. Note: Indian nationals only beyond Thangu.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Pick up from NJP/Bagdogra, transfer to Gangtok through the Teesta valley. Check in and relax. Evening explore MG Marg.

125 km 4.5 hours 5,500 ft Dinner Hotel in Gangtok

Day 2

Drive north through Mangan and Chungthang to Lachen — a remote Lepcha village at 8,838 ft. Scenic gorges, waterfalls, Singhik Viewpoint. Early dinner and rest — tomorrow's wake-up is 3 AM.

130 km 6 hours 8,838 ft Breakfast, Dinner Lodge in Lachen

Day 3

3 AM departure for Gurudongmar Lake (17,100 ft). Pre-dawn climb through Thangu and high-altitude moonscape. Arrive at sunrise — impossibly blue waters ringed by snow peaks. Return to Lachen for breakfast, drive to Lachung.

100 km 7 hours 17,100 ft Breakfast, Dinner Lodge in Lachung

Day 4

Drive to Yumthang Valley and continue to Zero Point (15,300 ft). Rhododendron forests, snow fields, hot springs. Return to Lachung. Visit local gompa.

50 km 4 hours 15,300 ft Breakfast, Dinner Lodge in Lachung

Day 5

Return drive with stops at Naga Waterfalls and Singhik Viewpoint. Afternoon free for shopping. Farewell dinner.

120 km 5 hours 5,500 ft Breakfast, Dinner Hotel in Gangtok

Day 6

Transfer to NJP/Bagdogra.

125 km 4.5 hours Breakfast

What's Included

Inclusions

Hotel/lodge accommodation
All meals (Breakfast & Dinner daily)
Airport/station pickup and drop (NJP/Bagdogra)
All sightseeing by private vehicle
All applicable permits
Driver allowance & parking
All applicable taxes

Exclusions

Airfare / train fare
Lunch during sightseeing
Personal expenses & tips
Travel insurance
Adventure activities (optional)
Anything not mentioned in inclusions

Things to Carry

Warm layered clothing Sunscreen & sunglasses Comfortable walking shoes Power bank & camera Basic medicines & first-aid Valid ID proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID) 4 passport-size photos for permits

Frequently Asked Questions

At 17,100 ft altitude sickness is a real risk. We don't recommend this for anyone with heart conditions, severe asthma, or blood pressure issues. Acclimatize in Gangtok first.

No. Foreign nationals are NOT permitted beyond Thangu due to proximity to the China border. Indian nationals only with valid ID.

The road to Gurudongmar is unpaved and rough beyond Thangu. Our experienced drivers handle it daily — wear comfortable clothing and expect a bumpy but spectacular ride.