North Sikkim Tour Itinerary: 5 Days Covering Lachen, Gurudongmar, Lachung

Introduction

There is a north sikkim tour that provides an adventure that cannot be described in other words as far as the Indian Himalayas are concerned. This distant location is marked by snowy mountains, clear lakes, old monasteries, and rhododendron covered valleys. North Sikkim is a memorable experience to travelers seeking to get away into a pristine nature.

This 5-day North Sikker itinerary encompasses a visit to the beautiful mountain villages of Lachen and Lachung, all the way to the sacred Gurudongmar Lake, and across the beautiful valley of Yumthang. In contrast to the more open regions of Sikkim, North Sikkim is closed with special permits and thorough planning and it seems more like an actual expedition into the soul of Himalayas.

Being an adventure enthusiast, nature lover or a photography buff, this detailed guide will guide you to organize the ideal tour package in North Sikkim that will take you to the sightseeing spots of this breathtaking region.

Introduction to North Sikkim Tour.

North Sikkim is a different destination compared to other Himalayan destinations because of limited access and good natural surrounding. The area borders on Tibet and has some of the highest motorable roads in India. High-altitude terrain is between 9,000 and 17,800 feet giving it a dramatic landscape variation over a very short distance.

Tour Highlights

The trip to North Sikkim is not merely a trip but a pilgrimage as the observation of travel blogger Priya Sharma explains, and some of the purest landscapes remaining in the Himalayas. Isolation and primitiveness make all the moments special.

Itinerary Day-by-Day North Sikkim North Sikkim Day-by-Day Itinerary.

Day 1: Lachen (Gangtok to Lachen) Approx. 6-7 hours.

The adventure in North Sikkim would start with a Gangtok early morning start. The drive to Lachen is done on mountainous winding roads and the scenery is breathtaking.

Route highlights:

• Halting point at the confluence of the rivers Lachen Chu and Lachung Chu at Chungthang.
  
• Breath through thick woods of pine, of fir, and rhododendron.
  
• Waterfalls and mountain-streams across.
  
• Traditional Lepcha villages will be witnessed along the way.
  

Lachen village is a base of the Gurudongmar Lake excursion and is located at 8,838 feet. The mountainous village has simple yet good facilities and magnificent views of the mountain. Take the evening to get used to the altitude and take local Sikkimese food.

Day 1 Details

Day 2: Lachen -Gurudongmar Lake and Back (Approx. 8-9 hours round trip)

It is the most difficult but the most rewarding day of the north sikkim tour. Begin before the sun has risen (around 4: 00 AM) to arrive at Gurudongmar Lake by the time of sunrise.

One of the highest lakes in the world with significant spiritual values to Buddhists and Sikhs is Gurudongmar Lake, which is located at 17,800 feet. The waters are crystal clear and mirror the snow covered mountains around which it is situated to give an otherworldly appearance. It is said that Guru Padmasambhava blessed part of the lake not to be frozen even during severe winter.

Important considerations:

• Even in summer, the temperatures might fall below freezing.
  
• Wear a multitude of warm ups.
  
• Remain at the lake not more than 15-20 minutes because of high difference in altitude.
  
• There are oxygen cylinders where necessary.
  
• There are restricted zones of photography surrounding military installations.
  

Lunch and rest at Lachen and leave in the afternoon to Lachung. The travel between these villages is in the range of 3-4 hours.

Day 3: Lachung Base -Acclimatization and Exploration.

Relax in Lachung, a scenic village at an altitude of 8,610 feet which is characterized by the presence of apple trees and wooden cottages. The day is devoted to acclimatization and exploration of the place.

Activities in Lachung:

• The Lachung Monastery
  
• by Visit to the old Monastery Lachung.
  
• Nature walk in the village and intermingle with Lepcha and Bhutia communities.
  
• Explore nearby waterfalls
  
• Sample village delicacies in village cafes.
  

Get ready to go out in the early morning to-morrow.

Tourist Sonam Sherpa, the guide of many other tourists, says that most people are in a hurry to pass through North Sikkim, and spending a day at Lachung will also allow your body to more efficiently adapt to the altitude, and making the Yumthang Valley experience to be even more pleasant.

Day 4: Lachung, Yumthang Valley and Zero Point.

Rise up early to travel to Yumthang Valley commonly referred to as the Valley of flowers. This is a gorgeous valley with a profusion of rhododendrons in the spring (April-May) which is located at 11,800 feet.

Yumthang Valley highlights:

• Hot springs supposed to have medicinal properties.
  
• Bountiful fields with mountains topped by snow.
  
• Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary has been built in the year 1992.
  
