gurudongmar lake tourism

Gurudongmar Lake: 19 ‘Must Know Before You Go’ Facts

Gurudongmar Lake is probably the highlight among all the wonderful places in Sikkim . This Lake is one of the highest altitude natural lakes in the world. It is the pinnacle point of the North Sikkim tour and probably the most beautiful one too. The lake is placid and the surroundings are nothing less than overwhelming.

It would not be an exaggeration to call it a paradise in the midst of nowhere.

The Lake is spread out over 290 acres and is surrounded by snow-covered mountain ranges all around. You might even feel that the ranges are floating away on the lake itself. It is nothing short of ethereal.

Gurudongmar Lake; ‘Must-Know Before You Go’ Facts

Given the height of the lake and weather conditions, it is easy for everyone to understand that there will be many facts that one needs to know before venturing into a tip to Gurudongmar. We will bring them out one by one here along with all the associated stories and info nuggets that will help you to plan your trip better.

The facts can be broadly distributed in 2 areas. We believe it important to know both the sides for someone who is planning to travel to Gurudongmar valley.

Facts on Weather, Temperature, and legends of the place
Facts on How to reach and places of Interest around the Lake

Gurudongmar Lake: Facts on Weather, Temperature, and legend

Fact 1: the water never freezes; even when the temperature goes down to -20-degree celsius.

The most interesting thing about this lake is the fact that it never freezes completely. The lake is the primary source of water for the locals. There is a religious belief around this lake that explains this phenomenon. Hindu’s and Buddhists and Sikhs come together to consider this lake to be a sacred place.

It is believed that while Guru Padmasambhava was on his way back from Tibet, the locals had pleaded for a solution to their perennial problem of water. He was moved by their pleadings and had touched a part of the lake that never freezes and is also considered sacred.

Fact 2: Locals belief about the magical power of lakes water

Several locals believe in the fact that drinking this water could resolve fertility issues of women . This is not a scientifically proven fact and hence it makes sense not to drink the water without knowing much. There is also a temple next to the lake where tourists can offer prayers. You will notice brightly coloured flags all around that are individual prayers of people who visit.

The colourful flags add up to the mystic stories about the lake and making it a “Wish Lake” for thousands of visitors.

Fact 3: Actual originator of Teesta River

The lake is primarily fed by glaciers and is a source stream for the Tso Lahmu Lake that later forms the source of the Teesta River. The lake appears smaller when you visit it because the majority of the lake is obscured by the hilly topography and glaciers. You might come across blue sheep, yaks and other wildlife common to higher altitudes if you wish to go around the lake.

Fact 4: Extreme height of the Lake causes breathing and other problems

The Lake is situated at a height of 17,800 feet. from sea levels and is one of the highest altitude lakes in the world.

However, due to the altitude, it is also a very difficult journey and a majority of tourists never make it to the point. They are either halted by landslides or the lower levels of oxygen make them sick from breathing issues, way before they can reach.

When you reach the spot, you will be required to take slow and deep breaths to acclimatize.

Do not smoke or drink the day before you go there and obviously while going. You will fall sick.

Snow-Capped-Mountain-view-from-North-Sikkim

Fact 5: Wind can lift stones!

Imagine a negative temperature along with a wind speed of 15kms per hour. It is extremely windy and that makes the place feel a lot more freezing than the temperature itself. Wind speed keeps going up as the day passes by. It is believed that afternoon wind in near the Lake can even lift stones.

The place remains windy for the whole year and wind speed tends to go up more during the winters.

So, be ready with your best of winter clothes that not only save you from extreme cold, but also from heavy chilling winds.

Gurudongmar Facts: Weather and Temperature across months

Fact 6: Apr-May is the flowering season and the places get a surreal view at this time

If you are fond of colourful flowers and have been longing to see wildflowers in bloom, then the best time to visit the Lake and the surrounding areas is from April – May .

This is springtime in the area and is a feast for your eyes. Rhododendrons are in full bloom during this period and your camera will be mighty pleased to capture the colours of spring.

You can expect sub-zero temperatures that range anywhere between -2 degrees to 0 degrees during this season.

