Nathu La Pass, Gangtok, India - View on Google Maps
Theme: Lakes • Gangtok • Sikkim
Quick Information
About Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Tsongmo Lake or Changu Lake, is a glacial lake in the East Sikkim district of the Indian state of Sikkim, some 40 kilometres (25 mi) from the capital Gangtok. Located at an elevation of 3,753 m (12,313 ft), the lake remains frozen during the winter season. The lake surface reflects different colours with change of seasons and is held in great reverence by the local Sikkimese people. Buddhist monks prognosticated after studying the changing colours of the lake.
In Bhutia language the name Tsomgo is made of two words 'Tso' meaning "lake" and 'Mgo' meaning "head" which gives the literal meaning as "source of the lake".
The lake is surrounded by steep mountains which are covered with snow during winter. During summer the snow cover melts and forms the source for the lake. The lake which remains frozen in winter season, sometimes extending up to May, receives an average annual precipitation of 1,183 millimetres (46.6 in) with temperatures recorded in the range of 0–25 °C (32–77 °F).
The lake is about 40 kilometres (25 mi) away from Gangtok on the Gangtok-Nathula highway. Further, the road to Nathu La skirts the lake on the north side. The Chinese border crossing is only some 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) east-northeast in a straight line, but some 18 kilometres (11 mi) by road.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tsomgo Lake is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. During this period, temperatures are moderate, making it comfortable to explore the attraction and enjoy outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July to September) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall, while summers (April to June) can be extremely hot. Early morning and late afternoon visits are recommended for the best experience and photography opportunities.
Tip: Check the local weather forecast before your visit and carry appropriate clothing based on the season.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Tsomgo Lake is located in Gangtok. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the attraction.
By Train: Gangtok has well-connected railway stations with regular train services from major cities across India. From the railway station, local transport options like taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses are available. For detailed travel information, check our how to reach guide.
By Road: Gangtok is accessible by road via national and state highways. You can drive your own vehicle, hire a taxi, or use intercity bus services. Use our distance calculator to plan your route. The roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views during the journey.
Local Transport: Once in Gangtok, you can use local buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, or ride-sharing services to reach Tsomgo Lake.
Explore more attractions and travel information in Sikkim.
Location: View location on Google Maps or check the map below for precise directions.
Entry Fees & Timings
Entry Fees: Please check the official website or contact the attraction authorities for current entry fees. Fees may vary for Indian nationals, foreign tourists, and children. Some attractions offer discounted rates for students and senior citizens.
Visiting Hours: The attraction is typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, timings may vary on weekends, holidays, or during special events. It's advisable to verify the exact opening and closing times before your visit.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) are recommended for the best experience and to avoid crowds.
Note: Some attractions may require advance booking or have specific entry requirements. Check the official website for the latest information.
Things to Do
- Explore the Attraction: Take your time to explore Tsomgo Lake and appreciate its architecture, history, and natural beauty.
- Photography: Capture beautiful moments and scenic views. The attraction offers excellent photo opportunities throughout the day.
- Learn the History: Read about the historical significance and cultural importance of this attraction. Information boards and guided tours are often available.
- Enjoy Local Culture: Experience the local traditions, cuisine, and hospitality around the area. Explore more about Gangtok culture and attractions.
- Shopping: Explore nearby markets for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional items.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit other popular attractions in the vicinity to make the most of your trip. Check out all attractions in Gangtok.
- Theme Exploration: Explore more Lakes attractions across India.
Travel Tips
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before visiting and dress accordingly. Carry water, sunscreen, and hats during summers.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll likely do a lot of walking.
- Safety: Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings. Follow safety guidelines provided at the attraction.
- Photography: Respect photography rules. Some areas may restrict photography or require permits.
- Time: Allocate at least 2-3 hours for a proper visit to fully explore the attraction.
- Guides: Consider hiring a local guide for a more informative and enriching experience.
- Parking: Arrive early if you're driving, as parking spaces may be limited during peak hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tsomgo Lake
What is Tsomgo Lake?
Tsomgo Lake is a popular tourist attraction located in Gangtok, Sikkim, India. Tsomgo Lake, also known as Tsongmo Lake or Changu Lake, is a glacial lake in the East Sikkim district of the Indian state of Sikkim, some 40 kilometres (25 mi) from the capital Gangtok. Located at an...
What is the best time to visit Tsomgo Lake?
The best time to visit Tsomgo Lake is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Early morning and late afternoon visits are recommended for the best experience.
How to reach Tsomgo Lake?
You can reach Tsomgo Lake by air, train, or road. The nearest airport and railway station are in Gangtok. From there, you can use local transport like taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses to reach the attraction.
What are the entry fees for Tsomgo Lake?
Entry fees may vary for Indian nationals, foreign tourists, and children. Please check the official website or contact the attraction authorities for current entry fees and any discounts available for students and senior citizens.
What are the visiting hours?
The attraction is typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, timings may vary on weekends, holidays, or during special events. It's advisable to verify the exact opening and closing times before your visit.
What are the things to do at Tsomgo Lake?
Visitors can explore the attraction, take photographs, learn about its history and cultural significance, enjoy local culture and cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and visit nearby attractions to make the most of their trip.
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Nearby Attractions
While visiting Tsomgo Lake, don't miss these nearby attractions that are equally fascinating and worth exploring:
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