Lachen is a small town in the North Sikkim district of Sikkim, India, located at an altitude of 2,750 meters. The name “Lachen” means “big pass.” The town is being developed as a tourist spot by the government of Sikkim. It serves as a starting point for trips to Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake. Every summer, Lachen hosts an annual yak race called the Thangu.
Lachen – places to visit in Lachen
Thangu Valley
Located 30 km beyond Lachen at an altitude of 3,960 meters, Thangu Valley is a beautiful and wide valley. It’s a perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts.
Chopta Valley
Chopta Valley, located in both North Sikkim and Uttarakhand, is situated at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty.
Lachen Monastery
Lachen Monastery, built in 1806, is a Buddhist monastery in Sikkim. It is one of the main monasteries in northern Sikkim.
Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary, located in Sikkim, is a nature reserve with forty different species of rhododendron trees.
Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in both India and the world, is located at 17,800 feet in Sikkim. It’s considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus.
Best time to visit Lachen
The best time to visit Lachen is at the start of the summer or winter seasons when the weather is comfortable for sightseeing. Summer in Lachen lasts from March to June, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 28°C, making it ideal for exploring. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time. Winter, from October to February, sees temperatures between -5°C and 15°C, with the possibility of it dropping near freezing.
