Gurudongmar Lake – A Mesmerizing Himalayan Wonderland
Nestled in the mesmerizing Himalayan Mountains, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an altitude of 17,800 feet. Located close to the Indo-China border in the North Sikkim district of India, Gurudongmar Lake is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the beauty of the Himalayas.
Gurudongmar Lake – An Overview
Gurudongmar Lake is located in close proximity to the Tibetan Plateau in the extreme northern part of Sikkim. Spanning a length of 5 kilometers, and a width of 2.5 kilometers, the lake has an average depth of 50 feet. The lake is surrounded by the snow-covered mountains of the Kanchenjunga range. It is believed that the lake was blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, one of the most revered Buddhist teachers, and hence the name “Gurudongmar”.
Reasons to Visit Gurudongmar Lake
The mesmerizing scenery of Gurudongmar Lake makes it one of the most beautiful sights in the Himalayas. Here are a few reasons why you should visit this enchanting lake:
- Scenic Views: The snow-capped mountains of the Kanchenjunga range, the crystal clear water of the lake, and the serene atmosphere make this place a perfect destination for nature lovers.
- Spiritual Connect: As the lake is believed to be blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, it is a great place to connect spiritually and attain inner peace.
- Adventure Activities: Gurudongmar Lake also offers many thrilling adventure activities like trekking and camping.
- Experiencing Nature: The lake is surrounded by a thick blanket of snow, making it one of the best places to experience the beauty of nature at its finest.
How to Reach Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake is not easily accessible and is located in a remote part of the Himalayas. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is approximately 200 km away from the lake. From Bagdogra, you can take a taxi to reach Lachen, which is the nearest town to the lake. From Lachen, you can take a jeep or a trek to reach the lake.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation options in and around Gurudongmar Lake are limited. The best option is to stay in Lachen as there are plenty of hotels and guest houses available. However, if you are looking for a more unique experience, you can opt for camping near the lake.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is between April and June, and September and November. During these months, the climate is pleasant and the lake is accessible. It is advisable to avoid visiting the lake during the monsoons as the roads can be hazardous.
Gurudongmar Lake is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the Himalayas and should be on every traveler’s bucket list. From its breathtaking views to its spiritual connect, this place has it all. So, if you are looking for a unique and memorable experience, then Gurudongmar Lake is the place for you!