Lachen, a serene village nestled in the northern part of Sikkim, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and pristine rivers, Lachen offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. For those planning a trip to this beautiful destination, Lachen tour packages are the best way to explore the village and its surrounding attractions with ease. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about Lachen tour packages, including popular itineraries, things to do, and how to book your perfect trip.
1. Why Choose Lachen Tour Packages?
Lachen, situated at an altitude of 8,610 feet (2,630 meters), is one of the most picturesque locations in Sikkim. While traveling to Lachen may seem like an adventure in itself, navigating the high-altitude terrain can be challenging for some travelers. This is where Lachen tour packages come in handy. These packages are designed to provide a hassle-free travel experience, covering transportation, accommodation, and sightseeing tours, ensuring a smooth and comfortable trip to Lachen.
Here are some reasons why Lachen tour packages are a great choice:
- Convenience: With a pre-planned itinerary, you don’t have to worry about transportation, hotel bookings, or sightseeing arrangements. Everything is taken care of for you.
- Expert Guidance: Lachen tour packages are usually accompanied by experienced guides who can share insightful information about the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
- Affordability: Tour packages often offer better rates compared to booking everything individually, making it a cost-effective option.
- Customized Itineraries: Many tour operators offer customized packages that cater to your specific needs, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group.
2. Key Attractions in Lachen
A Lachen tour offers you the opportunity to explore some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Sikkim. Some must-visit places include:
Lachen Village
The village itself is a tranquil haven surrounded by the grandeur of the Eastern Himalayas. It is home to the Lachungpa people, who belong to the Bhutia ethnic group and follow Tibetan Buddhism. Strolling through the village offers a unique cultural experience, as you witness traditional wooden houses and visit local monasteries.
Gurudongmar Lake
One of the highest lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake is located about 67 kilometers from Lachen at an altitude of 17,800 feet (5,430 meters). It is a sacred site for both Buddhists and Sikhs, and the crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks create a breathtaking view. It’s one of the most popular spots in Lachen, and many tour packages include a visit to this spectacular lake.
Chopta Valley
On the way to Gurudongmar Lake, you will pass through Chopta Valley, a beautiful area known for its lush meadows, alpine flowers, and clear streams. It’s an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The valley is particularly stunning during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
Lachen Monastery
The Lachen Monastery is a key cultural and religious site in the village. The monastery, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of the Lachenpa people. It is a peaceful place for meditation and prayer, and visiting it adds depth to the cultural experience of the area.
3. What’s Included in Lachen Tour Packages?
Lachen tour packages usually include a range of services that make your trip more comfortable and convenient. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Transportation
Most Lachen tour packages provide transportation from major cities like Gangtok or Siliguri to Lachen. The journey involves traveling through winding mountain roads, which can be quite a challenge for those unaccustomed to hill driving. Tour packages include safe and comfortable vehicles such as private taxis, SUVs, or jeeps that are driven by experienced drivers familiar with the terrain. Some packages also offer shared transport options to make the trip more affordable.
Accommodation
Lachen offers limited but comfortable accommodation options, primarily in guesthouses and small hotels. Lachen tour packages typically include stays in these local guesthouses or hotels, ensuring that you have a cozy place to rest after a day of sightseeing. Many of these properties provide warm meals and a homely atmosphere, making it easier to adjust to the chilly weather of the region.
Sightseeing and Guides
Most packages include guided tours of the major attractions, such as Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta Valley, and the Lachen Monastery. The guides are usually well-versed in the history and culture of the area and can offer interesting insights. With an organized package, you don’t have to worry about missing out on key spots or navigating the local area on your own.
Meals
While meals may not always be included in every Lachen tour package, many packages offer breakfast and dinner as part of the tour. Local food in Lachen is typically simple but flavorful, with dishes like momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and phagshapa (pork with radish). Staying in local guesthouses gives you a chance to experience authentic Sikkimese cuisine.
4. Sample Lachen Tour Packages Itinerary
Here’s a sample 4-day itinerary for Lachen that is often included in many tour packages:
Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok
- Arrive in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
- Spend the day exploring the town, visiting key attractions like Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, and Tashi Viewpoint.
- Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Day 2: Gangtok to Lachen
- After breakfast, depart from Gangtok for Lachen (approximately 6-7 hours’ drive).
- En route, visit Tashi Viewpoint for panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range.
- Arrive in Lachen, check-in to your accommodation, and relax.
- Overnight stay in Lachen.
Day 3: Visit Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley
- Early morning, depart for Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest and most sacred lakes in the world.
- On the way back, stop at Chopta Valley to enjoy the views and take photographs.
- Return to Lachen for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Lachen to Gangtok
- After breakfast, visit Lachen Monastery.
- Begin your journey back to Gangtok, with a stop at Mangan or Kabi Longstok if time permits.
- Reach Gangtok by late afternoon or evening and conclude your Lachen tour.
5. How to Book Lachen Tour Packages
Booking a Lachen tour package is easy, and there are several ways to do it:
- Travel Agencies: Many travel agencies and tour operators in Sikkim offer Lachen tour packages. You can either visit their offices or book online. Agencies often provide ready-made packages or customizable itineraries.
- Online Platforms: Websites like MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, and TripAdvisor list various Lachen tour packages, where you can read reviews and compare prices.
- Local Operators: If you’re already in Gangtok or other nearby cities, you can directly approach local travel operators who specialize in Sikkim tours. They often offer more flexible packages tailored to your preferences.
6. Best Time to Visit Lachen
The best time to visit Lachen depends on the kind of experience you seek:
- Spring and Summer (March to June): This is the best time for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring the beauty of Lachen and nearby areas, with pleasant weather and blooming flowers in places like Chopta Valley.
- Autumn (September to November): The weather is clear, and the skies are bright, making it an excellent time for photography and outdoor activities.
- Winter (December to February): If you want to experience snowfall and the winter wonderland of Lachen, the winter months are perfect, but be prepared for freezing temperatures and heavy snow.
7. Conclusion
Lachen is an amazing destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture. With a range of Lachen tour packages, you can explore this stunning region without worrying about logistics or planning. Whether you’re traveling to witness the beauty of Gurudongmar Lake, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Lachen village, or trek through the alpine meadows, a well-organized tour package will ensure that your experience is both enjoyable and memorable.
