Where is Gurudongmar Lake?
India, asia
190 km
5,154 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Gurudongmar Lake! This incredible glacial lake sits way up high in Sikkim, India, at a whopping 5,154 meters (that's over 16,900 feet!). We're talking one of the highest lakes on the planet!
You'll find this beauty about 190 km north of Gangtok and 67 km from Lachen, pretty close to the Chinese border in the northeast of India. Prepare to be amazed by the views – think snow-covered mountains all around, especially the Kangchengyao range. The lake, also called Chho Lhamo, Cholamu Lake, or Cholamoo Lake, is a sight to behold, especially when it freezes solid in winter!
The road to get there, Gurudongmar Road, starts in Chungthang (about 91.4 km/57 miles). Good news: it's paved! But don't get too comfy – that high altitude demands serious caution. The road is often closed in winter due to heavy snow, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that it is sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs, named after Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. If you're an international traveler, you'll need a special permit from Delhi. And a heads-up: it's pretty remote, so pack plenty of snacks. Food options are scarce up there!
Road Details
- Country
- India
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 190 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,154 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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