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Lachen is a beautiful town located in the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim. The city lies in the Mangan District and has notable places to visit in the surrounding area. When translated to the English language, Lachen means ‘big pass’. This place has been thoroughly promoted as a tourist destination by the government of Sikkim. There are many interesting places to visit in Lachen as it forms the base for the Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake. This town is a gateway to a few of the breathtaking landscape views which are a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
10 Amazing Places To Visit In Lachen
In the proximity of Lachen are beautiful spots which leave all visitors in awe. Each notable place promises a unique experience and a lasting memory of the journey.
1. Lachen Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Lachen Monastery is a significant site for practising Buddhist rites and customs. The monastery was created using traditional styles. The atmosphere within this monastery is tranquil and reflects the allure of Buddhism. Visiting this monastery allows you to explore Lachen’s cultural heritage. You can also tour the monastery’s paintings and learn about its history. The Nyingma Sect of Tibetan Buddhism established the Lachen Monastery. There are bright prayer flags, which add to the grandeur atmosphere of the location. Learn more about the traditions and rituals by visiting Lachen Monastery.
Location: Lachen Monastery, Lachen, North Sikkim, Sikkim
Highlights: Traditional Buddhist Architecture, Tibetan Buddhism
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In East Sikkim For An Incredible Experience
2. Chopta Valley
Photo: Vipul Kothari / Wikimedia Commons
Chopta Valley is a lively valley located near Lachen. The valley is known for its floral richness, which changes with the seasons. This valley provides a calm environment for visitors to unwind. The tranquil setting allows them to connect more deeply with nature. It’s a terrific area to take leisurely walks and relax in nature. Chopta Valley is a popular photography site because nature enthusiasts and photographers can capture images and memories of the valley’s surroundings. The valley is covered in pine trees, with a few people inhabiting the place.
Location: Chopta Valley, Lachen Road, Lachen, North Sikkim, Sikkim
Highlights: Beautiful Alpine Meadows, Diverse Flora and Fauna, Pretty Landscapes
3. Gurudongmar Lake
Photo: Yoghya / Wikimedia Commons
Both Lachen and Chopta Valley are said to be the gateways to Gurudongmar Lake. Anyone wanting to access the lake must pass through the town of Lachen and the Chopta Valley. This lake is one of Sikkim’s most notable attractions, as well as the state’s largest. It is said that Guru Padmasambhava visited this lake and used his majestic ability to unfreeze it. Gurudongmar Lake is unique as it does not solidify even during the coldest winter temperatures. The lake offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga Range, which lies just ahead of it.
Location: Gurudongmar Lake, Near Lachen, North Sikkim, Sikkim
Highlights: Clear blue waters, A religious site for Buddhists, Sikhs and Hindus
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In West Sikkim
4. Thangu Valley
Photo: Ajay Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Thangu Valley is just about 30 km from Lachen and is a must-see for anybody interested in learning more about traditional Buddhist villages. The settlement acts as a base camp for major trekking expeditions in Sikkim. It is also a base for other high-altitude explorations in Lachen and the surrounding regions. Visitors are treated to breathtaking views of landscapes and high mountains, the summits of which are snow-capped during the winter months of December and February. The valley is noted for its flower investigation and bird-watching activities, which are popular here.
Location: Thangu Valley, North Sikkim, Sikkim, 737120, India
Highlights: Traditional Village Lifestyle, Scenic Landscapes
5. Khangchendzonga National Park
Photo: G Devadarshan Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Khangchendzonga National Park lies at a distance of 20 kilometres from Lachen in Sikkim. One of the most interesting things to do in Lachen is to visit Khangchendzonga National Park. This national park is surrounded by valleys and lakes with river streams flowing through the plains of this region. The national park has sharp-edged mountains and extravagant biodiversity that must be witnessed by all those travelling to Lachen. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a well-known glacier, Zemu Glacier. Animal species of clouded leopard, snow leopard and musk deer are spotted.
