On a visit to Gangtok, do not miss the chance to visit the Tsomgo Lake or the Changu Lake! Located only 38km from Sikkim’s capital, it lies at an altitude of 12,400ft and is one of the highest lakes in India.
While the lake remains frozen during the winters, summer brings in a magical charm and appeal to Tsomgo. It is during this time of the year, the turquoise waters of the lake reflects the amazing views of the nearby peaks and the azure sky above!
Tsomgo Lake Tips
Tsomgo Lake is a day trip from Gangtok. It is advisable to leave for the lake early in the morning to reach on time and enjoy the views.
You will need a special area permit to visit the lake which can be obtained from the Sikkim tourism department at MG Marg Gangtok or you can ask your travel agent to arrange for the same. You will need your photo identity proof and two passport size photos to get the permit.
Beware of roadblocks due to heavy snow during the winter season.
Tsomgo Lake Facts
Tsomgo Lake (also called as Changu Lake) is one of the highest lakes in India set at an elevation of 3,753 meters.
The lake is considered sacred by the local people and the water here is believed to have medicinal value.
The surface of the lake reflects different colours in different seasons, making it even more alluring.
The lake remains frozen during the winter season.
Tsomgo Lake also serves as the venue for the Guru Poornima festival.
Main Highlights
During the winter season, travellers enjoy trekking along the lake coast, ice skating on the thick sheet of ice and yak ride on the frozen lake.
During the summer and autumn season, the sight of Primula flowers and other alpine vegetation growing near the lake is a key attraction.
Bird watchers flock here during October to catch a sight of the native birds waddling in the lake’s water.

On a visit to Gangtok, do not miss the chance to visit the Tsomgo Lake or the Changu Lake! Located only 38km from Sikkim’s capital, it lies at an altitude of 12,400ft and is one of the highest lakes in India.
While the lake remains frozen during the winters, summer brings in a magical charm and appeal to Tsomgo. It is during this time of the year, the turquoise waters of the lake reflects the amazing views of the nearby peaks and the azure sky above!
Tsomgo Lake Tips
Tsomgo Lake is a day trip from Gangtok. It is advisable to leave for the lake early in the morning to reach on time and enjoy the views.
You will need a special area permit to visit the lake which can be obtained from the Sikkim tourism department at MG Marg Gangtok or you can ask your travel agent to arrange for the same. You will need your photo identity proof and two passport size photos to get the permit.
Beware of roadblocks due to heavy snow during the winter season.
Tsomgo Lake Facts
Tsomgo Lake (also called as Changu Lake) is one of the highest lakes in India set at an elevation of 3,753 meters.
The lake is considered sacred by the local people and the water here is believed to have medicinal value.
The surface of the lake reflects different colours in different seasons, making it even more alluring.
The lake remains frozen during the winter season.
Tsomgo Lake also serves as the venue for the Guru Poornima festival.
Main Highlights
During the winter season, travellers enjoy trekking along the lake coast, ice skating on the thick sheet of ice and yak ride on the frozen lake.
During the summer and autumn season, the sight of Primula flowers and other alpine vegetation growing near the lake is a key attraction.
Bird watchers flock here during October to catch a sight of the native birds waddling in the lake’s water.