However, you could face snowstorms that tend to happen in the month of April. So, go prepared for that.

Click On The Link to Know Everything About Yumthang Valley in 8 mins

Fact 7: The Lake stays unreachable through most of the time in winters

If you are more adventurous and long to see the lake along with the surroundings beautifully frozen, then the early weeks of December are ideal for you to visit.

The temperature can go down to -8 degrees to -10 degrees in the day. If you are lucky then you will not face road blockages on your way.

Later on, the road towards Gurudongmar remains mostly closed due to heavy snowfall.

So the lake remains un-accessible during this time. It is strictly advisable to avoid end half of December and Jan Feb if you are planning a trip. The temperature during winters goes down till -20 degree Celsius.

Fact 8: Oct, Nov, and end April and early May is the best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake

For an average tourist who plans to see the Lake in all its splendour, November is the ideal time to visit.

Snowfall begins in the month of November and blizzards and snowstorms are still a month away. The lake is partially frozen, the skies are clear and the temperature is bearable. The temperature in this month hovers around -2 degrees in the day.

Facts on How to go to Gurudongmar Lake?

Fact 9: reaching thelake, at once, is not possible or permissible.

This is because a majority of North Sikkim lies on sensitive Indo-Chinese border areas. There is a list of permits that need to be taken before and during the journey, at significant spots.

There is also a scientific reason to take halts and make the trip a two or three-day long process.

The lake is situated at a very high altitude and people travelling from plains will naturally find it difficult to adjust to the varying levels of oxygen as they go higher up.

Hence, almost all trips to North Sikkim have halts so that the body is acclimatized to the changes as gradually as possible.

Fact 10: You got to identify places you want to stay to access the Lake

This is where places like Lachen , Lachung and Yumthang Valley of North Sikkim come into play. They serve as a means to an end.

Lachen and Lachung are small towns where tourists are generally put up on their way up to the Lake or on their way down to Gangtok, Sikkim. However, it will be a sin to not mention how these means spell divinity by themselves. Lachen and Lachung are breathtakingly beautiful villages.

They are idyllic and dream-like and the people that live there are some of the most industrious human beings you will come across.

Lachung-City-In-between-the-Mountain-Ranges-North-Sikkim

You will be required to reach the taxi stand of Gangtok by 9 A.M. and you will be accommodated in the car as per your package.

Main meals are generally included in the package but if you buy anything from the shops on your way that is your own expense. There will be several halts on the way, for toilet breaks and meals.

The distance from Gangtok and Lachen is around 121 Km and the cars take the North Sikkim Highway to reach there. Lachen and Lachung are situated at a distance of 2 hours from each other and since there is no proper accommodation facility beyond Lachen, on the way to Gurudongmar Lake.

You need to spend the night in the hotels or homestays of Lachen.

Travellers generally choose Lachen as a base stay to access Gurudongmar valley.

Click On The Link to Know Everything About Lachen in 8 mins

Click On The Link to Know Everything About Lachung in 9 mins

Fact 11: Very limited choice available for transport

Assuming that you will begin your journey from Gangtok, the only way for tourists to reach theLake and the places on the way is via car. If you book a package, you will be given an option of hiring the car exclusively for yourself or travel along with a couple of other groups.

The maximum allowed number of people travelling in 1 car is 8 people. You may or may not get the option of choosing your seats or car types, depending upon the seasonal rush.

Bolero cars rule the roost over this terrain. Other cars are barely visible. Though recently few Innova cars are taking travellers too.

Army-Check-Post-on-the-way-to-Gurudongmar.

Fact 12: You got to leave as early as possible for Gurudongmar from Lachen

You will be asked to wake up by 2-3 AM the next morning so that your car can depart at 4 AM to take you to the Lake

The journey to Gurudongmar begins next morning and could be as early as 4 A.M. The weather conditions of and around the lake are most favourable in the first half of the day and worsens as the day passes.

This is why it is recommended to reach early and depart before the winds and temperature get rough.

Fact 13: Thangu is the last place with shops on your way to Gurudongmar. Prepare to last without a shop for the next 10 hours.

The first halt on your way to the Lake is Thangu that takes around 2 hours from Lachen. The Lake is around 40 Km from Thangu and due to the rough terrain, it takes close to 4 hours to reach.

