Sikkim
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3 Days in Lachen for a Himalayan Food Trip
Lachen is a quiet mountain town in North Sikkim, but don’t let its small size fool you—it’s packed with incredible local flavors. Over three days, you’ll taste everything from steaming momos to hearty thukpa, all while soaking in the stunning Himalayan views. The food here is simple, fresh, and deeply tied to the land, making every bite feel special.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Lachen
Start your Lachen adventure with a mix of stunning landscapes, local culture, and delicious Sikkimese food. Today is all about soaking in the mountain vibes and trying authentic dishes.
Activities
Visit Gurudongmar Lake
Kick off your day early with a trip to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The turquoise waters against the snowy peaks are breathtaking. It’s a spiritual spot for locals, so respect the serene atmosphere.
- Carry warm layers—it’s freezing even in summer
- Acclimatize in Lachen for a day before heading up to avoid altitude sickness
Explore Lachen Monastery
After returning, visit the peaceful Lachen Monastery. This small but vibrant monastery offers a glimpse into local Buddhist culture. The prayer flags fluttering in the wind add to the tranquil vibe.
- Remove shoes before entering
- Ask before taking photos of monks
Lunch at a Local Eatery
Head to a cozy family-run eatery for a hearty Sikkimese meal. Try thukpa (noodle soup) or phagshapa (pork with radish), paired with butter tea. The rustic setting and warm hospitality make it memorable.
- Ask for less spice if you’re not used to Himalayan flavors
- Try the homemade churpi (yak cheese) as a snack
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Lachen
A mix of nature, culture, and local flavors, today is about diving deeper into Lachen's charm with a visit to a stunning waterfall, a peaceful village walk, and some hearty Sikkimese food.
Activities
Hike to Bhim Nala Falls
Start your day with a refreshing hike to Bhim Nala Falls, a hidden gem about 10 km from Lachen. The trail winds through lush forests and offers glimpses of the Teesta River. The waterfall itself is a cascading beauty, especially during monsoon. Pack light snacks and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Wear sturdy shoes; the trail can be slippery.
- Carry water and a light jacket—it gets chilly near the falls.
Explore Thangu Village
Head to Thangu, a quaint high-altitude village about 30 km from Lachen. The drive itself is scenic, with panoramic views of the Himalayas. Wander through the village to see traditional Sikkimese houses, interact with locals, and visit the small monastery. If you're lucky, you might spot yaks grazing in the meadows.
- Acclimatize properly; Thangu is at 13,000 ft.
- Try the local butter tea at a village home.
Dinner at a Family-Run Kitchen
End your day with a homely meal at a local family-run kitchen in Lachen. These places serve authentic Sikkimese dishes like thukpa, momos, and gundruk soup. The warmth of the hosts and the simplicity of the food make it a memorable experience.
- Ask for 'chhurpi' (local cheese) if available.
- Cash is preferred; ATMs are scarce.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Lachen
A relaxed day exploring hidden gems and local culture, with a focus on lesser-known spots and authentic Sikkimese flavors.
Activities
Morning Walk to Chopta Valley
Start your day with a peaceful walk to Chopta Valley, a serene spot just a short distance from Lachen. The valley is lush with rhododendrons and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. It's a great place to soak in the quiet beauty of the Himalayas without the crowds.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be uneven.
- Carry a light jacket—mornings can be chilly even in summer.
Visit to Tashi Choling Gompa
This small, lesser-known monastery is a hidden gem with vibrant murals and a peaceful atmosphere. Unlike the more popular Lachen Monastery, Tashi Choling Gompa offers a more intimate glimpse into Buddhist practices. The monks here are often happy to chat if they're not in prayer.
- Respect the silence if prayers are ongoing.
- Ask before taking photos inside the prayer hall.
Lunch at a Local Momo Stall
Skip the restaurants and head to a small momo stall run by a local family. Their steamed pork and vegetable momos are legendary in Lachen, served with a fiery homemade chutney. It's the perfect way to warm up after a morning outdoors.
- Try the thukpa (noodle soup) if you want something more filling.
- Cash only—these stalls rarely accept cards.