The North Sikkim Green Lake Trekking adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Sikkim. This 11-day journey, starting in Lachen and culminating at the stunning Green Lake situated at an elevation of 4935 meters, promises an exhilarating experience for outdoor enthusiasts. With guided support, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transportation, this moderate trek allows trekkers to explore the region’s natural beauty while ensuring they are well-prepared for the high-altitude challenges. Discover the secrets that this remarkable trek holds, as you embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of this enchanting corner of India.
Key Points
- Embark on an 11-day trekking adventure through the captivating landscapes of Northern Sikkim, India, culminating at the scenic Green Lake.
- Trek from Lachen to Green Lake (4935 m), with stops at Tallem, Jakthang, and Yabuk, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty.
- Enjoy guided support and accommodations in tents and hotels, with built-in acclimatization days to ensure a safe and successful trek.
- Explore iconic monasteries in Gangtok and drive through scenic routes before commencing the moderate-level trekking expedition.
- Positive reviews highlight the professionalism, organization, and personalized attention provided by the trekking service, ensuring a memorable experience.
Overview
The North Sikkim Green Lake Trekking tour is a well-curated 11-day adventure that takes travelers on a captivating journey through the stunning landscapes of Northern Sikkim, India.
Based in Bagdogra, the tour begins with a scenic drive to Gangtok, where sightseeing at iconic monasteries sets the stage.
The core of the experience is a moderate-level trek from Lachen to the breathtaking Green Lake, with stops at picturesque villages along the way.
Accommodation is provided in tents and hotels, and travelers are accompanied by a knowledgeable, government-authorized guide.
With positive reviews highlighting excellent service and organization, this tour offers an immersive exploration of Sikkim’s natural beauty.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bagdogra.
Itinerary Highlights
This comprehensive 16-day itinerary offers a seamless and immersive exploration of North Sikkim’s natural wonders.
The journey begins with a drive from Bagdogra to the charming city of Gangtok, where travelers can discover the Enchey Monastery and Rumtek Monastery.
Next, they’ll head to Lachen, the gateway to the trekking adventure. The 11-day trek takes them through stunning landscapes, including stops at Tallem, Jakthang, and Yabuk, before reaching the breathtaking Green Lake.
Acclimatization days are built-in at Jakthang and Green Lake to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
The return journey leads back to Gangtok and Bagdogra, providing a well-rounded exploration of this captivating region.
Trekking Details
The trekking route takes adventurers through some of North Sikkim’s most captivating landscapes.
Key locations along the way include:
- Lachen (2730 m/8950 ft), the starting point of the trek
- Tallem (3240 m/10620 ft), a scenic campsite
- Jakthang (3430 m/11250 ft), where trekkers spend a day acclimatizing
- Yabuk (4040 m/13250 ft), a high-altitude camp with stunning mountain vistas
- Green Lake (4935 m/16190 ft), the ultimate destination and highlight of the trek
The trek is considered moderate in difficulty, rewarding trekkers with breathtaking natural scenery throughout.
Acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Key Locations
The trekking route takes adventurers through some of North Sikkim’s most captivating landscapes.
The trek begins in Lachen, a picturesque town situated at an elevation of 2,730 meters. From there, the trail ascends to Tallem at 3,240 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
The trek continues to Jakthang at 3,430 meters, an important acclimatization point. Yabuk, at 4,040 meters, marks the final campsite before reaching the stunning Green Lake at 4,935 meters.
This glacial lake, surrounded by towering peaks, is the highlight of the trek, providing a breathtaking natural setting for trekkers to explore and enjoy the beauty of North Sikkim.
Acclimatization Days
Recognizing the importance of proper acclimatization, the trek incorporates two dedicated acclimatization days at key points along the route.
On Day 6, trekkers will spend an extra day at Jakthang (3430 m/11250 ft) to allow their bodies to adjust to the increasing altitude. This pause is crucial for maintaining health and energy levels throughout the challenging ascent.
Similarly, on Day 9, the group will take a rest day at Green Lake (4935 m/16190 ft) before continuing their journey. This extra time at the highest point of the trek ensures participants are fully prepared for the descent back down the mountain.
Trekking Difficulty
Rated as a moderate trek, the North Sikkim Green Lake Trekking route offers stunning natural landscapes and gradually increasing altitudes that challenge participants.
The trek spans an elevation range from 2,730 meters (8,950 feet) at Lachen to the highest point of 4,935 meters (16,190 feet) at Green Lake.
While the daily trekking distance is relatively short, typically 2-5 hours, the gradual ascent and high altitudes can test the endurance of trekkers.
Proper acclimatization, guided support, and appropriate gear are essential for navigating this scenic but demanding journey through the rugged North Sikkim terrain.
With careful preparation, the North Sikkim Green Lake Trek rewards adventurers with breathtaking mountain vistas and a sense of personal accomplishment.
Services Included
The North Sikkim Green Lake Trekking package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.
Meals are provided, with breakfast and dinner included throughout the trip.
Transportation is also covered, with pickup and drop-off from Bagdogra Airport.
Accommodation is a mix of tents during the trekking portion and hotels in Gangtok and Lachen.
Plus, the tour is accompanied by a government-authorized guide, providing expert knowledge and support throughout the journey.
- Meals: Breakfast and dinner provided
- Transportation: Pickup and drop-off from Bagdogra Airport
- Accommodation: Tents during trekking, hotels in Gangtok and Lachen
Customer Feedback
Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive reviews for the North Sikkim Green Lake Trekking experience. Reviewers consistently applauded the professionalism of the drivers and the seamless organization of the itinerary. Personalization and attention to individual needs were frequently noted as key strengths. The knowledgeable guides also received high praise for enhancing the overall experience.
| Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|
| 5-Star | 9 |
| 4-Star | 0 |
| 3-Star | 0 |
| 2-Star | 0 |
| 1-Star | 0 |
Customers were delighted with the service, transportation, and accommodations provided throughout the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Trek?
The best time to do this trek is from May to October when the weather is mild, with clear skies and lush greenery. Avoid the winter months as snowfall can make the trek more challenging.
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required?
The minimum group size required is typically 2 people. However, many tour operators offer this trek with flexible group sizes to accommodate individual travelers or smaller parties. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider regarding their minimum group requirements.
Are Any Special Permits Needed for This Trek?
Special permits are typically required for treks in remote areas like this one. Trekkers will need a special Inner Line Permit to visit Lachen and the Green Lake region. The tour operator can assist with securing the necessary permits.
Can I Extend or Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, you can generally extend or customize the itinerary. Many trekking operators offer flexible options to accommodate travelers’ interests and fitness levels. Speak with the operator about modifying the duration, pace, or destinations to suit your preferences.
Are There Any Health/Fitness Requirements for This Trek?
This trek has moderate difficulty, so participants should be in good physical condition. They should be able to hike for 2-5 hours daily at high altitudes. Proper acclimatization is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Recap
The North Sikkim Green Lake Trekking adventure is an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes, culminating at the breathtaking Green Lake. Guided support, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transportation ensure a memorable experience. With ample acclimatization days, trekkers are well-prepared for the high altitude, making this a moderate yet rewarding trek for nature enthusiasts. The trek’s comprehensive services and positive customer feedback further solidify its appeal as a must-try adventure in Northern Sikkim.