Lachen is renowned for its stunning valleys and quaint towns, situated high in the mountains of North Sikkim. It sits very high at approximately 9,000 feet! The name Lachen means “Big Pass” because it is an important connecting point between different areas in the mountains. North Sikkim is ideal for those travellers who are looking for an adventure and an unforgettable trip in Sikkim.
This town is known for being very quiet and peaceful, without too many crowds. It has colourful traditions and amazing views of the Eastern Himalaya mountains. Every North Sikkim tourist wants to start their trip from Lachen, which is also the starting point. Lachen has some beautiful places like Lachen, Chopta Valley, and Thangu Valley.
During your visit to Lachen, you can’t miss the most important landmark in it, which is the Lachen Monastery. It sits above the town and is a special place for Buddhist monks to pray and find peace. If you visit the monastery, you get a wide, beautiful view of the valleys below.
The town is fully surrounded by Lush green areas. Apple orchards that flourish under clear skies. People also come to Lachen to embark on exciting adventures, such as hiking to Green Lake or visiting the Kanchenjunga National Park.
North Sikkim Tourism Packages
Best Time to Visit Lachen
The ideal time to travel to Lachen is between November and June, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for visitors.
During the summer, Lachen remains calm and cool. A popular event held every summer is the famous Thangu yak race, which attracts many spectators.
In contrast, winters in Lachen become extremely cold. During these months, the lake freezes completely, resembling a massive sheet of ice. Many tourists love visiting in winter to see this rare and amazing sight.
How to Get a Permit to Visit Lachen
Because Lachen all places in a restricted border area of North Sikkim, visitors must obtain a special permit to enter. You cannot apply for this permit directly online yourself.
Instead, you need to arrange it through an authorised intermediary, such as your tour operator, hotel, or taxi driver. They will secure the permit for you from the offices in Gangtok or Mangan.
To apply, you must provide your agent with proof of identity, two photographs, and your hotel booking details. It is also crucial to carry an original national ID card, like a Voter ID or driving license, with you at all times.
The permit usually takes one day to process, so it is advisable to arrange it at least two days before your trip to North Sikkim. Be prepared to show this permit at various military checkpoints along the route.
Travel Tips to Visit Lachen
- Secure all permits and ID copies prior to the trip.
- Always carry warm clothes for sudden weather changes.
- Drink water frequently to prevent altitude sickness.
- Keep extra cash on hand; ATMs are limited in North Sikkim.
- Pack medication for bumpy, motion-heavy rides.
North Sikkim Travel Packages
How to Reach Lachen
Lachen is the most popular place in North Sikkim, which you can’t forget to visit during your trip. When you think about visiting North Sikkim, you also have to think about how to reach Lachen without any issues, so don’t worry about that. You can take a taxi or a cab from Gangtok and easily reach to Lachen.
The Road Trip: You can book your package (including taxi, hotel, and permits) effortlessly through local unions or government-approved travel agents.
Scenic Views: We highly recommend starting your trip early morning. Watching the sun rise over the mountains turns the landscape into heaven on earth.
By Flight or train: Remember, there are no direct flights or trains to Lachen. You will rely exclusively on road transport to explore this beautiful terrain.
North Sikkim Trip Packages
North Sikkim Places to Visit
