About WelcomeTravelerIndia.com

India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.

Subscribe & Follow

Lakes & Scenic Views

Home Lakes & Scenic Views
Most Scenic Lakes in Sikkim

Most Scenic Lakes in Sikkim

Sikkim is home to stunning glacial lakes, offering breathtaking reflections of the Himalayan peaks, lush valleys, and pristine landscapes. These serene lakes hold spiritual significance, folklore, and incredible scenic beauty. Here are the must-visit lakes in Sikkim for nature lovers and photographers.

 

1. Gurudongmar Lake – The Sacred High-Altitude Wonder

Location: North Sikkim (17,800 ft)
Significance:

  • One of the highest lakes in the world, surrounded by snow-clad peaks.
  • Sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs—believed to have been blessed by Guru Padmasambhava.
  • A portion of the lake never freezes, even in extreme winter.

 Best Time to Visit: April – June & October – November (Winter is harsh!)
 Special Attraction: The pristine blue waters against a backdrop of white snow.
 How to Reach: 6-hour drive from Lachen (North Sikkim); permits required.

 Why Visit? A surreal, spiritual experience with breathtaking high-altitude beauty.

 

 

2. Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) – The Changing Color Lake

Location: East Sikkim (12,310 ft), 40 km from Gangtok
Significance:

  • A sacred glacial lake that changes color with the seasons.
  • Home to migratory birds, including Brahminy ducks.
  • Offers Yak rides along the frozen lake in winter.

 Best Time to Visit: March – May (For lush beauty) | December – February (For snow)
 Special Attraction: Frozen in winter, blooming in summer—a seasonal transformation.
 How to Reach: 2-hour drive from Gangtok (Inner Line Permit required).

 Why Visit? Ideal for scenic photography, yak rides, and winter snow play.

 

3. Khecheopalri Lake – The Wishing Lake

Location: West Sikkim, near Pelling (5,577 ft)
Significance:

  • A sacred lake believed to fulfill wishes.
  • Surrounded by thick forests, giving it a magical and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Local folklore says not a single leaf floats on the lake, as birds remove them.

 Best Time to Visit: March – June & September – November
 Special Attraction: Butter lamps and prayer flags fluttering around the lake.
 How to Reach: 34 km from Pelling, easily accessible by road.

 Why Visit? A spiritual retreat with mystical vibes and pristine nature.

 

4. Samiti Lake – A Hidden Trekker’s Paradise

Location: Near Goecha La Trek (14,100 ft)
Significance:

  • A serene, emerald-green lake, untouched by crowds.
  • Offers stunning reflections of Mt. Pandim.
  • A stop for trekkers heading toward Goecha La & Kanchenjunga Base Camp.

 Best Time to Visit: April – June & September – November
 Special Attraction: Best sunrise reflections of the Himalayas.
 How to Reach: Requires a 4–5-day trek from Yuksom.

 Why Visit? One of the most peaceful and secluded lakes in Sikkim.

 

5. Menmecho Lake – The Offbeat Hidden Beauty

Location: Near Nathula Pass (12,500 ft)
Significance:

  • A lesser-known glacial lake, surrounded by pine forests.
  • A key source of the Teesta River, Sikkim’s lifeline.
  • A perfect spot for picnics and nature walks.

 Best Time to Visit: May – October
 Special Attraction: Secluded charm & peaceful surroundings.
 How to Reach: Accessible via a short trek from Tsomgo Lake.

 Why Visit? Perfect for those looking for an offbeat escape.

 

6. Green Lake – The Unexplored Gem

Location: North Sikkim, near Kanchenjunga Base Camp (16,900 ft)
Significance:

  • A hidden alpine lake with views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Simvo & Mt. Siniolchu.
  • Accessible only via a difficult trek through dense forests.
  • A dream for adventure lovers, rarely visited.

 Best Time to Visit: April – June & September – November
 Special Attraction: The lake’s shimmering green waters contrast with snow-capped peaks.
 How to Reach: Requires a challenging trek from Lachen (10-12 days round trip).

 Why Visit? One of Sikkim’s least explored and most rewarding treks.

 

7. Cho Lhamo Lake – India’s Highest Lake

Location: Near Tibet border, North Sikkim (17,490 ft)
Significance:

  • The highest lake in India, surrounded by barren, surreal landscapes.
  • Located near the Indo-China border, making it a restricted area.
  • Often frozen for most of the year.

 Best Time to Visit: September – November (Other months are too harsh).
 Special Attraction: Extreme isolation and breathtaking high-altitude beauty.
 How to Reach: Requires special permits from Lachen.

 Why Visit? A true off-the-grid adventure at one of India’s highest points.

 

Which is the Best Lake for You?

Lake Name

Best For

Special Features

Gurudongmar Lake

High-altitude explorers

One of the world’s highest lakes

Tsomgo Lake

Families & photographers

Frozen in winter, colorful in summer

Khecheopalri Lake

Spiritual travelers

Sacred, wish-fulfilling lake

Samiti Lake

Trekkers & solitude seekers

Hidden Himalayan beauty

Menmecho Lake

Offbeat travelers

Surrounded by pine forests

Green Lake

Hardcore trekkers

Stunning Kanchenjunga reflections

Cho Lhamo Lake

Extreme adventurers

India’s highest lake, near Tibet border

 

Why Visit Sikkim’s Lakes?

Pristine & Unspoiled Beauty – Sikkim’s lakes are untouched by mass tourism.
Sacred & Spiritual – Many lakes are deeply connected to Buddhist and local traditions.
Adventure & Photography – Perfect for trekking, nature walks, and incredible photos.

 Best Time to Visit Lakes in Sikkim:

  • Summer (March – June): Best for trekking, clear reflections, and greenery.
  • Autumn (September – November): Best for vivid landscapes, fewer tourists.
  • Winter (December – February): Best for frozen lakes & snow-covered beauty.