Green Lake Trek in Sikkim - 17 Days

  • Duration17 Days
  • DestinationIndia
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • Max Altitude4,935m

About Trip

The unexplored Green Lake Trek in Sikkim is just starting to gain attention as one of India’s greatest trails. It is considered to be one of India’s most underrated trails! This hidden gem in North Sikkim takes you to the majestic Green Lake, scenically placed on the lap of Kanchenjunga (8586 meters/28,169 feet), the 3rd highest peak in the world, and many other glimmering mountaintops. For true lovers of the outdoors, this trek is perfect for you. Experience India’s Himalaya at its finest on the Green Lake Trek in Sikkim.

The 17-day adventure begins after you are picked up from Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri. After a special day of sightseeing in Gangtok, the trek starts. From Lachen, slowly climb through the alpine forests – full of life. When the rhododendrons are blooming, the forest has an even more awe-inspiring feel – more vibrant and full of life. If you are lucky, you will see some of the rare, exotic wildlife found in the region. Some stretches of the trail are a bit challenging, but the end result is well worth it! In addition to seeing Kanchenjunga, you will also see a panorama of jagged peaks, including Yalung Kang (8505 meters), Kangbachen (7903 meters), and others while walking alongside the awe-inspiring Zemu Glacier.

At about 5,000 meters above sea level, Green Lake is surrounded by an amphitheater of snowy mountains, providing an unforgettable view. Due to the altitude, the trek is considered strenuous/challenging. That being said, there is time built into the itinerary for acclimatization. Regardless of your experience level, determined trekkers should have no trouble reaching the breathtaking Green Lake!

Not only does the trek reward you with unprecedented views, but it also is spiritually uplifting. Walking for days through the unexplored territory fills you with a meditative, therapeutic feeling. Also, one of the best parts about this trail is the amount of solitude you experience. It is possible to trek for several days without seeing another person on the trail. Each night, you sleep in a tent under the stars surrounded by the grandeur of North Sikkim’s wilderness. Disconnect from the outside world for a few days and relax. Cutting off the ties to your stress and worries, you’ll find yourself being fully present and appreciative of the beauty that surrounds you.

Enjoy the unexplored wilderness of North Sikkim on the Green Lake Trek. Find yourself in Mother Nature’s lap, exploring all that she has to offer. With colorful forests, towering peaks, high-altitude lakes, gushing rivers, rolling meadows and rare alpine flowers, there is never a dull moment on the Green Lake Trek. It is a truly an alpine paradise.

Highlights

  • Himalayan wilderness camping experience
  • Learn about Tibetan Buddhism in Gangtok’s many monasteries
  • Camp next to the majestic Green Lake and feel the relaxing mountain vibes
  • Enjoy stunning views of Kanchenjunga, Tent Peak, Mt. Simvo, Siniolchu, and more
  • Explore the magnificent Zemu Glacier
  • See the rare plants and animals of Kanchenjunga National Park

Itinerary

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Dear Guest This is our regular Itinerary and most people have done this itinerary.  So If you have any special request on this itinerary you can contact us via email. We can Customize this trip with your request. If you want to make it shorter or longer or want to add some other tours with this package please mention on your email, we will work out on your request. 

Our team welcomes you at the Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri. Drive up through the hills to Gangtok and transfer to your hotel. You can explore the city, take rest, and/or take some time preparing for the trek. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 4 Hours
  • 1,650m
  • Rest Day

Today, we take you on a cultural exploration of Gangtok. After breakfast, enjoy visiting the various monasteries in the area. Rumtek Monastery is world-renowned, beautifully located on a hilltop outside of Gangtok. Also, visit Enchey Monstery, hidden in the midst of a lush forest. In the evening, take a walk around MG Marg – the most happening place in the city. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 4-5 Hours
  • Breakfast
  • 1,650m
  • Cultural Tours

After breakfast, hit the road and drive towards Lachen, the gateway to this amazing North Sikkim trekking route. Along the drive, you pass many notable spots, like Tashi Viewpoint, Phodong Monastery, Kabi Longstok, and Mangan, where we stop for lunch. You reach Lachen by the evening. Overnight in guesthouse/tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 5-6Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 2,730m
  • Trekking

