Lachung Diaries: A Soul-Stirring Escape to the Hidden Gem of North Sikkim

Have you ever dreamed of standing amidst snow-capped peaks, with clouds brushing against your cheeks, and the only sound around you being the gentle gurgle of a mountain stream? If yes, then pack your bags and get ready because Lachung is calling.

Tucked away in the mystical folds of North Sikkim, Lachung is not just a destination; it’s a feeling. One that wraps you in serenity, whispers old Himalayan legends, and leaves you enchanted long after you’ve returned home. My journey to Lachung was a spontaneous decision during a longer Sikkim trip and trust me, it turned out instead to be the highlight of the trip.

If you are planning a trip to Sikkim, then you must include Lachung in your itinerary. Let me take you through my experience of visiting this beautiful heaven, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect and how to make the most of it.

Before we move forward, if you are looking to travel please book your hotels and flights through this link. You will get exclusive discounts & I will be able to earn a small commission that will help me keep this site up & running.

Table of Contents

So where is Lachung?

Lachung is a small mountain village located at an altitude of about 9,600 ft in North Sikkim, around 118 km from Gangtok. It lies at the confluence of the Lachen and Lachung rivers and is known for its breathtaking valleys, gushing waterfalls, and snow during the winter months. This is your gateway to the famed Yumthang Valley, the Valley of Flowers, and zero point making it a popular yet peaceful base for North Sikkim adventures.

Planning the Trip: Permits & Preparations

Since Lachung is close to the Indo-Tibetan border, a permit is required for Indian nationals, and foreign nationals are usually not allowed beyond certain checkpoints. If you’re booking through a registered travel agency in Gangtok (which is advisable), they’ll take care of the permits and transportation.

Here’s what you’ll need:

2 passport-size photos
A valid government-issued ID (like Aadhar or voter ID)
Photocopies of the ID

Also, prepare for cold weather, even in summer. The temperatures here can dip unexpectedly, especially early mornings and at night.

Essentials to pack:

Thermals, gloves, woolens
Sturdy trekking/walking shoes
Moisturizers, sunscreen, and lip balm (the wind is dry!)
Emergency medicines
Power bank and extra camera batteries (electricity can be erratic)

The Road to Lachung: A Journey Through the Clouds

We left Gangtok early in the morning around 9 AM. The roads, as expected, were winding, narrow, and at times quite bumpy but every twist and turn brought with it a postcard view. Waterfalls literally spill onto the roads, locals wave at your passing car, and military outposts remind you how close you are to the border.

Along the way, we passed scenic villages like Mangan and Chungthang. Don’t forget to stop at the Seven Sisters Waterfall it’s a great photography spot. Most Lachung-bound trips include lunch at a homely eatery en route. The food is basic but soul-satisfying: steaming momos, rice, dal, and hot tea.

After about 6–7 hours, we reached our destination just before sunset. And what a welcome it was! The village looked like a scene from a fairy tale – wooden houses, snow-dusted roofs, prayer flags fluttering, and the mighty Himalayas rising in the background.

Where to Stay in Lachung

Most accommodations in Lachung are cozy guesthouses or homestays, many of them run by locals. Don’t expect luxury here but what you will get is clean rooms, hot meals, and warm hospitality.

I stayed in a charming homestay overlooking the Lachung river. As the night fell and temperatures dropped, our hosts served us piping hot thukpa and shared stories of how this region transforms in the snowy winters and the blooming spring.

Yumthang Valley: Heaven at Sunrise

We woke up before dawn for the drive to Yumthang Valley, about 25 km from Lachung. The journey took about 1.5 hours, and as we drove higher, frost covered the trees, and the air grew thinner and colder.

Yumthang Valley, at over 11,000 ft, is often called the Valley of Flowers and for good reason. From March to May, the valley bursts into color with rhododendrons and alpine blooms. Sadly, we visited in early April, and the flowers were just beginning to peek out but the scenery was still spellbinding. Snowcapped peaks surrounded the open meadows, and yaks grazed quietly as prayer flags danced in the wind.

You will feel like you have stepped into a dream.

Zero Point: Touching the Snowline

If you’re up for more adventure, go further ahead to Zero Point (Yumesamdong). It lies at an altitude of over 15,000 ft and is often covered in snow, even in May.

Be warned: the oxygen level is low, and the cold is biting. You’ll need to rent boots and heavy jackets from shops near Yumthang if you’re not already geared up. But the moment you reach Zero Point, you will realize it’s all worth it.

White as far as the eyes can see, frozen streams, icy winds, and the thrill of standing at the edge of civilization. You can even throw snowballs, pose with the Indian Army signs, or just take in the surreal silence.

Back in Lachung: Exploring the Village Life

After returning from Yumthang and Zero Point, I took the evening to explore Lachung itself. The village is peaceful and untouched by mainstream tourism. You can walk along the river, visit Lachung Monastery, and chat with the monks or locals about their way of life.

A few must-do experiences:

Try the local barley beer called Chang
Taste homemade pickles and yak cheese
Watch the stars, the sky is so unbelievably clear here that this is the best place for stargazing.
Sit by the river and do absolutely nothing!

Lachung Weather and Best Time to Visit

Your experience of Lachung can vary widely depending on the season:

March to May (Spring): Best time for Yumthang flowers and pleasant weather
October to December (Autumn): Clear skies, golden landscapes, fewer tourists
January to February (Winter): Heavy snowfall, surreal views, but may face road closures
June to September (Monsoon): Not recommended due to landslides and slippery roads

What to Eat?

Don’t expect fancy restaurants here. Food is mostly served at your homestay or guesthouse and includes rice, dal, sabzi, noodles, momos, and eggs. The thukpa and tea keep you warm throughout the day. If you’re lucky, your hosts may even offer local Sikkimese delicacies like Phagshapa or Kinema curry.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Network is patchy – Only BSNL works occasionally. Download offline maps and inform family beforehand.
Avoid plastic – Lachung and surrounding areas are ecologically sensitive. Carry reusable water bottles.
Travel light but warm – Layering is better than bulky clothes.
Stay hydrated – High altitudes can cause headaches and dizziness.
Respect local customs – Don’t litter, don’t pluck flowers, and ask before photographing locals.
Carry snacks – Dry fruits, chocolates, and energy bars help when food options are limited on the road.

Final Thoughts: Why Lachung is Worth Every Mile

Lachung isn’t just about reaching a place—it’s about feeling it. It’s about watching the first light touch the peaks, about strangers smiling at you without reason, and about reconnecting with the quiet version of yourself.

In a world of fast-paced travel and Insta-worthy destinations, Lachung brings you back to the basics—of breathless beauty, slow moments, and raw nature. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time mountain explorer, Lachung will find a way to etch itself into your heart.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Sikkim, don’t just do the usual Gangtok-Pelling circuit. Head north. Go slow. Let Lachung unfold its magic on you.

Got more questions about Lachung, permits, or itinerary suggestions? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to help you plan your journey!