Nature · Tsomgo Lake
Lakeshore walk and a yak ride
A slow walk along the Tsomgo shore at 3,753 m, past the small Shiva temple and the prayer flags, with an optional short ride on a decorated yak. The simplest way to experience the lake, kept short and gentle for the altitude.
Photo: Laluttam · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
From the parking area a paved promenade runs along part of the eastern shore. Walk it slowly: at 3,753 m you have about a third less oxygen than at sea level, and even a gentle stroll can leave you breathless. Prayer flags snap in the wind, and on calm mornings the slopes reflect in the water.
Near the shore stands a small Shiva temple, and Buddhist prayer flags hang all around: the lake is sacred to both communities. Do not throw coins, food or rubbish into the water. Further along, herders wait with yaks wearing bright saddle rugs and bells. A short ride or photo costs about ₹300–600; agree it before you get on.
Most visitors spend about an hour at the lake before driving on to Baba Mandir. Mornings are clearer and less windy; cloud often rolls in after noon. Wear warm layers even in May, plus sunglasses and sunscreen. If you develop a headache, dizziness or nausea, tell your driver and go down.
Good for
Questions travellers ask
Before you book
Is the yak ride at Tsomgo safe?
Short yak rides at Tsomgo are generally safe for adults and older children when a handler leads the animal on level ground. Sit still, hold the saddle and follow the handler's instructions. Avoid it if you have back problems or are pregnant. Agree the price and duration before you get on.
How long should we stay at Tsomgo Lake?
About an hour is enough for most people, and it is wise at 3,753 m. Longer stays raise the risk of altitude headaches, especially on the first visit. Walk slowly, drink water and warm up with tea at the stalls. Then continue to Baba Mandir, which is a little higher.
Is there a toilet at Tsomgo Lake?
There are basic paid toilets near the parking and stall area, for about ₹10–20. They are simple and can be crowded in peak season. Carry tissues and hand sanitiser. Use them before leaving Gangtok and again at the lake, as there are few options on the road.
Also in Tsomgo Lake
More hours worth planning
Nature
Tsomgo frozen, January to March
In winter Tsomgo usually freezes and the basin fills with snow. For many families from the plains it is their first proper …
Adventure
Tsomgo and Baba Mandir day trip
The classic Gangtok day trip: up through Kyongnosla to Tsomgo Lake at 3,753 m, on to the Baba Harbhajan Singh shrine, and …
Food
Tea, momos and Maggi at the lake stalls
The row of family-run stalls at Tsomgo serves sweet tea, butter tea on request, momos, thukpa and Maggi noodles at 3,753 m. …
Price your own route
Tell us dates, people and budget. We send a day-by-day plan with every cost shown. StartNot sure where to start?
We match districts to your month, your budget and the people travelling with you. StartAsk the Gangtok desk
An itemised quote within one working day. No payment to start. StartGet my price
Tell us your dates and your budget
Who is travelling, when, and roughly what you want to spend. The Gangtok desk replies within one working day with a day-by-day plan and an itemised price.
- No payment to start
- Permits handled through registered partners
- Every hotel, car and fee listed