Sikkim Lakes & Glaciers

Perched between the mountains at a dizzying height of 12400 ft above sea level, the Tsomgo Lake is one of the few high-altitude lakes in India situated on the Gangtok - Nathu La highway. Also popularly known as Changu Lake, it is a part of every tourist's itinerary and for a good reason - the overwhelming scenic beauty. Enveloped by steep snow-capped mountains and resting between a bright green carpet of alpine forests, the charming beauty of Tsogmo Lake is bound to leave you in awe.

Located at an altitude of 1700 m above sea level, Khecheopalri Lake is a sacred place for both Buddhists and Hindus which is a part of the famous Buddhist pilgrimage circuit. It is situated in the Khecheopalri Village in the West Sikkim district. The name of the lake, Khecheopalri, was originally known as, ‘Kha-Chot-Palri’, which refers to the heaven of Lord Padmasambhava. Popularly considered as a ‘wish fulfilling lake’, many people visit it from around the globe in the hope of getting their wishes fulfilled.

Located at the height of 17,100 feet above the sea level, Gurudongmar Lake, located in Sikkim, is one of the fifteen highest lakes in the world. It is also the second highest lake in Sikkim, after the Cholamu Lake located at the height of 18,000 feet. The splendid and scenic beauty of the place is breathtaking and attracts tourists from all across the world. Gurudongmar Lake also has great religious significance attached to it, and the beautiful view of Mount Siniolchu and Kanchenjunga from the lake is a sight to behold and cherish.

14th highest lake in the world and the highest lake in India, the Cholamu Lake in North Sikkim is situated at an altitude of 18000 feet from the sea level. While coming down the slope around 300 feet from Donkiala pass ( 18300 feet ), you can get the first sight of this moderately sized, almost frozen lake. Cholamu Lake is only a few kms away from the Tibet border and is off limits for commonplace tourists. One needs special permits, from Army and Sikkim police/administration to visit the Cholamu Lake.

Nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of North Sikkim, Crow's Lake stands as a hidden gem, offering a tranquil retreat for those seeking solace in the lap of the Himalayas. Situated at an elevation of approximately 14,000 feet (4,267 meters), this pristine lake remains off the beaten path, allowing visitors to experience the raw beauty of the Eastern Himalayas. Accessing Crow's Lake requires a journey through the rugged terrains of North Sikkim.

Tso Lhamo Lake, also known as Chho Lhamo or Cho Lhamo, is a high-altitude lake nestled in the remote reaches of the Tibetan Plateau, specifically within the Zuthulphuk region of Tibet Autonomous Region, China. Situated at an elevation of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), this glacial lake is revered as one of the highest lakes in the world and is surrounded by pristine, rugged mountain landscapes, making it a breathtaking destination for adventurous travelers and spiritual pilgrims alike.

Kathok Lake, also known as 'Kathok Tsho,' is a sacred lake located near Yuksom in western Sikkim. Sanctified by Lama Kathok Kuntu Zangpo in 1642 A.D., it serves as a site for oracular practices and undergoes an annual purification ceremony called 'Tru-sol' performed by lamas. Surrounded by lush greenery and adorned with prayer flags, the lake offers a peaceful retreat for tourists and a picturesque backdrop for photographers.

Menmecho Lake, nestled in the Gangtok district of Sikkim, India, stands as a hidden gem along the route to the Jelep Pass, about 20 kilometers ahead of Lake Tsomgo. Serving as the source of the Rangpo chu River, a tributary of the Teesta River, its waters are replenished by melting snow in the summer and monsoon rains. Renowned for its trout, the lake hosts a significant fish farm nearby, accompanied by a guesthouse, though access to Menmecho Lake is restricted to tourists.

Samiti Lake, known locally as Bunmoten Choo in the Sikkimese language, is a pristine alpine glacial lake situated in the West Sikkim District of Sikkim, India. Nestled at the base of the majestic Pandim and Kangchenjunga mountains in the Himalayas, the lake holds sacred significance for the local residents. At an elevation ranging from 4,200 to 4,300 meters (13,700 feet), it boasts a width of approximately 230 meters at its widest point.

Lampokhari, also known as Aritar Lake, stands as one of Sikkim's oldest lakes, showcasing its captivating emerald waters in a distinct boot-shaped formation. Nestled at an altitude of 4600 feet, it spans 1120 feet in length and 240 feet in width, offering a picturesque retreat for visitors. Surrounded by verdant pine forests, the lake boasts a mesmerizing ambiance, further enhanced by its boating facilities and a scenic pathway encircling its shores, allowing tourists to admire its beauty from various angles. 

South Lhonak Lake, nestled in Sikkim's far northwestern region, is a glacial-moraine-dammed lake, positioned at an impressive altitude of 5,200 meters (17,100 feet). Its formation is attributed to the melting of the Lhonak glacier, with rapid expansion attributed to additional meltwater from neighboring glaciers.