Green Lake Trek

The final approaches to Green Lake in North Sikkim reveal a landscape sculpted by ice and wind, where the formidable north face of Mount Kanchenjunga looms large. This arduous trek, winding through alpine meadows and rocky moraines, culminates at an elevation that offers a rare perspective of the world's third highest peak. It's a journey not widely undertaken, requiring considerable preparation and resilience, bypassing typical tourist trails to reach a high-altitude wilderness.

History & Context

The region around Green Lake historically served as a gateway to the high Himalayas for both indigenous communities and early explorers. While specific historical documentation regarding the lake itself is scarce, the area falls within the traditional territories of the Lachenpas, a Bhutia community, who have long used these high-altitude pastures. The trek gained some prominence in the early 20th century among British mountaineering expeditions, notably those attempting Kanchenjunga from its less-trodden northern side. Today, access is strictly regulated due to its proximity to sensitive border areas and its designation within the Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which safeguards its unique biodiversity and cultural landscape.

What Makes It Distinctive

What sets the trail to Green Lake apart is the sheer scale of the landscape and its unadulterated wilderness character. Unlike more frequented treks, the route remains largely undeveloped, offering a raw Himalayan experience. Trekkers pass through the Zemu Glacier valley, encountering a diverse array of rhododendron species, some growing into towering trees, during spring. The final ascent to the lake itself is a traverse across moraine fields, leading to a glacial lake reflecting the towering peaks. Beyond the challenging terrain, the distinctiveness lies in the profound silence and the overwhelming presence of the Kanchenjunga massif, which dominates the vista. The relative lack of human infrastructure means wildlife sightings, including blue sheep and various high-altitude birds, are more probable.

Best Time to Visit

The trek is best undertaken in two distinct windows. April to May offers rhododendrons in bloom, though snow patches can still make higher sections challenging. Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, dropping significantly at night. September to October is considered ideal, with clearer skies, stable weather, and fewer leeches after the monsoon. Temperatures during this period typically vary from 0°C to 10°C in the day. The region is impassable during heavy snowfall in winter (November to March) and experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon (June to August), making these periods unsuitable.

How to Reach

The base town for the trek is Lachen, in North Sikkim. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, approximately 170 km from Gangtok. From Bagdogra, one can hire a taxi to Gangtok (around 4-5 hours) and then proceed to Lachen. The nearest major railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) also in West Bengal, approximately 165 km from Gangtok. From Gangtok, Lachen is about a 6-7 hour drive, traversing sometimes challenging mountain roads. For those travelling from a major regional hub like Guwahati, the journey is extensive, involving a flight or train to NJP/Bagdogra, then onward by road to Gangtok and Lachen. The total road journey from Guwahati to Gangtok alone can take 12-14 hours.

Permits & Entry

Accessing the Green Lake region requires multiple permits due to its location near international borders and within a protected area. Indian nationals need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for North Sikkim, which can be obtained in Gangtok (District Administrative Centre, Tourism Department). Foreigners require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Sikkim and a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for North Sikkim. Both permits are obtained in Gangtok through a registered tour operator. Specifically for the trek, an additional permit from the Forest Department is mandatory, as the trail lies within Khangchendzonga National Park. This permit is typically arranged by the registered trekking agency. Information is not officially published or may change. Visitors are advised to confirm locally before travelling.

Nearby Attractions

• Gurudongmar Lake: One of the highest lakes in the world, revered by Buddhists and Sikhs, offering stunning high-altitude scenery.
• Chopta Valley: Known for its alpine flowers and meadows, especially vibrant in spring, located en route to Gurudongmar Lake.
• Thangu Valley: A picturesque village serving as a stopover for high-altitude excursions, known for its wooden houses and yak pastures.
• Lachung: A charming mountain village known for its apple orchards and as the gateway to Yumthang Valley.
• Yumthang Valley (Valley of Flowers): Famous for its spectacular rhododendron sanctuaries and hot springs, particularly beautiful in spring.

Traveller Tips

1. Acclimatization: Spend at least two days in Lachen or Thangu for acclimatization before starting the trek to mitigate altitude sickness risks.
2. Registered Operator: The trek must be undertaken with a government-registered trekking agency that arranges permits, guides, porters, and equipment.
3. Physical Fitness: This is a strenuous trek requiring excellent physical condition and prior high-altitude trekking experience.
4. Gear: Carry appropriate cold-weather clothing, waterproof layers, sturdy trekking boots, a good quality sleeping bag, and a first-aid kit, including medications for altitude sickness.
5. Connectivity: Mobile network coverage (especially for data) is sporadic and unreliable beyond Gangtok; plan for periods without communication.
6. Waste Management: Practice Leave No Trace principles strictly; carry out all non-biodegradable waste.
7. Respect Local Culture: The region is home to Lachenpas and other communities; be mindful of local customs and traditions, particularly near monasteries or sacred sites.
8. Water Purification: Carry water purification tablets or a filter, as natural water sources, while abundant, may not always be safe for direct consumption.