Tsongmo Lake

The Tsomgo Lake's spectacular scenic beauty has charmed tourists from far and wide and keeps them yearning for more, especially during the winters and summers. As the spring sets in, rhododendrons, primulas, irises and multicoloured poppies create a colourful and vivacious outline along the borders of this oval-shaped glacier lake. There are also many exotic and medicinal plants that bloom here in the summer. A view of the Changu Lake during this time of the year is sure to make you fall in love with nature's enthralling and wondrous creations.

During the winters, the entire lake freezes into a giant tray of ice. The lustrous surface of this lake shines as the frost glistens under the soft sunshine. Witnessing this giant lake frozen solid at the base of the majestic snow-covered mountains is indeed a breathtaking feast for the eyes. Standing at the Tsomgo Lake, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Many rare migratory birds have made this beautiful lake their seasonal home, including the Brahmini duck. Hundreds of Brahimini ducks flock over here when the west gets unbearably cold and cosy up in these gentle waters.

Other than staring into the magnanimous beauty of the Tsomgo Lake and losing yourself in its hypnotic charm, there are quite a few things that draw the attention of the tourists. One can trek along the sides of the lake in the deep snow or enjoy a ride along the periphery of the lake on colourfully decorated yaks and mules. About 200 meters away is a small market that sells yak cheese, trinkets and local curios to the tourists. Few stalls also rent out jackets, boots and gloves to help you when it gets extremely cold. There are small kiosks here that sell tea, coffee and local cuisine snacks. The hot Tibetan noodle soup is sure to revitalise and refresh you from within and will help you combat the biting cold in the winters.