Sikkim, a divine state in northeastern India, invites all types of travelers to stay. Every turn you take on its meandering alleys offers you breathtaking views, and it’s also enjoyable to see the sun peeking through the trees. Without a doubt, Sikkim is a worthwhile travel destination.
And a trip across the lakes here is a necessity if you want to be mesmerized by the beauty of nature. There are also many lakes to traverse amid the diverse terrain. Visiting some of Sikkim’s stunning lakes will definitely leave you feeling overwhelmed by the abundance of places to explore across the state.
The lakes are mostly situated in such a tranquil environment that visiting these locations is both exciting and alluring.. These are the primary features of Sikkim that entice travelers from all over the globe to relax among serene lakes and towering mountains. Additionally, lakes provide a relaxing and calm atmosphere that contributes to Sikkim’s thriving and remarkable tourist industry.
Here is the list of some lakes in Sikkim
- Bidan Chu Lake
- Cholamu Lake
- Green Lake
- Gurudongmar Lake
- Raj Kathok Lake
- Khecheopalri Lake
- Tso Lhamo Lake
- Menmecho Lake
Table of Contents
Bidan Chu Lake
Set up during Nathula’s journey from Zuluk, Bidan Chu is a breathtaking site that really makes you love Sikkim. The lake is located in Kupup Village, the highest village in the region, which is 4114 meters above sea level.
The elephant-shaped lake glistens with blue water that, on clear days, seems to highlight the surrounding mountain range. Bidan Chu is also well known for sometimes reflecting several hues.
How to Reach
The best method to go to the lake, which is situated on the Nathu la-Zuluk Route, is by cab from Gangtok, which is around 56 kilometers distant from Nathu La.
Also Read: Places to Visit Sikkim
Cholamu Lake
At a dizzying 5330 meters above sea level, Cholamu Lake is said to be the most notable lake in all of India. To access this beautiful lake, which is also only a short distance from the Indo-Tibetan border, you must have a special permission. Because Cholamu is hidden in the North Sikkim region, it is little visited, which keeps its splendor perfect.
How to Reach
The lake is located around 80 kilometers from Lachen, which serves as the starting point for taxi transportation to this location.
Green Lake
The unspoiled region of Sikkim is called North Sikkim. One of these blessings is Green Lake, which is at an elevation of 1437 meters and provides breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and other notable peaks.
The journey through the rugged areas, which draws many seasoned visitors to this breathtaking lake, offers the greatest view of life as it passes through the dense forests connected by abundant glades of blue poppies, primulas, and a variety of rhododendrons. Additionally, the gentle mountain wind captivates you as you reach the pinnacle and revitalizes you from the wearying city life.
How to Reach
Lachen is a scenic journey from Gangtok that takes around 6-7 hours.
Also Read: Things to do in Sikkim
Gurudongmar Lake
Spread out majestically at an altitude of 5425 meters, the crystal-clear Gurudongmar is a breathtaking lake that reflects the snow-capped peaks enclosing it on all sides. One of the world’s most magnificent lakes, it bears the name of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Dongmar. It is said that the lake symbolizes the importance of religion in both Sikh and Buddhist traditions.
One remarkable fact about this purified lake is that a portion of the water never hardens, even during very cold winters. This is based on the myth that Guru Dongmar once visited, blessed, and partially cemented this lake.
In addition, the Lake provides restorative qualities and breathtaking views of Khanchendzonga and Mount Siniolchu. Due to its remarkable trekking, majestic magnificence, and religious significance, Gurudongmar Lake is very well-liked by tourists.
Raj Kathok Lake
The picturesque lake known as Kathok Lake, or “Kathok Tsho” in the local vernacular, is situated near Yuksom, in the western part of Sikkim. It is recognized as the spirit pool of Lama Kathok Kuntu Zangpo, who spearheaded the effort to bring Buddhism to this picturesque area in 1642 A.D. He had made this lake holy so that people may use it for enigmatic rituals to commune with God.
