nature · Rhenock, Gangtok
Day hop from Rhenock to Aritar and Lampokhari
Aritar is a short drive from Rhenock, close enough that many travellers who cannot find a homestay at the lake stay in Rhenock and make a day of it. A local taxi for the return trip with waiting time costs roughly ₹800–1,500, indicative 2026. Leave early so you reach Lampokhari before the weekend day-trippers, when the water is still and the boats are free. On weekdays outside school holidays you may have the place nearly to yourself.
Start with the lake: a walk around the path takes 30–45 minutes, and a boat costs about ₹50–200 per person. Then go up to Ari Bangla, the dak bungalow built in 1895 under John Claude White, the first British Political Officer in Sikkim, where Sikkim's first police outpost and treasury opened in 1897. The Kagyu gompa nearby is worth a quiet look at its murals; remove shoes, walk clockwise and leave a small donation if you go in.
If you have energy, add the climb to Mankhim, the hilltop above the lake at about 6,500 ft with a Rai temple and views to the Kangchenjunga range on clear days. Otherwise head back to Rhenock for lunch. Aritar is below the Silk Route permit point, so this day works for families, seniors and foreign travellers with the standard Sikkim Restricted Area Permit. Carry water and a light jacket, as the lake is cooler than the bazaar.
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How far is Aritar from Rhenock
Aritar is a short drive from Rhenock, usually 20–30 minutes by local taxi depending on the road. A return trip with waiting time costs about ₹800–1,500, indicative 2026. Some travellers walk part of the way on village paths, but the road is easier for most. No permit is needed, as both places lie below the Silk Route permit point.
Should we stay in Rhenock or Aritar
Stay in Aritar if you want the lake, quiet evenings and sunrise views from Mankhim. Stay in Rhenock if you are travelling by shared jeep, want a cheaper night close to transport, or Aritar's homestays are full. The two are close enough that you can easily see Aritar on a half-day trip from Rhenock.
Can foreigners visit Rhenock and Aritar
Yes. Rhenock and Aritar lie below the Silk Route permit point, so foreign nationals can visit with the standard Sikkim Restricted Area Permit, which is free. They should confirm in advance where the permit will be endorsed if entering via the Pedong road. Zuluk and the high Silk Route remain closed to foreigners. Check current status before you travel.
