North Sikkim · Road guide
Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake
Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake is about 67 km, 3–3.5 hours each way via Thangu, climbing from about 2,750 m to the lake at around 5,150–5,430 m. Vehicles leave Lachen around 4–5 am and turn back by late morning. Indians only; foreigners are not permitted.
Photo: Original: Yoghya Derivative work: UnpetitproleX · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Your options
How to make the trip
Included in package vehicle
3–3.5 h each way · Included in Lachen–Lachung packages
Every Lachen package includes the Gurudongmar run. Breakfast is often taken at Thangu, about 30 km and 1.5 hours from Lachen. Beyond Thangu the road crosses high, bare plateau to the army check post and the lake. You spend 30–45 minutes there, then drive back to Lachen for lunch and usually on to Lachung.
Chopta Valley add-on
+30–45 min · ≈ ₹1,500–2,500 per vehicle extra, if allowed
Some drivers offer a short detour into Chopta Valley near Thangu on the return. Availability depends on army and permit rules on the day. It is a gentle stop at about 4,000 m and a good alternative for anyone who did not feel well enough to go to the lake.
Fares are indicative. Landslides, snow and check-post timings change journeys: check current status before you travel.
On the way
Stops worth the time
- Thangu village for breakfast
- Chopta Valley meadows
- High plateau with yaks
- Army check post before the lake
Climb slowly at the lake, walk rather than run, and turn back at the first sign of a severe headache, breathlessness at rest or confusion.
Questions travellers ask
Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake: questions
How long does Lachen to Gurudongmar take?
About 3 to 3.5 hours each way for roughly 67 km, so a typical day runs from about 4:30 am to 12:30 pm, then you continue to Lachung or Gangtok. Road works, snow and convoys can add time. Leave early: winds rise and clouds build at the lake after about 10 am.
What is the altitude of Gurudongmar Lake?
The Government of Sikkim gives 5,430 m (17,800 ft), and that figure is on most signs and brochures. Satellite elevation data put the water surface nearer 5,150 m. Either way it is extremely high, close to the height of Everest Base Camp in Nepal, and enough to cause altitude sickness in fit, healthy people who climb too fast.
Can foreigners visit Gurudongmar Lake?
No. Gurudongmar Lake is close to the China border and is open to Indian nationals only, with a protected area permit through a registered agent. Foreign nationals can usually visit Lachung, Yumthang and Zero Point instead, with a group permit. Check current status before you travel.
How do I avoid altitude sickness at Gurudongmar?
Spend a night in Gangtok and a night in Lachen first, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol the night before, and eat a light breakfast. At the lake, move slowly and stay 30 to 45 minutes. Many travellers carry camphor or sweets, which do not prevent illness. Ask your doctor about acetazolamide before the trip.
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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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