Things to Do in Lachung

Visit the Yumthang Valley also called the Sikkim Valley of Flowers, located in the foothills of the Himalayas. Here, you can marvel at the valley’s verdant meadows, clear rivers, and hot springs. Only 150 km from Gangtok, this nature sanctuary, at 3,564 metres above sea level, offers you an enchanted hideaway.

Another one of the most beautiful tourist places in Lachung, the stunning Chopta valley is wrapped up in North Sikkim. Sitting about 2 hours away from Lachung, and beautifully en route Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta valley reigns at a staggering 4,000 meters above sea level.

During summers, the entire valley is bathed in a stunning medley of colours due to the presence of beautiful alpine flowers that it is home to. Winters turn the entire place into a picturesque wonderland, layered by a thick carpet of snow.

The tree line begins to fade from here, and the dominion of shrubs is evident. Beyond the valley, the land becomes completely devoid of vegetation, and the lofty mountains begin to rise. The aroma of the flowers merges will the cool breeze from the mountains to render you truly speechless.

Location: North Sikkim District, Sikkim

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: 30 km

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Yumesamdong, otherwise known as Zero Point, is one of the most frequented tourist's places in Lachung. It is located about 15 km away from Yumthang and sits at a mind-numbing altitude of 4,724 meters. Zero point marks the edge of civilization, and the road comes to a dead end here.

The vicuna China border is just beyond Zero points, though no tourists are allowed there. Despite the treacherous roads, Yumesamdong brings you exceptional rewards! Treat your eyes to the confluence of three magnificent rivers, flanked on either side by enormous, snow-clad peaks.

While yaks often graze here, the land is nearly competent devoid of vegetation. The place sits beneath thick, powdery snow, and brings extremely cold weather conditions. But there’s a great respite in the form of Hot Springs by the river Sebu Chhu!

Location: Sikkim 737120

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 50 km

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Bhim Nala Falls, a captivating waterfall nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Sikkim, India. This natural wonder cascades down with grace and grandeur, creating a soothing ambiance and a perfect spot for relaxation. Bhim Nala Falls offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, inviting visitors to revel in the tranquility of nature's allure. Nature lovers and travelers seeking a refreshing encounter with the Himalayan beauty will find Bhim Nala Falls a delightful destination to explore and unwind.

Fun fact - Bhim Nala Falls is also known as Amitabh Bachchan Falls amongst the locals! 

Location: Chungthang, Lachung, Sikkim 737120

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 15 km

About 21 km away from Bhim Nala Falls, the Naga Falls sits somewhere along the Gangtok - Chungthang road and is easily one of the most spectacular places to visit in Lachung. Another one of the tallest waterfalls in Sikkim, this multi-tiered cascade is veered a little ways off the beaten tracks and offers wonderful solitude and respite from the most popular sites in Lachung.

Early morning or evening spent here, amidst the wooded hills, listening to a beautiful medley of sounds that blend in with the tumultuous roar of the falls is an experience that lingers in the heart. Surrounded by the panorama of lofty mountain peaks, Naga Falls is an unmissable place to visit during your Sikkim trip.

Location: North Sikkim District, Sikkim 737116

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: 35 km

Sitting at a distance of about 100 km from Gangtok, Chungthang is a beautiful little town that falls en route Yumthang, by the conflux of the rivers Lachen and Lachung. Chungthang is also the birthplace for the river Teesta. The town brims with legends and tales of old, and there is also a stone with the imprinted footprints of Guru Padmasambhava.

The town also houses a little rock here, from where mineral water flows ceaselessly. Chungthang is a place where you’ll have to travel through to reach the higher alpine regions of Lachen and Lachung. Steeped in fascinating mythology, the town offers beautiful 180-degree views of the neighboring snow-capped peaks.

Location: Chungthang Tehsil, North Sikkim District, Sikkim 737120

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 23 km

Nestled at an altitude of 2,750 meters, Lachen in North Sikkim is the base of Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar lake. Sitting about 27 km away from Chungthang, Lachen village is cradled by a beautiful mountain valley. ‘Lachen’ literally translates to mean ‘big pass’, and affords unmatched views of the mountain slopes that seem to seat the village in an embracing sprawl.

