Lachen

Lachen, North Sikkim: Gateway to Gurudongmar & the Soul of the Himalayas

Tucked deep in the northern reaches of Sikkim, far from the bustling tourist crowds, lies a quaint little Himalayan village called Lachen. Perched at an altitude of 9,000 feet, Lachen is a place where time slows down, nature speaks softly, and the mountains seem to watch over everything with quiet grace.

Whether you’re seeking serenity, snow-capped landscapes, or spiritual awakening at the majestic Gurudongmar Lake, Lachen is your gateway to North Sikkim’s raw, unfiltered beauty.

📍 Where is Lachen Located?

Lachen is situated in the Mangan district of North Sikkim, about 120 km from Gangtok. The journey to Lachen itself is an adventure—filled with twisting mountain roads, gurgling rivers, pine forests, and waterfalls that make every moment memorable.

The name Lachen means “Big Pass” in the local Tibetan dialect, reflecting its historical role as a trade and transit point toward the Tibet border and high-altitude lakes.

🕰️ History and Cultural Significance of Lachen

Lachen is one of the few traditional mountain villages that has preserved its Tibetan Buddhist roots. It is home to the Lachenpas, a unique local community that follows age-old customs and traditions.

The village also plays host to the famous Thangu Valley and serves as the base for visits to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. Lachen also houses the historic Lachen Monastery, a peaceful spiritual retreat built in the 1850s.

Interestingly, Lachen is also associated with the annual yak race called “Thangu”, and the locals still live in quaint wooden homes with sloped roofs to withstand the snowy winters.

🌄 Why You Must Visit Lachen

1. Base to Gurudongmar Lake

Located at an altitude of 17,800 feet, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest and holiest lakes in the world. Lachen is the only access point to this legendary site, which is both breathtaking and spiritually charged.

2. Peace and Solitude

Unlike other hill stations, Lachen is quiet, uncrowded, and pristine. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from digital life and reconnect with nature.

3. Unique Local Culture

The Lachenpas are warm and welcoming, and visiting their monasteries, wooden homes, and local markets gives you a glimpse into an age-old Himalayan lifestyle.

4. Scenic Drives and Landscapes

From cascading waterfalls like Twin Falls and Seven Sister Waterfalls to the vibrant Thangu Valley, the journey to and from Lachen is as spectacular as the destination.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Lachen

Season	Highlights
April to June	Ideal weather, clear views of snow-covered peaks
July to September	Monsoon months; roads may face landslides
October to December	Crisp weather, early snow in higher altitudes
January to March	Heavy snow, road closures possible, surreal frozen views

Pro tip: For a snow-covered Lachen experience and a visit to frozen Gurudongmar Lake, late October to April is ideal (weather permitting).

🧭 How to Reach Lachen

By Air: Nearest airport is Pakyong (116 km) or Bagdogra Airport (200 km)
By Train: Nearest station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
From Gangtok: 6 to 7 hours by road via shared or private tour vehicles
Permit Required: Since Lachen is close to the Indo-China border, Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory. This can be arranged easily by your local travel operator.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Lachen

Accommodation in Lachen is mostly in the form of local homestays and budget hotels. While basic, these stays offer:

Warm hospitality
Hearty local food (thukpa, momos, rice curry)
Stunning sunrise views of the mountains

Electricity and phone signals may be limited, adding to the unplugged charm of the place.

📋 Travel Essentials for Lachen

Carry warm clothes—even in summer, nights are cold
No ATMs in Lachen; carry cash
Limited network—BSNL may work, but don’t count on it
Altitude medicine if visiting Gurudongmar (consult your doctor)
Camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm

🧳 Suggested Itinerary for Lachen Trip

Day 1: Gangtok → Lachen
– Visit Singhik View Point, Seven Sister Waterfall, Twin Falls en route
– Reach Lachen by evening and rest

Day 2:
– Early morning drive to Gurudongmar Lake (start by 4 AM)
– Return to Lachen for lunch, then head to Lachung for next leg of North Sikkim tour

Day 3:
– Visit Yumthang Valley and back to Gangtok

🚌 Book Your 2 Nights 3 Days North Sikkim Tour (Lachen + Lachung)

Looking to explore Lachen, Gurudongmar, Lachung, and Yumthang Valley without stress?

✅ Comfortable shared vehicle
✅ Permit assistance
✅ Local guide support
✅ Meals and accommodation included

🎒 Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers

👉 Book Now – 2 Nights 3 Days North Sikkim Tour (Lachen + Lachung)

📱 Contact: 9593306660 / 9593305550
💬 WhatsApp Us
📧 Email: info@northsikkimsharing.com
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✨ Final Thoughts

Lachen is not just a village—it’s a feeling. It’s where silence becomes your travel companion, the air feels sacred, and every mountain tells a story. Whether you’re heading to Gurudongmar Lake or simply want to find peace among the pines, Lachen in North Sikkim is a destination you’ll carry in your heart forever.

So pack your bags, layer up, and let the Himalayas call you home.