Exploring North Sikkim: Lakes, Valleys & High Mountains

Exploring North Sikkim: Lakes, Valleys & High Mountains

Gangtok, with its buzzing MG Marg and views of Kanchenjunga, is often the first stop for travelers — mainly because for high-altitude journeys, acclimatization is very important. But to truly experience Sikkim, you need to wander beyond the capital.

At Hotel Tashi Delek on MG Marg, we often welcome guests who stay with us in Gangtok to acclimatize, making the hotel the perfect base before venturing deeper into the state. Here’s a guide to help you plan your adventures.

North Sikkim – 3 to 4 Days of Mountains & High Lakes

North Sikkim is remote, dramatic, and requires at least one night of acclimatization in Gangtok before heading higher. The region is not for the faint-hearted, but those who make the journey are rewarded with landscapes that feel untouched — icy rivers, alpine valleys, and high-altitude lakes shimmering against the blue of the sky.

Permits are required — enquire with the hotel staff upon booking your room.

Must-Visit Stops

Lachen

A peaceful village tucked high in the mountains, Lachen is known for its wooden houses, welcoming locals, and apple orchards. It’s the gateway to Gurudongmar Lake, but also a destination in itself: quiet evenings, starlit skies, and a strong sense of being away from it all.

Gurudongmar Lake

One of the highest lakes in the world, at over 17,000 ft, Gurudongmar Lake is sacred to both the locals of Sikkim and to visitors. Its turquoise waters remain partially unfrozen even in winter, adding to the mystery and reverence. The air is thin here, so travelers need to be prepared, but the sight of the lake against snow peaks is unforgettable.

Lachung

Set in a narrow valley, Lachung is famous for its apple orchards and as the base for trips to Yumthang. The village itself is charming, with traditional wooden homes, mountain streams, and a slower pace of life. Many travelers say Lachung feels like stepping into a postcard.

Yumthang Valley & Zero Point

Often called the Valley of Flowers of the East, Yumthang is a meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

• In spring, it bursts into bloom with rhododendrons.
• In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland.

Going further up, Zero Point takes you close to the Tibetan plateau, where the road literally ends and only mountains stretch beyond.

⚠️ Note:

• Special permits are required for all of North Sikkim.
• Temperatures can drop well below freezing.
• Travelers with certain medical conditions may not be allowed at high altitudes.
• Always travel with local guidance.

Stay Suggestions

• The Apple Orchard (Lachen)
• Yarlam Resort (Lachung)
• Etho Metho (Lachung)

Suggested Route

Gangtok → Lachen → Gurudongmar → Lachung → Yumthang → back to Gangtok (3–4 days)

Why Gangtok Matters

Before you begin either of these journeys, spending a night or two in Gangtok isn’t just about acclimatization — it’s about immersing yourself in the culture. MG Marg is alive with music, momos, and the hum of travelers from across the world.

At Hotel Tashi Delek, right in the center of MG Marg, we’ve been part of this community for decades. Our boutique rooms, rooftop restaurant, and Kanchenjunga-facing terrace suites are the perfect way to pause, prepare, and then set out to discover the rest of Sikkim.

👉 Plan your journey at hoteltashidelek.com — your basecamp for the adventures ahead.