You will almost find no shop during this journey to Gurudongmar and back. So, stuff yourself with enough water and other essential things. You will need to last on these stuff for next 10 hours ( 4 hours to the Lake, 2 hours at the lake and 4 hours to come back to Thangu)

Preserve your camera’s battery life because you will soon witness places that could partially be justified with photographs.

If you are lucky, you might even receive fresh snowfall on your way to the lake. You will come across army barracks, uninhabited villages, frozen patches of valleys and landslide damages.

Fact 14: Your permits will be checked by the Indian army twice before you reach Gurudongmar

Thangu is the last civilian settlement area where your permits will be checked and you will also receive medical facilities if you require them.

Your breakfast will be served here. It mostly comprises of buttered toast and eggs or Egg Maggi.

Once you cross this check post, you are literally on your own as there is hardly any habitation ahead.

The last check post is Gaigaon, at 15,000 feet. Your permits and papers will be checked for the final time at this check post.

Snow Capped Mountain view from North Sikkim

Fact 15: Do not miss the spectacular view of Gurudongmar Valley

In a few miles from Thangu, you enter a desert valley of sorts. This is called the Gurudongmar Valley.

There is uniqueness about the desert valley that leads up to the great Lake. It is a long stretch of gravel and black sand, coming together in patches. It looks formidable yet spellbinding. All you will come across is one herd or two of yaks and a handful of herdsmen around.

Fact 16: Gurudongmar Valley is beautiful but do not get carried away and stay calm.

You may or may not experience breathing difficulties or nausea at this altitude. However, this is the point where breathing difficulties start. Many times, a tourist gets carried away with the beauty of the place and get involved in lots of physical activities like playing with the snows, going for small hikes for better selfies etc.

With a lot of physical activity and less oxygen, it is quite common for tourists to feel sick and decide to call it a day.

Staying calm helps in avoiding the condition from getting worse.

Fact 17: Once you reach the Lake. Stay calm and savour the beauty.

While you huff and puff inside the vehicle and wonder at the vast stretch of a desert valley in front, your car will take a steep uphill road and reach your destination in a matter of minutes. There it lies; both breathtaking and intimidating at the same time.

The Lake is a feast for the eyes. You will have to get off the vehicle and walk towards the lake. Reaching the edge of the lake could be difficult unless your lungs are trained to withstand the thinness of air since you are required to go down a flight of stairs.

However, the beauty of the lake and the surroundings are so stunning that you could simply stand over the cliff and take it all in.

Buddhist-Praying-Flag-Surrounding-Gurudongmar-Lake

Fact 18: Do not miss Mini Switzerland ( Chopta Valley) on your way down from the Lake

Your journey downhill from Gurudongmar could be exhausting. All the additional work that your lungs have been doing in order to keep pace with the decreasing levels of oxygen in the air, will make you feel sleepy and groggy.

However, you can expect the picturesque landscape of Chopta Valley to charge your cells.

If you are the type that loves visiting the hills in the monsoon months, then you will experience the wonders of Nature spread out in this valley itself in the months of May-September. It will be filled to the brim with rhododendrons, primula and other flowers that bloom in the wild.

If you prefer the summer or the winter months, you will witness a completely frozen valley that has a charm of its own.

It is for a reason that Chopta Valley is popularly known as ‘Mini Switzerland’ of India. It is located at a height of 8,790 feet above sea level and experiences heavy snowfall in the winter months of November to March.

However, this is also the time when it looks picturesque because of the frozen valleys. The best time to visit is from October to November and again from April to May. Adventure sports like snow skiing, snow trekking, rock climbing etc can be thoroughly enjoyed in Chopta Valley.

Fact 19: Your lunch in Chopta Valley will stabilize your health conditions.

While going downhill from Chopta Valley, you will have your first meal of the day that usually comprises of bread, butter/jam, boiled eggs, thick noodle soup, Egg Maggi etc. If you experience nausea, dizziness or headache while going uphill, this meal will help you settle down because your glucose levels will get stabilized after a while.

