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Lachen Monastery, also known as Lachen Gompa or Ngodub Choling, is an ancient Buddhist monastery situated in the town of Lachen. The monastery belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). This Monastery is located amidst the marvellous Himalayan Mountains, and it is considered one of the oldest Monasteries in Sikkim. The Monastery is well-built and it contains beautiful artistic works in the form of murals, thus offering the worshippers more to explore.
Location
Photo: dhillan chandramowli / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The religious Lachen Monastery is located at a distance of 80 kilometres away from the town of Gangtok, Sikkim. Visitors need to obtain a permit to enter Lachen, especially if they are foreigners. Tourists should visit the sacred Lachen Monastery during spring and autumn because of the pleasant weather.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sikkim In December For Your Next Winter Holiday
How To Reach
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By Road: The holy Lachen Monastery is located at a distance of 43 kilometres from Gangtok. Tourists can reach the monastery by taxi, car, or bus.
By Rail: The oldest Lachen Monastery is situated at a distance of 115 kilometres from New Jalpaiguri railway station. Visitors can reach the monastery by taxi, car, or bus.
By Air: The Lachen Monastery is nestled at a distance of 117 kilometres from Bagdogra airport. Travellers can reach the monastery by taxi, car, or bus.
Places To Visit Around Lachen Monastery
1. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Photo: Rudra Narayan Mitra / Shutterstock
Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a nature reserve established in 1984 and located in the Himalayas of North Sikkim. It stands between 11,500-14,800 feet above sea level and spans an area of 43 square kilometres. Its main goal was to save and defend the rhododendron species and the other species of flowers, including the orchids, primulas and blue poppies. The beautiful scenery of the Himalayan mountains and serene atmosphere make it suitable for eco-tourism and nature lovers.
Entry Fees: ₹ 300 (Adults) and ₹150 (Children)
Timings: Open 24 hours
Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Sikkim
2. Gurudongmar Lake
Photo: Rajbhaskar227 / Wikimedia Commons
Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, standing at an elevation of 17,800 feet in North Sikkim, India. Adorned by its glaciers and located in the shadow of mountains, it is a sacred place for Buddhists and Hindus. The lake is named after the Guru Padmasambhava, and it is home to various aquatic life including trout and other fish species. It also offers a prominent view of crystal clear water against the rugged background of majestic hills .
Entry Fees: None, but a special permit is required
Timings: 7 AM – 1 AM
3. Thangu Valley
Photo: SIHASAKPRACHUM / Shutterstock
Thangu Valley is located in Sikkim, India. It is situated at an altitude of 13,000 – 15,000 feet and provides an awe-inspiring view of the surroundings. This valley is the ancestral homeland of the Lepcha and Bhutia communities. This serene valley is a haven for diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species, making it a must-visit destination for both nature and botanist lovers.
Entry Fees: None
Timings: 7 AM – 1 PM
Suggested Read: Your Travel Guide Into Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary
4. Tso Lhamo Lake
Photo: Atishayphotography / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tso Lhamo Lake, also known as Cholamu Lake, is situated in the northeastern part of Sikkim, India. The elevation of the lake is 18,000 feet, and thus, it is considered to be one of the highest lakes in the world. It has become an essential source of economic growth because of its crystal clear water and remote location. The peaceful environment and excellent scenery, especially in the high Himalayan regions, make it a must-visit destination for nature and adventure lovers.
Entry Fees: None, but a special permit is required
5. Kala Patthar
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Kala Patthar is one of the most popular trekking peaks in the Himalayas of Nepal. It is situated at the height of 5,520 metres above sea level and provides a massive view of the Himalayas, including Kanchenjunga. It translates to ‘‘black rock’’ in Nepali, which indicates the dark colour of the peak’s rock. Trekkers are advised to head up from Gorak Shep for the beautiful sunrise views at Kala Patthar, which offer challenging terrain with steep ascents and descents.
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Timings: Open 24 hours
Suggested Read: Cascading Waterfalls In Sikkim That Are Not To Be Missed
Where To Stay
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Sikkim offers a variety of staycation options to pilgrims and travellers. Some of the best accommodations near the Lachen Monastery include Rufina Blue Pine Lachen, Lachen Homestay, Hotel Himalayan Stupa, Hotel Gurudongmar Lachen, Lakhim Homestay – House on the Pass, Delight Lachen Heritage, Etho Mitho, Floret Hotel, and Wonder Hill Inn. These staycations suit every customer, from budget-friendly stays to luxurious stays, including parking, wi-fi, and room services.
Where To Eat
Photo: Sharada Prasad CS / Wikimedia Commons
Some of the famous dishes here include momos, Thukpa, Dal Bhaat, and Bamboo shoot curry. Here are the best restaurants that serve the delicious cuisine of Sikkim: Pub Yakuza Lachen, Ingredient Restro-Bar, Rufina Lachen Deezong, Royal Avalanche Retreat by Baizus, and Tso Lhamo restaurant and bar. These restaurants promise to serve the best mouth-watering food.
Suggested Read: Bungee Jumping In Sikkim
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Lachen Monastery is between April and June because the weather is pleasant. It is also considered the best season to watch regional carnivals and have time to relax in monasteries. Lachen Monastery timings are from 7 AM to 7 PM.
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For The Travellers:
- Respect the customs and traditions of the monastery, and dress accordingly.
- Remove the shoes and observe silence where required.
- Check the weather before visiting the monastery, as the place may be cold even in summer due to its high altitude.
- If needed, hire a guide who helps you to delve into the architectural style, customs, and traditions.
- Pack woollen clothes, and during visits, wear extra layers of clothes.
- Be polite to monks and locals.
Suggested Read: Go Trekking In Sikkim For A Soulful And Exhilarating Scenic Journey
Lachen Monastery, Sikkim is perched at an altitude of 9,600 feet. The beautiful Lachen Monastery, established as an emblem of serenity and spirituality, tells various historical and mysterious stories. As soon as the sun sets over its grey walls, the monastery remains in the heart of the tourist, the house in which the soul searches for the peace it desires. Plan your visit to Lachen Monastery with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Prof Sai Ranga / Wikimedia Commons
