Sikkim has always been considered the culturally rich and nature’s magic-loaded Indian state. It’s no less than a wonderland, where sheer moments of relaxation and nature’s bliss can be found. The gigantic peaks, revered monasteries, heart-warming local meals, and loving people are what make this destination a must-visit! But do you know that there is one more aspect that adds a magical charm to the state? Yes, Sikkim beholds a wealth of lakes, both scenic and culturally significant, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual aura, and serene escape that captivates every traveler.
Below is a carefully curated list of the best lakes in Sikkim to explore its mystical and serene side.
List of the Most Scenic and Famous Lakes in Sikkim: Promising A Purely Surreal Experience
Each lake showcases its unique scenic beauty and immerses travellers in its hard-to-find peace and utter relaxation. Below are the top 9 lakes in Sikkim, with essential information like location, permits, and other crucial insights.
Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake)
The first one in our list is the utterly scenic Tsomgo Lake, which is stunningly set against steep snow-covered mountains, where the lake changes its colors with the seasons. The lake is also considered sacred by the local people. According to legends, Buddhist monks once studied the changing colors of the water to predict the future. Even today, this belief stays intact, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
Location: East Sikkim, near Changu, ~35–40 km from Gangtok on the Gangtok–Nathula road, at an elevation of ≈ ~3,750–3,780 m (≈12,300–12,400 ft).
Best for: Short day-trip from Gangtok, dramatic alpine reflections, yak rides, quick high-altitude photography, and experiencing a sacred local spot.
Permits needed: Tsomgo is in a restricted area. If you’re an Indian traveler, you’ll need a vehicle or passage permit, which is usually issued at the local police checkpoint.
For foreign visitors, a PAP/RAP from the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department is required, and vehicle passes must be arranged through a registered travel agent or the Tourism Information Center.
Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake is another of the highest and most scenic lakes in Sikkim, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and boasting crystal-clear waters. This lake carries immense sacred significance, where it is believed among locals that Guru Padmasambhava, a great Buddhist saint, blessed the waters centuries ago, which is why one part of the lake never freezes even in the coldest winters.
Location: North Sikkim (near Lachen / Thangu); elevation ≈ 5,425 m (≈17,800 ft) — one of India’s highest lakes.
Best for: Pilgrimage, breathtaking high-altitude landscapes, and aesthetic nature photography (snow-fringed, sacred to Buddhists/Hindus/Sikhs). known for the “one spot that stays unfrozen” legend.
Permits needed: The area is restricted. If you’re an Indian traveler, you can get the necessary permits at the police check post, usually while staying overnight at Lachen. For foreign visitors, the rules are slightly stricter, permits are issued through the Permit Cell or the Tourism Department, and movement beyond certain designated points is limited. Since this is a high-altitude zone, I always advise proper precautions for your safety.
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Green Lake
This is another one of the must-visit lakes in Sikkim, offering tourists glimpses of untouched natural beauty. The lake offers spectacular views of snow-clad peaks and glaciers, making it a true Himalayan paradise. Since the lake lies in a remote region and requires multiple days of trekking, you must plan your visit carefully.
Location: Remote North Sikkim area (approach from Lachen/Jakthang region), high-altitude (sources list ≈5,000 m / remote Kanchenjunga-foot area).
Best for: Serious trekkers/mountaineering teams should definitely visit this lake! Its pristine high-altitude scenery, enhanced with close views of the Kanchenjunga massifs, will offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Permits needed: The lake area is highly restricted, and special clearances are required. The Adventure Cell / Tourism Dept issues permits. Only after clearances from the Forest, Home, and Army are obtained, typically through registered tour operators, can processing begin. This can take weeks, and foreigners face additional restrictions. Plan well in advance and travel with an authorised operator.
Khecheopalri Lake
This is one of the most sacred and famous lakes of Sikkim, surrounded by thick forests and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. The place offers immensely peaceful and enchanting vibes to the visitors, making it the ‘perfect place of quiet meditation’.
Location: West Sikkim (near Pelling / Yuksom); elevation ≈ 1,700 m (≈5,600–5,700 ft).
