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Sacred lake in the Himalayas at an altitude of 3,753 metres
The winding drive from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, to Tsomgo Lake near the border with Tibet is an unforgettable adventure that takes travelers through breathtaking mountains and various vegetation zones in about 2.5 hours. The lake is revered as sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus, as evidenced by the numerous prayer flags adorning its shores. “Tsomgo” means “source of the lake” in the Bhutia language.
Vegetation zones in the Himalayas: from subtropical forests to alpine flora
Every time the vehicle takes a turn, you are greeted with a new stunning view of the beautiful mountain landscape. Along the way, you can admire different vegetation zones, ranging from lush subtropical to sparse alpine areas. In the lower subtropical regions, dense forests flourish, home to various species of rhododendrons that bloom vibrantly from April to May.
The white blossoms of magnificent magnolia trees shine in spring like pearls in the sunlight. The forested, steep mountain slopes provide a habitat for a variety of birds and mammals, such as the adorable red panda. As you ascend, the trees, bamboo, and plants become smaller. Eventually, you reach the tree line at an impressive altitude of 3,650 meters, experiencing the transition to the barren vegetation of the alpine zone. Yet even here, from May to August, primulas create colorful carpets on the meager meadows. The rare blue poppy (Meconopsis) also thrives here, captivating with its blue flowers.
Himalayan trekking: panoramic view of Mount Kanjendzonga
Alpine vegetation
On your way, you’ll stop at a viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of Mt. Kangchendzonga, Mt. Sinulchu, Mt. Narsing, and Mt. Kabur when visibility is clear. Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, lies at an impressive 3,753 meters above sea level, surrounded by barren mountain slopes. Once a significant trade route between India and Tibet, the road continues eastward over the Nathu La Pass into Tibet. For centuries, goods such as silk and spices were exchanged along this route, fostering cultural interaction. After the border closure in 1962, the pass experienced a period of isolation, but since its reopening in 2006, Indian citizens can visit the Nathu La Pass at the Indo-Tibetan border, which has both Indian and Chinese border posts. Foreign visitors, however, can only obtain a travel permit up to Tsomgo Lake.
The sacred Tsomgo Lake – Sikkim’s cultural heritage
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, lies at an impressive 3,753 meters above sea level surrounded by barren mountain slopes. Once an important trade route between India and Tibet, the road leads further east over the Nathu La Pass to Tibet. For centuries, goods such as silk and spices were exchanged on this route using pack animals, which also promoted cultural interaction. After the closure of the border in 1962, the pass experienced a period of isolation, but since its reopening in 2006, the Nathu La Pass on the Indo-Tibetan border with its Indian and Chinese border posts can be visited by Indian citizens again. Foreign visitors, however, only receive a travel permit up to Tsomgo Lake.
It’s crucial for us to ensure this day trip meets our guests’ expectations. This includes not only a vehicle in excellent condition but also an experienced driver and guide, as well as obtaining the necessary permits in advance.
It’s worth nothing that the lake itself appears visually less spectacular compared to mountain lakes in Switzerland. Furthermore, Tsomgo Lake is a popular tourist destination for visitors from the Indian plains and could be considered a mass tourism spot within Sikkim. Indian tourists flock along the lakeshore path or to the snack stalls. For about nine years now, you can take a cable car to a viewpoint at about 4,200 meters above sea level. In winter, the site offers many Indian tourists their first opportunity to experience snow.
We offer our guests the chance to reach a viewpoint on foot via a hiking trail, ascending to approximately 4,250 meters. From here, you can admire the third highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kangchenjunga, among others. Those wishing to spare their knees have the option of returning to the lake via the cable car.
Yak riding: Traditional mountain experience in Sikkim
A special highlight around Lake Tsomgo is riding ‘yaks’ along the lake shore with the backdrop of the mountains.
A special highlight around Tsomgo Lake is riding yaks along the lakeshore with the majestic mountain backdrop. In the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, especially in Tibet and the high valleys of Sikkim, yaks and their hybrids, the smaller Dzos and Dzomos, continue to play an important role in the traditional lifestyle of the local people. Yak riding along the shores of Tsomgo Lake allows visitors to enjoy the landscape from a unique perspective. With an experienced guide by your side, you can ride along picturesque paths and along the shimmering lake, taking in the fresh mountain air and the stunning nature.
