Gurudongmar Lake in Gangtok

Gurudongmar Lake Permit 

Visit to the Lake requires a permit due to its proximity to the Indo-China border as the area falls under Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Indian tourists traveling to Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim need to carry a valid permit from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department and foreign tourists need to take Inner Line Permit (ILP).

The lake has a religious significance for both Sikhs and Buddhists. A surprising fact about the lake is that even in extreme winters, a part of it never freezes. Named after Guru Dongmar, the lake is said to be blessed carrying curative properties. It is a common practice for tourists to carry the water back with them. The Sarva Dharma Sthala is another spiritual attraction close to the lake. It is a temple for all religions. About 9 kilometers away is the Tso Lhamu Lake which is the source of the Teesta River. It adds to the majestic experience.

The best time to visit the lake is between April and June. The weather is quite pleasant then. During the winters, the lake almost completely freezes which is a treat to the eyes. From November to January is also a good time to visit, if one is equipped to handle the cold. 

Shopping in Gurudongmar Lake

Enjoy shopping in Lachen, a small hill station near Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim. One can purchase stuff like shawls, hats, handbags, carpets, wooden articles, bags, handicrafts, handmade blankets, and woven handloom products.

Major Attractions Near Gurudongmar Lake

Major attractions near Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim are the Thangu Valley, the Lachen Monastery, the Chopta Valley, and the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. Lachen Monastery is famous for its Tibet architecture and is a serene and tranquil place. Chopta Valley is one of the most famous trekking destinations and is known for gorgeous and stunning views. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary houses a wide variety of Rhododendron species and is surrounded by the Himalayan Ranges. 

One can enjoy the local cuisine and choose to go trekking as the lake is a base station for several treks. The hill town of Lachen provides a good shopping experience as well. From handlooms to wooden artifacts, it has a lot to offer. The place is famous for its yak wool clothes, carpets, and other woolen products. The Handicraft Center and the Angora Rabbit Farm are famous shopping destinations for artifacts and woolen clothes. Overall, a visit to this sanctified lake is guaranteed to be an experience of a lifetime.