Introduction
North Sikkim, the jewel of India is yet lesser known still gorgeous for its own natural beauty. Situated above the thick forests of Sikkim and humongous mountains of Himalayas, it’s a home for many amazing destinations which are rarely found in India. Here’s a list of 7 places to visit on your next visit to North Sikkim
List of places to visit in North Sikkim
Lachen
Lachen is a lovely town situated on left side of the Y-Junction in Chungthang which is an entry point for many destinations which we would discuss below. This small town at a height 9,500 ft going higher as you move ahead towards the Chinese border. The deadly road to Lachen is another exciting thing to watch out in your journey.
Lachung
Another beautiful town located on the right side of Y-Junction from Chungthang which is home for few more destinations in North Sikkim. Located at almost similar height as Lachen, this is a very picturesque village with tall mountains and lush green fields all around and snow capped mountains in the sight. This should probably be the most populated place in North Sikkim after Mangan and Chungthang.
Gurudongmar Lake
Situated at an altitude of 17,800 ft, it is one of the highest lakes in the world and a sacred site for Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. Known for its stunning turquoise waters and backdrop of snow-capped mountains, also close to the Indo-Tibet border, and stays frozen for most of the year. This is 70km ahead of Lachen and with constant military movement. The last 15kms before the lake is literally the best journey ever in India.
Zero Point
Zero Point (Yumesamdong) is a stunning, high-altitude (15,300 ft) spot near the Indo-China border, known for its year-round snow, confluence of three rivers, and panoramic Himalayan views, serving as the last civilian-accessible point where roads end, requiring permits and registered tours for access due to its proximity to the border. This is agan 70kms ahead of Lachung and the journey includes amazing views of the mountains and rapid gain in altitude.
Yumthang Valley
Yumthang Valley, also known as Sikkim’s “Valley of Flowers”, is a stunning alpine sanctuary on the way to Zero Point, famous for its vibrant rhododendron blooms (late Feb-June), hot springs, yaks, rolling meadows, and Himalayan backdrop, with the Lachung River flowing through, accessible from Lachung village, but closed December-March due to heavy snow. It also features sulfur-rich hot springs with medicinal properties.
Tso Lhama Lake
Tso Lhamo lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an elevation of 5,100 m (16,700 ft). It is situated about 4 km (2.5 mi) southwest of the international border with China 5km ahead of Gurudongmar lake. It is fed by waters from Zemu glacier, Kangtse glacier or Pauhunri glacier, and is the source of the Teesta River. Access to this is not granted due to its proximity to the international border.
Kalapathar
This is a high-altitude (14,850 ft) scenic viewpoint near Lachen, offering year-round snow, stunning black cliff views, and panoramic Himalayan vistas. It is an offbeat alternative to Gurudongmar Lake, usually accessed via a 20 km detour from the main route, requiring special permits due to its proximity to the border.This has snow-covered mountains, “black rock” cliffs, and a serene, less-crowded atmosphere compared to other destinations.
Conclusion
These were few of the most important places to visit on your next trip to North Sikkim. But honestly North Sikkim is not about only these view points but about the lovely landscapes, gorgeous snow-capped mountains, amazing picturesque locations and much more. Will be covering more on this in the coming blogs.
