Lachung

The more famous cousin of Lachen, Lachung sees a steady trickle of tourists. This village is divided in two parts by the Lachung Chu river and has apple, peach and apricot orchards spread throughout its terrain. Lachung Gompa, built in the year 1880, lures the lovers of culture, Buddhism and folktales from all over the region and is a must-visit. Surrounded by groves of trees and the high mountains looming on all sides, this gompa has a very surreal look to it. The village’s handicraft centre, much famed for handwoven rugs, shawls and blankets, is a great place to learn about the artisans. You can also visit Yumthang Valley and the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which houses more than 40 varieties of rhododendrons. This village is best visited in September for the apple orchards are usually fruit-laden around then.