Excursion to Gurudongmar. Lachen to Lachung (50 km/ 2 hrs) / Overnight at Lachung
Embarking on an early morning drive, we head to the remote high-altitude village of Thangu (4100m / 13450ft), home to Tibetan Nomads. Continuing our journey, we venture further to the awe-inspiring Chopta Valley (4000m / 13124ft), where frozen rivers carve through an alpine landscape. Pushing onward, we cover another 30 kilometers in about 1.5 hours to reach Gurudongmar Lake (5225m / 17143ft), a colossal freshwater lake near the Tibet Border and one of the highest in Sikkim. After soaking in this natural marvel, we return to Lachen for a late lunch.
Post this, we bid farewell to Lachen and proceed to Lachung via Chungthang. Along the way, we pause at Chungthang, where the Lachen Chu and Lachung Chu rivers converge, and admire the cascading beauty of Vimala Waterfalls. Upon arrival in Lachung, we check in to our chosen accommodation for a comfortable overnight stay.
Lachung, yet another remote high-altitude village, is inhabited by Tibetan and Bhutia communities in North Sikkim. It boasts towering snow-capped peaks, vibrant rhododendron valleys, verdant yak pastures, perennial waterfalls, hot springs, and serves as the gateway to exploring the alpine wonders of Yumthang and Yumesamdong, nestled close to the Tibetan plateau.