Lachen is a quiet, beautiful mountain village in North Sikkim and it’s known for its natural beauty and peaceful vibe. Located at an altitude of around 2,750 meters, This location is the starting point for visiting Gurudongmar Lake.
Here the weather in Lachen stays cold most of the time, and the temperature can drop below zero in winter and you can see snow. Many travelers visit from Gangtok, from the Gangtok to Lachen distance is about 120 km.
In this guide, you’ll get helpful details like the best time to visit, Lachen weather updates, hotel and homestay options, and how far Lachen is from places like Lachung and Siliguri. If you are searching for a Lachen hotel, a comfortable homestay, or just want to know about Gangtok to Lachen taxi fare, this blog covers all the useful info which you require during travel.
Complete Lachen Travel Guide
Lachen Location, Altitude & Weather
Lachen is located in North Sikkim near the Tibet border. It stands at an altitude of about 2,750 meters, which means the temperature is cool. Most of the time Lachen weather is cold , with regular snowfall in winter months.
During spring and summer, the temperature is mild but stays comfortable due to the altitude. This location get very few tourists because of its remote location and that’s making it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy nature quietly.
In this area weather can change quickly, so it’s recommended to be prepared for sudden drops in temperature and bad weather. Overall, Lachen’s high altitude and location give it a unique climate that visitors find refreshing.
Distance to Lachen from Different Locations
| From Location | Distance to Lachen | Notes |
| Gangtok to Lachen | 120 km | Takes around 5-6 hours by road |
| Siliguri to Lachen | 200 km | Common route for travelers from West Bengal |
| Lachung to Lachen | 47 km | Short drive between two popular villages |
| Gurudongmar Lake to Lachen | 65 km | Starting point for trips to the lake |
Lachen Weather and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lachen is between March and June, and then again from September to November. During these months, the Lachen weather is pleasant, with cool days and clear skies which make it perfect for sightseeing and trekking.
The Lachen temperature during this period between 10°C to 20°C, which is comfortable for most travelers. Winters in Lachen, from December to February, are very cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C and heavy snowfall common.
While the snowy season offers beautiful landscapes, travel can be difficult due to road closures. The monsoon season, from July to August, brings heavy rain and slippery roads, so it’s recommended to avoid visiting on that time. Planning your trip according to the weather patterns will help you enjoy Lachen’s natural beauty without any problem.
How to Reach Lachen
You can more easily reach Lachen than you might think. Most people start from Gangtok, which is about 120 km away. The trip from Gangtok to Lachen takes around 5 to 6 hours by car or shared jeep. The road goes through beautiful hills and small villages.
If you are coming from Siliguri, the distance is about 200 km and you can take a taxi from Siliguri or go to Gangtok first and then travel to Lachen. The Gangtok to Lachen taxi fare changes depending on the car and season, so it’s good to discuss before you go.
Buses and shared jeeps are also available if you want to travel like the locals, but these can take to much time. No matter how you go, the journey to Lachen shows you lovely mountain views and a chance to see real village life.
Where to Stay: Hotels and Homestays in Lachen
You will get very few good choices to stay in Lachen. here are hotels in Lachen that offer basic but comfortable rooms, perfect if you want a comfortable place after hole day of exploring. Many of these Lachen hotels, like Khenkhim Regency and Summit Gangchen Hotel, provide warm meals and a friendly atmosphere. If you want a more local experience, you can try a Lachen homestay.
Staying in a homestay, such as Lhakhim Homestay – House on the Pass lets you live with local families, enjoy home-cooked food, and learn about the culture. Both options are great, and you can find places to fit most budgets. Whether you pick a hotel in Lachen or a homestay, you’ll find warm hospitality and a peaceful place to rest before your next adventure.
Places to Visit in Lachen
In Lachen there are many beautiful places to see maybe you are in a short trip or exploring more of North Sikkim you can try this locations
1. Gurudongmar Lake
If there’s one place you must visit from Lachen, it’s Gurudongmar Lake. This lis one of the highest lake in the world. The Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake distance is 63.9 km and usually takes 2 to 3 hours by road.
The lake is fully covered by snow mountains and has crystal-clear water. Even in summer, it stays cold here. People also believe the lake has spiritual value, and it’s a quiet place to sit and feel calm.
2. Chopta Valley
Just before Gurudongmar, you’ll come across Chopta Valley. This area is full of natural beauty snow in winter, flowers in summer, and a fresh breeze all year round. You can walk around the valley, take pictures, or just enjoy the amazing views. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and those who enjoy being outdoors.
3. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
If you’re visiting Lachen between April and June, this sanctuary is a must. Located near Yumthang Valley (on the way to Lachung), it’s main location of colorful rhododendron flowers.
It’s a quiet, green space perfect for short walks and enjoying nature. Bird watchers also love this place. This is one of the top places to visit in Lachen if you enjoy flowers and nature.
4. Lachen Monastery
This peaceful monastery is located in the village itself. It’s not crowded, so you can relax and take your time here. You can light a butter lamp, hear monks chanting, or just enjoy the view of the village from the top. Visiting Lachen Monastery gives you a closer look at the local culture and traditions.
5. Thangu Valley
Located about 30 km from Lachen, Thangu Valley is another quiet and beautiful spot. You’ll pass by it on your way to Gurudongmar Lake. The valley has open grasslands, rivers, and tiny houses. It’s peaceful and gives you that true mountain feeling. In winter, it’s covered in snow and looks magical.
How to Reach Lachen
Reaching Lachen takes some planning, but the journey is totally worth it. Since Lachen is a mountain village, it doesn’t have its own airport or railway station. You’ll need to reach nearby cities first like Siliguri, then travel by road.
By Flight
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal. It’s well connected to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. After landing, you can take a taxi to Gangtok. From there, you’ll need to drive to Lachen. Many travelers choose this route as it’s simple and safe.
- Bagdogra to Gangtok: Around 125 km (takes 4–5 hours)
- Gangtok to Lachen distance: Around 120 km (takes 5–6 hours)
By Train
There is no railway station in Lachen. The closest one is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), near Siliguri. It connects well to major cities in India. From NJP, you can take a taxi or shared vehicle to Gangtok, then travel to Lachen by road.
- Siliguri to Lachen distance (via Gangtok): About 200–210 km total
By Road
You can reach Lachen by road from Gangtok. It’s a amazing but hilly route. Roads are sometimes rough due to weather, so it’s best to hire a local taxi or travel with a tour operator. The Gangtok to Lachen taxi fare can vary, but shared cabs and private cars are both available.
- Gangtok to Lachen: Approx. 6 hours drive
- Route: Gangtok → Mangan → Chungthang → Lachen
Quick Travel Tips for Lachen
- Get a Permit: You need a permit to visit Lachen and Gurudongmar Lake. Your hotel or travel agent can help you get it. Carry passport-size photos and ID proof.
- Start Early: Roads are long and winding. Start your trip early in the morning to avoid delays and reach before dark.
- Pack Warm Clothes: Lachen weather stays cold, even in summer. Jackets, gloves, and woolen caps are a must.
- Carry Cash: ATMs are rare in Lachen. Bring enough cash for food, stay, and shopping.
- Health First: Some people may feel dizzy due to high Lachen altitude. Take it slow and keep warm to avoid any discomfort.
- No Network: Mobile signal may be weak or not work at all. Inform family before your trip.
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Frequently Asked Question
Is Lachen worth visiting?
The primary draw for tourists is the Lachen Monastery. Not to be missed are Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake, and other neighboring tourist destinations. A visit to the Chopta Valley, which is located in the northern part of Lachen and features beautiful lakes, rivers, rhododendrons, and rich alpine vegetation, is highly recommended.
Can we go Lachen now?
Hello, Yes, it is safe to travel to North Sikkim with three-year-old children. However, this is only the case in Lachung; it is not safe to travel to Lachen or above Gurudongmar Lake with three-year-old children.
Is Lachen safe for kids?
Hello, Yes, it is safe to travel to North Sikkim with three-year-old children. However, this is only the case in Lachung; it is not safe to travel to Lachen or above Gurudongmar Lake with three-year-old children.
Do we need permit to visit Lachen?
The Sikkim Police Permit Cell issues permission to enter Tsomgo Lake, Dzuluk, Gnathang Valley in East Sikkim, and Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake, Lachung, Yumthang Valley, CHOPTA VALLEY (0 point) in North Sikkim. The Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation issues permits to enter Nathula Pass.
Is one day enough for Lachung?
One day in Pelling and one day in Yuksom, or two days in North Sikkim (Lachung)? While I think both tours are really attractive, I would personally recommend spending two days in Lachung. There are several scenic viewpoints along the gorgeous trip from Gangtok to Lachung.
