Located in Changgu Village about 40 KM from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, Tsmogo Lake is one of the most beautiful, popular and must visit glacial lake. It also called Changgu Lake because of it’s location in Changgu Village. Changgu lake or Tsomgo Lake is a beautiful location for people who love nature and specially mountains. This lake is located at an altitude of 12000 feet. Surrounded by mountains the Tsomgo lake is remain frozen during the complete winter season.
Snow-capped mountains, silence of environment, blue water, and yak ride makes this place heaven for the human kind. And make it one of the best tourist attractions of the Sikkim
People also experience the vibrant views of each season because in each season the lake reflects many colors from its surface and this adds to the beauty of this place. And because of this, the lake sacred for the local people.
This is the glacial lake so it remains frozen during winter. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and in summers the snow melts and become source of the water for the lake.
But one of the problem tourist face is permit. Because the Changgu Lake is located in the restricted area so you must have to get permit before you travel to the Tsomgo or Changgu Lake.
You can visit the Tsomgo Lake in anytime but avoid in monsoon (July to September) because there will be heavy rain in this season and also there is also risk of landslide so avoid in monsoon.
Like this there are many things you must know before you visit the Tsomgo Lake. Here, you will know how to get permit, best time to visit, and about the weather of this place.
Also we also cover how much it will cost you, and the best photography spots of this location.
Gangtok Tour Package
How to reach the Tsomgo Lake
The Changgu Lake one of the most beautiful lakes The Tsomgo Lake is located in the Changgu Village, 40KM away from Gangtok. This must be the most visit place in your Gangtok trip. Many people are confused in their Sikkim visit that how to reach to the Tsomgo Lake. To reach to this most beautiful lake you many options. You can choose options according to your budget and comfort. You can reach to the Tsomgo Lake by
Road:
One of the best way to reach to the Tsomgo Lake is by Road. You can reach from the Gangtok to Changgu in 1 to 2 hours because it just 40 KM away from the Gangtok. And during your way to Changgu Tsomgo lake you will see beautiful scenes of mountains. You can book a taxi through travel agency or through local taxi drivers.
Flight:
Flight is one of the best option for you. You can get a flight to Pakyong (near the Gangtok) and than rent a cab, taxi or bike to reach Changgu lake.
Tour Package:
This is the most easy, reliable and best option. Book a tour package from a trusted travel agency online or offline. They will arrange everything for you. From hotel, taxi, and everything. It will make your trip easy and you will be stress free. We at Kingsland Holiday, also provide Sikkim Tour Packages in which you can plan your trip according to your budget and your trip duration. Just pick the package and we arrange everything for you.
Bike Trip:
You can also choose bike trip option. You can rent a bike from Gangtok and ride to the lake by road. You can also get your own bike and ride to the Changgu from your home. Complete trip on bike if you love adventure.
Train:
Trains don’t run in Sikkim because of its mountain area and geographical location. So, you have to pick above options.
Best time to visit Tsomgo Lake or Changgu Lake
One of the most popular tourist attraction in Sikkim is Tsomgo Lake. So if you are planning Gangtok tour, you should consider Tsomgo Lake. If you are visiting Changgu lake you must know the time when to visit. This is must be your concern that which is the best time to visit. For your convenience we divided the best time to visit in months so you can choose easily.
Winter (October–March):
You can visit the Tsomgo lake in winters. In mid-winters (December to February) , the lake remain frozen. It look very beautiful but with very cold weather. Also roads are slippery or covered in snow. But you will truly enjoy this remarkable experience. But if you visit in October or November you will get clear weather and not get any problem.
Summer (April–Jun):
This time is the best time to visit the Sikkim because in this season snow begins to melt so mountains look very shiny and beautiful. Flowering season start in the valleys. In this season the weather remains pleasant. Also visibility remains clear and the weather is favourable.
Monsoon (July–September):
In the monsoon season, heavy rains occur here. Because North East India is heavy rain area. Also here is risk of land slide. So travel is advised to avoid during these times.
Gangtok Travel Package
Must-Know Things Before Visiting Changgu Lake
Visiting Changu Lake is a beautiful experience, but the high altitude, unpredictable weather, and strict rules make it important for travelers to prepare well. The lake sits at 12,400 ft, so oxygen levels are lower, and the road can get blocked due to snow in winter. A permit is compulsory for all tourists, and only registered vehicles are allowed. Carry warm layers, basic medicines, and start early from Gangtok for a smooth trip.
Key Things to Know
- Permits are mandatory, and you must carry valid ID (Voter ID/Passport) for approval.
- Weather changes quickly, so pack warm clothing, gloves, and proper shoes.
- Roads can be rough or closed during heavy snowfall so always check road status before leaving.
- No self-drive allowed only authorized local taxis can go to the lake.
- Altitude sickness is possible, so avoid running, stay hydrated, and take breaks if needed.
Guide for Yak Ride
Yak rides at Changu Lake are a unique experience, offering beautiful views as the yaks walk along the lakeside trails. The price usually ranges from â‚ą300 to â‚ą500, depending on the season and tourist rush.
Each ride lasts 10–20 minutes, giving you enough time for photos and a peaceful slow-paced journey. Yaks can make sudden movements, so hold on firmly, especially if you’re riding with children.
During snowfall, the trail can get slippery, so follow the handler’s instructions carefully for a safe ride.
Nearby places you can visit
FAQs
Do I need a permit to visit Tsomgo Lake?
Yes, a permit is mandatory for all tourists visiting Tsomgo Lake because it lies in a restricted area. You can get the permit through a travel agent or your hotel by submitting a valid ID like a Voter ID or Passport.
How far is Tsomgo Lake from Gangtok and how long does it take to reach?
The lake is around 40 km from Gangtok, and it usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach depending on road conditions and traffic.
Is Tsomgo Lake open throughout the year?
Yes, it is open most of the year, but monsoon (July–September) is not advisable due to heavy rainfall and landslide risks. In winter, the lake freezes and the road may close temporarily because of snowfall.
Is Yak Ride safe at Tsomgo Lake?
Yes, yak rides are generally safe when taken with proper precautions. Always sit firmly, avoid sudden movements, and follow the handler’s instructions, especially during snowy conditions.
What should I carry while visiting Tsomgo Lake?
Carry warm clothes, gloves, sunglasses, basic medicines, snacks, water, and a valid ID for the permit. In winter, extra layers and proper shoes are a must due to extreme cold.