On-the-way-to-Gurudongmar-lake-during-Summer

So, until now we have outlined all the facts that you got to know before planning a trip to Gurudongmar Lake. Here again, posting a summary pic of all the facts for you to keep it handy and share with your friends and relative who are interested. Hope you will find this helpful.

We at Nomadic striving to be the best in the world when it comes to travelling to North-Eastern India. We have already sent more than 10000 customers to this tricky terrain. With every new customer, we customize the trip keeping in mind their budget, preferences and obviously safety.

If are planning for a trip to Gurudongmar, we suggest you get a free customized quotation and travel consultancy by clicking here

If you are interested in some other Awesome Hill Stations , you may want to explore this.

Gurudongmar Lake- Detailed Guide with Tour Cost

One of the world’s highest lakes, Gurudongmar Lake, is located in Sikkim at a height of 5183 meters, nestled on the slopes of snow-capped Himalayas. Both the Buddhist and Hindu communities regard Gurudongmar Lake, which lies 173 kilometers from the busy metropolis of Gangtok and close to the Indo-China border, as a sacred body of water. Since Gurudongmar Lake’s emerald blue water is thought to have miraculous qualities, it is a popular destination for pilgrims. Guru Padmasambhava, better known as Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, paid a visit to Gurudongmar Lake in the eighth century, and the lake bears his name.

About the History of Gurudongmar Lake

Gurudongmar Lake is situated in the northeastern section of the Khangchendzonga Mountain, barely 5 km south of the Chinese Border. A sight to behold while visiting Gurudongmar Lake is the emerald-blue glacial lake nestled between the snow-covered hills. Many travelers have been moved to tears by this breathtaking view’s magnificence. One of the Teesta River’s four water sources is Gurudongmar Lake (Pauhunri and Zemu glaciers and Cholamu Lake are the other three). Gurudongmar Lake is the subject of a lot of tales and stories. Gurudongmar Lake used to be frozen for most of the year, making it impossible for the locals to access the water.

The locals prayed to Padmasambhava to assist them as he traveled back from Tibet. According to legend, he touched a spot of the lake, and no matter how cold it gets, that area of the lake never freezes. According to another legend, Sikh Guru Nanak blessed the lake while he was in Sikkim. Pregnant women who visit the lake are said to receive desires from it. This lake serves as a signpost for the northern entrance to the Demojong Hidden Land. The spiritual attraction around the lake is the Sarva Dharma Stella, a place of worship for people of all religions. Though the lake is located near Mangan, most travelers prefer to stay at Lachen because it is better connected to other destinations.

Gurudongmar Attractions

The journey towards this sacred lake is a long yet blissful journey filled with pictorial sights. The scenic view of changing vegetation and landscape is a pleasure to the sore eyes of travelers. Traveling on the steep and spiraling road with the view of lush meadows changing into the rugged terrain, where mountain goats and yak graze the land, to reach Gurudongmar Lake has a charm of its own. Being located at a high altitude there are only a few tourists visiting Gurudongmar Lake.

Trekking towards this sacred lake through the rugged terrain of the mountainous valley is one of the famous activities of the adventurer traveling to Sikkim. The astounding trek towards Gurudongmar Lake starts from Zero point and Nathula, the second-highest mountain pass. Blessed with scenic beauty and stunning surroundings, Gurudongmar lake is perfect for photography enthusiasts. Capturing the charm of this emerald lake and encompassing landscape in camera is something that visitors would love to do. The surreal beauty of Gurudongmar Lake cannot be described in words.

A place far from the maddening crowd where visitors can fill their minds with serenity while being enthralled by the surreal natural beauty, Gurudongmar Lake cuddled on the foothills of snow-capped mountains is the destination where visitors can experience it all. The panoramic vista of an emerald blue lake enclosed by the snow-peaked mountains has left travelers speechless. Experience the thrill of traveling and seeing one of the highest altitude lakes, Gurudongmar Lake, while making a trip towards Sikkim.