Lace up your boots and hit the trail after breakfast. Pass through Zema, with colorful clusters of rhododendron trees surrounding the trail. After climbing through the forest along the Zemu River, you reach Talem by early/midafternoon. Tallen is at the confluence of Lhonak Chu and Zemu Chu (River). Take some time to explore the area and acclimatize to the change in altitude. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 5 - 6 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 3,240m
  • Trekking

A mellow walk through gorgeous landscape lies ahead of you today. You will pass more than twenty different varieties of rhododendrons as you listen to birds chirping throughout the forest. After crossing the bridge, the trail climbs to Shobuk before descending to Jakthang. Take in nature’s relaxing vibes as you hike on the peaceful trail. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 5 - 6 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 3,430m
  • Trekking

As we’ve gained about 700 meters in elevation in the last two days, it’s time to acclimatize. Spend the day exploring the surrounding area or just relaxing by the river. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 3,430m
  • Rest Day

As you leave from Jakthang in the morning, you again pass through the magical rhododendron forests and gushing streams. The well-maintained trail leads you to the mouth of the Zemu Glacier after ascending and descending for a couple hours. Following the Zemu Chu, reach Yabuk after walking about 8 kilometers. If you have the energy, explore the beautiful surrounding area. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 5 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 4,040m
  • Trekking

A tough, but rewarding day lies ahead. The trail to Rest Camp consists of rocks ranging from pebbles to boulders, which involves a tiny bit of scrambling. There isn’t any rush, so enjoy the views. Along the way, you’ll see Mt. Siniolchu (6891 meters) and Mt. Simvo (6811 meters). When you reach camp, you can explore if you want to. More importantly, soak in the majestic mountain views. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 4 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 4,725m
  • Trekking

Today is the most exciting day of the trek! With a hearty breakfast, make your way towards Green Lake. Like the previous day, it’s a bit of a challenge, especially since the trail reaches nearly 5000 meters. Not to mention, you will be hiking on some rugged terrain. Along the way, astonishing views of Kanchenjunga, Siniolchu, Simvo, Twin Peaks, and Nepal Peaks will enlighten you. When you reach camp, relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 4 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 4,935m
  • Trekking

Wake up at your own pace and have a delicious breakfast beneath these majestic mountains. Explore the surrounding green alpine meadows, take some photos/videos and give your body a break. For many, this is a favorite day on the trek. Not often can you a day by a lake at almost 5000 meters. Have your meals with a breathtaking view and get ready for the descent. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 4,935m
  • Rest Day

Today, the journey back towards Lachen begins. After breakfast, head back down the same trail and enjoy the natural beauty along the way. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • Rest Camp

After a nutritious breakfast, continue retracing your steps back to Yabuk. Notice the gorgeous landscapes change as you descend. Overnight in tent camp.

  • camping
  • 4 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • Trekking

From Yabuk, continue further down to Jakthang. Take in any sights and sounds you missed on the way up to Green Lake. Relax and refresh once you arrive in Jakthang. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 4 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 3,430m
  • Trekking

Continue descending on the same trail back to Tallem. Admire the rhododendrons and the unique Himalayan birds as you pass through the forest. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 5 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 3,240m
  • Trekking

After breakfast, embark on the last day of the trek. It’s a mellow day of hiking down through the lush wooded forests. Enjoy a tasty, well-deserved meal when you arrive in Lachen. Overnight at guest house/tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 5 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 2,730m
  • Trekking

In the morning, the vehicle picks you up in Lachen and takes you through the scenic landscape back to Gangtok. To celebrate an incredible, successful Green Lake Trek in Sikkim, we all enjoy a farewell dinner together. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 6 hours Drive
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 1650m
  • Farewell dinner after successful trekking

Our team drops you off at Bagdogra Airport before your flight and wishes you farewell. Thank you for joining us for the Green Lake Trek in Sikkim! See you next time!

