Lachung is a mountain village home to Ancient Buddhist Lachung Monastery and really close to Tibetan Border. The Lachung river divides the village into two parts. Moreover, it is surrounded by beautiful apple orchids, peaches and apricots. 

Lachung is located at an elevation of about 2900m in North Sikkim district and requires permission from the government. It has been a prominent tourist place because it is really close to Yumthang and its preserved cultural identity over the years.

When is the best time for visiting Lachung?

Surrounded by magnificent mountains from all sides, every season is perfect for visiting Lachung. But if someone wants to choose a particular month to explore this picturesque destination, October to June is highly recommended with a temperature of less than 16°C. In the period of October to February, you can witness the misty air and lining of fog around the mountains as you stand in temperatures of -5°C to 10°C.

During the winter months in Lachung, the village transforms into a white wonderland as the snow falls, resembling a scene from a Disney animated film.

How to Reach Lachung?

100kms from the capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, Lachung is accessible in many ways. Lachung also requires an Inner Line Permit from the Sikkim Government, which tourists can get online or any tour package.

Also, read about these restricted areas – Permit to Restricted Areas.

Reach Lachung By Air

Lachung is 125kms from Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, presently the closest airport to this small village in North Sikkim. This airport is well maintained and comfortable. It is connected to all the cities and can be accessed easily. Further, one needs to travel to Gangtok first to reach Lachung. Either one can take a bus or taxi to reach Gangtok and Lachung.

Pakyong Airport is the first airport of Sikkim but is not connected to most cities; hence Bagdogra Airport is always a better option.

Reach Lachung By Train

Well connected to most cities, one can take the train to New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, the closest railway station from Lachung. Further, you will have to take any local transport booking your own taxi or buses to Gangtok and take a permit for Lachung Further.

Lachung by Road

Lachung is well connected to all the cities of Sikkim. One needs to travel to the busy mountain city of Sikkim Gangtok to reach Lachung. Being 4 hours from Gangtok requires Permit from the government before heading there.

One can take taxis, buses and jeep as per their budget. One can also get shared cabs and jeeps to reach Lachung. Few jeeps under travel agencies work as guides and stop at famous destinations in between.

Best Places To Visit In Lachung

Lachung Monastery

Across the picturesque Lachung Chu river, amid apple orchards, stands the Lachung Monastery. The historic Buddhist Monastery in Lachung is one of the most peaceful spots to visit. The monastery sits atop 2,750 metres above sea level amid the confluence of Lachen and Lachung.

Yumthang Valley

The snow-capped mountains, shrubby slopes, and meadows covered in blossoming plants make this place ideal for hiking and picnicking in the summer months. Lachung Valley is 25 kilometres away. It is one of the most famous scenic tourist attractions. 

The picturesque Valley of Flowers Sanctuary in North Sikkim is reminiscent of a scene from a Pixar film, complete with meadows nestled between snow-capped mountains, a river, and hot springs.

Gurudongmar Lake

The most popular tourist place, lying close to the China border Gurudongmar Lake, is around 100kms from Lachung. This place is a must-visit. It is enclosed by snow-secured mountains on the Northside of the Khangchengyao Range.

The holy lake solidifies during the winters except for one spot, which the ardent conviction has been particularly honoured.

ChungThang

The Lachen and Lachung river combines to form the Teesta River. It is the sacred site of Buddhists and locals. It also has a gurudwara which is famous among tourists.ChungThang is more of a military base than a tourist place, but it gives splendid views. Dotted with small shops and eateries constructed traditionally, it provides mountain scenery.

Chopta Valley

Imagine waking up to a quiet and serene valley covered in white snow with warm tea in your hand. Lying sprawled at altitude 4023m Chopta Valley can maintain itself as a pristine and tranquil destination. For those looking for a calm retreat, the valley offers a breathtaking panorama of snowy peaks, pine forests, and farmland around a river that meanders through the valley.