Local Himalayan cuisine: momos and hot soups at Tsomgo Lake
Before embarking on the hike to the viewpoint at over 4,200 meters, treat yourself to a warm meal. The Tsomgo Lake area offers several small food stalls serving local specialties, including momos (dumplings), chow mein (noodle dish), and thukpa (a delicious noodle soup served hot), all particularly popular on cold days. In addition to snack stalls, there are vendors renting out snowshoes, gloves, jackets, and boots for poorly equipped tourists to withstand the cold. Souvenirs, such as Tibetan hats or dried cheese, are also available.
Reiseplanung Sikkim: Permits und beste Reisezeit für den Tsomgo See
To visit Tsomgo Lake and the Nathu La Pass, both Indian citizens and foreign travelers require special permits that can only be obtained through certified tour operators. We take care of the necessary formalities in advance to ensure you don’t experience unnecessary wait times.
It’s important to complete these formalities in advance to ensure smooth access. For instance, permits are only granted for vehicles registered in Sikkim, and foreign visitors must be accompanied by a local guide. Fortunately, the road to Nathu La, aside from a few bumpy sections, is well maintained by the Border Roads Organization (BRO). When planning this trip, it’s essential to choose the best travel time while remaining flexible due to weather conditions. In winter—from December to February—it may happen that travel permits are not granted for the region due to icy roads or snowfall.
Fortunately, the road to Nathu La is very well maintained by the BRO (Border Roads Organization), with the exception of a few bumpy patches, but when planning this trip it is important to choose the best time to travel and remain flexible due to weather conditions. In winter – from December to February – travel permits to the region may not be issued at times due to icy roads or snowfall.
As travel organizers, we advise you on the ideal travel timing and offer our guests flexibility whenever possible, so the trip can be postponed to a day with better weather.
Nathu La Pass: historic trade route between India and Tibet
Domestic visitors can also plan a short visit to the Indo-Chinese border at Nathu La Pass (4,310 m). On the way, you’ll also visit the memorial site “Baba Mandir,” built to honor a soldier from the Punjab Regiment named Harbhajan Singh. The story goes that he fell into a river and drowned while performing his duties near the Indo-Chinese border. A few days later, one of his colleagues dreamed of him and was instructed in the dream to build a memorial at this site.
Soldiers believed that Harbhajan Singh’s spirit was still with them, protecting them from the steep terrain and landslides. Thus, the memorial was constructed. Even Chinese soldiers claim to have seen a guardian wearing a turban watching over the border.
Continue along the road to the Nathu La Pass and the border post between India and China: A significant moment for Indian tourists is when the national anthem begins to play on the Indian side while the Indian flag flutters in the wind. This honors the Indian Army and fosters patriotism against the backdrop of the Tibetan Plateau. As an Indian citizen, you have the option to see even more by booking a trip to Zuluk. The journey there takes you along the famous zigzag road that is part of the “Old Silk Road.”
Best time to visit Sikkim: seasonal highlights & accommodation at Tsomgo Lake
Seasons and weather
Sikkim is undeniably impressive at any time of year, but some months are simply better suited for a visit. We are happy to help you choose the right time frame for your trip and plan it according to your needs and interests. Information on the different seasons can be found at https://sikkim.ch/en/sikkim/ Further information under the India Meteorological Department and the Mountain Weather Information Service
Equipment for your visit to Lake Tsomgo
In winter, the lake is partially frozen from November to about mid-May. Therefore, it is important to dress warmly, including a hat, winter gloves, and shoes. Those wishing to hike above 4,200 meters should consider bringing a trekking pole, well-broken-in hiking shoes, and a water bottle.
Bamboo Retreat Hotel: your base for Sikkim discoveries
In Sikkim, we work with the Bamboo Retreat Hotel, which also offers day trips to Tsomgo Lake. The hotel, with its large vegetable and ornamental garden, is ideally located for exploring Sikkim. It is perfect for those who prefer to stay outside the city and prioritize nature. The hotel also organizes transfers to Gangtok (46 min) and various other day trips around the Gangtok and Rumtek area.
