The Sikkim Green Lake Trek is considered one of the most complex and unexplored treks in the Sikkim Himalayan belt. It traverses through secluded tribal villages perched at a lofty peak of the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the expansive green landscape and the serene lake. The trek also allows trekkers to witness the diverse flora and fauna, including alpine trees, rhododendrons, and numerous flowering plants.
Moreover, the trek provides an opportunity to explore the lifestyle and culture of the local inhabitants, which reverberates in the minds of numerous explorers who come in contact with this alpine trek. The trek commences from Lachen, which is at an altitude of 2,730 meters and ends at the same place after a downhill journey to Gangtok.
The Green Lake Trek is expansive and unique as it takes trekkers to the bottom of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, and provides a close-up view of the peaks such as Kanchenjunga West, Kanchenjunga Primary, Kanchenjunga South, and Kangbachen. The trek spans over the limits of Nepal, Tibet, and the Indian state of Sikkim, forming a silver line parallel to the spotless blue sky.
Overall, the Sikkim Green Lake Trek is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking to explore the unexplored terrains of the Sikkim Himalayas.
Green Lake Trek
Upon arrival in Kathmandu transfer to your respective hotel, one of our representative at the airport will guide you to the hotel.
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport and drive to Gangtok, covering a distance of 132km in approximately 5 hours. Check-in at your hotel in Gangtok and enjoy a leisurely overnight stay.
Start the day with a Royal Sikkim Heritage walk at 7am, which provides insights into the history of the Last King of Sikkim and his family. Return to the hotel for breakfast and then embark on a sightseeing tour of Gangtok. Visit Enchay Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, Tibetology, and the Cottage Industry. In the evening, take a stroll through the bustling Gangtok market.
Embark on a scenic 5-6 hour drive to Lachen, making stops along the way to admire Sikkimese villages and beautiful waterfalls. Spend the night at a guesthouse in Lachen, a charming village known for its semi-nomadic Bhutia community and stunning natural surroundings.
Begin your trek from Zema to Tallem, a 4-hour journey through a picturesque forest of Rhododendron, Magnolia, and fir trees. Enjoy the campsite's serene ambiance and breathtaking views of the Lamo Angdang Range, Khangchendzonga, and the Simvo.
Embark on a 4-hour trek from Tallem to Jackchen, passing through forests, meadows, and crossing the Zemu River. Set up camp near the river and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Continue your trek along the Zemu River for about 4 hours, enjoying the splendid mountain views. Reach the Poki Cave Camp, situated next to a cave used by locals on their way to Green Lake. This campsite offers a warmer climate compared to lower altitude.
Trek for approximately 4 hours from Poki Cave Camp to Rest Camp, passing through forests and gradually ascending towards Yabuk. Enjoy panoramic views of the Zemu Glacier and the majestic peaks of Sikkim. Set up camp near a small stream and the glacier.
Embark on a 4-hour trek from Rest Camp to Camp Masuda, ascending through boulders left by ancient glaciers. The campsite offers breathtaking views of Mt. Khangchendzonga, the Twins, Siniolchu, Simvo, Nepal Peak, Tent Peak, Nepal Col, Nepal Gap, and even Jhomolhari in the distant East
Embark on a 3.5-hour trek to Green Lake, the real base camp of Mt. Kanchendzonga. Experience the vast glacial plain and witness the awe-inspiring peaks and challenging routes taken by mountaineers. After exploring Green Lake, return to Camp Masuda for lunch and then trek back to Rest Camp, totaling approximately 7 hours.
Descend for approximately 5 hours from Rest Camp to Poki Cave Camp, following the same trail. Enjoy the downhill trekking experience.
Embark on a 6-hour trek from Poki Cave Camp to Tallem, covering a longer distance with intermittent rests along the way.
Trek for about 3 hours from Tallem to Zema, following the boulder-strewn trail along the Zemu River. A jeep will be waiting at Zema to drive you back to Lachen. Relax and enjoy a hot shower at the hotel.
After breakfast, transfer from Lachen Village to Gangtok. Check in at your hotel in Gangtok and enjoy a leisurely overnight stay.
Depart from Gangtok after breakfast and transfer to Darjeeling. Enjoy a scenic drive through tea gardens and along the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Take a walk in the main square of Darjeeling, observing the local lifestyle and doing some window shopping. Return to the hotel and relax.
Start early in the morning at 4am and visit Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over Mt. Kanchendzonga, the third-highest peak. Explore Yiga-Choling (Ghoom) Monastery and experience the Geluk Sect's Buddhist prayers. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Afterward, visit the Japanese Temple to appreciate the Zen philosophy of Buddhism. Enjoy a Toy Train ride from Darjeeling Rail Station to Ghoom Station and have lunch. Explore the tea garden and factory to witness the process of making Darjeeling tea. Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. In the evening, explore the local market. Relax overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, transfer drive to Pashupati Nagar on Nepal border side and transfer to Kathmandu by Pvt. Vehicle.