• The ground of herding of the traditional yaks.
  

Go on to Zero Point (15,300 feet) when weather and permits permit. It is an untamed place where the motorable roads come to an end and it has amazing scenery of snow-covered areas. Play part in the snow, capture pictures and absorb the clean mountain air.

Altitude Comparison

Get back to Lachung during the night and you have time to pack and be ready to leave.

Day 5: Gangtok -Lachung (Approx. 6 hours)

On the last day, take the mountainous routes and get down to Gangtok. The journey back gives you a chance to visit areas that you could have not made time to visit on your way up.

Possible stops:

• Naga Waterfall
  
• Seven Sisters Waterfall
  
• Lunch and rest Chungthang.
  
• Souvenir and handicraft markets in the area.
  

Reach Gangtok in the late afternoon, and bring to an end your memorable tour around the North Sikkim.

The Basics of Travel.

Permits Required

The North Sikkim is a restricted zone that needs special permits. Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required by Indian nationals and Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required by foreign nationals. Tour operators organize most of these permits which need:

• Valid ID proof
  
• Recent photographs
  
• Minimum group of 2 people
  
• Touring via registered tour operator.
  

The ideal season in North Sikkim Tour.

The months of March to June have the most good weather with rhododendrons in blossom and clear views of the mountains. The months of September to November are colder with clear weather brightness. It should not be done during monsoon season (July-August) when landslides occur as well as roads are closed.

What to Pack

• Winter clothing (it is cold at high altitudes, below freezing point).
  
• Sturdy hiking boots
  
• Sunglass and sunscreen (high UV exposure)
  
• Simple alphaltitude sickness, stomach drugs.
  
• Power stations (electricity is not always reliable)
  
• Extra batteries to the camera (cold drains the batteries)
  

Conclusion

There is a north Sikkim tour which includes Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake, Lachung and Yumthang Valley that provide an unforgettable Himalayan experience. This 5-day trip itinerary is a good balance between adventure and adequate acclimatization so you can comfortably get to appreciate the beautiful nature of the area.

You start in the mountain villages that seem like the olden days and travel to some of the highest lakes in the world, along the valleys that are tinged with wildflowers, and to the places where you can literally run your hands on the snow-covered mountains. The Sikkim experience at the North is a blend of natural wonder with a cultural experience with a lasting memorable experience in a lifetime.

Although the region needs permission and planning, the work is totally justified. Use established tour operators who know the terrain, does all logistics and makes sure you are safe during the trip. Your North Sikkim experience is right there, it is time to prepare to experience one of the most amazing mountain experiences in India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I require a tour package in North Sikkim or can I go on my own?

A: Not independent traveling to North Sikkim. Group travelers also require a registered tour operator to book since the Protected Area Permit (PAP) is only granted to groups of 2 and above traveling with a registered agency. The tour operator takes care of all the permits, accommodation and transportation and thus the process becomes a lot easier.

Q: Does a North Sikkim tour have an altitude sickness issue?

A: Yes, the issue of altitude sickness is also real because you will be at 17,800 feet in Gurudongmar Lake. This is a 5 day tour taking into consideration acclimatization time in lachen and Lachung. The best advice is to drink lots of water, not to drink alcohol, walk slowly at high altitudes and inform your guide at any time in case you feel dizzy, nauseated, or experiencing serious headaches. Oxygen cylinders are usually bought by most tour operators in case of an emergency.

Q: What type of accommodation will I find in Lachen and Lachung?

A: Lachen and Lachung are the basic and comfortable places including homestays, guesthouses, and small hotels. Luxury facilities will not be found, basic rooms are simply provided with basic heating and hot water (limited at times). The sincere mountain experience and friendly reception by the local families compensate the absence of modern conveniences. The majority of tour packages in North Sikkit cover moderate hotels.

Q: Is it possible to go to North Sikkim in winter (December-February)?

A: In winter the tours can be organized to North Sikkim but it is very difficult. The nature of the roads leading to Gurudongmar Lake and Zero point is that they are usually closed due to heavy snowfall. The temperatures may reach -20 o C and below. When you have the will to go in winter you will likely have fewer options of getting to higher areas, shorter days, and more difficult weather. Autumn and spring are much more viable to first time visitors.

Q: What is the cost of a tour package of North Sikkim?

A: A 5 day North Sikkim tour package of Gangtok usually costs between 250-500 dollars per person depending on the quality of accommodation, the group size and time of the year. This normally involves permits, transportation, accommodation, majority of meals and guide services. Allot more on the superior hotels, personal cars and the seasonal travel. Research on various tour operators and read reviews to get good services.