Cholamu Lake, also called Tso Lhamo Lake, is the highest lake in India, or the 14th-highest lake in the world. It is located in high altitude of about 18000 feet above sea level, which makes it the most attractive place in North Sikkim.
While visiting sikkim travllers love to visit Cholamu Lake. When you come down 300 feet from Donkiala Pass, you can see the most beautiful lake in India. The lake is not very big, but it stays almost frozen all of the year round because of the very cold weather.
Cholamu Lake is very close to the Tibetan border, so you need a permit to visit there. To get a permit, you should contact your tour operator and the Sikkim Government.
IF you are planning to visit Sikkim, the best time to visit is in the summer, because during the monsoon or winter season mostly lakes are frozen and it is too risky to visit there.
If you’re looking for a family trip, it is better to avoid visiting Cholamu Lake and Gurudongmar Lake, as it is too risky for you.
It totally depends on you, which type of season you prefer, like cold weather or summer. If the weather is good and you get a permit easily, you can choose to go to Cholamu Lake.
Most travel companies do not provide cab/vehicle services in the mountain area because the roads are risky in winter or monsoon, so visitors usually trek to reach there.
North Sikkim Trip Packages
How to Reach Cholamu Lake
By Air:
The nearest domestic airport is Bagdogra Airport. It is about a 4½-hour drive from Lachen. From the airport, you need to hire a taxi to reach Lachen. Once you reach Lachen, jeeps and taxis are available to go to the lake.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is Darjeeling Railway Station, which is around 171 km from Lachen. This station is connected to several places like Siliguri, Sukna, Tindharia, Mahanadi, Dilaram, Sonada, Jorebungalow, and Ghum. From the railway station, you can take a taxi to reach Lachen.
By Road:
Lachen is connected to major cities of Sikkim by Sikkim State Road Transport Corporation (SSRTC) buses and private travel services. Regular buses run to Lachen. From there, taxis and jeeps are available to travel further toward Cholamu Lake.
Best time to visit Cholamu Lake
If you’re planning a trip to Cholamu Lake and you’re thinking about what the best time is to visit Cholamu Lake, do not worry about it. Summer is the best time to visit Sikkim because it is too risky to visit during winter or monsoon.
Summer (May to September) – Best Time to Visit
Summer is the best season to visit Cholamu Lake. During this time, the weather is slightly better, and the roads are more accessible. Snow starts melting, and the lake becomes more visible. If you get the required permits and the weather is clear, this is the safest time to plan your visit.
Monsoon (July to August) – Not Recommended
Visiting Cholamu Lake during the monsoon season is not safe. Heavy rain can cause landslides, and roads may become very dangerous. Travel permits are also hard to get during this time.
Winter (October to April) – Avoid Visiting
Winter is the worst time to visit Cholamu Lake. The area is covered with heavy snow, and the lake remains frozen. Roads are often closed, and temperatures drop below freezing, making travel risky.
Why It’s Famous
Cholamu Lake is the highest lake in India, and also the most popular lake in India. It is famous for its natural beauty and its peaceful environment.
Also, it is very close to the Tibet-India border, that’s why people visit there. For this reason, special permission is needed to visit the lake, which makes it less crowded and well-protected.
The lake area totaly coverd by the snow, and the lake water is crystal clear. Most of the lake remains frozen because of the cold weather, that’s make it a magical moment.
North Sikkim Tourism Packages
Map/Location of Cholamu Lake
North Sikkim Travel Packages
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask) – Cholamu Lake
Where is Cholamu Lake located?
Cholamu Lake is located in North Sikkim, close to the India – Tibet border. It is one of the most remote lakes in India.
Why is Cholamu Lake famous?
Cholamu Lake is famous because it is the highest lake in India and one of the highest lakes in the world. It is known for its icy water and peaceful surroundings.
How high is Cholamu Lake?
Cholamu Lake is located at a height of about 18,000 feet above sea level, which makes it very cold throughout the year.
Is Cholamu Lake open for tourists?
No, Cholamu Lake is not open for normal tourists. Visitors need special permits from the Indian Army and the Sikkim government to visit this lake.
Is permission required to visit Cholamu Lake?
Yes, special permission is mandatory. Without official permits, tourists are not allowed to go to Cholamu Lake.
What is the best time to visit Cholamu Lake?
The best time to visit Cholamu Lake is during good weather in summer. It is not safe to visit during the monsoon or winter due to snow and risky roads.
Is Cholamu Lake suitable for family trips?
No, Cholamu Lake is not recommended for family trips because of its high altitude, rough terrain, and limited facilities. Families should visit Gurudongmar Lake instead.
Can we reach Cholamu Lake by vehicle?
In most cases, vehicles cannot go all the way to the lake. Visitors usually need to trek on foot as travel agencies avoid driving in this risky area.
Is Cholamu Lake also called by another name?
Yes, Cholamu Lake is also known as Tso Lhamo Lake.
Which lake is easier to visit: Cholamu Lake or Gurudongmar Lake?
Gurudongmar Lake is much easier to visit and more popular among tourists. Cholamu Lake is harder to reach and requires special permits.
North Sikkim Places to Visit
