Lachung North Sikkim

Lachung is a town located in the North Sikkim district and is near the border with China. It is located at an elevation of about 9,600 ft or 3,000 m. Lachung is 125 kms from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, the thoroughfare to Lachung passes in the course of several of the most stunning but complicated terrain in Sikkim full of pictorial waterfalls and grand views. Lachung is located at the confluence of the Lachen River and Lachung River which are the tributaries of the Teesta River. The word Lachung means "small pass". Lachung, the picturesque mountain village poses a pictorial sight of the snow capped mountain peaks, splendid waterfalls and sparkling streams. The sprawling apple orchards are also worth seeing here. Lachung is famous for its apples, peaches and apricots. The Lachung villagers, known as Lachungpas, have managed to hold on to their exclusive ethnicity and tradition. The Lachung monastery on the slant reverse to the highway is a focal spot of all religious gathering of the local populace. To get a quick look of the sacred functions performed on propitious occasions a stopover to the Monastery should form an element of every visit to Lachung.

To explore Lachung to the fullest, you should wake up the next morning very early and go for a walk. If it is winter you will find yourself in a white paradise where branches and leaves of pine and furs appear like a valley of choco-vanilla ice cream. Even if it is spring, the stunning view of snow-capped mountain tops, cascading waterfalls and apple orchards will mesmerize you. Lachung is a part of the Yumthang Valley, one of the biggest attractions in North Sikkim and is gateway to a number of other spots that attract people with their scenic beauty. The town is frequented by tourists because of the many waterfalls that are located in the region. Mount Katao is a beautiful destination near Lachung that is located at a distance of 30 km is visited by many tourists especially those interested in recreational activities like snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing and stone grinding. However, this tourist site only welcomes visitors from India. Rhododendron Sanctuary located in Lachung is famous for its collection of different species of Rhododendron that bloom during the months of April - May. The handicraft centre located here is also of much interest and is worth visiting. The Indian Army has a forward base in the town. Lachung had served as the trading post between Sikkim and Tibet until the annexation of Tibet in 1950. Tourism is one of the most important modes of income and in the recent past has been boosted by the Indian government. Lachung can be reached by availing buses and cabs from locations within the state of Sikkim. The nearest railhead of Lachung is the New Jalpaiguri Rail station in West Bengal, located 139 km away from Lachung. The nearest airport of Lachung is the Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, connected to different cities of the country. However, visit to Lachung requires special permits. The summer months extending from March to June are the ideal time to visit Lachung. The climate during this time remains mild and pleasant. However, if you are visiting Lachung in winter, carry adequate warm clothes, as winter temperature dips down as low as -5 degree Celsius. Lachung hosts a good variety of budget hotels and resorts, offering decent lodging and dining facilities. Budget family rooms and deluxe category rooms are available at Lachung for comfortable stay.