Sikkim is blessed with the most vivid strokes on Nature’s canvas – surreal landscapes, dreamy misty mountains and valleys that make you wonder if you’ve landed in paradise. The essence of all that Sikkim has to offer is wrapped up in this idyllic North Sikkim hamlet, Lachung.
Tall majestic snow-clad Himalayas, sparkling mountain streams and waterfalls, bountiful fruit orchards and meandering blue rivers complete this perfect picture of untainted and untamed nature in all its glory at Lachung Valley.
How to Reach Lachung
Well-connected with Gangtok, the Lachung valley is a 6-hours’ drive from the capital city along a winding road offering breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience. The scenic drive along the mountains will make you believe that the journey itself is as rewarding as the destination.
Places to Visit in and around Lachung Valley
1. Lachung Monastery
While exploring the village, the Lachung Gompa (monastery) is a tranquil place to spend time admiring the beautiful wall murals, ancient sculptures and letting the peaceful vibes nourish your soul. If you happen to visit the monastery during some important Buddhist festivals like the Saga Dawa (celebrating Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death), Chaam (masked religious dance) or Lossong (the harvest festival and New Year of Bhutia people), you get a chance to witness the local traditions and culture more closely. The handicrafts and carpet weaving centre in Lachung valley displays exquisite woollen carpets, rugs and shawls crafted by the locals.
Suggested Read: 14 Breathtaking Places To Visit In Lachung For A Tranquil Vacation
Sikkim-Gangtok-Darjeeling Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Visit Sikkim and explore Yumthang valley, Tsomgo Lake, Gangtok, Nathula Pass, and Pelling. Experience peace and tranquility while exploring Buddhist monasteries, snow-capped mountains, and wildlife sanctuaries. Book packages inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing, and meals.
2. Mt Katao
A 40-minute drive away from Lachung is the snow bound landscape of Mt Katao close to the Indo China border. Due to its proximity to the border, permission must be sought from the Army before visiting the place. While this is a winter wonderland from November to March, Mt Katao is equally captivating during the spring and summer months. At a dizzying 15000 feet, Mt Katao would charm both nature lovers and adventure seekers with its snow-capped peaks and is a must visit for some unforgettable moments of fun and adventure in the snow. In the winter months there’s snowboarding, skiing and snow-tubing to lure the adrenaline junkies. The thrill of holding fresh snow in your hands, playing with snow and making your own snowman while witnessing the golden rays of the sun dance on snow peaks, is how you will remember those precious moments spent at Mt Katao.
3. Yumthang valley
Imagine being greeted by a canvas of wildflowers in myriad hues for as far as your eyes can see! Sikkim’s very own ‘valley of flowers’ is a place of unmatched beauty with rolling meadows, sparkling rivers, hot springs and flowers all around. Home to the Shingba Rhododendron sanctuary, Yumthang valley is studded with about 24 species of rhododendron which is also the national flower of Sikkim.
The valley is usually closed from December to March due to heavy snowfall. The best time to visit is in the flowering season from April end to mid-June when the valley is a rainbow of colours with hundreds of flowers including rhododendrons, poppies, primulas and irises. Even if you visit Yumthang valley at other times of the year, it’s a lovely place to spend some moments in the lap of nature near the enchanting river flowing through the valley, while you gaze at the silvery snow up above on mountain peaks. Zorbing through the valley can add some fun quotient to your tryst with nature.
Lachung to Yumthang valley distance (about 25 Km) can be easily covered in about 1.5 hours depending on the weather and road conditions. You must plan to spend 2-3 hours at the valley of flowers to do complete justice to this spectacular location.
Suggested Read: 10 Super Exhilarating Things To Do In Lachung During Your Vacation
4. Yume Samdong
More popularly known as Zero point, this is one of the top attractions near Lachung valley. The treacherous mountain road which is often covered in snow during the winters, offers a thrilling experience and stunning views all along the way. Aptly called zero point it is really the end of the road and the last outpost to civilization close to the border with China. Azure skies, snow-capped mountains ranges and surreal views at Yume Samdong will remain etched in your memories forever. It is advisable to leave early and be back well in time to avoid getting stuck due to snowfall or inclement weather. Since it’s very windy and cold up there, wearing multiple layers of clothes is a great way to stay warm and protected. Despite the slightly tiring route and feeling of breathlessness at this height, you will feel blessed looking around at the breathtaking views with a steaming cup of tea in your hands and a warm bowl of Maggi to dig into. What more is there to life than bearing such close witness to nature’s wonders and losing yourself to the majestic mountains!
Zero point is further ahead of Yumthang valley and takes about an hour or more to reach. So these two trips can be combined if you plan well and leave Lachung early morning.