Best for: Sacred “wishing” lake, ideal for pilgrimage, quiet reflection, easy photography, and short visits from Pelling. It’s greatly family-friendly and culturally significant.
Permits needed: Generally, there is no special PAP for this lake. Standard Sikkim entry formalities apply (foreign nationals must have the required Sikkim entry permit/ILP/RAP as applicable). Still, Khecheopalri itself is not a restricted-area lake like those in North Sikkim.
Kathok Lake
It is another one of the small and peaceful lakes in Sikkim, where dramatic views of the forests and rolling hills can be captured. This lake is located at lower altitudes, making it easily accessible for tourists and ideal for reflection and relaxation. The lake is also culturally significant. It is closely linked to local Buddhist traditions, and nearby monasteries add a spiritual aura to the area.
Location: Yuksom, West Sikkim (part of the historic/monastic circuit near Yuksom).
Best for: Pilgrimage, tranquil short visit, easy photography — part of the historic Buddhist circuit (Dubdi, Rabdentse, Pemayangtse).
Permits needed: Usually no special PAP for Kathok itself (it’s in West Sikkim); normal Sikkim entry rules apply. If you combine it with high-altitude treks (Dzongri, Goechala), you’ll need trek permits.
Cholamu Lake (Tso Lhamo)
Regarded as one of the highest lakes of Sikkim, this vast and windswept lake gives visitors an otherworldly feel. Its significance is huge as it serves as the source of the Teesta River, which flows through much of Sikkim and beyond. This lake area is sensitive and lies close to the border, allowing a few people to visit it, making it even more special!
Location: Extreme North Sikkim (near Dongkha/Dongkhala areas), very close to the India-China (Tibet) border; elevation quoted ≈ 5,100–5,330 m (one of India’s highest lakes).
Best for: This lake is ideal for scenic expeditions, high-altitude adventure, scientific interest, and extreme-altitude photography, as the place is very remote and has a harsh climate.
Permits needed: This lake is very restricted. Special Army / Sikkim police / Home Dept clearances are required; ordinary tourists generally cannot visit without explicit permissions and arrangements. Foreigners are usually prohibited or face very tight controls. This is not a casual visit.
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Lakshmi Pokhari
This is one of the most famous lakes in Sikkim, which is often visited on the way to Dzongri or further toward the approaches to Kanchenjunga. This lake is fantastically surrounded by alpine ridges, sweeping meadows, and, on clear days, visitors can spot hypnagaugic views of Kanchenjunga and its neighboring peaks.
Location: West Sikkim (on the Yuksom → Dzongri trek route / Timbung region), a high-altitude lake (source list around 3,700–4,300 m, depending on the reference/locality).
Best for: Trekkers on the Yuksom–Dzongri / Kanchenjunga approaches, sunrise views of Khangchendzonga, and rhododendron season scenery.
Permits needed: Trekking permits are required. If visiting as part of the Dzongri or Goecha La treks, you’ll need to secure trekking and forest permits through Tourism Information Centers (TICs) or authorized tour operators. Foreign nationals must also carry an Inner Line Permit (ILP), with additional clearances sometimes necessary for western high-altitude regions.
Bidang Cho Lake
It’s another hidden jewel where nature’s charm is at its peak! Bidang Cho Lake is another stunning lake in Sikkim, which is often considered sacred, believed to be the abode of protective deities and a source of blessings. This lake is usually cherished for its silence and purity, with locals describing it as a meditative experience in the lap of the Himalayas.
Location: West Sikkim, encountered on the Dzongri / Goechala trekking route; elevation ≈ ~4,500 m (approx. 14,700 ft) per regional lake lists.
Best for: This lake is ideal for high-altitude glacier-lake views on the Dzongri circuit and dramatic mountain views. Bidand Cho Lake is perfect for trekkers and photographers.
Permits needed: Trekking permits required (Dzongri/Goechala corridor). Access to this lake is through organised treks, and TICs / Forest Dept processes permits. Foreigners require an ILP and trek permits to visit here.
