Tucked away amidst the lush greenery and serene ambiance of Sikkim lies the beautiful Changu Lake. Tsomgo translates as “water source.”
Journey into Serenity - Changu Lake
Changu Lake - Where Nature Paints a Picture
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a 1 km-long oval-shaped lake in East Sikkim, about 40 kilometers from Gangtok. It is also known by the name of Lake Changu or Tsongmo Lake.
The lake, which is located at an elevation of 3,753 m (12,313 ft), remains frozen during the winter season. The lake’s surface changes colour as the seasons change.
The lake is said to be sacred and holds religious significance. It is believed that the lake was created by Guru Padmasambhava during his visit to Sikkim in the 8th century.
The lake is also an essential stop for those visiting the Nathula Pass, which borders India and China.
Joy rides on decorated yaks and mules are among the tourist attractions at the lake site. On the lake’s edge, there is a small Shiva temple as well.
The lake is accessible to tourists throughout the year, although summer (May to October) is the ideal season to visit. Changu Lake is a perfect spot for a day trip or a short stop on a larger expedition of Sikkim.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the surroundings and appreciate the beauty of this hidden gem.
Discovering the Mystique of Changu Lake
We saw the weather change as we travelled from the viewpoint to Changu Lake, and it began to cloud up. The wind had also accelerated.
We stopped for a quick photo stop en route at a waterfall called “Mandakini Falls.” The driver informed us that one of the songs from the film Ram Teri Ganga Maili was shot here, thus the name.
Upon reaching Changu Lake, the first thing that struck us was its mesmerizing colour. The waters glistened like a shimmering sapphire, reflecting the azure sky above and the surrounding mountains.
The lake’s tranquil surface mirrored the landscape, creating a surreal and magical ambiance that made it feel like we had stepped into a painting.
We arrived at the parking lot in front of the lake about 2.15 p.m. After getting off, we visited the small Shiva temple in front of the lake.
Later, we decided to do an informal photo shoot with the Sikkimese costumes, and three of us opted for traditional Sikkimese dresses from a roadside vendor.
We were charged Rs. 350 for the three of us for the dress. We also took photos of ourselves sitting on the yak (100 rupees per person).
You can also go on a yak ride. They charge different rates based on distance. Short distance is approximately 150–200 Rs., medium distance is approximately 350–400 Rs., and long distance is approximately 600 Rs. You can of course negotiate a good rate to get a decent offer.
After relishing in the natural beauty for a while, it began to become a little chilly. There is also a ropeway at this lake, one of the highest ropeways (height: 13000 feet), that provides the best view of Kanchenjunga Mountain as well as the lake and Baba Mandir. The weather, however, must be clear.
The cost of the 10-minute ride is approximately 360 rupees per passenger, with a maximum of six passengers in one cable car. You get one of the best views of the Kanchenjunga hills once you get off the car at the other end (Top point).
You can get off at the other end (Top Point), Enjoy the beauty of the location, Click some snaps and come back to return. Please note that due to high altitude, it is not advisable to stay here for too long.
Due to the foggy weather, we opted to drop the idea of riding the Cable Car. We stayed until 3 p.m. just soaking in the beauty this place had to offer. We were also quite hungry by then & so we decided to bid adieu and then began the journey back to Gangtok.
We stopped again at the 15th Mile shop, where we had hired our snow shoes. The shop lady had already cooked lunch for us when we returned. It came with Aloo Dum, Lady Finger veggies, local pickles, salad, and hot rotis.
It tasted delicious, and the prices were reasonable at 120 rupees per dish. We were starving, so this was the topping on the cake after a long, exciting, yet fun-filled day. After a delectable meal, we began our journey back to our hotel, arriving at 4.45 p.m.
It was one of my most memorable trips and memories. We were captivated by the natural beauty and, of course, the abundance of snow!
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