Lachen is one of the more shaded, unexplored parts of Sikkim, and reward you with unmatched mountain views, serenity, and peace. Housing, not more than 200 houses, the village is ideal for backpackers and adventurers looking to explore offbeat destinations. The village is also home to the Lachenpas, a Sikkimese community. Amongst the most offbeat places to visit in Lachung, Lachen warrants to be on the top of your Sikkim itinerary.

Location: North Sikkim District, Sikkim

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 47 km

Cradled by beautiful apple orchards of the Lachen Valley, Lachung Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery. Crafted with brilliant architecture, the monastery is perched atop 2,750 meters, near the confluence of the rivers Lachen and Lachung, two of the several tributaries of the Teesta river.

The gompa is also the base for the Green Lake trek. The edifice was installed in 1806 by the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism and harbors a majestic statue of Guru Padmasambhava. A prayer wheel stands guard near the entrance of the monastery, leading visitors to the resident Handloom and Handicraft Centre. The Lachung Monastery is one of the most tranquil places to visit in Lachung.

Location: Lachung, Sikkim 737120

Timings: 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM every day.

Entry charges: Free

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 20 km

Located somewhere along the Gangtok - Lachung highway, the Seven Sister Waterfalls, true to its name, is a harmonious array of seven different cascading falls. If a single raging waterfall leaves you speechless, imagine what a cluster of seven such waterfalls will do. Its mellifluous roar is audible, and plummeting silver streaks can be seen from far off.

The place springs to life fully during the monsoons, when the waters come raging down. Tumbling down from atop a lush green, wooded hill, the surrounding beauty of the waterfall enhances the beauty of it all. The place promises you an album full of wallpaper-worthy photographs too! It is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Lachung.

Location: National Highway, North Sikkim, Gangtok, Sikkim

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 85 km

Housed in North Sikkim, nearly 28 km away from Lachung, the magnificent peak of Mt. Katao is an ideal spot for adventurers and trekkers alike. Though getting there requires a permit from the Indian army. The mountain trail is lined with majestic alpine forests of rhododendrons, poppies, and primulas, along with a few serene waterfalls. These trails climb up to sweeping views of the neighboring peaks. Mt. Katao is one of the most beautiful and offbeat tourist places in Lachung and unveils its grand beauty to the selected few who stumble there.

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 28 km

Reigning at an altitude of 13,500 ft., Thangu is a quaint, cozy little village that falls right en route Gurudongmar lake and Cho Lhamu lake. Come spring season, the entire village sits under a canopy of lush trees overlooking a colorful carpet that the flowers paint across the ground.

If you want to see snow, visit Thangu between the months of December and March, when a thick blanket of powdery snow covers the village. Thangu is also home to several beautiful hiking trails leading to Muguthang, Chopta Valley and more. One of the most shaded places to visit in Lachung, Thangu should definitely be on your Sikkim trip itinerary.

Nested in the laps of the Himalayas in North Sikkim, Mangan is one of the most scenic tourists' places in Lachung, and also the capital of North Sikkim. Generously endowed with countless natural bounties, the place is a tourist magnet, and lures herds of travelers, backpackers, and trekkers into its bounds every year.

Doused in an aura of Buddhism, Mangan is also a place to explore spirituality. The town is replete with fluttering Buddhist prayer flags, which somehow seem to magnify the charm of this lovely Buddhist village. Mangan is also hosting to a lovely three-day music festival, where various regional bands perform.

Location: North Sikkim, Sikkim

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 52 km

Explore the realm of spirituality and bliss at Phensang Monastery, a Buddhist monastery perched over the slopes of Kabi - Phodong, and in the vicinity of the Seven Sisters Waterfall. Installed in the year 1721, the monastery was restored to its former glory in 1947 after being demolished by fire.

Heavy rains brought a similar tragedy upon the building, but it was again restored. The monastery presently houses nearly 300 Lamas (Buddhist monks). The enduring marvel of Phensang Monastery is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Lachung.

Location: Phensang Monastery, Gangtok, Sikkim, 737101

Timings: 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: 89 km

Cradled in Yumthang valley, the Shinga Rhododendron Sanctuary is flanked by the Chuba - Sagochen ranges on one side, and Chomzomei on the other. Celebrated largely for the stunning variety of blooming rhododendrons, the sanctuary stretches across a sweeping 43 sq.km., and is a canvas of rioting colours!

