Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an altitude of 17,800 ft in the Indian state of Sikkim. It is a sacred lake for both Buddhists and Hindus and is known for its stunning landscape surrounded by snow-covered mountains and crystal clear water.
To reach Gurudongmar Lake, you must first travel to Lachen, a small town in North Sikkim. From Lachen, you can hire a local taxi or be a part of a tour group to reach the lake. The journey from Lachen to Gurudongmar takes about 3-4 hours by road, and visitors need to obtain permits from the Government of Sikkim due to its proximity to the international border.
The best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is from November to June when the weather is comparatively more stable and the roads are less likely to be blocked by snow. However, the lake remains frozen from November to Mid-May, and the ideal time to see the clear blue water is between June and October.
When visiting Gurudongmar Lake, you should be prepared for extreme weather conditions due to the high altitude. It's important to carry warm clothing, medical supplies, and snacks. Acclimatization to the altitude is necessary, so plan your itinerary to allow time to adjust to the high elevation and prevent acute mountain sickness.
There is no entry fee to visit Gurudongmar Lake itself, but you need to obtain a protected area permit (PAP) to visit the region as it’s close to the international border. This permit has a nominal fee and can be arranged through registered tour operators or at the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim.
There are no accommodation facilities available at Gurudongmar Lake due to its remote location. The nearest accommodation options are in Lachen. Tourists typically start early from Lachen to visit the lake and return by the afternoon.
Apart from the scenic beauty of Gurudongmar Lake itself, other attractions include the Thangu Valley, Chopta Valley, and Lachen Monastery. There are also opportunities for trekking and enjoying the rich flora and fauna of the region.
Yes, being close to the Chinese border, the Indian Government has placed some restrictions on visiting Gurudongmar Lake. Foreign nationals are not allowed to visit the lake, and Indian tourists need to obtain a special permit. Additionally, the area is ecologically sensitive, so visitors should adhere to environmental norms and regulations.
Due to the extreme altitude and the possibility of acute mountain sickness, it is generally not advised to take young children or elderly people who have health issues to Gurudongmar Lake. If you do plan to visit with them, a thorough medical check-up and consultation with a doctor regarding high-altitude travel is recommended.
Photography is generally allowed at Gurudongmar Lake, and it's a photographer's paradise due to its scenic vistas. However, due to its sensitive location, photographing military installations or the border area is strictly prohibited.
