High up in the Himalayas, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the world’s highest lakes, located at about 17,800 feet. This wonder of scenery with surreal turquoise waters and breathtaking mountains remains to be seen by any adventure enthusiast. If starting from the capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, you are in for a trek that is definitely going to be challenging but rewarding as well.

This adventure begins with the town of Gangtok, a city that finds great life within gigantic peaks and lush greenery. This place is an entrance to drive on the most scenic route towards Lachen, a small village, which in turn serves as a gateway to Gurudongmar Lake. The entire distance to Lachen is 120 kilometres, which takes nearly 5 to 6 hours by road. Doors of the hills reverberate as landscape unfurls into beautiful villages, rich forests, and broad views of the Himalayan chain. That is a fitting introduction to the glory you will soon be witnessing.

To acclimatise to the altitude before your expedition, you should head for Lachen, which is at an elevation of about 9,400 feet. Stay in this place for a day and try to give your body time to accustom itself to the thinner air. You can use this as an excuse to wander around and familiarise yourself with the village. Warm hospitality by the locals and their serene environment make it just perfect for you to gear up for the trek.

Inner Line Permits and Restricted Area Permits are required to enter Gurudongmar Lake. These could be organised through local travelling agencies or your hotel at Gangtok so the whole process is pretty smooth.

Start very early in the morning for your trek so that you benefit from the cool atmosphere and clear sunshine. You will leave Lachen after having breakfast for your trek to Gurudongmar Lake, 30 kilometres away, which may take about 6 to 8 hours; a half-day walk, depending on how briskly you walk and your level of fitness.

The trek starts with an initial steady rise on rocky paths going through beautiful meadows. The air thins and you will feel the altitude; pay heed to your body and take rests accordingly. Gradually the scenery shifts as well as offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and even breathtaking beauty that’s hard to fathom in nature.

Actually, one of the attractions of this trek is that you get a glimpse of local fauna. Be on the lookout for rare birds and even the elusive snow leopard – elusive enough to remain part of the myth for many trekkers. On top of that, the serenity of the surroundings brings time to pause and reflect; many trekkers find this part of the journey to be spiritually uplifting.

On the Gurudongmar Lake, take a moment to stop and soak in the breathtaking view. With the crystal-clear waters glistening against the backdrop of towering mountains, it feels like one can experience the quintessential ambiance of something almost out of this world. It is such a perfect setting to capture nature’s beauty through photographs or simple silent reflection.

Be sure to keep drinking fluids and get your share of energy-boosting snacks as you prepare for the return trek to Lachen. Take breaks to let in the glorious views that form the rugged splendour all around. The sun will again give you a chance to admire its steady fading light and glamour as it gradually sets into the crevices of the landscape.

The environment is respected in the journey, and strict leave no trace principles shall guide any visit. That way, whatever waste you make during your visit, you shall carry it all back and do not appear anywhere around the pristine surroundings. Respect local customs and traditions with particular caution especially where it is sacred, such as Gurudongmar Lake