A land – where heaven touches the earth, the ambiance creates mystery, a landscape dominated by elements, silence can be heard, vision tends to travel beyond the horizon, soul starts meditating- unknowingly, the mind gets rejuvenated; and land that makes you bow.
North Sikkim is the northern district of Sikkim. Mongan is the district headquarter of the district. At an altitude of 3950 ft, the town is located at a distance of 65 km from Gangtok, the state capital. Tourists need special permits to visit North Sikkim beyond Mangan. The area can be visited only as part of an organized tour.
The road from Mangan goes straight to Chungthang, another major town of North Sikkim. At 5,600 ft. Chungthang is 95 km from Gangtok. From here the road bifurcates. The road to the left goes to Lachen and the road to the right reaches Lachung. Lachen is the base from where tours to Gurudongmar lake and Chopta Valley is organized. Lachung, on the other hand, is the base for your tours to Yumthang valley.
Your journey to North Sikkim – a land full of unfamiliar experiences – starts from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The landscape changes rapidly on every curve, as your road winds upwards. With thick smell of wildflowers, mossy trees, streams rushing down, mists coiling up from the deep gorges, sudden flashy flight of colorful birds, huge snow range embossed in the horizon, widespread valley, deep blue sky, lonely prayer flag waving leisurely at the distant top – you are on your way to a different destination.
Located at the height of 17,100 feet above the sea level, Gurudongmar Lake, located in Sikkim, is one of the fifteen highest lakes in the world. It is also the second highest lake in Sikkim, after the Cholamu Lake located at the height of 18,000 feet. The splendid and scenic beauty of the place is breathtaking and attracts tourists from all across the world. Gurudongmar Lake also has great religious significance attached to it, and the beautiful view of Mount Siniolchu and Kanchenjunga from the lake is a sight to behold and cherish. The water of Gurudongmar Lake is believed to have healing powers, and many tourists carry the water with them on their way back.
Lachung, a tourist hotspot situated in North Sikkim is a splendid destination that is sited at the spot where two tributaries Lachung and Lachen meet. This town is a popular tourist attraction because of the many waterfalls that gush in this area. Glimpses of snow covered mountains can also be caught from this place and offer a spectacular sight. Lachung is also a preferred base to visit the famous Yumthang Valley, quite a landmark in Sikkim’s tourism scene.
The popular Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim is located 140 km north of Gangtok. Famous as the “Valley of flowers”, this is a rare and exotic location with hot springs, rivers, yaks and lush green meadows. Situated at an elevation on 3564 metres, this stunning valley is a paradise for nature lovers as it houses the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary which has over 24 species of Rhododendron flowers (the state flower) blooming from late February to mid-June.
Thangu, situated at an altitude of around 3900 m, is a beautiful village which is about two hours’ drive from Lachen. It is a comfortable village where the tourists usually choose to relax before they proceed to trek to Gurugongmar Lake, Muguthang or Cho Lhamu Lake. In Thangu Valley, one can catch a glimpse of the rows of trees and as one goes more upwards, the beautiful view of Tibetan Plateau begins. For nature lovers, this quaint town is a perfect gateway.
Nestled in the northern part of Sikkim, at a distance of 144 km from Gangtok and 28 km from Lachung, Mt Katao is one of the most stunning sights imaginable. Perfect for adventure lovers who like skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, and grinding during the winter season, the surreal mountain provides a splendid view to its onlookers. However, entry to Mt. Katao is restricted now for security reasons, since the place where Mt Katao is located at a military base.
