Best Things to Do in Lachen

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Best Things to Do in Lachen

Welcome to the High-Altitude Gateway of North Sikkim

Lachen is a small mountain village surrounded by towering snow peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear rivers. The air is cold and pure, mornings are misty, and the night sky is full of stars. It serves as the main base for travelers visiting Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley. Lachen is perfect for adventure seekers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys raw Himalayan landscapes and peaceful village life.

Must-Visit Attractions in Lachen

Gurudongmar Lake

One of the highest lakes in the world, Gurudongmar sits amid barren, snow-covered mountains at over 17,000 feet. The turquoise water, prayer flags, and surrounding peaks create a breathtaking sight. Due to high altitude, visits are usually short but unforgettable.

Chopta Valley

Located near Lachen, Chopta Valley is known for its colorful flowers in summer and snow-covered fields in winter. The changing seasons transform the landscape completely, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Lachen Monastery

Overlooking the village, this serene monastery offers beautiful views and a calm spiritual atmosphere. It’s a pleasant place to spend some quiet time and understand local Buddhist culture.

Unique Experiences in Lachen

Experience high-altitude travel
Driving toward Gurudongmar Lake takes you through dramatic terrain, frozen streams, army camps, and snowfields depending on the season. The journey itself is as memorable as the destination.

Stay in cozy homestays
Wooden houses, warm blankets, and hot home-cooked meals create a comforting experience in the cold weather. Interacting with locals gives you insight into life at high altitude.

Watch sunrise over snow peaks
Early mornings often bring clear skies and pink-golden light over the mountains around Lachen. It’s worth waking up early just for the view.

Taste local Himalayan food
Hot bowls of thukpa, momos, maggi, and butter tea keep you warm and energized during your stay.

What Makes Lachen Special

Lachen offers untouched nature and silence that’s hard to find elsewhere. There are no big markets or flashy attractions, only snow mountains, rivers, and prayer flags. Its role as the gateway to Gurudongmar Lake makes it an important stop, but the village itself leaves a strong impression with its simplicity and beauty. It’s a place where you feel close to the mountains in every moment.

Ideal Duration for Your Trip

Plan 2 days in Lachen with one night stay. One day is usually spent traveling from Gangtok to Lachen, and the next morning is dedicated to visiting Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley before returning or moving onward.

Included

To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.

  • Airport / Railway Station To Hotel Transfer on Private basis
  • Hotel to Airport / Railway Station Transfer on Private basis
  • Vehicle : Innova / Xylo / Scorpio
  • Daily Breakfast

Excluded

  • All personal expenses, optional tours and extra meals.
  • Surcharges as applicable due to peak season, surcharge dates, trade fair dates.
  • Camera fees, alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages and starters.
  • Vehicle service on leisure days for sightseeing not included in the itinerary.
  • Mandatory Christmas/New Year Eve dinner cost will be applicable as advised by the hotels.
  • Any services not mentioned in the inclusions list.
  • Services of Tour Manager are not included in this package.
  • Tips and porter-age.
  • Tourism tax is excluded wherever applicable.
  • Tips are excluded wherever applicable.
  • International or Domestic airfare / Train Fare.