Lachen is situated in northeast India, at 2,750 meters (9,022 feet) amidst the majestic Himalayan mountains. This town attracts different types of travelers with its scenic landscapes, rich culture, and exciting activities. Explore snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and verdant valleys amid stunning scenery in the Himalayas.
There is something for everyone at Lachen, whether you are looking for calm, peace, cultural immersion, or exhilarating adventures. Our packages include all the famous attractions and some of the most thrilling treks, including Chopta Valley and Muguthang. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you explore this enchanting destination.
With the help of this detailed Lachen travel guide, you can plan your perfect itinerary and learn about transportation options, top attractions, and local secrets. If you want a hassle-free experience, you can book Lachen tour packages.
Tourist Attractions in Lachen
Lachen is a popular tourist destination in Sikkim because of its wooded homes, alpine pastures, and breathtaking mountain views. It is blessed and dotted with fantastic attractions, offering rich culture, striking beauty, and magnificent views. Here are some of the best places to visit in Lachen on your trip –
- Lachen Monastery: This serene Buddhist monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is one of the best monasteries to visit in Lachen if you seek tranquility.
- Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: This colorful sanctuary offers a picturesque setting for nature lovers to enjoy the vibrant blooms of rhododendron flowers.
- Gurudongmar Lake: Located at 5,430 meters, this glacial lake is sacred to Buddhists and Sikhs. It was blessed by the founder of Tibetan Buddhism so that the lake never froze, even during the coldest winters.
- Thangu Valley: A trekker’s and nature lover’s paradise, the valley is dotted with alpine meadows, crystal-clear streams, and snow-capped peaks. If you are a nature lover, you should visit this valley.
- Tso Lhamo Lake: Located near the Indo-China border, this remote high-altitude lake is renowned for its turquoise waters and rugged mountains. In December, January, and February, it is covered with snow, making it ideal for snow lovers.
- Chopta Valley: A hidden gem amidst towering Himalayan mountains, boasting lush greenery and vibrant alpine flowers. The Chopta Valley gives you a breathtaking view of the majestic Himalayas, including peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
- Lhonak Valley: Lhonak Valley is a perfect place for those seeking solitude and an escape from everyday life. Reaching the valley is itself an adventure since there are no roads there, and it can only be reached by trekking.
Things to do in Lachen
Lachen is a haven for nature lovers, adrenaline junkies, shopaholics, and peace seekers. It also serves as the unofficial base camp for trekking. Thus, there are various things you can be a part of and enjoy your time in this town. For the best experience, here are some of the best things to do in Lachen –
- Explore Kanchenjunga National Park: Take a wildlife safari and nature walk through pristine forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna, including the snow leopard.
- Trek to valleys and hills in Lachen: Discover hidden valleys, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints that offer unmatched Himalayan views.
- Witness beautiful birds and abundant fauna: Observe exotic wildlife and Himalayan avian species in their natural habitat in Sanctuary.
- Shop for souvenirs: Visit local markets and handicraft shops to buy traditional Thangka paintings, handwoven textiles, and intricate wood carvings that showcase Sikkim’s rich history and culture.
- Savor the authentic Sikkimese cuisine: Experience Sikkimese cuisine by sampling Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos (dumplings), Gundruk (fermented greens), and Chhurpi (yak cheese).
Best Season to visit Lachen
Lachen’s summer weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 28°C. It is the perfect time to visit, as Thangu, an annual yak race, is organized in the summer. During the monsoon, Lachen receives heavy rainfall, and must be avoided. If you love snow, winter is the best time to visit Lachen.
The temperature during this time remains between 5°C to 15°C. After that, the weather gets too chilly, so cover yourself adequately to avoid getting cold. Read more.
How to Get to Lachen?
Lachen is well connected by air, rail, and road, so you can choose the mode of transportation that suits you best:
- By Air: The closest airport to Lachen is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal. You can take a taxi to reach Lachen and take a taxi to Lachen.
- By Rail: Lachen’s nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, 198km away, and well connected with the rest of the country. Upon arrival at the station, you can take the bus to Lachen.
- By Road: Lachen is well-connected by road and can be reached anywhere in Sikkim. If you’re coming from a nearby town, this is one of the best means of transportation to reach Lachen.
How to get around Lachen?
Private taxis are the best option to travel around Lachen. It is the most convenient option to explore and witness Lachen’s best attractions and views.
Accommodation in Lachen
Most of Lachen has been turned into hotels and resorts, and you will find hotels of all sizes and budgets along a single road. For an unforgettable stay, here are some of the best places to stay in Lachen: The Apple Orchard Resort, Himalayan Residency, The Fortuna, Delight Royal Lachen, Klifton Crown Lachen, Rufina Lachen Deezong, Delight Lachen Heritage, Mount Khang Hotel, Delight Royal Lachen, and many more.
Where to eat in Lachen
Get your hands on mouth-watering Sikkimese cuisine and others at Lachen’s top restaurants. There are Thai, Mediterranean, and Italian restaurants, among others. A number of roadside vendors will also sell the best and most authentic Tibetan food, which will surely leave you enchanted! For a delightful food experience, here are some of Lachen’s best places to eat: Oliveiras Restaurant, OX Asian Cuisine, Thai Kitchen, Restaurant Quellenhof, The Steakhouse – Grill restaurant Marina Lachen, Restaurant Pöstli, and many more.
Travel Tips to Visit Lachen
- Altitude Precautions: Lachen is at a high altitude, so acclimatizing properly is essential to prevent altitude sickness. On the first day, let your body adjust.
- Pack Warm Clothing: Lachen can get chilly even during summer, especially at night. Pack layers, thermal wear, and a quality jacket for the cold weather.
- Permit Requirements: Indian citizens from outside states must obtain an inner-line permit to enter protected areas.
- Respect Local Customs: This small, close-knit community has its own customs and traditions. Dress modestly, respect local customs, and be aware of local sensibilities.
- Avoid trips in Monsoon: You should avoid visiting Lachen during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall.
Why Choose Indian Holiday for the Lachen Tour
Experience a memorable journey through Lachen with tailor-made tour packages from Indian Holiday. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or thrilling adventures, our packages have something for everyone. Get a personalized Lachen tour package from us and enjoy an unforgettable vacation from start to finish. So don’t wait contact our travel experts and plan your trip now!
