GURUDONGMAR LAKE

Take in the stunning views of Gurudongmar Lake, which is tucked away in Sikkim at an astounding height of 17,800 feet. This holy lake, which bears the name of Guru Padmasambhava, attracts with its pure charm. Experience the raw beauty of this undiscovered treasure as you travel through untamed landscapes dotted with rhododendrons and alpine pastures.

Experience the mystical allure and profound spiritual significance of Gurudongmar Lake. For Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists alike, this holy body of water—named for the great Guru Padmasambhava—holds great significance. Here, you can listen to stories of its magical beginnings when the kind hand of Guru Padmasambhava thawed part of the lake. This thawed part gave the people their access to water during the hard winters. A visit to Gurudongmar Lake is often included in various North East tour packages, offering a unique glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage.

Situated at 5,183 metres above sea level and surrounded by the towering peaks of Sikkim, Gurudongmar Lake is a sight to see. You can see its glistening pure waters create a mesmerizing aura over the surrounding area as it reflects the majestic Kanchendzonga mountain. As winter approaches, the lake freezes over everywhere except for a holy spot that people believe is blessed by the gods. This is a remarkable example of both natural wonder and divine intervention.

To round up your visit, you can also experience the devotion in the air by visiting the neighbouring shrine devoted to Guru Padmasambhava. 

Highlights

• Take in the breathtaking scenery of Gurudongmar Lake as it reflects the spectacular icy peaks that surround it at an altitude of 5425 m.
• Discover the spiritual sanctuary of Sarva Dharma Sthala, which is next to the lake and promotes religious harmony while providing peace and tranquillity.
• On a spectacular adventure through nature's beauties, you can enjoy the combined allure of Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley.
• Discover the beautiful Teesta River source, Tso Lhamu Lake, which is only 9 km away and adds to the surrounding area's charm.
• Take a short journey from Gurudongmar Lake to the Lachen and Thangu villages, which provide insights into traditional Himalayan life.

How To Reach

Gurudongmar Lake lies in the enchanting landscapes of North Sikkim. These are some ways to reach this serene destination.

By Car/shared taxi: You can depart from Lachung Bus Stand and embark on a picturesque journey covering approximately 115 kilometres. Follow the winding roads, passing through breathtaking vistas, until you reach Gurudongmar Lake in about 4-5 hours.

Best Time To Visit

Gurudongmar Lake welcomes visitors year-round, with each season offering its unique allure. 

1. Best season: For a winter wonderland experience, you can visit from November to February, when temperatures range between 5°C to -27°C and the lake is frozen. You can also visit during April and May as that time showcases vibrant rhododendron blooms, enhancing the lake's natural beauty.

2. Best day of the week: You can visit Gurudongmar Lake on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience amidst nature's splendour. Weekends tend to be busier with tourists, while weekdays offer quieter surroundings for peaceful contemplation.

3. Best time of the day: Make the most of your visit by arriving at Gurudongmar Lake early in the morning. The calm, still waters and the soft glow of dawn create a magical ambience, perfect for capturing breathtaking photographs of the lake

Other Essential Information

• Wear sunglasses with UV lenses and a layer of Polaroid film to protect your eyes from harsh sun rays and white light.
• To have a smoother experience, get permits in Gangtok before visiting Gurudongmar Lake. You may also want to use authorised tour providers.
• Bureaucratic delays are usual, so allow one or two extra days for processing permits.
• To avoid altitude sickness, take a break at Lachung or Lachen on your journey to let your body adjust to the different elevations.
• Make sure you bring clothing appropriate for the weather in the month of your visit.
• Bring two or three duplicates of your picture ID and several photos, which you will need to turn in at the tourism office in order to process your permit.
• Be mindful of local norms and rules by keeping the region tidy and protecting its scenic charm.
• For protection against glare, always carry a pair of polarised, anti-reflective sunglasses.