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Changu Lake (or Tsomgo Lake) is one of Sikkim’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes, which is situated at an altitude of 12,313 feet above sea level. Most tourists flock in winter or during spring, but Changu Lake in July has an unmatched charm with misty landscapes and greenery. The lake is full and reflects the surrounding hills and the drive from Gangtok is magical, with waterfalls rushing down the hills. If you have a penchant for the unique, Changu Lake, when it is transforming in the monsoon, is a sight to behold.
Quick Details
Location: Changu, Gangtok district, Sikkim
Surface area: 24.47 hectares (60.5 acres)
Altitude: 12,313 feet (3,753 meters)
Temperature: 5°C to 15°C
Best Time to Visit: Morning (before noon)
Location
Changu Lake is located in East Sikkim, on the road to Nathula Pass from Gangtok (38 km). At 12,313 feet, this high-altitude glacial lake is bordered by steep mountains. In July, the waterscape is shrouded in mist, while hilly areas around the lake are dressed in lush green with monsoons. The roads can be treacherous, though, so an experienced local driver is recommended. Despite some travel issues, Changu Lake presents a mystical experience ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike. It is a prohibited area, but you can get special passes as it borders the Indo-China region.
How To Reach
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport, but the flights are limited. Bagdogra Airport is the preferred choice and has a good frequency of flights from major Indian cities. Ideally, from Bagdogra, hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Gangtok (4-5 hours).
By Rail: The nearest railway station is the New Jalpaiguri (NJP). You can take taxis or share Jeeps from NJP to Gangtok (4-5 hours). There are no direct trains to Sikkim, and so this is the most convenient rail route.
By Road: Changu Lake is a 2-hour drive away from Gangtok along NH310. Private vehicles are not allowed; book a cab from MG Marg in Gangtok or via a tour operator.
Things To Do
Changu Lake in July is covered in monsoon mist and you can enjoy different things to do in the region.
1. Experience The Mystical Monsoon Landscapes
Photo: Rajat Chakraborty / Unsplash
In July, Changu Lake becomes a dreamer’s paradise, and the lake is oftentimes shrouded in fog that floats with the wind. The hillside around is bursting into bright green, and little waterfalls form on the side of the road. Unlike peak tourist months, the lake is quiet, making it a great spot for peaceful photography and nature walks. This is a gorgeous photograph opportunity as the clouds reflect off the water. Visibility, however, can come and go quickly, so bringing a waterproof camera and a rain jacket is recommended.
2. Witness The Raging Monsoon Waterfalls
Photo: Soumya Banerjee / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
In July, the road to Changu Lake is flanked by seasonal waterfalls generated by the monsoon rains. A few, such as Kyongnosla Waterfall, are especially powerful this time of year. These waterfalls are a great place to stop for a few moments to enjoy the natural beauty and get some great photos. Most of these waterfalls dry up in winter, so they are a monsoon-only phenomenon. With the misty mountain view, the sound of water gushing gives a delightful experience, which together with Changu Lake adds to the magic.
Places To Visit Near Changu Lake In July
Following are some of the places close to Changu Lake in Sikkim, India that should not be missed.
1. Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary
Photo: Spattadar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, just before Changu Lake, is at its most stunning in July during rains. The sanctuary, noted for its rhododendron forests and scarce Himalayan flora, comes alive with new greenery. With a bit of luck, you can even see red pandas, Himalayan monals and musk deer. Nature lovers and wildlife photographers crowd each with misty trails and blooming flowers that are a marvel in themselves. The untouched beauty of Sikkim’s high-altitude ecosystem can be experienced at this sanctuary, making it a must-visit for all.
Distance From Changu Lake: 6 km
2. Nathula Pass
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
At 14,140 feet, this Indo-China border post, Nathula Pass, is delightful in July. The monsoon fog wraps the winding paths during torrential rains, making it a sight to behold. By the time you reach Nathula, visibility may be low, but the journey is an adventure in itself, with waterfalls spilling down from the cliffs. Stop by the border gate and the war memorial to make it feel historical. Passes are required, and heavy rains can cause road closures. The pass is best visited early in the morning before the weather turns bad.