Do’s and Dont’s While Visiting Gurudongmar Lake

Here are some Do’s You Need to Know:

Breathing issues are typical in Gurudongmar because of its elevation. Consult a physician before making these vacation plans, and keep the appropriate medications on hand.
You need to bring thick jackets and woolen clothes as the temperature at the lake will be extremely cold.
You will notice the difference in oxygen level at a height of 15000 feet. Don’t jump and wander around in a hurry. Refer to a paramedic right away if there is even the slightest question as you go carefully.
It is recommended to stop at Lachung or Lachen instead of traveling directly to the lake from Gangtok because the body needs time to acclimate to the higher altitude.

Here are Some Dont’s You Need to Know:

Children below the age of 5 years are not permitted to visit the lake.
Because the lake is regarded as being extremely sacred, be a good neighbor and refrain from littering here and there.
Don’t forget to carry at least 2-3 copies of documents and photographs as they’ll have to be submitted to the tourism office.
Do not overlook the part of the permit. Ensure that your documents are prepared. Reach out to the agents or the hotel front desk if you don’t have any papers.

How Can I Reach Gurudongmar Lake

Best time to visit gurudongmar lake.

The most ideal time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is thought to be from March to May when the weather is ideal for traveling there without any trouble. When traveling during the rainy season, more care must be given because the road in steep areas becomes more susceptible to landslides after severe rains. The temperature at Gurudongmar Lake ranges from 5°C to -27°C.

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Gurudongmar or Gurudamba Lake: Travel Guide

Gurudongmar Lake or Gurudamba Lake nestled on the foothills of snowcapped mountains is a sacred Lake in Sikkim. Named after the revered saint Guru Padmasambhava, the lake is considered a holy place for both Hindu and Buddhist. With an altitude of 5183mt, this serene water body appears to be one of the highest lakes in the world. Located 173 km from Gangtok and 5km from the Indo-Tibet border, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the fantastic places being visited by thousands of tourists every year in Sikkim. The emerald blue color of Gurudongmar Lake shimmering under the sun has left many travelers to spellbind with its ethereal beauty.

Be engulfed by the cool winds of the Himalayas while being mesmerized by the unearthly charm of the glacial lake Gurudongmar. By availing Sikkim Tour Package from North Bengal Tourism you can explore other places like Lachen, and Yumthang Valley along with Gurudongmar Lake at a reasonable price.

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Facts about Gurudongmar Lake

There is a portion of Gurudongmar Lake that never freezes even when the temperature drops below minus degrees. And there is a legend behind this unfrozen part. As per the legend, during the 15th-century villagers requested Guru Rinpoche to solve their crises of water which they faced every winter, after hearing their pleas he touched a portion of Gurudamba Lake with his staff, and hence the specific portion remain unscathed even during the harsh winter.

Place to Visit near Gurudongmar Lake

Along with this lake, travelers can visit other promising tourist places. A short excursion from the lake will let the travelers explore the following places:

Lachen is an unflappable mountainous village nestled in the northern part of Sikkim. Tucked midst the Skyscraping Mountains, Lachen is perched at an altitude of 2750mt. Secluded far from the hassle of bustling town Lachen has been a perfect place to find solace. The place is the base for the travelers visiting Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley. Lachen in Sikkim is also a must-visit place one should certainly visit if they want to experience a secluded environment.

Encompassed by striking Himalayan Range and awe-inspiring waterfalls, Lachung in Sikkim proves to be a perfect holiday destination. This Himalayan hamlet was described as the most picturesque village of Sikkim by Joseph Dalton Hooker in the popular Himalayan Journal 1855. Lachung Monastery is the most pictorial site here. This Buddhist monastery is the must-visit place for those who seek tranquility and a secluded place to ease their distressed soul.

Yumthang Valley

Yumthang Valley also known as the Sikkim Valley of Flowers Sanctuary is a pictorial valley very close to this lake. Sits at an elevation of 3500 mt., this magnificent valley is dotted with an exquisite collection of Himalayan Flora. Yumthang is blessed with an abundance of nature where visitors will find over 24 species of Rhododendrons which paint the entire valley with a rosy blush during spring. Along with rhododendron trees, the beautiful valley is covered with vibrant Himalayan flowers and herbs making it a treasure house for the botany lovers. Yumthang with its ethereal beauty and the splendid vista of the Himalayan range has become a must-visit place near this splendid lake.

