Gurudongmar Lake featuring a big water body near a snowy mountain.

DISCOVER LACHEN – GETAWAY TO NORTH SIKKIM'S SNOW KINGDOM WITH SUMMIT HOTELS & RESORTS

Welcome to Lachen, a serene Himalayan village nestled at 8,800 ft in North Sikkim. Surrounded by alpine meadows, snow-clad mountains, and crystal-clear rivers, Lachen is famed as the base for journeys to the breathtaking Gurudongmar Lake and the stunning Chopta Valley. With its peaceful monasteries, friendly locals, and untouched natural beauty, Lachen offers an authentic high-altitude experience unlike any other.

Whether you’re a nature photographer, a seeker of spiritual calm, or an adventurer chasing snow trails, Summit Hotels & Resorts in Lachen provides warm hospitality and comfortable stays amidst the raw beauty of Sikkim.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN LACHEN – HANDPICKED FOR YOU

Gurudongmar Lake featuring a big water body near a snowy mountain.

GURUDONGMAR LAKE

Jewel of the Himalayas

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Mountainous area featuring snowy mountains and residential areas.

CHOPTA VALLEY

The Valley of Flowers

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A Monstery featuring a Bhutanese style architecture

LACHEN MONASTERY

Spiritual Serenity

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Rocky mountains and a clear sky.

THANGU VALLEY

Meadows in the Clouds

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A yak used for rides standing in front of the snowy mountains.

YAK RIDES & CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

A glimpse of Sikkimese life

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Two kingfisher birds sitting on a tree branch.

BIRDWATCHING & WILDLIFE TRAILS

A haven for nature lovers

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Gurudongmar Lake featuring a big water body near a snowy mountain.

GURUDONGMAR LAKE

At 17,800 ft., this sacred high-altitude lake is one of the highest in the world. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, it’s a breathtaking sight and a spiritual experience.

Distance: 66 km from Lachen
Best Time to Visit: best in early morning

Mountainous area featuring snowy mountains and residential areas.

CHOPTA VALLEY

A paradise of alpine flowers, snowfields, and dramatic landscapes. Ideal for trekking, photography, and soaking in untouched beauty.

Distance: 40 km from Lachen
Best Time to Visit: best in spring and summer

A Monstery featuring a Bhutanese style architecture

LACHEN MONASTERY

A centuries-old Nyingma monastery overlooking the village, adorned with colourful prayer flags and murals. A place of peace and panoramic views.

Location: within Lachen Town
Best Time to Visit: sunrise or evening prayers

Rocky mountains and a clear sky.

THANGU VALLEY

Located at 13,000 ft., Thangu offers sweeping views, glacial rivers, and is a base for treks to Muguthang and Green Lake.

Distance: 30 km from Lachen
Best Time to Visit: summer months are best for accessibility

A yak used for rides standing in front of the snowy mountains.

YAK RIDES & CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Get a glimpse of traditional Sikkimese life, try yak rides in the meadows, and enjoy local cuisine like thenthuk and butter tea.

Location: around Lachen Town

Two kingfisher birds sitting on a tree branch.

BIRDWATCHING & WILDLIFE TRAILS

Spot Himalayan monals, snow pigeons, and even blue sheep in the surrounding valleys, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Location: around Thangu and Chopta areas
Best Time to Visit: early mornings

HOW TO REACH LACHEN – YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE

By Air

• Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest (200 km). From there, shared taxis / private cabs take 7 - 8 hrs via Gangtok.

By Train

• New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) – 195 km from Lachen. Travel onward via Gangtok.

By Road

• From Gangtok: 120 km (6 hrs by cab)
• From Mangan: 29 km (1 hrs)
An Inner Line Permit is required for North Sikkim (arranged by tour operators/hotels)

LACHEN WEATHER GUIDE – BEST TIME TO VISIT

Snowy mountains, green valleys and some flowers blooming.

Spring (Mar - May)

Temperature: 5 - 15°C
Highlights: blooming valleys, snow in higher passes
What to Pack: jackets, trekking shoes

Raining in hilly areas featuring a goat drenched amidst the mountainous trees and plants.

Summer (Jun - Aug)

Temperature: 10 - 20°C
Highlights: green landscapes, monsoon showers
What to Pack: rain gear, light woollens

A small lake amidst the mountains during the autumn featuring dried plants and trees.

Autumn (Sep - Nov)

Temperature: 2 - 12°C
Highlights: clear skies, best time for Gurudongmar
What to Pack: warm layers, camera

Snowy mountains, open sky, and floating clouds.

Winter (Dec - Feb)

Temperature: –5 - 10°C
Highlights: heavy snow, frozen lakes, magical views
What to Pack: heavy woollens, gloves, thermals

When in Darjeeling, choose the warmth of Summit Hotels & Resorts. From romantic hillside retreats to family-friendly suites with panoramic views, each stay is infused with heartfelt hospitality, premium comfort, and local experiences curated just for you.

• Centrally located properties near Mall Road
• Tea garden views & private balconies
• In-house dining with authentic Himalayan flavours
• Guided local tours, transport assistance & more

DISCOVER OUR LATEST OFFERS

Website Exclusive Deal offer featuring 20% discount on direct booking through the website at Summit Hotels and Resorts.

Website Exclusive Deal

Book directly through our website and enjoy 20% discount on your stay at Summit Gangchen Hotel, Lachen.

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OUR HOTELS IN LACHEN

Facade of Summit Gangchen Hotel, Lachen with Tibetian architecture

Summit Gangchen Hotel, Lachen

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NEED HELP PLANNING YOUR LACHEN GETAWAY?

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