About Khecheopalri Lake
Opening time- 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Prime days and hours- Weekends, Mornings, and Evenings
Suggested Duration- 2-3 hours
Tickets- Available Offline
Nearest Railway Station- New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, about 153 km
Nearest Bus Stand- Gyalshing Bus Stand, about 33 km
Nearest Airport- Bagdogra Airport, about 161 km
Surrounded by the Khecheopalri hills in the Eastern Himalayas, Khecheopalri Lake is one of Sikkim’s most peaceful and spiritual spots. Located near Pelling, this high-altitude lake is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. The lake is believed to fulfil wishes, making it a religious stop for pilgrims and spiritual seekers.
What makes this lake truly fascinating is its clean surface, as migratory birds like the Great Barbet and Himalayan Cuckoo never let even a single leaf float. The surrounding forest is equally beautiful, filled with broad-leaved trees, bamboo groves, and colourful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. The lake’s peaceful setting, blending nature, culture, and belief into a single unforgettable experience, makes it one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.
Khecheopalri Lake Highlights
• Visit Khecheopalri Lake in Pelling, a sacred wish-fulfilling lake revered by Hindus and Buddhists, surrounded by the lush Himalayan forests.
• Trek through scenic forest trails from Pelling and Yuksom to reach this high-altitude hidden gem set at 5,600 feet above sea level.
• Spot rare migratory birds like the Great Barbet and Himalayan Cuckoo while walking through broad-leaved trees and bamboo near the lake.
• Attend vibrant festivals like Maghe Purne and Chho-Tsho, when locals float butter lamps on the lake and offer prayers with chants.
How To Reach Khecheopalri Lake
By Road- You can reach the Khecheopalri Lake from Pelling City Centre, which is about 32 km away via Pelling-Rimbi Rd, taking approximately 1 hour to reach.
Best Time To Visit Khecheopalri Lake
Peak Season (October to February)
- Weather Insights- Cool and pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 20°C.
- Things to do- Attend the major local festivals like Maghe Purne and Chho-Tsho held during this time.
Moderate Season (March to June)
- Weather Insights- Post-monsoon, the region turns lush and green, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 36°C.
- Things to do- Ideal for trekking, spot the rare migratory birds.
Low Season (July to September)
- Weather Insights- Heavy rainfalls and high humidity in the region with temperatures ranging from 31°C to 19°C.
- Things to do- Stroll along the lakeside amidst fewer crowds.
Khecheopalri Lake Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go!
- No special permit is required for Indian tourists; however, foreign nationals visiting Sikkim must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which is easily available online or at checkpoints.
- Footwear is not allowed on the jetty leading to the lake so be prepared to walk barefoot along the wooden path.
- Carry essentials like water bottles, light snacks, an umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes for the forest trail leading up to the lake.
- Dress modestly, especially if you're visiting during festivals or with pilgrims as the festivals hold religious significance for the locals.
- Please note that fishing, swimming, and boating are strictly not allowed in the lake.
.jpg)
Trek Through Forest Trails
Choose scenic trails from Pelling or Yuksom and trek through thick forests to reach this peaceful high-altitude lake. The routes are surrounded by fresh mountain air, chirping birds, and views of prayer flags dancing in the wind. Whether you’re walking slowly or taking photos along the way, the journey is as peaceful as the destination itself.
Enjoy the Local Festivals
If you’re here in February, March, or October, don’t miss the local festivals like Maghe Purne and Chho-Tsho. During these events, the lake becomes a spiritual spectacle, locals float butter lamps on bamboo boats, chant prayers, and gather around with pure devotion. The whole lake lights up with meaning, belief, and emotion, creating a memory that stays with you.
Spot Rare Migratory Birds
Arrive early in the day to enjoy birdwatching at its best. The peaceful lake is a favourite resting spot for birds like grebes, white-breasted waterhens, Himalayan Peregrines, and bar-headed geese during migration. You’ll often see birds like the Himalayan Cuckoo or Great Barbet gently flying down to remove any fallen leaves. It’s a rare and calming sight that leaves you surprised and fascinated.
Spin Prayer Wheels Along the Jetty
Walk barefoot along the wooden boardwalk that leads to the lake, and spin the prayer wheels lined neatly along the way. Each spin is said to spread good wishes and blessings into the universe. With fluttering prayer flags around and the sound of chants in the air, this walk becomes a quiet, sacred moment you’ll feel deeply.
Tourism Board Alliances
Khecheopalri Lake FAQs
Why is Khecheopalri Lake famous?
Khecheopalri Lake is famous for its religious significance and serene beauty, revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. It is considered a wish-fulfilling lake and a pilgrimage site, with legends linking it to Guru Padmasambhava, Goddess Tara, and Lord Shiva. The lake is also known for its unique characteristic of having no leaves floating on its surface, as birds are said to remove them.
What is the footprint of Khecheopalri Lake?
Khecheopalri Lake is believed to be the footprint of either the goddess Tara Jetsun Dolma or Lord Shiva, depending on the belief system. From an aerial perspective, the lake's shape resembles a foot. Also known as Sho Dzo Sho, the surface area of the lake is approximately 3.79 hectares (9.4 acres).
How old is Khecheopalri Lake?
Khecheopalri Lake is estimated to be 3,500 years old. It is located near Tsozo village in Sikkim, India, at an altitude of 1,700 meters (5,600 feet). The lake is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus and is known for its pristine waters and surrounding forests.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.jpg)
