Lachung - A Picturesque Hamlet in Sikkim
Lachung is one of these hidden gems that captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty. A small village with a low population that is located on the lap of a rugged mountain at the confluence of two tributaries of the Teesta. It is a picturesque hamlet that remains covered in snow until early March. Lachung's snow-covered appearance provides ultimate relief to visitors after a stressful journey. To get the most out of your visit to Lachung, get up early the next morning and go for a walk.
If it's winter, you'll find yourself in a white paradise, with pine and fur branches and leaves that look like a valley of chocolate-vanilla ice cream. Even in the spring, the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, and apple orchards will enchant you. Lachung is a part of the Yumthang Valley, one of North Sikkim's most popular tourist destinations, and serves as a gateway to a number of other scenic spots.
Why should you visit Lachung?
Lachung is one of the most beautiful villages in North Sikkim's valleys. Lachung, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, dazzling waterfalls, and glistening streams, has been dubbed the "most picturesque village of Sikkim" by none other than Joseph Dalton Hooker in his seminal work, The Himalayan Journal. A small monastery perched atop a lonely hilltop is an ideal spot for meditation. In the winter, when the valley is blanketed in a thick layer of snow, it takes on a completely different appearance. Lachung has a small market, but due to the influx of tourists, several small and medium hotels with basic facilities have sprung up. Lachung serves as a base for visitors heading to Yumthang Valley, dubbed the "Switzerland of the East."
Lachung's History
"Lachung" is a Tibetan word that means "small mountain." The name comes from the fact that it is situated on a small mountain. In the year 1880, the monastery was founded. It was created to rebuild and spread Buddhism to a larger number of people in Sikkim. When it comes to followers of the Buddhism religion, the Monastery is extremely important.
You'll be surprised to learn that the Lachung Monastery has a vibrant dispute resolution body known as Zuma that serves the entire village. The Pipon is in charge of this magnificent body.
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Tourism in Lachung
Lachung appears on the holiday itineraries of almost every visitor to Sikkim, particularly those en route to 'Yumthang Valley' or 'Zero Point.' With its scenic wealth of stunning fruit orchards, sparkling streams, and gushing blue rivers flowing against the mesmerizing backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas looming over azure blue skies, the charming little hamlet has been aptly named among the most picturesque villages of North East India, attracting thousands of holiday seekers and nature aficionados from far and wide.
Travelers seeking adventure in Lachung will be rewarded with a plethora of options to satisfy their adrenaline cravings; 'Zero Point,' also known as 'Yumesamdong,' is a popular trekking destination that provides adrenaline junkies with some thrilling and breath-taking natural vistas. For true adventurers, 'Mt. Kata is a must-see destination that will keep them enthralled with never-ending snowboarding, skiing, and snow-tubing fun.
While Lachung's tourism is driven by its numerous tourist attractions and diverse range of adventurous activities, the city also attracts a small number of visitors interested in learning about the region's unique cultures and traditions. The town is primarily populated by Lepchas and Bhutias, who are devout Buddhists who continue to revere and respect their religion to this day.
Activities & Sightseeing
The Lachung Gompa, perched atop a hillock near Lachung, is a must-see. It is a Buddhist temple located a short distance from town. It is well worth a visit because it is situated in a beautiful location. If you want a more immersive experience of the hills, you can also walk up to the Gompa. . Mount Katao, a scenic Himalayan Mountain is 30 kilometers from Lachung. It offers breathtaking views of the valleys and mountain ranges that surround it.
The Yumthang Valley of Flowers, located 25 kilometers from Lachung, is the most delightful visual treat. During the flowering season, the valley is a riot of color, with a wide variety of flowers. The Zero Point, or Yumesadong, is 25 kilometers from Yumthang ahead of the valley. Azealia, the signature fragrance of Sikkim, can be found along the route to Zero Point. Snowfall occurs almost every day of the year. The scenery changes dramatically at Zero Point, from the rainbow colors of the flower valley to the white layers of snow.
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Is There a Good Time to Visit Lachung?
The months of May to October are the best for visiting Sikkim's northern districts. The temperature fluctuates between 10 and 16 degrees Celsius during these periods. During these months, you can see a lot of greenery and wildflowers. During this season, you can also go on treks, short hikes, and bathe in hot springs. From December to February, the temperature drops to -5 degrees Celsius. During the winter, the entire region turns a brilliant white. Depending on your preferences, you can plan a trip to Lachung.
What is the Best Way to Get to Lachung by Air?
The nearest airport to Lachung is Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri. Almost all domestic airlines fly from Bagdogra Airport to the rest of India. Direct flights to Bagdogra are also available from Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. To get to Lachung, hire a local cab or take a bus from Bagdogra Airport.
How to Get to Lachung on the Road
Lachung is well connected to nearby destinations by road. Direct buses run between New Jalpaiguri and Gangtok and can be used to get to Lachung.
What is the Best way to Get to Lachung by Train?
Lachung does not have a railway station, and the nearest one is in New Jalpaiguri. New Jalpaiguri is served by major trains from West Bengal and Guwahati. A large number of trains run through the station, connecting New Jalpaiguri to other important Indian cities. To get to Lachung from New Jalpaiguri, which is about 127 kilometers away, you can hire a private cab or take a public bus.
Festivals And Culture
Sikkim is a unique blend of different communities' customs, religions, and traditions. We can find 3 tribes here; since ancient times: the Bhutias, the Lepchas, Nepalese. Sikkim is like a lovely cultural bouquet, with enticing folk dances, traditions, and customs from various tribes and castes. These diverse cultures have spawned a distinct Sikkimese culture that embraces people from all walks of life. Despite this, it has managed to maintain its own identity. These characteristics can also be seen in their annual festivals, various places of worship, and cultural dances. The ceremonial mask dance performance is a must-see for anyone visiting Sikkim. They're carried out by monks who are overly zealous and energetic. They wear sparkling jewelry and swords while dancing to the resounding drums and trumpeting of horns, adding to the authenticity of the performance.
Mountains, rivers, and forests represent the spirits of Sikkim. Nature is revered as God in Sikkim's culture. Phang Labs is one of the many festivals held by the locals to thank Mount Khangchendzonga. This festival is revered as a powerful defender of the state.
The Asian festival, another festival in the state, commemorates the triumph of good over evil. Because Diwali is celebrated on the tenth day, it is similar to the Dussehra festival.
Every year, a solemn Kagyat dance is performed. Apart from these, Sikkimese people celebrate Losoong, Namoong, Labab Duchen, Yuma-Sam-Mangham, Tendong-Iho-Rum-Fat, and other festivals. You can also join the locals and participate in their festivals because the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalese are all very warm-hearted people with unparalleled hospitality.
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Varieties of Cuisine you can Eat in Lachung
In terms of ingredients, styles, and popular items, Lachung cuisine is fairly consistent across the state. Hotels may serve Chinese, Punjabi, or South Indian cuisine, but you should avoid these and instead try the local cuisine.
It is undeniably a unique experience. Momos are available in a variety of flavors. Try the stuffed steamed momo with Lachung potatoes and the tea momo. The shell macaroni soup and the thukpa with gundruk are also worth trying. Don't miss the fern curry, nettle stew, or giant bean curry, which are only found in Lachung. These dishes will not be available anywhere.
