A fun and casual guide for your next Himalayan adventure!   If you’ve been daydreaming about cute mountain villages, snowy peaks, and a lake so magical it feels like the edge of the world—welcome to the North Sikkim circuit! This route is all about breathtaking scenery, peace in the mountains, and brag-worthy travel photos. So buckle up, because we’re going on a ride through Lachen, Lachung, and the legendary Gurudongmar Lake. The North Sikkim Circuit – What’s the Hype? North Sikkim Circuit is basically nature flexing its best side. Think rugged landscapes, sparkling rivers, yaks chilling like they own the place, and charming villages untouched by chaos. Most trips start from Gangtok, and you’ll need permits (your travel operator will handle that—yay, less paperwork!). First Stop: Lachen Tour — Gateway to Gurudongmar Tiny but amazing—Lachen is a sleepy village surrounded by tall mountains and endless pine forests. It’s the perfect place to unplug and feel like you’re starring in your own travel movie. What to expect in Lachen: Cute homestays and steaming bowls of thukpa Snow peaks everywhere you turn Friendly locals who’ll tell you wild Himalayan stories Don’t miss: A stroll around the village before sunset Lachen monastery for good vibes & great photos The Big Star: Gurudongmar Lake Trip Okay—this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. Early morning, you’ll head to Gurudongmar Lake—one of the highest lakes in the world (17,800 ft!). It’s so stunning you’ll forget to blink. Why it’s magical: The lake water stays partially unfrozen even in winter! Surrounded by snow-capped giants—you’ll feel tiny and thrilled Mythology + adventure = chef’s kiss  Pro Tips: Oxygen levels are low: keep movements slow and stay hydrated Carry heavy jackets (like, really heavy) Sunlight is sharp at high altitude—don’t ditch your sunglasses You’ll click 200 photos minimum. Guaranteed. Second Stop: Lachung Tour – Valley of Flowers & Cozy Vibes After the high-altitude adventure, next comes the Lachung tour—cutest village award incomingThis is where nature gets extra artsy. Famous for: Rivers that look straight out of fantasy films Classic Sikkimese hospitality  Yumthang Valley: AKA the Valley of Flowers (hello Instagram!) If you visit in winter—get ready for SNOW SNOW SNOW. Snow fights mandatory. Also visit: Hot springs at Yumthang (spa day in the mountains!) Zero Point (where the road literally ends and beauty takes over) What You Need for the North Sikkim Circuit Warm clothes (layer like an onion) Passport or voter ID for permits Gumboots or shoes with grip—snow says hi Motion sickness pills (mountain roads = roller coaster) Power bank (because views = nonstop pictures) Must-Try Food Thukpa & momos (obviously!) Phagshapa (pork dish) Yak cheese (yes, that’s a thing… and it’s yum) Best Time to Visit March to June – Flowers + clear skies October to December – Snowy mountains on full display Avoid monsoon: landslides = adventure you don’t need. Quick FAQs Do I need a permit?Yup. Your travel operator handles it. Can foreigners visit?Yes, but access is restricted in some areas near borders. Ideal duration?2 nights in North Sikkim is common, but 3 nights is comfy and chill. Wrapping Up A North Sikkim circuit trip is the perfect combo of adventure, peace, and unbelievable natural beauty. Whether it’s the calm of Lachen tour, the lush charm of Lachung, or the wow-factor of your Gurudongmar Lake trip—this journey is a total bucket-list champion. So pack your bags, gather your travel buddies, and let the mountains do the magic. North Sikkim is calling… and you must go!