North Sikkim · Road guide
Gangtok to Lachen
Gangtok to Lachen is about 120 km, 5–6 hours, on the North Sikkim Highway as far as Chungthang, then up the Lachen Chu valley. It is the first day of every Gurudongmar trip and needs a protected area permit, a registered vehicle and a registered agent.
Photo: Tushar2486 · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Your options
How to make the trip
Shared tour jeep
5–6 h · ≈ ₹7,000–9,500 per person for a 2N/3D Lachen–Lachung package
Shared tours usually run Gangtok–Lachen (night 1), Gurudongmar and on to Lachung (night 2), then Yumthang and back to Gangtok. A seat in a registered jeep with permit, budget stays and meals is the lowest-cost option. Seats fill early in May and October, so book a few days ahead.
Private car or SUV
5–6 h · ≈ ₹18,000–24,000 per vehicle for 2N/3D Lachen–Lachung, car only
A private registered SUV gives you control over stops and an earlier start to Gurudongmar. The same permit and Toong 4:00 pm check post rule applies. Good for families with older parents who may want to turn back at Thangu if the altitude is too much.
From Bagdogra or NJP
9–10 h · Not advised in one day
Bagdogra and NJP are 4.5–5 hours from Gangtok on NH10, which closes after monsoon slides; the alternative is via Kalimpong or Algarah. Spend at least one night in Gangtok first, both for the Toong cut-off and to acclimatise before Gurudongmar.
Fares are indicative. Landslides, snow and check-post timings change journeys: check current status before you travel.
On the way
Stops worth the time
- Kabi Lungchok
- Seven Sisters Waterfall
- Singhik viewpoint
- Naga waterfall
- Chungthang, where the Lachen and Lachung rivers meet
- New bridge over the Taram Chu
Eat a light dinner in Lachen, drink 2–3 litres of water and sleep early: the Gurudongmar departure is usually between 4 and 5 am.
Questions travellers ask
Gangtok to Lachen: questions
Is Lachen open for tourists now?
As we understand it, Lachen and Gurudongmar reopened on 9 March 2026 over a new Bailey bridge on the Taram Chu, closed again in April after a landslide, and permits resumed around 11–12 September 2026 after the road was repaired on 29 August. Check current status before you travel.
Why is Lachen not a same-day trip from Gangtok to Gurudongmar?
Gurudongmar lies at around 5,150–5,430 m and about 190 km from Gangtok. Going straight up from 1,650 m risks serious altitude sickness, and timings would not work with the check posts. A night at Lachen, about 2,750 m, is the minimum, and operators require at least two nights in North Sikkim.
What does the Gangtok to Lachen road look like after the 2023 flood?
The October 2023 South Lhonak flood destroyed the Teesta III dam at Chungthang and badly damaged the valley road. Rebuilt stretches and Bailey bridges are in use, but some sections are rough and slow, and monsoon slides recur. Expect 5 to 6 hours or more, and travel with an experienced North Sikkim driver.
Can children go on the Gangtok to Lachen trip?
Children under five are not permitted in North Sikkim protected areas, so Lachen and Gurudongmar are not possible with toddlers. Older children can go, but watch them closely for headache, vomiting or unusual tiredness at altitude. If symptoms appear, descend. Carry warm clothes, snacks and plenty of water.
Get 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.
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- Permits handled through registered partners
- Every hotel, car and fee listed