Gurudongmar Lake Guide 2024: History, Geography, Highlights, How To Reach, Itinerary & FAQ’s

Gurudongmar Lake is a high-altitude lake situated in the northern part of Sikkim, India, near the border with Tibet. It is located at an altitude of 17,800 feet (5,430 meters) and is considered one of the highest lakes in the world. The lake is known for its crystal-clear blue water and its breathtaking natural beauty. In this article, we will discuss in detail the history, geography, and significance of Gurudongmar Lake.

The Gurudongmar Lake is a popular tourist destination and attracts thousands of visitors every year. However, due to its high altitude and extreme weather conditions, the lake is only accessible during the summer months, from April to June.

The best time to visit the lake is during the early morning, when the sunlight reflects off the crystal-clear water, creating a stunning view. Visitors can also take a short trek to the nearby Thangu Valley, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and stunning vistas.

History of Gurudongmar Lake:

The lake is named after Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, who is believed to have visited the lake during his journey to Tibet. According to the legend, the lake was created by Guru Padmasambhava when he touched the frozen surface of the lake with his staff, thereby thawing the ice and allowing the local people to access the water.

Geography of Gurudongmar Lake:

The Gurudongmar Lake is situated in the northern part of Sikkim, near the border with Tibet. It is located in the midst of the Himalayan mountain range and is fed by glaciers and snowmelt. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is considered one of the most beautiful natural sights in Sikkim.

Significance of Gurudongmar Lake:

The Gurudongmar Lake is considered a sacred site by both Hindus and Buddhists. The lake is believed to have healing properties and is considered a holy site for pilgrims. The water of the lake is also believed to have medicinal properties and is said to be capable of curing a range of ailments. Many people also believe that the lake is inhabited by spirits and other supernatural beings.

Keypoints for Gurudongmar Lake

Highlights of Gurudongmar Lake

How to Reach Gurudongmar Lake

Reaching Gurudongmar Lake can be a bit challenging due to its high altitude and remote location. However, there are a few options available for tourists who wish to visit the lake.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Gurudongmar Lake is Bagdogra, West Bengal, which is around 200 km from the lake. From the airport, tourists can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the lake. The journey usually takes around 6-7 hours.

By Rail:

The nearest railway station to Gurudongmar Lake is in New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, which is around 200 km from the lake. From the station, tourists can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the lake. The journey usually takes around 6-7 hours.

Read more: Treks In Sikkim

By Road:

Gurudongmar Lake is accessible by road from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Tourists can take a shared jeep or hire a private taxi to reach the lake. The journey usually takes around 8-9 hours, and it is advisable to start early in the morning to avoid any delays.

Itinerary for Gurudongmar Lake

A trip to Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim can be an incredible experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation due to the high altitude and remote location. Here is a suggested itinerary for a 3-day trip to Gurudongmar Lake:

Day 1:

• Arrive in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim.
• Check into a hotel and rest for a few hours to acclimatize to the altitude.
• Visit the local markets and explore the city’s cultural and historical sites, such as the Enchey Monastery and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.
• Return to the hotel and rest for the night.

Day 2:

• Wake up early and depart for Lachen, a small town located around 6-7 hours from Gangtok.
• Enjoy the scenic drive and stop at a few viewpoints along the way.
• Reach Lachen by mid-afternoon and check into a hotel.
• Spend the rest of the day exploring the town and its surroundings.
• Rest for the night and prepare for the next day’s journey to Gurudongmar Lake.

Day 3:

• Wake up early and depart for Gurudongmar Lake, which is located around 3-4 hours from Lachen.
• Enjoy the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and the natural beauty of the region.
• Reach the lake by mid-morning and spend a few hours exploring the area and taking in the breathtaking views.
• Return to Lachen by late afternoon and rest for the night.
• The next day, depart for Gangtok, where you can spend another day exploring the city before returning home.

Conclusion for Gurudongmar Lake:

The Gurudongmar Lake is one of the most beautiful and sacred sites in Sikkim. It is a testament to the natural beauty and spiritual significance of the region, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. The lake is a reminder of the power and majesty of nature and serves as a source of inspiration and awe for all those who visit it.

Important Notes for Gurudongmar Lake:

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs for Gurudongmar Lake