7 Mesmerising Lakes in Sikkim That You Shouldn’t Miss Out On

Tucked away in the beautiful region of North-East India, Sikkim is blessed with the enchanting beauty of Mother Nature – some of which are untouched, making them the best places to visit in Sikkim. Right from lush green treks to the enthralling water beauties, Sikkim is your destination for tranquillity and peace. The place houses some of the most mesmerising lakes that you need to visit at least once in your lifetime. And, here are the seven most beautiful lakes in Sikkim that you cannot miss out on –

1. Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim

The first one on the list the Tsomgo Lake that is perched at an altitude of 12,000 feet and located 39.7 km away from Gangtok. This lake is touted as one of the most exquisite lakes in the North-East region, surrounded by mesmeric glaciers and magnificent peaks. The name ‘Tsomgo’, means the ‘Source of Water’ and locally, the lake is known as ‘Changu Lake’. The Tsomgo lake in Sikkim is a 15m deep, oval-shaped lake that is spread across at a distance of 1 Km. During the winter seasons, the water freezes, however, the sight is a pleasure to watch. On the other hand, during the spring season, the surroundings of Changu Lake in Sikkim are adorned with colourful and beautiful flowers, making the entire lake look vividly eye-pleasing.

The key attractions here include – flowers like Primulas, Yellow and Blue Poppies, and Iris. You can also witness migratory ducks like the Brahmini and so on. Adding to this, tourists can also go enjoy a Yak or Mules ride.

2. Menmecho Lake

Located 20 km away from Sikkim’s Tsomgo Lake, Menmecho Lake is yet another breathtaking lake in Sikkim. The lake is at a height of 12,500 feet and is situated right beneath the Jelep La Pass. The Menmecho Lake gets its water from the Rangpo Chu River, which is a tributary of the Teesta River. The lake is complemented by the glorious Himalayan Mountains and varied forests that enhance the beauty of this place even more. What attracts the tourists here is not just the picturesque sights but also that Menmecho Lake is said to change colours every minute. Interesting, isn’t it? The shore of the lake is covered in sand, giving you a beachy vibe amidst the hilly ranges.

The key attractions of this famous lake in Sikkim are the Zuluk Wildlife area and the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. Tourists can also visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple that is dedicated to Indian Army soldier Harbhajan Singh, who is hailed as the hero of the Indo-Sino War of 1965. 

3. Khecheopalri Lake, Sikkim

Considered to be one of the most sacred lakes in Sikkim, the Khecheopalri Lake is 27 Km away from the town of Pelling and is nestled at an elevation of 38,710 feet. The lake is also known by several other names like the Wishing Lake, Sho Dzo Sho, and Kha-Chot-Palri. Being a sacred lake, it is worshipped by everyone, irrespective of their caste or creed. It is one of the highest lakes in Sikkim and it is believed that if someone prays here and then sprinkles the lake’s water on themselves, then their wishes are likely to be granted. It is surrounded by lush green beauties that make the scenic views even more alluring and charming.

The key attraction of this Sikkim lake is the Pemayangtse Monastery, which is located 24 Km from the lake and a place that tourists must definitely visit. Adding to this, the walking trail from Pelling to Khecheopalri is also quite famous. Tourists can trek to the lake that takes around 5 hours via this trail as well as camp here.

4. Lampokari Lake

An 1120-feet long and 240-feet wide boot-shaped lake, the Lampokari Lake is one of the oldest lakes in Sikkim. Perched at an altitude of 4600 feet, the lake is surrounded by magnificent green pine forests that make the picturesque views of this place even more attractive. The Lampokari Lake is also known as the Aritar Lake and is a must-visit place if you want to spend some fun and memorable times with your loved ones.

The key attraction here is boating. The Lampokari Lake in Sikkim is famous for the boating activity that tourists can take part in. The scenic view that surrounds Lampokari Lake is surrounded with makes the boating the boating experience even more enthralling. On the banks of this Sikkim lake, there is a small temple dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava that tourists can visit after their boat.

5. Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

Amidst the snow-clad mountains lies the beautiful Gurudongmar Lake, which is yet another sacred lake in Sikkim reverted by the Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. The lake is situated at a height of 17,100 feet above sea level and has a very intriguing story attached to it. According to the legends, a part of the lake is blessed by Guru Rimpoche and this spot never freezes even during the winter’s lowest temperature. Adding to this, it is also believed that childless couples who pray at the Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim for a child, get their wish granted.

The key attraction here is Lachen – a beautiful town in the northern part of the region. Tourists can also see the China-Tibet border that is located just a few kilometres away from the lake. There is another small hamlet named Thangua; however, it houses the Indian Army’s base, so tourists wanting to visit the hamlet may have to take permission and follow the protocols.

6. Cholamu Lake

Another mesmerising lake in Sikkim that you cannot miss out on is Cholamu Lake. Located 18000 feet above sea level, the lake sets its base in the serenity of the North Sikkim region, whose natural beauty remains unblemished as the area is less explored. The Cholamu Lake is near the Indo-Tibet border and it is mandatory to get a special permit from the Sikkim Police and Administration as well as from the Indian Army unit stationed for visiting this alluring lake.

The key attraction here is the picturesque location that offers sights to behold for eternity. The Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim is at a very short distance from Cholamu Lake. So, you can visit Gurudongmar Lake too in case you haven’t.

7. Samiti Lake

Last but not least – located in the Onglathang Valley at an elevation of 4250 metres lies the Samiti Lake. Complemented by snow-clad mountains and peaks, the Samiti Lake is one of the smallest but famous lakes in Sikkim that cradles between two mountains. It is a frosty lake and during the winter season, the lake freezes completely. The beauty of this place is simply so appealing that everyone visiting Sikkim makes a trip to Samiti Lake to enjoy its enchanting charm.

The main attraction here is the overnight stay camp beside the Samiti lake and of course, the enticing Goecha La trek that one can include in their Sikkim tour package.

Along with these, the Kathok Lake, Lakshmi Pokhari Lake, the famous Teesta River, Green Lake, and Elephant lake, Sikkim are some of the other mesmerising lakes that you cannot miss out on. Sikkim, in itself, is a breathtakingly beautiful location and these lakes simply enhances the attractiveness even more.