Tourist Places to Visit in Lachung & Lachen

The north-east region of India has always been the most preferred destinations by travellers because of its natural beauty. The state of Sikkim houses one of the hidden beauties that can magically rejuvenate you with its natural beauty. Elevated at a height of 2,400 metres, Lachung is a hill station that is one of the must-visit places in the country. Lachung is also a forward base for the Indian Army and has pleasant weather all throughout the year. During summers, the place can be seen covered with pretty colourful meadows and during the winters, Lachung is layered with a white snowy blanket. Even though it is a small hill station, Lachung has a lot of places to visit.

Perfect for nature and adventure lovers, Lachung is ideal for those looking to unwind. Because of its cosy weather, this hill-station is also a perfect honeymoon destination.

Let’s not make you wait any further! Here are some of the best places to visit in Lachung:

1. Lachen

Situated at a height of 2,750 metres in the north district of Sikkim, Lachen is one of those tourist places that can sweep you off your feet with its beauty and weather. The literal translation of Lachen is ‘big pass’ and interestingly, the place offers unparalleled views of the valleys that blend with its nearest village. Lachen is the base for the Chopta Valley and the Gurudongmar Lake and is located around 27 km away from Chungthang. Like said before, the Lachen village is one of those unexplored beauties of India that can mesmerise you to a whole new level. That being said, there are some beautiful offbeat places to visit in Lachen that will definitely bring out the adventurer in you.

2. Lachung Monastery

Sikkim, in many ways, is known for its serenity and placid aura and what makes it more interesting are the monasteries present in the state. The Lachung Monastery is one such place to visit in Lachung. Surrounded by magnificent apple orchards, the architecture of the monastery is simple yet gorgeous. The Lachung monastery is elevated at a height of 2,750 metres near Lachen and Lachung rivers which are two of the Teesta River tributaries. In addition to the tranquillity it affords, the Gompa also serves as the base for the Green Lake Trek. The monastery was built in the year 1806 by the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism, and a statue of Guru Padmasambhava is located there. This place in Lachung is certainly one of the most-visited serene spots in the state.

3. Yumthang Valley

There are a lot of beautiful places to visit near Lachung and the Yumthang Valley is a splendid example. Touted as North-East’s ‘valley of flowers’, the valley is located at a freezing altitude of 3,500 metres and has a plethora of floral species which look breathtakingly beautiful, so much so that you will not feel like leaving the place. The sight of the flower beds crisscrossing across the green carpet is a sight to behold. That being said, the Yumthang Valley is also home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary which houses over 24 different species of rhododendrons. The valley is a colourful meadow which is complemented by the majestic snow-capped mountains and the Teesta River that looks like a precious gem ribbon on the valley.

4. Chopta Valley

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Lachen village, the Chopta Valley (not to be confused with Chopta Village in Uttarakhand) is a must-visit travel destination for all the adventure lovers. The village is located approximately 2 hours away from Lachung and sways at an astounding height of 4,000 metres above sea level. This tourist place near Lachung can be visited at any time of the year. In the summer season, the Chopta valley is covered in a glorious mix of colours because of the beautiful alpine flowers. On the other hand, in the winter season, the valley looks like a mystical wonderland when covered in snow.

5. Zero Point

If you are considering a Lachung package, then the Zero point must be a part of the itinerary. Also known as Yumesamdong, the Zero Point is yet another place to see in Lachung where the sights will take your breath away! Nestled at a freezing altitude of 4,724 metres, the Zero Point is where the roads come to an end. From this point, you can also see some of the parts of China; however, no one is allowed to cross beyond a certain boundary of the Zero Point. The snow-clad mountains accompanied by the Hot Springs by the River Sebu Chhu, and you can often see yaks often grazing here.

6. Bhim Nala Falls

Yet another tourist spot in Lachung, the Bhim Nala is located in the quaint hamlet of Khedum. This place is a thing of spellbinding beauty, mystically amalgamating serenity with thrill. That being said, the Bhim Nala Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Sikkim. Elevated at quite a height, the waterfall forms a mesmerizing plunging view and is complemented by a soothing sound of the waters gushing from that height. The appealing aura of the Bhim Nala Falls makes it one of the best places to visit in Lachung.

7. Mt. Katao

Last but not the least, yet another place to visit in Lachung is Mt. Katao. Located in the North Sikkim district, this place is located around 28 km away from the Lachung village and is a favourite spot of all adventure and trek lovers. Although you need a permit from the Indian Army to visit Mt. Katao, the protectors of India are friendly – so you don’t have to fret!  The trek is trailed with majestic alpine trees like rhododendrons, primula, and poppies, which is surrounded by a few placid streams. Mt. Katao, as a tourist place in Lachung, has what it takes to enthral you!

If the best time to visit Lachung is spoken of, it is going to be any time of the year. Be it the summer or the winter season, this place has an enchanting beauty that keeps you coming back for more!