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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. The lake's mesmerising scenic allure combined with its legendary significance to the locals definitely makes it a must visit attraction of Sikkim.
Tsomgo Lake is a glacial lake that derives its water from the melting snows of the mountains around it. This glacial lake is famous for its colour changing waters. Monsoons see a bright aquamarine lake whereas, in the winters, it freezes into a translucent cover of ice. As the summer approaches in mid-May, the periphery of this lake is dotted with a thousand blossoming flowers that lend the waters a riot of vibrant colours.
In the Bhutia language, 'Tso' means lake and 'Mgo' mean head and essentially means 'source of the water', holding immense religious and cultural significance to the Bhutia people. Considered as a sacred lake by the Sikkimese, Changu Lake is associated with many myths and legends. They say the Buddhist monks used to analyse the colour of the lake to forecast the future!
Tsomgo Lake Permit : The Tsomgo lake is located in a restricted area and requires all visitors to obtain permits that allow them to enter the otherwise restricted area. Foreign nationals are required to obtain special permits. These permits cannot be obtained online, and you will need to go through officially certified travel agents and tour operators who will get the permit for you. There is no fee or cost associated with obtaining these permits, other than the agent's fee, and you will be required to submit an ID proof and two passport size photographs. Permits take a day or two to arrive.
Tips : 1. Make sure to wear/carry boots when travelling to the lake as it tends to be very slippery. Plastic boots are also available for rent near the lake for approximately INR 50. Also, carry an extra pair of socks.
2. Try to visit the lake during the early hours of the morning as there are some slide-prone areas on the way and you don't want to be stuck there during the late evening.
Sanmitra Bagchi
on Tsongmo Lake 6 years agoBhaskar Sarkar
4 years ago