  • 5 Hours Drive
  • Breakfast
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What's Included

  • A good quality accommodation with breakfast in Sikkim before and after trek .
  • Airport tranfers pickup and drop with private vehicle.
  • Guided sightseeing tour with friendly local driver as per itinerary.
  • All government fees and local taxes.
  • All necessary mountain Trekking permits during trek and tour.
  • Services of porters at airport and hotels.
  • Meals ( breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek with hot tea/coffee (Meals will be freshly prepared and will be a mix of Indian, and Napali local).
  • including boiled drinking water provided on trekking days.
  • Accommodation in camping tent during the trek.
  • Local English-speaking licensed holder mountain trekking guide.
  • Some amount of Client personal gear to be carried by porter or yek / mule. 
  • A good quality sleeping bag arrange by Ashmita Trek and Tours.
  • Group medical kit box.
  • Lunch and dinner in sikkim.
  • Bottled water alcoholic drinks, phone calls,lundry  etc.
  • International and domestic flight /Train .
  • India Entry visa
  • Airport and departure Tax. .
  • Tips for trekking staff.
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary.
  • Your travel medical insurance.
  • Personal gear and expenses for the trek.
  • Any other expenses not mention above as included in the price.

Important Note :

Our valuable Client we would like to inform you during the trekking in Sikkim will not allow carrying any satellite phone and GPRS and drone cámera due to the border security area.

Useful Information

Green Lake Trek Route 

The adventurous Green Lake Trek in Sikkim starts when you reach Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri. From there, we drive you up to Gangtok for two nights before starting towards the trail. After a day of exploration around Gangtok, the trail begins in Lachen (2730 meters) – about 135 kilometers by car. The route then goes to Tallem (3240 meters) after passing through the quaint settlement of Zema. After Tallem, the trail weaves up to Jakthang (3430 meters). Take a day to acclimatize and explore the dense alpine forest around Jakthang. The following day, follow the flowing river up to Yabuk (4040 meters) for a night before heading further to Rest Camp (4725 meters). The final stretch of the trek leads you on an up and down trail, ultimately ascending to Green Lake. Find yourself in bliss next to the vast glacier and turquoise lake. Spend a day relaxing here and soaking in the majestic mountain views. On the way back, head down the same trail to Lachen.

Green Lake Trek Difficulty

The Green Lake Trek is considered a moderate to difficult level trek. For experienced hikers, the trek is totally doable. The trail itself is not the most difficult part. Rather, the altitude is what brings the challenges. Five nights are spent sleeping above 4000 meters (13,123 feet), and the maximum altitude reached is nearly 5000 meters at Green Lake. The total distance of the trek is about 92 kilometers.

Another aspect of the Green Lake Trek that poses difficulties for some is tent camping. For many outdoor lovers, this just adds some excitement to the trail. If you do not have previous high altitude trekking or camping experience, don’t worry! You can still take the Green Lake Trek. We recommend preparing for the trek with some cardio exercises (i.e. running, swimming, stairclimbing, etc.). Also, it definitely helps to hike in the high altitude beforehand, if you live nearby a mountain range. Regardless, whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, you can take the Green Lake Trek.

Best time to take Green Lake Trek

The best times to take the Green Lake Trek are during spring and autumn. Specifically, the months of April and May, as well as October and November provide the clearest skies, most pleasant weather, and colorful landscapes. As the snow begins to melt in the spring, rare alpine wildflowers and rhododendrons are in full bloom. On top of that, the weather is prime and the skies are clear. In the fall, the weather is just as marvelous as the spring, and the skies are often clearer. In both seasons, you will experience a beautiful sense of solitude on the trail, as this trail has not yet been discovered by most people.

You can take the trek during the monsoon season, but you run the risk of cloudy skies and daily rain showers. Because this is a camping trek in the high altitude, the Green Lake Trek is not possible during the winter season.

Accommodation and Food on Green Lake Trek

For the first two nights and the last night (3 nights total), you will stay at a hotel in Gangtok. One full day is spent in Gangtok on a cultural sightseeing tour around the city. During these days, breakfast is included in the cost of the package and we are happy to recommend places for you to eat during lunch and dinner. Also, on your last night in Gangtok, we take you out for a farewell dinner.

During the trek, you will be sleeping in a tent under the open starry sky. There aren’t many things that bring you closer to nature than sleeping in the great outdoors. The guide and porter set up the camp each night and take it down in the morning. Three meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) are included in the cost of the package while on the trail. All meals are prepared by our experienced cook, who is familiar with local Indian dishes as well as western cuisines. Trekkers are always impressed with the quality of food on the trail.

Note

Our valuable Client we would like to inform you during the trekking in Sikkim will not allow carrying any satellite phone and GPRS and drone cámera due to the border security area.

Thank you

Ashmita Trek & Tours Team.