Lampokhari (Aritar Lake)
This is one of the oldest and most peaceful lakes in Sikkim, which holds a special place in the hearts of the locals and tourists alike. Regarded as the ‘emerald-green’ lake, Lampokhari Lake in Sikkim is a perfectly serene escape, especially for those looking to spend quality and undisturbed time in nature. The lake has also become a place for community gatherings and peaceful retreats, where visitors can take leisurely boat rides (occasionally found in Sikkim) while enjoying the surreal views.
Location: Aritar, East (Pakyong / East Sikkim), ~67 km from Gangtok; elevation ≈ 1,400–1,460 m (≈4,600–4,800 ft).
Best for: Easy yet enjoyable birdwatching, family-friendly boating, short walks, and first-time visitors, as the lake is situated at a low altitude and well-developed for visitors.
Permits needed: No special PAP. However, regular Sikkim entry rules apply (foreign visitors must have the state entry permit/ILP as applicable), but Lampokhari itself is fully open to tourists.
Travel Tips to Visit the Lakes in Sikkim
Planning a trip to Sikkim? Well, it’s a bit different from what traveling to other Indian states could be! Here, tourists will have to take extra care while visiting each place and keep in mind the following expert travel tips by JustWravel to ensure a completely hassle-free experience:
1. It’s essential to carry all the required permits in advance. Many lakes (Tsomgo, Gurudongmar, Cholamu, Menmecho) are in restricted zones. Specific permits must be arranged through trusted travel partners, such as JustWravel or the Tourism Department.
2. Do not forget to carry multiple photocopies of your ID (Passport/Voter ID/Aadhar for Indians; Passport + visa + ILP for foreigners).
3. It’s highly crucial to acclimatize before visiting the high-altitude lakes such as Gurudongmar, Cholamu, and Samiti, which are above 14,000–17,000 ft. The best way to prepare yourself is by spending at least one night in Lachen, Lachung, or Yuksom before proceeding to avoid acute mountain sickness.
4. It’s advisable to avoid any kind of strenuous activity at high altitude, especially at elevations above 15,000 ft, where the oxygen levels are low. Walk slowly, avoid running, and don’t stay at high-altitude lakes for more than 30–40 minutes.
5. Pack mindfully. The weather can be extreme at the high-altitude lakes and can change within minutes. It’s best to carry layered clothing, a good down jacket, a woolen cap, rain gear, gloves, and waterproof boots. Please note, even in summer, nights can be freezing.
6. Finding ATMs can be challenging in Lachen/Lachung. It’s advisable to carry extra cash, dry snacks, and a personal medical kit with altitude sickness pills, Diamox (if advised), and motion sickness tablets.
7. Morning hours, from 6 to 10 AM, are best for photography as the skies are clear. Carry spare batteries (cold drains them fast). For trekking lakes like Samiti or Green Lake, a tripod helps capture reflections and starry skies.
8. The best time to visit the lakes in Sikkim is as follows:
- March to June: Pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons.
- October to early December: Clear skies, best photography.
- January to February: Frozen lakes (like Tsomgo, Gurudongmar), but harsh weather.
Monsoon (Jul–Sep) is best avoided due to landslides.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many total lakes are there in Sikkim?
There are over 200 lakes in Sikkim, including both low and high-altitude lakes. Among them, the most famous and tourist-favorite are Tsomgo, Gurudongmar, Khecheopalri, and Samiti.
Are Sikkim’s lakes considered sacred?
Yes. Most of the lakes like Khecheopalri are deeply respected both by Buddhists and Hindus and are believed to fulfil wishes. Littering and any kind of disruptive activities should strictly be avoided here
Which is the highest lake in Sikkim?
The highest lake in Sikkim is the Gurudongmar Lake, which carries deep religious importance among locals.
No wonder that the lakes in Sikkim are a living spectacle of nature’s pure magic. So, make sure to live this experience at least once in your life with your loved ones. Plan your Sikkim tour package today with JustWravel — Pick the Perfect Package for Adventure or Relaxation!