Gurudongmar Lake is situated at a height of more than 17000 ft above sea level and is a glacial lake in North Sikkim, India. Gurudongmar Lake is one of the few places in Sikkim that comes under the Protected Area. Thousands of travellers across the globe visit this lake as it is one of the highest alpine lakes in India. The lake basically remains the most preferred destination and water body in North Sikkim. A small amount of biodiversity can be seen at Gurudongmar lake due to the lack of minerals and low temperature. The route to the lake starts from Gangtok and is through amazing waterfalls, twisted alleys and challenging roads. Snowfall can be witnessed in the regions close to the lake. The route to reach Gurudongmar lake requires expert and master driving to surpass the difficult challenges that arises during the road trip. Travellers can reach Gurudongmar lake by 3 ways as mentioned below.
1. Travellers can reach Gurudongmar lake from Gangtok via Mangan, Chungthang and Lachen by traversing a distance of around 190 km. The route to reach Gurudongmar lake is quite amazing and travellers can enjoy the natural landscape of the Eastern Himalayas. A well-known destination named Lachen acts as the focal point and night halt for travellers to reach Gurudongmar lake. There are hotels and lodges available at Lachen where tourists can take accommodation. Gurudongmar lake was formed from melting of glacial ice decades ago. The lake continues to grow in shape and size due to melting of snow. Glacial moraines can be spotted at Gurudongmar lake. Alpine galciers melt and the water accumulates at Gurudongmar lake increasing it’s water level. The glacier runoff increases during the summer season and decreases during winters.
2. Travellers can reach Gurudongmar lake from Kala Patthar, a well known destination in North Sikkim. Kala Patthar is one such place in Sikkim from where one can witness the black rocks and the mountain ranges. Mountain ranges look alarming and unconquered for decades. It is possible to reach Gurudongmar lake from Kala Patthar by covering a distance of 1.5 hours. Tourists can also get to see weathering and erosion of rocks at Kala Patthar. Tourists can also witness snow and blizzard at Kala Patthar if they pay a tribute after November.
3. Travellers generally visit Gurudongmar lake after planning a trip to Yumthang valley in North Sikkim. The road to Yumthang is through Lachung but travellers prefer to visit the lake by halting at Lachen and planning a trip to the lake the next day. It takes near about 3 hours to reach Gurudongmar lake from Lachen. However, the lake is very safe to visit but it is required to obtain a permit from the issuing authority at Gangtok. The permit can be obtained 1 day prior to visiting the lake.
The lake looks classy throughout the day and there is an opportunity to traverse around the lake. Furthermore, there are mountains of different colors encircling the lake that gives the feeling of ‘Heaven on Earth’. There is also a temple around the lake which travellers can pay a tribute to. Gurudongmar is undoubtedly the most beautiful lake in North Sikkim besides Tso Lhamo Lake and acts as the source of water for river Teesta. It is also essential to carry woolen clothes and garments to protect oneself from the harsh climatic conditions. Hence, a proper packing list including travel essentials is required to make the trip a real success.
GURUDONGMAR LAKE FAQ
What is the best time to visit Gurudongmar lake?
The best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is from May to December after which the lake completely freezes and glacial ice can be spotted in and around the mountains. Sometimes, the road gets blocked due to huge accumulation of snow. Tourists should enquire about the weather and road conditions before planning a trip to Gurudongmar lake.
What is the temperature at Gurudongmar lake?
Temperature at Gurudongmar lake mostly remains around zero degrees or below due to the altitude of the place. Tourists may face breathing issues or altitude sickness so it is advisable to carry oxygen cylinders during the trip.