To maintain its sanctity, lamas also perform a cleaning service known as “Tru-sol” here on a regular basis. The breathtaking majesty of the mountains and the clouds passing above are reflected in the glistening pure water of this tranquil lake. The lovely green trees around the lake and the field are softly contrasted with the prayer flags that remain strung along the beach.
Kathok Lake is thus said to be the most well-liked location for travelers seeking some quiet time by themselves as well as enthusiastic photographers hoping to take some striking pictures without having to put in any additional effort.
How to Reach
How to get here From Geyzing (39 km/1 hour 48 min) and Pelling (40 km/1 hour 39 min) to Yuksom, common jeep/SSRTC buses are available.
Also Read: Things to do in Pelling
Khecheopalri Lake
At the Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred pilgrimage spot revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, you may tell you have reached your nirvana when the prayer flags billow in the wind and the gentle sounds of chimes gradually get quieter. It is OK to satiate one’s wants at this sacred location.
According to a tale, if someone prays and sprinkles water on himself, their wishes would most likely come true. It is also reported that, despite the lake being in the middle of a dense forest, no leaves are visible above it because the birds are removing the leaves that have fallen into the water.
As a result, many tales surround the lake. Khecheopalri Lake is a great location and a trekker’s and nature lover’s paradise. This area has a variety of motels and trekkers’ businesses.
Tso Lhamo Lake
There are many names for this stunning lake in North Sikkim, including Tso Lhamo Lake, Chho Lhamo, Cholamu Lake, and Cholamoo Lake. Situated at a height of 5,330 meters, this lake is among the most remarkable on Earth.
Because of its exceptional temperatures, most travelers find it to be inaccessible. Encircled by the snow-capped mountains on all sides, Tso Lhamo Lake is one of the Teesta River’s headwaters.
This serene lake, which is sustained in the lap of a detached fragment of the inexorable force of life, is praised for its breathtaking vistas, which create a pleasant domain and instill a sense of tranquility in its visitors.
Also Read: Places to visit in Yuksom
Menmecho Lake
This high-altitude lake is bordered by steep slopes and an unexplored pine forest, with protection from the mountains under the Jelepla Pass. Menmecho Lake, one of the tributaries of the Teesta River, provides support for the Rangpo-chu stream, which is fed by the liquid waters of the cold highlands.
Like a shoreline, the coastline of this kind of lake is sand-protected, and the water is crystal clear, perfect for trout. Hikers and tourists from all over the world often visit Menmecho Lake to see its ever-changing color.
Also Read: Places to visit in Yuksom
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many lakes are there in Sikkim?
The only naturally occurring inland wetlands in Sikkim, a tiny state in the Eastern Himalayas, are lakes and ponds. There are 227 high-altitude lakes (wetlands) throughout the state, although they are essentially tiny and shallow. The majority of it is regarded as holy and is nourished by glaciers.
What is the name of the biggest lake in Sikkim?
One of the highest lakes in the world and India is Gurudongmar Lake, which is situated in Sikkim at a height of 5,425 meters (17,800 feet). Sikhs, Hindus, and Buddhists all regard it as holy.
Which is the hidden lake in Sikkim?
Near Tsomgo Lake, Menmecho Lake is one of Sikkim’s most well-known lakes and one of the state’s hidden gems. It is situated in the heart of the Himalayas. Travelers looking for peace and quiet may find solace in the lake’s emerald-green waters and immaculate surrounds.
Which is the mysterious lake in Sikkim?
Situated in West Sikkim, Khecheopalri Lake is around 147 kilometers away from Gangtok, the state capital, and just 34 km from Pelling, a well-known tourist destination. You already know that this translates to an enjoyable and rewarding day excursion.
Which is the sacred lake of Sikkim?
Originally named Kha-Chot-Palri, which translates to “the heaven of Padmasambhava,” Khecheopalri Lake is a lake next to Khecheopalri hamlet. It is situated in the West Sikkim district of the Northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, 147 kilometers (91 miles) west of Gangtok.