5. Naga and Bhim Nala Falls
Enroute to Lachung the Bhim Nala falls are a refreshing pit stop to admire the splashing fall and click some memorable pictures on the wooden bridge with the gorgeous fall in the backdrop. Another dazzling waterfall on the way to Lachung valley is the emerald-hued Naga Falls. While most people stop by and enjoy a warm cup of tea with at the roadside tea-stall, the adventure loving can trek up a little to go close to the water.
Suggested Read: On A Solo Trip To Sikkim, Krishna’s Lens Captured The True Beauty Of The Himalayas
Best Places to Stay In Lachung Valley
There are plenty of accommodation options in Lachung to relax your weary bodies after all that hill driving and before you continue your mountain adventures to the next destinations.
1. Hotel Yarlam
You are welcomed by cherry blossoms as you enter this fantastic hotel, with superb views of the valley and all modern amenities including a salon and spa. Their warm hospitality, tasty food and picture-perfect location will relax both body and soul.
Price: From INR 10,000.
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
2. Hotel Norling Zimkhang
This charming mid-budget hotel offers comfortable rooms, outstanding food and splendid views of the river and snow-capped mountain ranges. With all basic amenities in place and a caring & attentive staff, Norling Zimkhang is a good choice that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Price: From INR 4000
TripAdvisor rating: 4/5
3. Apple Valley Inn
A cozy bed & breakfast option, the Apple Valley lets you relax in idyllic wooden cottages overlooking the gorgeous valley. It’s the ideal mountain getaway with delicious home style food and very helpful staff.
Price: From INR3300
TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
Suggested Read: 15 Best Hotels In Lachung To Answer The Call Of Mountains In The Best Possible Way!
Now that you know all about the wonderful Lachung Valley, it is time you take a visit to this paradise and experience the magic of the mountains. Do tell us how your experience was in the comments section below.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lachung Valley
What are the popular places to see in Lachung?
There are several breathtaking places to visit in Lachung for the best holiday experience. Some of the best places that will give one the serenity are Yumthang Valley, Chungthang, Thangu, Gurudongmar Lake and Yumesamdong. Where is Lachung situated?
Located in Northeast Sikkim, Lachung is a town and a beautiful hill station that attracts tourists from all across the world. At an elevation of about 9,600 feet (2,900 m) and at the confluence of the lachen and Lachung Rivers, both tributaries of the River Teesta, Lachung valley is known for its waterfalls and hot springs. What is the best time to visit Lachung?
Lachung is a year-round destination, as the city is surrounded by mountains and thus offering you pleasant atmosphere throughout the year. The best time to visit depends upon your interest. If you visit in the summer season from March till May, you can watch rhododendron flowers in the valley. One should avoid travelling during monsoon due to heavy rainfall the city receives. If you are a fan of snow, winter is the perfect time for you to visit. Also, some of the amazing sightseeing options open during this time. Can one witness snow in Lachung in May?
Snow fall only occurs at high altitudes (14000ft-17000ft) in Lachung in May. Therefore, you may enjoy the snow at places like Lachung, lachen, Chhangu, Zero point, Gurudongmar lake, Yumthang valley. How far is Yumthang valley from Gangtok?
Yumthang valley is situated at a distance of about 120 kilometres from Gangtok in Sikkim. Also, for anyone planning a visit to the valley, needs to know that there is no direct way to reach. One has to first go to Gangtok, get a permit and then travel to Yumthang. Does Gangtok have an airport?
The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra, situated at a distance of about 124 kilometres from Gangtok. Taxis or private vehicles are available from the airport to reach Gangtok. How do I reach Lachung Valley from Delhi?
Located in Northern region of Sikkim, Lachung Valley can be easily reached. The fastest and most feasible way to reach Lachung Valley from Delhi is through air mode of transport. What is the height of Lachung?
Located near the district border with Tibet, Lachung is sitting at an elevation of around 2,900 meters or about 9,600 ft. Why is it called Zero Point in Sikkim?
Yumesamdong is sitting in the Northern region of Sikkim at an elevation of 15,300 ft. Yumesamdong is often tagged as ‘Zero Point’ as beyond this point, one can not find any motorable road and the travelers do not receive any permits to go further from this very point by virtue of its proximity to the Chinese border. Do I need a permit to go to Lachung?
In order to travel till Sikkim or Darjeeling, one does not require any sort of permits. However, if one wishes to travel further and visit the Northern part of Sikkim, one would need to get a Protected Area Permit which can be obtained from Gangtok. Areas that require a permit are Lachung and Yumthang.
By Air- Silliguri is home to Bagdogra airport that is well-connected with all the major cities of India including Delhi. One can easily book a flight to Bagdogra airport. The airport is around 125 kilometers from Gangtok and well-linked via road.
By Rail- Located around 120 kilometers from Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri train station that is the nearest to Lachung. One can hire a taxi or take a bus to travel to Lachung after reaching the station.
By Road- By virtue of availability of public transport and private cabs, one can easily travel to Lachung after reaching Gangtok, Darjeeling, Bagdogra, Jalpaiguri, or Mangan.
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