adventure · Lachen, North Sikkim
The 4 am start for Gurudongmar
Drivers start from Lachen between 4 and 5 am. The aim is to reach Gurudongmar by about 9–10 am, before the wind picks up and cloud builds, and to start back by noon. The road climbs about 30 km to Thangu (≈ 3,900 m), where you stop for tea and the army checks permits, then about 35 km more across the high, bare plateau to the lake.
Dress in layers before you leave: thermal top and bottoms, fleece, down jacket, windproof shell, cap, gloves and two pairs of socks. Carry water, a light snack, sunglasses, sunscreen and your medicines. Keep a small plastic bag handy in case of car sickness, and keep it to take home.
At the lake, walk slowly, keep your visit to 20–30 minutes and do not run, jump or carry heavy bags. If anyone has a severe headache, breathlessness or confusion, go down at once. Back in Lachen, eat a proper lunch before the 3-hour drive down to Lachung.
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Questions people ask
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What time do cars leave Lachen for Gurudongmar
Usually between 4 and 5 am. The aim is to reach the lake by about 9–10 am, when the sky is clearest and the wind is lower, and to start back by noon. Your driver will tell you the exact time the evening before. Be ready on time; the army may stop late vehicles.
How long does it take from Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake
About 3 hours each way for roughly 65–70 km, with a tea and permit stop at Thangu. With 20–30 minutes at the lake, the round trip takes 7–9 hours. After lunch in Lachen, most groups drive on to Lachung, a further 3 hours, or down towards Gangtok.
Is there food on the way to Gurudongmar
Yes, at Thangu there are small tea stalls and canteens selling tea, noodles, eggs and momos, and some army-run cafes on the road sell snacks. There is nothing at the lake itself. Eat a light breakfast and carry dry snacks and water. Avoid heavy, oily food before going to 5,430 m.
