the mountains are covered in snow and ice

Gurudongmar Lake

At around 17,800 ft (5,430 m), Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in India and one of the most remarkable destinations in North Sikkim. The lake is also regarded as sacred and is an important part of the North Sikkim journey.

For most travellers visiting Gurudongmar, Lachen is the overnight base before the early-morning journey towards the lake.

WHY GURUDONGMAR IS VISITED FROM LACHEN

Lachen Is the Practical Base for the Journey

Gurudongmar lies much higher and farther north than Lachen. Staying overnight in Lachen allows travellers to begin the journey to the lake early in the morning rather than attempting the entire trip from lower parts of Sikkim in one day.

The journey takes you through increasingly high-altitude terrain towards Thangu and the northern reaches of Sikkim.

Because conditions at this altitude can change quickly, the journey should be treated as a high-altitude excursion rather than an ordinary sightseeing trip.

THE JOURNEY FROM LACHEN

Lachen → Thangu → Gurudongmar Lake

The road generally follows the northern route from Lachen towards:

Lachen
↓
Thangu
↓
Gurudongmar Lake

Thangu is an important stop on the route and also one of the last major settlements before continuing towards the lake.

The landscape changes dramatically as you climb higher, with sparse vegetation, open mountain terrain and snow-covered peaks depending on the season.

PERMITS FOR FOREIGN TRAVELLERS

About 17,800 Feet Above Sea Level

Gurudongmar Lake sits at approximately 5,430 metres (17,800 ft).

This is considerably higher than Lachen, which means the conditions at the lake can feel very different from those in the village.

At this altitude:

The air is much thinner

Temperatures can be extremely low

Weather can change quickly

Physical exertion feels harder

Some travellers may experience symptoms of altitude sickness

This is why travellers should avoid rushing around at the lake and follow the instructions of their driver or guide.

DO YOU NEED A PERMIT?

Gurudongmar Lake Is a Protected Destination

Yes. Gurudongmar is included among North Sikkim's Protected Area Permit destinations.

For Indian visitors, the current Sikkim Tourism checklist for Gurudongmar includes:

  • Voter ID or Driving Licence

  • Two passport-size photographs

  • Additional documentation for children below 18 where applicable

Sikkim Tourism currently states that Aadhaar is not accepted for the Gurudongmar permit.

Permits for domestic tourists are issued through the applicable authorities, while travel arrangements are commonly handled through registered travel agencies.

For foreign travellers

Foreign tourists are not permitted to visit Gurudongmar Lake under the current rules, although foreign visitors may travel to Lachen and other permitted North Sikkim areas subject to the applicable permit conditions.

For a detailed explanation, see:

Lachen Permits & Permissions →

WHAT TIME DO YOU LEAVE LACHEN?

Expect an Early Morning Start

A Gurudongmar excursion normally begins very early in the morning.

The exact departure time should be decided according to the day's travel arrangements, weather, road conditions and local instructions.

An early departure allows travellers to make the most of the available daylight and reach the higher areas before conditions become more difficult.

Your hotel can also help you prepare for an early start, including arranging breakfast or packed food where available.

WHAT WILL YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY?

The journey itself is part of the experience.

As you leave Lachen, the road climbs gradually towards the higher areas of North Sikkim.

You may pass through:

Thangu

A high-altitude settlement and important stopping point on the route.

High Mountain Valleys

The vegetation becomes increasingly sparse as you climb.

Snow-Covered Mountains

Depending on the season, the surrounding peaks and slopes can be covered in snow.

Gurudongmar Lake

The final destination, surrounded by the dramatic high-altitude landscape of northern Sikkim.

WHAT SHOULD YOU CARRY?

Keep Your Daypack Light but Practical

For the Gurudongmar journey, carry:

  • Warm jacket

  • Thermal layers

  • Gloves

  • Woollen cap

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • Water

  • Snacks

  • Personal medicines

  • Government ID

  • Permit documents

  • Phone and power bank

You should also keep some cash with you because connectivity and digital payment facilities can be limited in remote parts of North Sikkim.

ALTITUDE & HEALTH

Take the High Altitude Seriously

Gurudongmar is at approximately 17,800 ft, so this is not an ordinary sightseeing destination.

You may experience:

  • Headache

  • Breathlessness

  • Dizziness

  • Nausea

  • Unusual tiredness

If you feel unwell, tell your driver or guide immediately rather than trying to push through the symptoms.

Avoid unnecessary physical exertion at the lake and follow local safety instructions.

WEATHER AND ROAD CONDITIONS

Conditions Can Change Quickly

The journey to Gurudongmar depends heavily on weather, road conditions and official access restrictions.

Even if the weather appears good in Lachen, conditions at 17,000–18,000 ft can be completely different.

Access to the Lachen–Gurudongmar axis can also change with road conditions and administrative decisions. Sikkim's tourism guidelines specifically note that movement towards protected areas can be restricted depending on tourist season, weather and road conditions.

Always confirm the current status before leaving Lachen.

A NOTE ABOUT THE LAKE

Gurudongmar is regarded as a sacred lake and has religious significance for communities including Buddhists.

When visiting:

  • Respect the sacred nature of the lake

  • Do not litter

  • Follow local instructions

  • Avoid disturbing the surroundings

  • Take photographs responsibly

The high-altitude environment is fragile, and every visitor has a role in protecting it.

STAY AT LACHEN HOTEL

Have Your Hotel Arranged Before You Travel

Once your North Sikkim travel plans and permits are in place, having your accommodation confirmed makes the journey easier.

Lachen Hotel provides hotel accommodation in Lachen and is conveniently positioned for travellers preparing for their journey towards the northern areas of Sikkim.

Check current room availability and the direct hotel rate for your dates.

View Rooms
Check Direct Rate

Frequently asked questions

How high is Gurudongmar Lake?

Gurudongmar Lake is approximately 17,800 ft (5,430 m) above sea level.

Can I visit Gurudongmar Lake from Lachen?

Yes. Lachen is the principal overnight base used by travellers visiting Gurudongmar, subject to current permits and road accessibility.

Do I need a permit for Gurudongmar Lake?

Travel from Bagdogra towards Gangtok first, then continue north towards Lachen through Mangan and Chungthang.

Do I need a permit for Gurudongmar?

Yes. Gurudongmar is a Protected Area Permit destination. Current requirements for Indian visitors include specified ID and photographs.

Is Gurudongmar Lake open throughout the year?

Access depends on weather, road conditions, season and official restrictions. Check the current status before planning your visit.

Can foreigners visit Gurudongmar Lake?

No. Under the current Sikkim Tourism rules, foreign tourists are not permitted to visit Gurudongmar Lake.

Should I visit Gurudongmar if I feel unwell at high altitude?

No. Tell your driver or guide immediately if you experience significant altitude-related symptoms and follow their safety advice.

PLAN YOUR LACHEN JOURNEY

How to Reach Lachen
Find the route from Gangtok, NJP and Bagdogra and understand the journey to the village.

Best Time to Visit Lachen
Understand seasonal conditions and when to plan your trip.

Lachen Permits & Permissions Understand current permit requirements

Lachen Hotel Rooms
Find your accommodation in Lachen and check the hotel's direct rate.