Location: Sakkyong, North Sikkim, Sikkim 737120, India
Highlights: Diverse Flora, Fauna and Avian Species, Wildlife Spotting
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Lachung For A Wonderful Vacation In Hills
6. Lachen Chu
Photo: Jaiprakashsingh / Wikimedia Commons
The Lachen Chu River passes through the town of Lachen, North Sikkim. The river is a tributary of the Teesta. The river comes from the Himalayas and travels through the Lachen Valley before merging with the Lachung Chu River. The river is an important element for hiking and trekking as the hike paths along this river transport visitors to numerous high-altitude areas around Lachen. Lachen Chu’s waters are crystal clear and ice-cold due to their glacial origins. The ideal months to visit are September through November.
Location: Lachen Chu River, Lachen, North Sikkim, Sikkim
Highlights: Trekking, Nature Photography, Leisurely Walks
7. Lhonak Valley
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Though at a distance of 50 kilometres from Lachen, Lhonak Valley offers the quietest ambience amidst the mountains. This valley is untouched by commercialisation and is a lesser-known spot for tourism. This valley is guarded and constantly watched by the Indian Army because of its proximity to the neighbouring states. Lhonak Valley offers the best scenic vistas as compared to the other tourist spots near Lachen. It is traditionally known as ‘Muguthang’ and is best visited during the months from April to September. This river valley has boggy marshes and glacial lakes that just add to its beauty.
Location: Lhonak Valley, North Sikkim, Sikkim
Highlights: Relaxation, Photography, Vibrant Landscapes
Suggested Read: Explore The Majestic Landscapes Of Pelling
8. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Photo: Yusuf Miah / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a beautiful destination in Yumthang near Lachen. This sanctuary is best visited during the spring months of March to July when the flowers bloom the best. This place is known for its vibrant collection of rhododendron species of flowers that typically bloom during the spring. The entire sanctuary is visible with beautifully bloomed vibrant flowers. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is ideal for nature walks as well. It is surrounded by a high mountain range and green plains. Besides Rhododendron, the sanctuary has a variety of alpine plants, medicinal plants and mosses.
Location: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumthang, North Sikkim, Sikkim
Highlights: Photography, Floral Species
9. Yumthang Valley
Photo: Joginder Pathak / Wikimedia Commons
Yumthang Valley is located at a bit of a distance from Lachen but is a top-tier choice for every visitor. This valley is known as the ‘Valley of Flowers’. It is usually covered with vibrant coloured flowers throughout the year making it an important tourist destination. A special permit is required to visit Yumthang Valley because of its proximity to the Indo-Tibet Border. An ILP is required to access the valley and nearby regions. It is also recommended that you hire a guide to help you navigate the remote areas of the place.
Location: Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim, Sikkim
Highlights: Scenic Landscapes, Photography, Trekking
Suggested Read: Incredible Places To Visit In Gangtok For A Fun Trip
10. Tso Lhamo Lake
Photo: Ajay Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Tso Lhamo Lake is 70 kilometres from the town of Lachen. It is best visited from April to June and September to December as the region experiences a dry season without any interrupting rainfall. Visiting this lake requires a permit because of its proximity to the national borders of the adjacent countries. The flora is very less due to harsh conditions. Hardly any plants can be found near this lake. Tso Lhamo Lake is considered sacred by the local Tibetan and Sikkimese communities as many traditional beliefs are attached to it. The place also has a local folklore.
Location: Tso Lhamo Lake, North Sikkim, Sikkim,
Highlights: Rugged Terrain, Photography, Trekking
Compared to other towns in the state of Sikkim, Lachen is located at a higher altitude above sea level. It offers a worthy charm while discovering multiple places to visit in its surroundings. Every season in Lachen unfolds timelessly. Whether you are travelling for a religious purpose or to soak in the wide views that the landscapes have to offer, book a trip to Lachen with TripXL
which offers an enriching journey.
Cover Photo: Tushar2486 / Wikimedia Commons
