This guide explores the top tourist places in Lachen, ideal for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts. Nestled at an altitude of 2,750 meters, Lachen—meaning “big pass” in Tibetan—is a serene village that serves as the base for exploring some of Sikkim’s most iconic destinations. Unlike its more commercial counterparts, Lachen retains a raw, untouched charm. It’s a place where prayer flags flutter in the wind, yaks graze on alpine meadows, and the silence of snow-capped peaks speaks volumes.
🏞️ 1. Gurudongmar Lake
- Altitude: 17,800 feet
- Distance from Lachen: 67 km
- Highlights: One of the highest lakes in the world, sacred to Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and October to November
Gurudongmar Lake is the crown jewel of Lachen tourism. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and fed by glacial melt, the lake remains partially frozen even in summer. Its turquoise waters and spiritual aura make it a must-visit. Due to its altitude, acclimatization in Lachen is essential before visiting.
🌄 2. Chopta Valley
- Altitude: 13,200 feet
- Distance from Lachen: 30 km
- Highlights: Snowfields, alpine vegetation, river trails
- Best Time to Visit: March to May (for flowers), December to February (for snow)
Often blanketed in snow during winter, Chopta Valley is a photographer’s paradise. The valley is dotted with rhododendrons in spring and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. It’s also a starting point for treks and yak rides.
🕉️ 3. Lachen Monastery (Ngodub Choling Gompa)
- Location: 4 km from Lachen Market
- Founded: 1858 by Lama Karchen Dorje Drak
- Highlights: Traditional Tibetan architecture, murals, prayer wheels
This peaceful monastery is a spiritual and cultural landmark in Lachen. It offers insight into the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism and provides a quiet space for reflection, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags and mountain views.
🌿 4. Green Lake Trek
- Starting Point: Zema, near Lachen
- Duration: 8–10 days
- Highlights: Base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga, alpine meadows, glacial rivers
For seasoned trekkers, the Green Lake Trek is a dream route. It winds through dense forests, rhododendron groves, and high-altitude meadows, culminating at the emerald-hued Green Lake, nestled at the base of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
🏔️ 5. Thangu Valley
- Altitude: 13,000 feet
- Distance from Lachen: 30 km
- Highlights: Grazing yaks, wooden houses, alpine flowers
Thangu is a quaint village en route to Gurudongmar Lake. It’s often used as a rest stop for acclimatization. The valley is known for its scenic beauty, especially during summer when it bursts into bloom.
🧭 6. Tso Lhamo Lake
- Altitude: 18,000 feet
- Location: Near Gurudongmar Lake
- Access: Restricted (requires special permits)
Tso Lhamo is one of the highest lakes in the world and the source of the Teesta River. Though not always accessible to tourists due to its proximity to the border, it remains a dream destination for explorers and photographers.
🛤️ 7. Zema
- Location: 10 km from Lachen
- Highlights: Suspension bridges, forest trails, river crossings
Zema is the starting point for several treks, including the Green Lake trail. It’s a great spot for short hikes and birdwatching, with its dense forests and pristine rivers.
🌸 8. Rhododendron Sanctuary (Shingba Sanctuary)
- Location: Near Yumthang, accessible via Lachen
- Highlights: Over 40 species of rhododendrons, rare Himalayan flora
- Best Time: April to May
Though technically closer to Lachung, the sanctuary is often included in Lachen-based itineraries. It’s a riot of color in spring and a haven for botanists and nature lovers.
🛍️ 9. Lachen Village
- Highlights: Traditional Bhutia homes, local cuisine, handicrafts
- Activities: Village walks, cultural interactions, photography
Lachen itself is a destination worth exploring. The village offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Bhutia community, with wooden homes, prayer wheels, and warm hospitality.
🗓️ Suggested 4-Day Lachen Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Gangtok → Drive to Lachen (6–7 hours)
- Acclimatization walk around the village
- Visit Lachen Monastery at sunset
Day 2:
- Early morning drive to Gurudongmar Lake via Thangu
- Stop at Chopta Valley for snow play
- Return to Lachen by evening
Day 3:
- Explore Zema and short forest trails
- Optional visit to Rhododendron Sanctuary
- Cultural evening with local food
Day 4:
- Depart for Gangtok or proceed to Lachung/Yumthang
📅 Best Time to Visit Lachen
| Season | Months | Highlights |
| Spring | Mar – May | Rhododendron bloom, clear skies |
| Summer | Jun – Aug | Lush greenery, occasional rain |
| Autumn | Sep – Nov | Crisp air, best for treks and views |
| Winter | Dec – Feb | Snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes |
📝 Travel Tips
- Permits: Required for Indian nationals to visit Gurudongmar Lake and Nathula Pass (arranged by tour operators)
- Altitude Caution: Acclimatize in Lachen before visiting high-altitude spots
- Packing Essentials: Warm layers, sunscreen, ID proofs, motion sickness tablets
- Connectivity: Limited mobile and internet access—carry offline maps and cash
- Eco-Etiquette: Avoid plastic, respect local customs, and don’t litter
Final Thoughts
The top tourist places in Lachen offer a rare blend of spiritual serenity, alpine adventure, and untouched natural beauty. Whether you’re gazing into the turquoise depths of Gurudongmar Lake, trekking through rhododendron valleys, or sipping butter tea in a wooden village home, Lachen invites you to slow down and reconnect—with nature, with culture, and with yourself.
