Tsomgo Lake

Surrounded by rugged mountains on all sides, this scenic lake is located at an altitude of 12,000 feet, around 35 kilometres away from Gangtok. Also known as Changu Lake, it is considered to be sacred by the Sikkimese. It is over a kilometre long, and around 50 feet deep. The high-altitude lake is covered with snow cover from early winter to mid-May. However, between May and August, it is surrounded by blooming rhododendrons, poppies, irises and other flowers. Visitors can also spot various species of bird and red pandas around the lake.
There are numerous stalls selling hot tea and food, as well as socks, boots and souvenirs. You can take rides on colourfully-decorated yaks and mules around the lake. Hike up to a nearby hilltop for a bird’s-eye-view of the lake. Visitors should note that Indians need an inner line permit while foreign nationals need a special permission to visit the lake. You can ask your travel agent to arrange one.