Lachen is a small village in North Sikkim where you can enjoy fresh air and quiet nature. You can visit the beautiful Gurudongmar Lake, walk around the village, and see the big mountains. There are many easy things to do, like short walks, trying local food, and meeting kind people. If you want a calm place to relax and have fun, Lachen is a great choice. This guide will help you know what to do in Lachen to make your visit easy and happy.
Table of Contents
Here are top 10 things to do in Lachen
- Visit Gurudongmar Lake – A beautiful high-altitude lake with clear blue water.
- Explore Lachen Village – Walk around the village and meet friendly locals.
- Take Nature Walks – Enjoy easy walks in the fresh mountain air.
- Visit Tashiding Monastery – Learn about the local culture and see peaceful surroundings.
- Go to Yumthang Valley – Known as the Valley of Flowers, great in spring.
- Bird Watching – Spot different birds in the nearby forests.
- Taste Local Food – Try simple, delicious dishes made by villagers.
- See Traditional Festivals – Experience colorful festivals if you visit at the right time.
- Visit Chopta Valley – A quiet spot with great views and nature.
- Watch Sunrise and Sunset – Enjoy amazing views of the mountains at dawn and dusk.
Others Things to do in Sikkim
Visit Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, sitting at around 17,800 feet above sea level. This beautiful lake is famous for its crystal clear blue water and the peaceful feeling it gives to visitors. Most of the time it is surrounded by snow covered mountains , it’s a sight that stays in your memory for a long time for sure.
Visiting Gurudongmar Lake is very important when you are in Lachen, but because of the high altitude, it’s important to prepare and stay hydrated, listen to your body. Many travelers say that the calmness and natural beauty of this lake make the journey worth it. It’s also considered a sacred place by locals, which adds a special cultural touch to your visit.
Explore Lachen Village
Lachen Village is a small and also quiet place where you can see how people live in North Sikkim. When you walk through the village streets, you’ll find friendly locals who are happy to share their stories and traditions.
You can visit old houses made with wood and stone, and get a feel of simple mountain life. Exploring the village is a great way to understand the culture and everyday life of the people here. It’s peaceful, safe, and perfect for travelers who want to slow down and enjoy genuine moments away from busy tourist spots.
Take Nature Walks
Lachen is full of quiet paths and green hills, perfect for nature walks. You don’t need to be a trekker, just wear comfortable shoes and enjoy a slow walk in the fresh mountain air. Along the way, you’ll see tall trees, flowing streams, and maybe even spot some birds or wildflowers.
These short walks are a great way to relax your mind, enjoy the view, and take photos without any rush. Many travelers say these peaceful walks are one of their favorite things to do in Lachen.
Visit Tashiding Monastery
Tashiding Monastery is not just a quiet place, it’s one of the oldest and most special monasteries in Sikkim. It is about 300 years old and many local people believe that it brings peace and blessings. The monastery sits on a small hill, and from there, you can see green mountains and rivers below.
Colorful prayer flags move gently in the wind, and the sound of prayers makes the place feel calm. You can walk around the monastery, see old Buddhist art, and even talk to a monk if they are free. It’s a great spot to take photos, learn something new, or just sit and enjoy the silence. Many people visit just to feel peaceful and happy inside.
Yumthang Valley
Yumthang Valley is also called the “Valley of Flowers,” and it really justifies the name, especially in spring. During March to May, the valley is full of colorful flowers like rhododendrons and primulas. In winter, everything turns white with snow, and it looks like a wonderland.
The valley is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Lachen, and the drive itself is full of amazing mountain views. You can take slow walks, enjoy the fresh air, and click beautiful photos. There’s also a small hot spring nearby that some people like to visit. Whether you go in summer or winter, Yumthang is one of the best places to feel close to nature.
Watch Birds
Lachen is a great place for bird lovers. The quiet forests and clean air make it easy to spot many types of birds. You don’t need to go far, just a short walk outside the village, and you might see colorful birds sitting on trees or flying by. Some birds you may spot include blood pheasants, Himalayan monals, and even rare ones like the satyr tragopan.
Early morning is the best time to watch birds, so carry a pair of binoculars if you have one. Even if you’re not an expert, it’s fun to sit quietly and enjoy the sounds of nature. Watching birds in Lachen is a joyful experience.
Taste Local Food
Trying local food in Lachen is a tasty part of the trip. Most of the dishes here are made with fresh and simple ingredients. You can enjoy warm momos , thukpa (noodle soup), and rice with local vegetables.
Many homestays serve home cooked meals, and the food feels like it’s made with love. You can also try butter tea, which is salty and warm, perfect for cold weather. Eating local food is not just about taste, it’s also a way to learn about the people and their culture. Don’t miss a chance to eat with a local family if you get one
See Traditional Festivals
If you visit Lachen at the right time, you might get to see a local festival like Losar which is one of the important festivals and also Tibetan New Year. People wear traditional clothes, dance, sing, and cook special food.
The village feels full of joy during festival time. You may also hear drums, see colorful flags, and watch monks perform traditional dances at the monastery. It’s a fun and unique way to learn about the culture of the people living in Lachen. If you’re lucky then locals might even invite you to join the celebrations. It’s a warm and happy experience you’ll always remember.
Visit Chopta Valley
Chopta Valley is a quiet and beautiful place not far from Lachen. It has open land, small rivers, and big mountains all around. In spring, you can see colorful flowers, and in winter, the valley is covered in snow.
It’s a great place to enjoy nature, take peaceful walks, and click amazing photos. The valley is not crowded, so you can relax and enjoy the calm. If you like snow or want to feel close to the mountains, Chopta Valley is a must visit during your trip to Lachen.
Seasons to Enjoy Activities in Lachen
| Activity | Best Season | Notes |
| Visit Gurudongmar Lake | April to June, Oct | Closed in heavy snow (Dec–Feb), check permit rules |
| Explore Lachen Village | All Year | Pleasant in summer, chilly in winter |
| Take Nature Walks | March to June | Spring brings flowers and greenery |
| Visit Tashiding Monastery | All Year | Avoid during heavy rain (July–Aug) |
| Go to Yumthang Valley | March to May | Best time for flowers; also beautiful in snow (Dec–Feb) |
| Watch Birds | March to May | Birds are more active in spring |
| Taste Local Food | All Year | Local dishes are warm and comforting, perfect for all seasons |
| See Traditional Festivals | Feb–March, Oct | Festivals like Losar usually happen in late winter or early spring |
| Visit Chopta Valley | April to June, Dec | Green in summer, snowy in winter |
| Watch Sunrise & Sunset | All Year | Clear skies in summer; dramatic views in winter |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the popular things to explore in Lachen?
Sikkim’s most visited tourist destinations, including Chopta Valley, Green Lake, Lachen Monastery, Kanchenjunga National Park, Rhododendron Sanctuary, and Lachung, are located in Lachen.
Is Lachen safe for tourists?
Indeed, Traveling to Lachen is safe as North Sikkim is reopened for tourists and the presence of local police and BSF ensures the safety and security of the tourists.
Is Lachen worth visiting?
Yes , The Lachen Monastery is the primary attraction for tourists. Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake, and other local tourist sites are also worth seeing. The Chopta Valley, situated in the northern part of Lachen, is particularly worth a visit for its rich alpine vegetation, rhododendrons, and intriguing lakes and rivers.
How many days are required for Lachen?
The three-day journey will provide you with the best possible experience of Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, and the Teesta River.
Can I take my car to Lachen?
Private cars are not permitted in protected zones. Yes, it is only available up to Lachung and in Gangtok.