How to Reach Gurudongmar Lake

By Air: The nearest airport to Gurudongmar Lake is in Bagdogra. From Bagdogra Airport it takes approx. 10hrs to reach Gurudongmar Lake. Distance: The distance between Bagdogra to Gurudongmar Lake is 265 kilometers. By Road: The nearest railway station of Gurudongmar Lake is New Jalpaiguri Railways Station (NJP). It is an overall 10hrs journey from NJP to Gurudongmar Lake. Distance: The distance between NJP to Gurudongmar Lake is 262km. By Road: To travel directly to this lake from NJP or Bagdogra Airport, travelers can opt for a rented cab or taxi from a reliable car rental agency. Cars can even be hired from Siliguri as well Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

Where to stay

Although Gurudongmar Lake is a famous place to visit in Sikkim, it is a semi-arid zone with no sign of settlement around it. The best option is the stay in Lachen. It is a small Himalayan hamlet. With North Bengal Tourism you can book hotels and homestays in Lachen to visit Gurudongmar. Distance: The distance between Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake is 68 kilometers.

Best Time to visit Gurudongmar Lake

September to June is the best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake. Throughout these months, the sky remains crystal clear with its blue hues, the surrounding snow-peaked mountains look magnificent and the lush greenery looks even greener. The lake itself looks unearthly too. During these months, the temperature hovers between - 5°C to 5°C. It is best if visitors avoid traveling to Gurudumba Lake during monsoon season to prevent any misshape due to sudden landslides. Gurudongmar Lake in March: The weather in March surrounding the lake is cool and dry. The temperature hovers between - 5°C to 7°C. The lake stays mostly frozen. Gurudongmar Lake in April: Just like in March, the weather of Gurudongmar Lake is April is chilly. Apart from this frozen lake, the surrounding also gets covered with snow. The snow-peaked mountains in the backdrop also look promising. Gurudongmar Lake in December: December is one of the coolest months in the state. The temperature ranges from maximum 5°C to minimum -27°C. The valley gets covered with thick snow. Those who want to see the lake in the frozen form should surely visit the lake during December.

Some F.A.Q Related to Gurudamba Lake

Q. is gurudongmar lake open now.

It totally depends upon the weather conditions. Sometimes, due to the heavy snowfall the lake becomes inaccessible.

Q. Is this Lake Worth visiting?

For those who want to experience the jaw-dropping beauty of this high elevation lake and want to witness how the snow covered mountains look like from a close proximity, this lake is truly worth visiting.

Q. How do I get a permit to visit the lake?

The permit to visit this lake can be obtained from Sikkim Tourism registered Travel Agent, police check post or the tourism department in Sikkim.

Q. What is the height of this lake?

The height of this lake is 17800 ft. or 5425.44 meter. It is one of the highest lakes in Sikkim.

Q. What are the tourist places to see near the lake?

The tourist places to see near the lake are Lachen, Lachung and Yumthang Valley.

Q. Can older persons and babies visit the lake?

Due to the high elevation, Oxygen level is quite low here which can cause breathing problems to older people and babies. However, children above 8 years can easily visit the lake.

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NatureDiary » Blog » Travel Guides » Tourist Attractions

Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim -Complete Travel Guide

Sprawled at the lap of the Himalayan mountain range, Gurudongmar lake is Sikkim’s most beautiful and pristine lake. This lake is also one of the highest lakes in the world, situated at a height of 17100 feet above sea level. As snow-capped mountains encircle the lake, the reflection of the mountains on the crystal-clear blue water creates a spectacular view. The breathtaking scenic beauty of the Gurudongmar lake attracts tourists from all over the world.

Attractions of Gurudongmar lake, North Sikkim

Gurudongmar lake, Sikkim is famous for its blue water surrounded by the snowy Himalayan mountain range. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in India you will ever visit in your lifetime. In the early morning, the lake looks spectacular with white clouds and surrounding snow-capped mountains under bright sunshine. If you are a peaceful person and want to rejuvenate yourself, standing by the lake can make you happy.

