One cold December evening in 2020, while relaxing in New Delhi, I received a call from Prashant, a fellow rider. He was in Gangtok with his wife and wanted to visit Gurudongmar Lake but was told by taxi drivers that private vehicles weren’t allowed. I reassured him, called a friend, and confirmed that the road was open and even small cars were making it up there. I advised him to go to Mangan and obtain the necessary permits.
Inspired by his plan, I decided to visit Gurudongmar myself. I called my travel buddy, Hitesh, who was in Goa, and we quickly made plans. I canceled my trip to Bihar and told my wife I’d be in Sikkim, returning to Kolkata after five days. Early the next morning, I packed and set off from Delhi, covering 1710 km with stops at Siliguri, Lachen, and Lachung.
On the way, I met old friends, took a quick nap, and reached Siliguri, where my friend Vivek hosted me. After picking up Hitesh, we had dinner and were challenged by Vivek’s sister to reach Tsolamu Lake, beyond Gurudongmar.
The next day, we reached Mangan, where we met Karma Ma’am for breakfast and got our permits. We reached Lachen in freezing temperatures and spent the night there. Early the next morning, we headed to Gurudongmar Lake, braving the cold and icy conditions. After a thrilling drive, we finally reached the lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and stunning scenery.
Not satisfied with just Gurudongmar, we accepted the challenge and headed to Tsolamu Lake. Though snow prevented us from reaching it, we took some memorable photos and completed our journey.
The lake is considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus, adding a layer of spiritual significance to its allure. The journey to the lake is challenging but immensely rewarding, with every twist and turn revealing new vistas of the Himalayan landscape.
For travelers looking to escape the usual tourist trails, Gurudongmar offers a unique experience that combines adventure, spirituality, and the sheer joy of discovering one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The frozen lake, surrounded by towering peaks, is a sight that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is between November and March when the lake is frozen and the landscape is at its most picturesque. However, be prepared for extremely cold temperatures.
Altitude Sickness: Given the lake’s high altitude, it’s crucial to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Consider spending a day in Lachen or Thangu Valley to adjust to the elevation.
Permits Required: Indian nationals need a special permit to visit Gurudongmar Lake, which can be obtained from Gangtok or Mangan. Foreign tourists are not allowed to go beyond Lachen.
Travel Arrangements: Due to the challenging terrain, it’s advisable to hire a 4×4 vehicle with an experienced driver familiar with the region. Self-driving is possible, but be aware of the risks, especially in winter.
Gurudongmar Lake is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, offering a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and spiritual significance. The frozen lake, set against the backdrop of snow-covered peaks, is a sight to behold and a journey worth taking. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a nature lover, Gurudongmar Lake promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you spellbound. Don’t miss the chance to explore this frozen jewel of Sikkim on your next adventure.
