Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a glacial lake located in the East Sikkim district of the Indian state of Sikkim, some 40 kilometers from the capital city Gangtok. Perched at an altitude of about 3,753 meters (12,313 feet), the lake is considered sacred by the local people and is a popular tourist destination.
Tsomgo Lake can be reached by road from Gangtok. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. As the lake is situated near the border area with China, foreign visitors will need to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) and Indian nationals must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit.
The best time to visit Tsomgo Lake is from March to late May when the weather is pleasant and the rhododendrons are in bloom. Another good time to visit is from October to December for clear skies and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is frozen during the winter months.
Visitors to Tsomgo Lake can enjoy yak rides, take photographs of the scenic landscape, shop for local handicrafts from nearby stalls, and visit the small Shiva temple located near the lake. During the winter, when the lake is frozen, ice-skating can also be enjoyed.
Basic facilities such as food stalls selling hot beverages and snacks are available near Tsomgo Lake. There are also small souvenir shops. However, given the remote nature of the area, facilities are not extensive, and visitors should plan accordingly.
Staying overnight at Tsomgo Lake is not generally recommended due to the lack of accommodation facilities and the high altitude, which can cause health issues. Most tourists visit the lake as a day trip from Gangtok.
There is no specific entry fee for Tsomgo Lake itself, but visitors may need to pay for the permits required to access the area, as well as any charges for activities like yak rides or hiring local guides.
Visitors should carry warm clothing as temperatures at Tsomgo Lake can be very cold, even during summer. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also recommended because of the intense sun at high altitudes. Always carry a copy of your permits and identification documents.
Visiting Tsomgo Lake is generally safe. However, travelers are advised to check the weather conditions before embarking on the trip as the area can experience sudden weather changes. People with medical conditions, especially respiratory or cardiac issues, should consult a doctor before planning a visit due to the high altitude.
As an ecologically fragile region, tourists are urged to respect the environment around Tsomgo Lake by not littering and adhering to guidelines to preserve the area's natural beauty and the health of the lake's ecosystem.
