Tsomgo Lake (changu lake) – A Glacial Wonder in East Sikkim

Discover Tsomgo Lake (changu lake) in East Sikkim – a glacial lake nestled at 12,400 ft. Ideal for nature lovers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers.

The Jewel of East Sikkim

Just 38 km from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, lies the mesmerizing Tsomgo Lake—also known as Changu Lake—a shimmering high-altitude glacial lake situated at an elevation of 12,400 feet. Surrounded by steep snow-clad mountains and alpine forests, Tsomgo is not just a scenic spot—it’s an emotion for every traveler who visits Sikkim.

Why Visit Tsomgo Lake?

🌄 Breathtaking Views: The lake changes colors with the seasons—turquoise blue in spring, frozen in winter—offering a surreal visual experience.
🐦 Rare Wildlife: Home to migratory birds like the Brahminy duck and red pandas in nearby areas.
🏞️ Yaks & Rides: Visitors can enjoy traditional yak rides around the lake—a unique Sikkimese experience.
🙏 Spiritual Significance: Revered by the local Bhutia and Lepcha communities, the lake is believed to be sacred and is used by monks to predict the future.

Best Time to Visit

April to May: For clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and colorful mountain views.
January to March: For snow-covered landscapes and frozen lake views.
Note: Roads may be blocked in heavy snowfall; always check weather conditions.

How to Reach Tsomgo Lake from Gangtok

Distance: ~38 km (Approx. 2-hour drive)
Transport: Reserved taxis or shared permits (available through local tour operators)
Permit Required: Yes. Indian tourists need a Protected Area Permit, which can be arranged via travel agencies. Foreigners are not permitted to visit Tsomgo Lake.

Nearby Attractions

🏔️ Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir – A popular memorial shrine located 14 km ahead.
❄️ Nathula Pass – Indo-China border pass at 14,140 ft (subject to special permits).
🌸 Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary – Ideal for flora & fauna lovers.

Tips for Travelers

Carry warm clothes even in summer—it gets chilly.
Bring light snacks and water, though small stalls may be available.
Leave early morning from Gangtok to avoid traffic and weather issues.
Respect the local customs and avoid littering near the sacred lake.

📸 Tsomgo Lake Photo Gallery (Optional for Blog Upload)

Frozen lake in winter
Yak ride around the lake
Prayer flags fluttering in alpine wind
Snowy mountain backdrop with tourists

Here’s a sample full-day itinerary for the Gangtok – Tsomgo Lake – Baba Mandir – Nathula Pass tour. This can be added to your DBS Travels tour package listings or blog:

Gangtok – Tsomgo Lake – Baba Mandir – Nathula Pass Full Day Tour Itinerary

Tour Duration: Approx. 8–9 Hours
Tour Type: Full-Day Private Sightseeing
Starting Point: Gangtok Hotel
Distance Covered: Around 120 km (round trip)
Permit Required: Yes (For Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathula Pass)

🕘 Suggested Itinerary

7:30 AM – Pickup from Gangtok Hotel

Early morning pickup by reserved cab (4×4 recommended in winter).
Carry ID proofs (original and photocopy) for permit verification.
Light breakfast is advisable before departure.

9:00 AM – Reach Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft)

Explore the stunning glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Enjoy yak rides and hot tea by the lakeside.
Photography break.

10:30 AM – Depart for Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir

En route through rugged mountain roads and army zones.
Reach the shrine dedicated to the revered Indian soldier.
Learn about the legend of Baba Harbhajan Singh and pay homage.

11:30 AM – Proceed to Nathula Pass (14,140 ft)

Arrive at the Indo-China border post.
Visit the war memorial and army bunkers.
Spend 20–30 minutes at Nathula Pass (subject to weather and permit conditions).

❄️ Note: Nathula Pass remains closed on Monday & Tuesday. Entry is restricted to limited vehicles daily, based on permit availability.

1:30 PM – Return Journey Begins

Optional lunch stop at roadside army canteen or local food stalls.
Enjoy panoramic views of Eastern Himalayas on the return.

3:30 – 4:00 PM – Return to Gangtok Hotel

Drop-off at hotel.
Evening at leisure to explore MG Marg or local cafes.

✅ Inclusions

Private vehicle (Permit-approved)
Driver cum guide
Entry permit assistance

❌ Exclusions

Entry fees (if applicable)
Food/snacks during the tour
Yak ride charges

⚠️ Important Notes

Tour requires valid photo ID and 2 passport-size photos.
Foreign nationals are not allowed at Nathula Pass.
Tour is weather-dependent; road blockage due to snowfall is common in winter.
Book permits at least 1 day in advance through authorized tour operators.

🚗 Book Car or Full Tour Package from Siliguri with DBS Travels

Planning your Sikkim adventure from Siliguri? We’ve got you covered with both car rental options and all-inclusive tour packages starting from Siliguri/Bagdogra.

🔹 Option 1: Car Rental from Siliguri to Tsomgo Lake Tour

Pickup Point: Siliguri / NJP / Bagdogra Airport
Drop Point: Gangtok
Tour Vehicle Type: Bolero / Xylo / Innova / Scorpio
Inclusions: Driver charges, fuel, permit arrangement assistance
Permit Support: We help arrange your Tsomgo Lake + Nathula + Baba Mandir permits in Gangtok.

Approx Fare (One Way Siliguri to Gangtok): ₹3,500 – ₹4,500
Local Sightseeing (Gangtok – Tsomgo – Nathula – Baba Mandir): ₹4,500 – ₹6,000

🔹 Option 2: Full Package Tour from Siliguri (3 Days/2 Nights)

Itinerary Overview:

Day 1:

Pickup from Siliguri/NJP/Bagdogra → Transfer to Gangtok
Overnight stay at hotel

Day 2:

Full-day tour to Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathula Pass
Return to Gangtok hotel

Day 3:

After breakfast, return to Siliguri / NJP drop

Inclusions:

Private cab with driver
Hotel accommodation (2 nights)
Permit charges for sightseeing
Breakfast (optional)

Exclusions:

Lunch/dinner
Yak ride, personal expenses
Nathula Pass supplement (as per permit allocation)

Tour Package Price Starts from: ₹8,500 per person (min 4 pax)

📞 Contact DBS Travels to Book Now

Phone/WhatsApp: +91-9434086128 /9933435779
Email: travelsdbs@gmail.com
Office: Siliguri / Gangtok/ Darjeeling
Website: www.siliguritravels.com