You can walk by the bank of the lake, enjoy the natural beauty and take photos using your camera . But do not go far away from the entry point as the weather is unpredictable there. The last time we visited Gurudongmar lake, we faced a blizzard and snowfall coming from the cold mountains. Fortunately, we were close to the stairs and remained unharmed.

You can gaze at the lake from the parking area, from where you have to climb up and down to the bank of the lake using concrete steps. Colourful prayer flags can be seen flying along one side of the lake.

The story behind Gurudongmar lake

There is a story behind naming ‘Gurudongmar’. The name Gurudongmar came by honouring Guru Padmasambhava, a legendary Indian Buddhist mystic who introduced Tantric Buddhism to Tibet and established the first Buddhist monastery there. It is also believed that he visited Tibet through this place. To think of the red-coloured wrathful form of Guru Padmasambhava, the lake was named Gurudongmar, which means ‘The Red-Faced Guru’.

How to reach Gurudongmar lake?

To visit Gurudongmar, first, you have to reach Lachen, a small town in North Sikkim. Lachen is well-connected to Gangtok, by an almost 7-hour drive. You can reach Gangtok from the New Jalpaiguri railway station or Bagdogra airport in Northern West Bengal. The new Reciprocal Transport Agreement between Sikkim and West Bengal will ease transport to Gurudongmar lake and other parts of the state.

Lachen to Gurudomgmar lake travel details

The journey from Lachen to Gurudongmar lake must start very early in the morning (4-5 AM) as the distance is almost 66 kilometres with multiple checkpoints and difficult road conditions. Your first stop will be at Thangu, a tiny village just 31 km away from Lachen, where you can take your breakfast. Thangu is a valley with lush meadows at an altitude of 13000 ft. From April to June, the area is covered with beautiful alpine flowers. The foliage changes from green forests or large trees to mostly smaller bushes. It takes almost 3 hours to reach Gurudongmar Lake from Thangu.

Mindblowing landscape on the way to Gurudongmar Lake from Thangu

Further along the way, you will come to Giaogong Army Check Post, the highest altitude checkpost in the world located at an altitude of 15000 ft. Before entering Gurudongmar Lake, your paper will finally be checked at Giaogong.

A herd of yaks on the way from Lachen to Gurudomgmar lake

Then the car will go through a high Tibetan plateau where you can see rocky mountains and hardly any vegetation. A snow peak of the Himalayan range will come closer as you move ahead. Blue sky, clouds, snowy mountains, and beautiful landscapes along the route will surely mesmerize you. Apart from the Indian army, there is no human habitation in the barren land. Only a herd of mountain blue sheep and yaks graze in the distant valleys.

Best time to visit Gurudongmar lake, Sikkim

Gurudongmar Lake in North Sikkim cannot be visited throughout the year because of its high altitude, extreme cold, and harsh weather conditions in different seasons. Here are the ideal times to visit Gurudongmar considering weather and temperature conditions-

Early winter (October-November)

From October, the weather starts getting cold in Gurudongmar lake. In winter, a chilly wind blows, snowfall begins, the lake and its surrounding are covered with snow. The average temperature remains within the range from 12 o C (day) to -13 o C (night).

The lake also freezes because of the extreme temperature. But November is the best time to visit the lake because of the blue sky, clear weather, and partially frozen lake. The early weeks of December are excellent to see the frozen lake and the snowy area. Later on, the road towards Gurudongmar lake is often closed because of heavy snowfall. It would be best if you refrained from visiting there during January and early February due to harsh weather conditions.

Summer/ spring (March to June)

Mid-March to June is a perfect time to visit Gurudongmar Lake as well as the entire North Sikkim. The pleasant weather helps to explore the beautiful place without causing any hazard of snowfall or landslide. Snow-covered mountains, picturesque landscapes, greenery, and a wide variety of beautiful flowers make the entire journey to the lake mind-blowing. If you want to see the colourful flora, fauna, and rhododendrons in full bloom, then you have to visit Gurudongmar lake in the months of April to May.

The months from July to September (monsoon) are not suitable to visit Gurudongmar due to heavy rainfall and extreme weather conditions. The roads become slippery, and lots of landslides occur during the rainy season.

