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Situated at an altitude of 13,066 ft, Kupup Lake is a pristine water body located in the serene Kupup Village. The lake is also referred to as the ‘Elephant Lake’ due to its structural resemblance to an elephant. It is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains from all sides. The Kupup Village played a major role in the history of the silk trade as it served as the transit point between India and Tibet. Today, it is a tourist attraction where people come looking for tranquillity and peace.
Renowned for its enchanting beauty, Kupup Lake is an ideal spot for relaxing, photography and sightseeing. Additionally, you can also enjoy bird watching around the lake as it is home to several species of birds like blood pheasant, olive-backed pipit, Himalayan Monal and rufous. You might also get to spot some wild animals like red pandas and snow leopards.
There are a few popular attractions in or around Kupup Village that you can explore along with the lake. The most popular one is the Yak Golf Course which is renowned for being the world’s highest golf course. Some other famous attractions that you can visit include Tukla Valley, Jelep La Pass and Menmecho Lake.
Highlights
• Admire the captivating beauty of Kupup Lake, surrounded by giant snow-peaked mountains.
• Set up your camp near the lake or enjoy a picnic with your loved ones for a memorable experience.
• Enjoy bird watching around the lake and spot various birds like blood pheasant, olive-backed pipit and rufous.
• Play golf at the highest golf course in the world, Yak Golf Course, at a height of 13,025 ft.
• Explore nearby popular attractions such as Tukla Valley, Jelep La Pass and Menmecho Lake.
How To Reach
- By Road: Kupup Lake is located at a distance of around 64 km from Gangtok. You can reach the lake in approximately 2 hours via the NH 310 route. You can either get a taxi or rent a car from the city and drive yourself to reach the lake.
Best Time To Visit
Kupup Lake is a stunning attraction which can be visited any time of the year.
- Best Season: You can visit Kupup Lake between September and October to experience pleasant weather conditions, vibrant landscapes and mild temperatures.
- Best Day of the Week: Plan your visit to Kupup Lake during the weekdays if you wish to avoid the crowds of the weekend.
- Best Time of the Day: Visit the lake during the early hours so that you can clearly admire your scenic surroundings in daylight.
Other Essential Information
- Check the weather forecast before visiting the lake as heavy snowfall can block the roads.
- Make sure to carry warm clothes and sturdy shoes for a comfortable experience.
- Bring a camera or keep your mobile batteries full so that you can capture all the beautiful moments.
- Carry sufficient water and snacks to keep yourself recharged throughout the day.
- Remember to carry sufficient cash as there are limited ATM facilities available.
- Maintain the serenity of the environment by disposing of garbage properly.
Explore the Pristine Lake
Situated at an elevation of 13,066 ft, Kupup La is a mesmerising gem of Sikkim. Popularly known as the ‘Elephant Lake’, it resembles the shape of an elephant where the left side looks like a tail and the right side looks like a trunk. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, it serves as an ideal getaway destination where you can relax and simply admire the scenic views. You can also indulge in bird watching and spot several birds like olive-backed pipit, rufous, blood pheasant and Himalayan Monal.
Experience Golfing in the Mountains
Apart from the beautiful lake, another major attraction of Kupup Village is the Yak Golf Course. Situated at a height of 13,025 ft, playing golf at the highest golf course in the world is truly an unparalleled experience. It is an 18-cup golf course which is currently managed by the Indian Army. Additionally, yak rides are available at the golf course for senior citizens and the specially-abled. You can play golf in the summer as it turns into a Ski Resort during winter and offers winter-related adventure activities.
Play Ice Hockey
If you are an adrenaline junkie travelling to Kupup Lake in the winter then make sure to play ice hockey with your loved ones. Located at a height of 13,025 ft, the famous Yak Golf Course turns into a Ski Resort during the winter season. It offers several adventure activities such as skiing, ice hockey and ice skating. You can enjoy these winter activities between January and April, during which the entire village remains covered with a thick layer of snow.
Enjoy Camping
If you are a nature enthusiast then camping out near Kupup Lake is a must-try experience for you. You can either set up your own camp or contact the nearby campsites. Admire the breathtaking views of clear blue skies, snow-peaked mountains and the deep blue water of the lake. Light up a bonfire and spend the night singing, dancing and sharing stories with your loved ones. For a more peaceful experience, you can spend the night stargazing and then wake up to the chirping of birds and mesmerising scenery in the morning.
Visit Nearby Attractions
There are a few popular attractions near Kupup Lake that you can include in your itinerary for a wholesome trip. You can visit the Tukla Valley, a transit point for the old Silk Route and soak in the beautiful views of the Himalayan ranges and Mount Kanchenjunga. Jelep La Pass is another enchanting destination at a height of 14,390 ft, which is one of the highest passes in the country. Additionally, if you wish to enjoy fishing then you can make a stop at the beautiful Menmecho Lake on your way to Jelep La Pass.
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