Changu Lake is one place you must see to believe that it actually exists, a quiet lake of turquoise sitting at the top of the Gangtok highlands.
Changu lake: Heart of Sikkim
Changu Lake is one of those places that makes a cliche seem new. It’s a frozen glacial lake set against towering peaks and crisp, icy air under an azure blue sky. Perched at 12,400 feet on the Gangtok-Nathula Road, this sparkling body of emerald blue water is fed by the melting snow of the surrounding mountains. Another name is Tsomgo Lake, meaning "source of water."
Besides being scenic, the lake is culturally significant for the neighbourhood.' Lamas would formerly read the waters of the lake to prophesy. When the water had a murky color, it foreshadowed a dark, turbulent future. Sikkim's faith healers come here to take prayers during Guru Purnima.
Changu lake is not a place you go to or another lake. This memory will undoubtedly be cherished and held close to your heart for a really long time.
Things to know
Distance from Sterling Gangtok — 38 km
If you travel in winter, make sure you know about the accessibility.
When is the best time to visit Changu Lake
Tourists can plan a visit to the dazzling Tsomgo Lake at any time of year. Winters can be frigid, with temperatures dipping below zero at times. The lake is frozen in the winter, cloaked in mist, adding to the otherworldly scene. It's surrounded by snow-capped mountains, which only adds to its grandeur. The best months to visit the Tsomgo Lake are from May to October. The snow starts melting and wildflowers starts blooming at the time. It is also the perfect period to take a photo of the beautiful side of the lake with all the nearby colourful flowers blooming fully.
History of Changu Lake
Sikkim is famous for the richest cultural heritage which is rooted in its majestic topography. Tsomgo Lake is associated with famous mythology. The lake’s name derives from the syllables meaning “ahead” in the Bhutia language: the Tso and go. Legend has it that where the lake sits now was once the location of a yak stable. An old woman, whose former life was as a yak herder, had a dream telling her to leave, because the water was going to flood the area. The older woman chose to leave, but the local herders did not trust her. As she was leaving the area, an elder woman with white hair entered the valley, and soon the area was flooded. The flooding of the whole place drew the remaining herders around. The lake was later named Tsomgo as this old lady was also considered to be the protector deity of the lake. The lama used to reveal the future by reading the changing colors of the lake. Today, it is a sacred place where people come yearly to pray to shamans in Gurupurnima.
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North Sikkim Sharing Travel LLP
Best Sharing Packages to Explore North Sikkim : Budget Friendly, Convenient & Local!
Wondering to experience the enchanting beauty of the Himalayas in minimal budget? North Sikkim Sharing Travel Company is widely popular for best North Sikkim sharing trips — suitable for single tourists and international tourists. We provide affordable shared packages for Sikkim with more than 17 years of experience as:
Morning you will be transferred to Yumthang Valley for that you have to take the extra permits & other things which we will assist you.Night transfer to Lachung.
North Sikkim travel is best done in a minimum of 3 nights and 4 days but the minimum requirement for visiting here can be in 2 nights.
Nathula Pass+Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir shared day trips
Lachung sharing tours (permits arranged)Open to foreign tourists too We manage R.A.P & P.A.P permits to visit North Sikkim. There is no voting if Voter ID, Driving License, or Passport of adult Indians is not available. Kids — Birth Certificate or Passport
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