Tips to visit Gurudongmar lake

From Gangtok, you need to get a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to enter North Sikkim and Gurudongmar. You must always carry your photo ID proof and this permit.
Some part of the road is uneven and risky, which can only be accessed with large vehicles like Scorpio, Bolero, etc. So, always choose a heavyweight SUV car when visiting Gurudongmar. The road to Gurudongmar is also a preferable choice for motorbike riders and motovloggers. Thus, using a vlogging action camera would be helpful to record the journey.
The weather changes here very unpredictably. If the weather gets terrible or starts snowfall heavily, the army posted at Thangu sends the vehicles back.
Cold, chilly wind blows here, so carry warm clothes, jackets, and gloves.
Do not smoke or drink alcohol near the lake to avoid unwanted problems.
Babies, older people, and those who have breathing problems are strongly advised not to go there as the air density and oxygen concentration are thin at such a height.
It is a must to carry medicines and portable oxygen cans with you. Spending some time at the lake will make you feel light-headed because of the lack of oxygen. Sometimes, because of high altitude problems, tourists can not reach the lake. So, prepare accordingly and have fun!

We hope that you have enjoyed this article. Let us know your experience! If you like us to write on any specific topic, send your request to [email protected] . Your feedback is highly appreciated. We will love to hear from you!

USER REVIEWS

by: Sourav Ghosh
2 years ago

Great travel diary. A must read for travel enthusiasts.

Thank you Sourav for your insight.

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GURUDONGMAR LAKE GUIDE

Why should i go.

An azure gem embedded amongst towering mountains of perennial snow, the Gurudongmar Lake in North Sikkim is one of the highest and most picturesque lakes in the world. On a sunny day, the lake reflects the blue sky and the surrounding icy peaks like a crystal clear mirror. The lake offers marvelous views of the Kanchendzonga range and Mount Siniolchu, one of the tallest peaks in the state, once described as “the most superb triumph of mountain architecture and the most beautiful snow mountain in the world” by British mountaineer Douglas Freshfield. The surrounding land is mostly barren owing to the extreme altitude. Alpine pastures and stunted shrubs against the dazzling peaks lend it an other-worldly charm. If luck is on your side during your visit, you might spot the ephemeral Bhramhakamal, a beautiful white flower known for its miraculous healing properties. The region is also home to some endangered species such as the kiang (largest of wild asses), Great Tibetan sheep, Tibetan gazelle, Tibetan wolf and the elusive snow leopard.

How Do I Get There

Located in North Sikkim, Gurudongmar is about 170 kms of a scenic drive away from Gangtok via Lachen. Since the thin mountain air makes the lake region inhabitable you will not find any accommodation there. It is best to stay at Lachen overnight to acclimatize; an idyllic mountain hamlet with vibrant flora and fauna, surrounded by snowy peaks, you can spend an entire day exploring it. Hire a cab to visit the lake early morning, the next day. You will have to get a government permit to visit. Foreign nationals are not allowed since the area is very close to the Indo-Chinese border.

When Should I Land Up

The most ideal time to visit is anytime between April to June when the summer has set in. However, the lake acquires a completely different avatar during winter, i.e from October to March, when the entire lake is frozen save a small portion.

In Folklore

Gurudongmar is named after the legendary Buddhist master, Guru Padmasambhava (popularly known as Guru Rinpoche), who is credited to have established the Vajrayana sect of Buddhism, widely practiced in the Himalayan region. During his journey to Tibet from India, he visited a number of places that fell along the way including this lake. According to a popular folktale, the villages around the lake suffered from an acute water crisis every winter. The inhabitants appealed to Guru Rinpoche for help and he blessed the frozen lake, making a certain portion of it melt. Surprisingly, even during the harshest of winters, a particular part of the lake never freezes. The sanctified waters of the lake are supposed to possess miraculous healing powers making it one of the most important sites of pilgrimage amongst locals. When the Indian army set their base near the lake, another version of the same story was popularized by Sikh soldiers who believed that it was Guru Nanak and not Padmasambhava who consecrated the lake.

Travel Tips

Carry a pair of polarized, anti-reflective sunglasses for protection from glare. Wear sufficient warm clothes and appropriate footwear. Don’t forget to carry a valid ID proof.

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