The Lashar Valley Trek in Lachen, North Sikkim – The Unexplored Pristine Valley of Sikkim!

The trip begins with all participants gathered at designated hotels or homestays in Gangtok. After checking in, a comfortable vehicle will transport the group to Lachen, a scenic town located in North Sikkim, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. The drive to Lachen takes approximately 5-6 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Sikkimese countryside. Upon arrival at Lachen, the team from Groovyplanet  will warmly greet the group. Once everyone has had a chance to refresh, there will be a briefing session. During this briefing, the trip leaders will outline the itinerary for the upcoming days, covering important details such as safety measures, trek expectations, packing checklists, and any last-minute preparations. After the briefing, you will have some time to explore the surrounding village of Lachen or simply rest and acclimatize before the journey ahead.

After an early breakfast at the hotel in Lachen, the group will depart for Thangu, a scenic village located at an altitude of about 13,000 feet. However, today’s adventure includes a special detour to explore the culturally and historically significant Alexandra David-Neel Cave, adding depth to the trek.

The Story of Alexandra David-Neel: Alexandra David-Neel, a renowned French explorer and spiritualist, was the first Western woman to set foot in Tibet. During her second visit to Sikkim, she met Gomchen Rinpoche (Nawang Kunzang) of Lachen Monastery. Together, they retreated to a cave above Deuthang, where David-Neel spent two years meditating and studying with the Rinpoche, while he meditated for 13 years. This cave holds significant historical and spiritual importance, making it a truly unique stop.

Trekking to the Cave: From a point below Thangu, you will embark on a hike to reach the Alexandra David-Neel Cave. The trek will take approximately 3 hours one-way and will involve a challenging ascent, gaining an altitude of about 4,000 feet, from 11,000 feet to 15,000 feet ASL at the cave site. The hike is physically demanding due to the altitude, but the breathtaking views and spiritual connection make it a rewarding experience.

Afternoon: After spending some time at the cave to absorb its history and significance, you will return to the vehicle point by late afternoon. The return journey may take slightly less time, but it will still be physically demanding, so be sure to pace yourself.

Evening: After the hike, the group will proceed to Thangu for the night. It’s an important day for acclimatization, as the trek starts at a high altitude, and adjusting to the conditions is vital. Ensure that everyone stays hydrated and takes it easy after the trek.

Overnight at Thangu: After arriving in Thangu, enjoy a relaxing dinner and rest for the night, allowing the body to acclimatize before the next stage of the journey.

• Early Morning Departure: After an early breakfast at Thangu, the group will travel by vehicle for about 20 minutes further up from Thangu to reach the starting point of the Lashar Valley trek.
• Trekking to Lashar Valley: The trek to Lashar Valley is approximately 3 hours, depending on the group’s fitness levels and pace. The trail begins with a gradual climb, leading you towards the ridge line, where the real beauty of the valley starts to unfold. The altitude gain and steady ascent are important to note as you trek higher.
• Lashar Valley: After reaching the ridge line, the trail descends into the Lashar Valley, which will reveal its majestic views. As you hike through the valley, you may encounter local village council leaders and the Dokpas (a nomadic ethnic group from the region) with their Yak herds, who are arriving in the valley in preparation for the activities of the coming days.
• Arriving at Camp: Upon reaching the camp site in the Lashar Valley, you will settle in and enjoy a hot meal to refuel and rest. It’s important to allow your body to adjust to the altitude and to take things slowly. Remember, acclimatization is key, so you should focus on staying hydrated, resting, and gradually increasing physical activity.
• Afternoon Rest: After the meal, take time to rest and relax. This is an ideal time to take in the stunning views of the valley and surrounding peaks, while ensuring that your body adjusts to the higher altitude.

Today marks the Drukpa Tsechi Festival, a significant day in the Buddhist calendar that commemorates the first teachings of the Four Noble Truths by Lord Buddha. This day is especially important for the Dokpa herdsmen of the region, a nomadic community known for their unique traditions. The festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm, and one of the highlights is the Yak Race. The herders race their yaks across the valley floor in a thrilling and colorful display of culture and community spirit.

In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a scenic hike across Lashar, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The hike is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of North Sikkim, exploring its vibrant meadows and rugged terrain.

For those seeking more adventure, this hike is a fantastic way to get into the mood of the region, with its stunning vistas and a chance to connect with the rich culture and traditions of the area. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or just looking to enjoy the landscape, the Lashar hike is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

After a hearty breakfast, we set off for a thrilling day hike to the stunning Yule Khangtse Glacier. The hike is moderate, with minimal climbing, but the altitude will give it a challenging edge. Expect the trek to take around 3 hours one way, offering ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking surroundings.

Don’t forget to pack some light meals and snacks so we can refuel and enjoy a break during the hike.

We’ll return by the late afternoon to our camp, where a well-deserved hot soup awaits, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind after the day’s adventure.

If the weather is clear, be sure to try your hand at night photography to capture the stunning starlit skies, a perfect way to end the day surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains.

After a fulfilling breakfast, we will set off for a visit to the stunning Shaka Cho Glacial Lake. This serene lake, surrounded by towering peaks, offers breathtaking views and is a perfect spot for nature lovers. Take time to soak in the tranquility of the area, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes that make this destination truly special.

After the sightseeing, we will head back to Lachen, where you can relax and unwind, reflecting on the beauty of the day. The journey back is equally scenic, providing more opportunities to enjoy the stunning surroundings before returning to camp.

After breakfast, we begin our journey from Lachen back to Gangtok. The drive offers beautiful views of the Sikkimese landscape, with winding roads, lush greenery, and glimpses of the majestic mountains. Along the way, we can stop at scenic spots for photos and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the region.

Upon arrival in Gangtok, you’ll have some free time to relax and explore the local markets, or simply unwind after the long drive. This marks the end of your incredible adventure in North Sikkim.