Seven Sisters Waterfall

A bit far away from the mainland, Seven Sisters Waterfall is a must-visit. You can visit the fall while travelling from Gangtok to Lachung during the monsoon. The seven consecutive waterfalls in the green vegetation go with its name. It gives an awe-inspiring view from the far. Falling water makes a thundering rumbling sound that can be heard from a great distance, thanks to the rich green flora covering the cliffs and limestones.

Mangan

Can you describe a place if I tag it as therapeutic and meditative? Mangan, around forty km from Lachung, describes both the words rightly. The charming cute little village blessed with enticing science beauty is for people who enjoy nature. The place is meditative, soaked in a deep aura of peace and Buddhist prayers and colourful flags. As you relax and take in the peace and quiet of this place, you may notice a reduction in the rate of your heartbeat.

Singhba Rhododendron Sanctuary

The place very rich in natural vegetation and with more than 40 different species of Rhododendron is in Yumthang Valley. This sanctuary is also part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape and is very beautiful. 

Yumesamdong- Zero Point

The barren land flooded with snow gives one of the ‘Lachung-Series’ best views. However, this place is close to the border and getting permission to go there is tough. Lachung’s spectacular confluence of three rivers, framed by towering snow-capped peaks, is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

Green Lake

The 1427-meter-high Green Lake, with its incredible vistas of Kanchenjunga and other majestic peaks, is one of Sikkim’s most treasured natural attractions. The 20-minute journey from Green Lake to Zema is a pleasant diversion. En route, you’ll pass through a forest of blue poppy, primula, and rhododendron blooms of all kinds.

Things to do

Visit Lachung Monastery

Enjoy a peaceful time in the ancient Buddhist Monastery and experience Sikkim Culture. You can also enjoy Mask Dance which happens at a famous festival in the monastery. One can also enjoy the meditative surrounding of ancient murals and architecture.

Walk across Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons are woody plant species that come in white and pink hues. The time spent amid these flowering meadows cannot be missed. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a great place to see rhododendrons in full bloom during the spring.

Trek to Yumthang Valley

Yumthang Valley is monstrous excellence and the lively shades of greenery. The most beautiful trek for approximately 25 kilometres arrives at an attractive destination. Additionally, the Yumesamdong Hot Spring is famous for its warm hot spring bath after a serene trek.

Also Read: Treks In Sikkim You Must Try!

Zero Point

Zero Point is the place that marks the last outpost of civilisation surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is very close to the border but only 50kms from Lachung.

Trek in Mount Katao 

In addition to the list, the Trek to Mount Katao, a place with pristine beauty, is a must. Climbing to this hotspot is a standout amongst the most thrilling exercises in Lachung, particularly among trekkers and those that love adventure.

Fruit Orchids in Sikkim

Visit and enjoy the fruit orchids in Sikkim. The helpful guides and warm hosts make the trip to orchards very pleasurable. In addition, if you are here during the harvest season, do not forget to pack crates of juicy peaches and apples to take back home.

Enjoy local food

You must try the local food of North Sikkim, which also keeps them warm during days colder temperatures. The staple Thukpa, which is a simple noodle stew with vegetables. Momos are primarily available everywhere for those who enjoy spicy food (in authentic mild and a fiery spicy variety with extra chilly sauce).

Best Places To Stay

Being close to Yumthang Valley and Gurudongmar Lake, Lachung has started blooming as a famous tourist place in Sikkim. It has many options as per every budget in terms of accommodation.

Luxurious Options

Yarlam Resort

Summit Khangri Karpo Retreat & Spa

Snow Lion Mountain Resort

Summit Alpine Resort

Dikling Resort

Zhiwa Ling Resort

Pocket-Friendly Hotels

Hotel Tenzing Retreat

Iceland Residency Lachung

Golden Valley Residency

Cliff View Residency

Magellan’s Apple Valley Inn

Being one of the best destinations to explore, Sikkim’s Lachung helps understand the gravity of how people experience life there and how precious it is to India.