Guest house in Lachen, with mountain views
4.6· 64 stays
Things to do nearby.
Lachen is the starting point for one of Sikkim's most sought-after destinations: Yumthang Valley. Known as the valley of flowers, it's a wash of colour in the spring with rhododendrons and other alpine flowers. The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through the high Himalayas. A permit is required to visit, which can be arranged in Gangtok.
From Gangtok, on your way to or from Lachen, you can also visit Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake. It sits at an altitude of 12,400 feet and often freezes over in the winter. This is a protected area and also requires a permit for all visitors.
Getting there.
By air - The most reliable airport is Bagdogra (IXB) in West Bengal, about 124km from Gangtok. From the airport, it's a 4-5 hour drive to Gangtok, where most travellers halt to arrange permits before continuing to Lachen the next day. Pakyong Airport (PYG) is closer to Gangtok (30km), but flights are often diverted due to weather.
By rail - The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), located near Siliguri. It is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata and Delhi. From NJP, you can hire a taxi for the drive up to Gangtok.
By road - Lachen is in North Sikkim and is reached by road from Gangtok. The journey is long and the roads can be rough, but the views are worth it. It's best to travel in a sturdy vehicle.
Best time to visit.
The best time for clear skies and mountain views is from October to mid-December. The air is crisp and the snow-capped peaks are sharp against the blue sky. Another popular season is from March to May, when the rhododendrons are in full bloom across the state, especially in the Yumthang valley. The monsoon months, from June to September, are best avoided as heavy rains can cause landslides and road closures, particularly in North Sikkim.


