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Nestled amidst the pristine Lachung Valley in Sikkim, Lachung Monastery stands as a shining beacon of spiritual devotion and architectural elegance. Established in 1880, this Nyingma Buddhist gompa exudes a tranquil aura, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape from here. The gompa previously belonged to Bon worshippers but was later converted into a Buddhist Monastery by the locals to strengthen the Buddhist faith in the region. The monastery is a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful retreat to connect with their spirituality.
Lachung Monastery Location
Photo: Dhillan chandramowli / Wikimedia Commons
The monastery is located in the Mangan district, approximately 118 km from Gangtok and 51 km from Mangan town, which is the district headquarters. The village of Lachung is perched at 3,000 metres above sea level and lies at the confluence of the Lachen and Lachung Rivers. The exact Lachung Monastery address is Faka, Singring, Lachung, Sikkim 737120.
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How To Reach Lachung Monastery
Photo: Dmitry A. Mottl / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Lachung Monastery Sikkim can be conveniently reached via road, rail, or air:
By Road: The monastery is well-connected by road. You can opt for a taxi from Gangtok or a shared jeep. You can also embark on a scenic drive from Gangtok, covering 118 km along the North Sikkim Highway. It takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes to reach.
By Air: The nearest airport to the monastery is the Pakyong Airport, which is around 128 kilometres away. However, for international flights, Bagdogra International Airport is 280 kilometres away. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a shared cab to Gangtok and then proceed to Lachung.
By Train: The railway station nearest to the monastery is the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station, about 260 kilometres away. From there, you can opt for a taxi or a bus to Gangtok and then travel to Lachung.
Places To Visit In And Around Lachung Monastery
Lachung Monastery is a picturesque and peaceful spiritual centre in Sikkim. These other places in and around the monastery are also worth visiting:
1. Yumthang Valley
Photo: Joginder Pathak / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the “Valley of Flowers,” Yumthang Valley is a scenic gem in North Sikkim, famed for alpine meadows and hot springs. The valley also houses a diverse range of flora and fauna, such as the endangered red panda and Himalayan black bear. It is also the only place in Sikkim where 24 species of Rhododendrons can be found. The magnificent snow-clad mountains surrounding the valley, and the Yumthang River flowing through it, present a picturesque landscape. Visitors can enjoy various fun activities here, such as trekking, yak riding, and visiting the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary.
Distance From Monastery: 27 km
Timings: Not fixed
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2. Zero Point
Photo: Sandipan Paul / Wikimedia Commons
Zero Point, also known as Yume Samdong, lies in North Sikkim at an altitude of around 15,000 feet above sea level. It is a snow-covered vantage point at the end of the road that gives panoramic vistas of the Yumthang Valley. The journey to this point is itself an exhilarating ride with winding mountain roads, valleys, and waterfalls leading to this pristine destination. Visitors at Zero Point can gaze upon the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Kanchenjunga—the world’s third-highest peak. The Alpine forests, glacial rivers, and meadows surrounding this spot present an ethereal scene.
Distance From Monastery: 53 km
Timings: 7 AM – 1 PM
3. Lachen Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as ‘Ngodrub Choling Gonpa’ or ‘Launching Gompa,’ Lachen Monastery is another ancient gompa in the nearby Lachen Valley. Lama Karchen Dorje Drak laid its foundation in 1858, and today it functions under the guidance of Lachen Gomchhen Rinpoche. The monastery serves as a centre for Buddhist Teachings through the Lachen Monastic School, which nurtures young minds in Buddhist philosophy and culture. Visitors here can pause, breathe, and connect with spirituality while immersing themselves in the serene vibes. They can also witness the annual mask dances hosted here.
Distance From Monastery: 48 km
Timings: 24/7
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4. Thangu Valley
Photo: Ajay kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the northern part of Sikkim, Thangu Valley is a serene paradise at an elevation of 13,500 feet. Multiple rivers, including the Teesta, Lassur, Chopta, and Thangu rivers, gracefully meander through this picturesque valley, their waters shimmering under the sunlight as one strolls past the alpine meadows. Visitors here can choose to embark on a wide range of treks that start from here to Chopta Valley, Muguthang, and Green Lake. It is also a great spot for birdwatching, especially during the summer months. Thangu’s alpine vegetation and yak-filled pastures are a treat to the eyes.
Distance From Monastery: 83 km
Timings: 7 AM – 1 PM
5. Gurudongmar Lake
Photo: StoriesofKabeera / Wikimedia Commons
Perched at a breathtaking altitude of 17,000 feet, Gurudongmar Lake is a sacred lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. One of Sikkim’s most pristine treasures close to the Tibetan and Chinese border in North Sikkim, this glacial lake is a major source of the Teesta River. It is named after Guru Padmasambhava, who travelled through this region during his Tibet visit. The lake freezes in winter except for a sacred spot that remarkably remains unfrozen. Visitors come here because of its holy significance as well as to enjoy this blissful paradise away from the hustle-bustle of the world. Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required for the visit.
Distance From Monastery: 115 km
Timings: 6 AM – 11 AM
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Where To Stay
Photo: Jean van der Meulen / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
There is a wide variety of accommodation options in Lachung range across all price ranges and preferences, from cosy guest houses to charming homestays. In addition to the warm hospitality of Sikkim, necessities like parking, Wi-Fi, and dining facilities are also provided in almost all of the accommodations.
Where To Eat
Photo: Sharada Prasad CS / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Even though you may not find a lot of high-end restaurants here, there are an ample number of eateries where you can enjoy the local flavours by savouring the traditional Sikkimese cuisine, especially the momos and thukpa, which are a common staple here.
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Best Time To Visit Lachung Monastery
Photo: Stephen Leonardi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit the monastery is during spring from March to May, as the rhododendrons are in full bloom at this time. The autumn months from September to November are also a good time to visit because the skies are clear and the weather is pleasant. This provides ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities such as trekking. Also, keep in mind that Lachung Monastery timings for public visits are from 7 am to 7 pm.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Here are some key factors to consider before you take a trip to Lachung Monastery:
Permits: Foreign nationals may require permits to visit certain areas in Sikkim. Check the latest requirements and guidelines before planning your trip.
Average Cost Of The Trip: Entry is free for all visitors to the monastery. Additional expenses may include transportation, offerings, food, stay and other miscellaneous expenditures. A trip to the monastery can vary in cost depending on your preferences and style of travel. The average cost for a Lachung trip is around ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per day, which includes accommodation, food, and transportation.
Tips For Travellers:
- Be mindful of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take it easy on the first day to allow your body to acclimatise.
- Carry warm clothes as the evenings can be chilly even during summer.
- Drink plenty of water as the high altitude can often cause dehydration due to altitude sickness.
- Be a responsible traveller and do not litter.
- Show due respect to the local customs and traditions. When visiting the monastery, dress modestly and be considerate of the monks and their practices.
- Photography is not permitted everywhere inside the monastery. So, make sure to get permission before clicking any Lachung Monastery photos.
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Lachung Monastery invites you to pause, breathe, and connect with spirituality amidst the grandness of the mighty Himalayas. Whether you seek solace or adventure, the monastery and its scenic surroundings promise an unforgettable trip. The travel here isn’t just about the destination, but also about the soul-stirring moments along the way. So pack your bags and plan your visit to Sikkim with Trip XL, as a memorable journey awaits!