The snaking Yumthang Chu is the cherry on top of a grand view of the valley, which is also a popular choice for trekking enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It is also a great place for camping, provided you take measures to not leave any trails behind. Time the trip between April and July to witness the blossoming beauty of rhododendrons in all their glory.

Location: Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim District, Gangtok, Sikkim 737120

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: 25 km

Yet another of the least explored places to visit in Lachung, the mesmerizing Green Lake rests at the base of Mt. Kanchenjunga, at an altitude of 1,437 m. Towered by Mt. Kanchenjunga along with several other peaks, and its trail movies past beautiful thick forests and meadows carpeted by rhododendrons, blue poppies, and primulas.

The expeditions to Mt. Everest before the war were done through this part of North Sikkim, the post which, the trail seems to have been forgotten. It remains shaded from the majority of tourists, saves an adventurous few. Time your visit to the lake anytime between March to May for pleasant weather and clear views of the mountain ranges that cast a lovely reflection in the turquoise green waters of the lake.

Location: North Sikkim, Sikkim

Take in the stunning views of Gurudongmar Lake, which is tucked away in Sikkim at an astounding height of 17,800 feet. This holy lake, which bears the name of Guru Padmasambhava, attracts with its pure charm. Experience the raw beauty of this undiscovered treasure as you travel through untamed landscapes dotted with rhododendrons and alpine pastures.

Wrapped in the beautiful drapes of North Sikkim, Kabi Langunch is a village that seems forgotten by time. It brims with timeless beauty and is an offbeat destination that not many might have heard about. If you truly wish to unplug and unwind, Kabi is ideal for you.

The place has a rich, significant history attached to it, as it is believed to be the place where the “Blood Brotherhood Treaty” was signed by the Bhutia King and Lepcha Chief in the 1200s. The place where this phenomenal event had happened spans 3 km towards the Bakcha river, chaperoned by the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga. The forests of Kabi are of exquisite beauty, celebrated for the spices of wildlife and flowers that inhabit them. Take short nature walks into these forests if you seek thrill and adventure.

Location: North Sikkim Highway, near Phodong, Gangtok, Sikkim

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 100 km

Sitting about 9 km away from the town of Mangan, Rong Lungten Lee is tucked away in the hearts of Namprikdang. It is lodged near the convergent marvel of the rivers Teesta and Kanaka.

There is a diverse exhibition of floral species to admire here. Rong Lungten Lee also bears a striking resemblance to the Lepcha Traditional house, which shelters some of the rarest artifacts of that community. Segregated into three, the attic of the house, known as Phodong, is used for storage of antiques for visitors to see.

Location: Mangan, North Sikkim, Sikkim

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 55 km

A quaint little settlement seated at an altitude of 1,560 meters, Singhik is considered to be an adventurer’s paradise. It is a window to spellbinding views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolchu. Along with mind-blowing views of the mountains, you also get to witness the mesmerizing confluence of the rivers Kanaka and Teesta.

Singhik is not as popular or explored as the other regions of Sikkim, which is why it is an ideal pick for backpackers and trekkers looking to spend days of uninterrupted serenity within the laps of nature. There are several short treks that start from Singhik, each one more beautiful than the other! If you’re seeking solitude and thrill, Singhik is one of the must-visit tourist places in Lachung.

Location: Mangan Subdivision, North Sikkim, Sikkim

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: 47 km

Seated right between the Chola range and Mangan Ridge, Tosar Lake climbs up to at an altitude of about 4,000 meters. The lake holds religious importance for the locals and is worshipped by them. Flanked by lofty Himalayan peaks, the lake affords unmatched views of the Kanchenjunga East Face.

Tracing an ancient yak and cow trail, the Tosar Lake trek coils through the Reserve forests of Naga, Meyong and Kaley, and is lined with beautiful trees of bamboo and conifer. The trek begins from Naga village and traces a steep trail through wet temperate forests. Enjoy splendid views of the mountain ranges, and their beautifully distorted reflections in the crystal waters of the lake.

Location: North Sikkim, Sikkim