Tsomgo Lake

Tsomgo Lake in Sikkim - One of the very famous tourist attractions in Sikkim is only 40 km from the state capital Gangtok. Situated at an altitude of 12,210 feet, the Tsomgo Lake, known as 'The Source of the Lake' in bhutia dialect of the region, the lake can be reached by a two and a half hours bus ride. This one km long oval shaped lake is 50 feet deep. Regarded extremely holy by the locals, the lake is a residence of Brahmini ducks along with being a stopover for various migratory ducks.

The lake is at its scenic best between May and August for an array of rare flowers including the rhododendrons, primulas, iris and blue and yellow poppies bloom here during this period. An ideal habitat of the Red Panda, the lake also shelters a number of other birds and aquatic species.

Falling in a restricted area on the Gangtok Nathu La highway, the lake can only be visited by a prior permission of the authorities. Foreign nationals can only visit the lake having obtained a no objection certificate from the managing authorities of the lake. The placid water of the lake gets frozen in winter.

The Tsomgo lake side is also characterized by a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple serves as a famous pilgrimage centre for Shaivites vsisting Sikkim.