Distance From Changu Lake: 16 km
3. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple
Photo: shankar s. / Wikimedia Commons
Another unique spiritual spot is the Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, which was built in honour of an Indian soldier and is at an altitude of 13,123 feet near Changu Lake. The temple is usually covered in mist in July, contributing to its mysticism. Many visitors believe that Baba Harbhajan Singh is the guardian spirit of soldiers highly deployed in the region. The little museum there has military artefacts, and the beautiful rainy weather further makes the visit serene.
Distance From Changu Lake: 17 km
4. Zuluk
Photo: SOUMEN MANDAL / Wikimedia Commons
Zuluk is a viewpoint on the ever-famous Old Silk Route that leaves you in awe with its breathtaking drives through serpentine roads that accompany scenic monsoon waterfalls and mist-covered valleys. At 10,000 feet, it offers a quirky experience, away from other tourists. In July, Zuluk is refreshed with rain, wildflowers bloom, and clouds spill the hills. The Zuluk Loops are among the few most famous hairpin bends you can take to make your road trip an epic one. While this region receives heavy rainfall, this is also an amazing place for monsoon photography.
Distance From Changu Lake: 50 km
5. Kupup Lake
Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most picturesque high-altitude lakes near Changu, Kupup Lake is situated at a height of 13,066 feet and is known for its peculiar elephant shape. The lake is usually shrouded in thick fog during July, and that makes the atmosphere surreal. On your way to Kupup, you get to see beautiful green hills, army camps and local viewpoints. Nearby is the historic Yak Golf Course, one of the highest golf courses in the world. Because of the unpredictable monsoon weather, it is advisable to go early in the day.
Distance From Changu Lake: 22 km
Where To Stay
Photo: Niels from Slaapwijsheid.nl / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Most travellers stay at Gangtok or Zuluk for an offbeat experience. For hotels, you can find budget stays in Gangtok from ₹1,500 per night to luxury resorts for ₹10,000+ per night. Popular experience-based choices are The Elgin Nor-Khill (heritage stay), Mayfair Spa Resort (luxury) and Hotel Tara Palace (budget). Homestays in Zuluk and Nathang Valley range ₹1,000 to ₹3,500 a night, and, while the amenities are basic, warm local hospitality makes up for it. Travel during monsoons can be tricky, so it is advisable to book in advance and check road conditions before you start your journey.
Where To Eat
Photo: Gannu03 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For dining, there are only small roadside shops offering quick, hot meals around Changu Lake in July. These eateries serve local delights, including momos, Maggi, thukpa and butter tea, ideal for the cold weather. For the more gourmet options you want to get back to Gangtok, the restaurant’s Taste of Tibet (₹500 a meal) for a taste of authentic Tibetan food, The Coffee Shop (₹700 a meal) for a lovely atmosphere and great snacks, and Shuffle Momos (₹400 a meal) for an exotic variety of your momos. In Gangtok, prices range from ₹50 for a bowl of Maggi to ₹700 for a complete meal.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The price for a 3-day trip to Changu Lake can vary from ₹8,000 to ₹25,000 depending on your travelling style. A budget solo traveller can get by for ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 at a stretch, including all transportation (shared), basic homestay (₹1,500 per day) and local food (₹500 per day). Mid-range travellers with a budget close to ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 can consider private taxis (₹3,500 to ₹5,000) and decent hotels in Gangtok (approx. ₹3,000 of rental cost per night). The price may go above ₹25,000 for luxury travellers, including luxury resorts (₹10,000+ per night) and premium services.
Tips For Travellers
- Road conditions can be slippery or dangerous, and landslides along roadsides can cause unexpected delays, so it’s important to check weather updates before hitting the road.
- It is better if you hire an experienced local driver who knows all the safe routes.
- A raincoat, waterproof shoes and warm clothes are a must.
- To avoid heavy rain on most routes around the country, start early in the morning.
When visiting Changu Lake in July, take in the monsoon lifestyle, with mist-covered hills, verdant surroundings, and significantly fewer tourists. A visit here during the monsoon can indeed be a fantastical experience as long as proper planning, waterproof gear and an experienced person behind the wheel. Plan a trip with TripXL if you are a nature lover, photographer or adventure seeker.
Cover Photo: Sourav Ghosh / Unsplash
