Trip Overview
Green lake Trek is a base camp to Mt. Kanchenjunga 8585 m. This is a picturesque trail that combines natural beauty with spectacular views of high snow-capped mountain peaks and valleys. It is still a largely unexplored region and is categorized as an expedition-style Trek. Only a few who are aware of its splendid beauty and adventure has been lucky enough to have taken up this Trek.
There are vast tracts of thick forest, with several varieties of rhododendrons, exotic colorful flowers, birds, and many waterfalls on the trail. The mountain views are fantastic with majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga at the head of the valley, Kanchenjunga at 8,586 meters, Kanchenjunga West, also known as Yalung Kang at 8,505 meters, Kanchenjunga Central at 8,482 meters, Kanchenjunga South at 8,494 meters, and Kangbachen at 7,903 meters.
Mt. Kanchenjunga was one of the first peaks to be attempted by expedition group before world war two from Green Lake base camp. As Nepal was closed, the approach from Sikkim, via the Zemu Glacier, was followed instead. Pre-war Everest expeditions also passed through North Sikkim and this Green Lake trail was part of their route.
The trek to Green Lake, on the Zemu glacier in north Sikkim, is an adventurous and exciting walk with the varieties of flora and fauna, panoramic landscapes, verdant valleys, and snow-capped peaks. The green Lake's base camp is more than 5000m and is surrounded by a lush green landscape.
The Sikkim Green Lake Trek starts from Lachen village, which is at an altitude of 2,730 meters. The trail ahead on the first day leads to Tallem at 3,240m via Zema. From Tallem, the route gently climbs to Jakthang at 3,430 meters. From Jakthang, the routes pass through alpine forest and cuts through several small streams to Yabuk at 4,040 meters and after that to the rest camp at 4,725 meters. From the rest camp, the journey to Green Lake is mostly an uphill and downhill trek till it reaches into the sprawling lush green landscape. From Green Lake, the return journey to Lachen village follows the same route.
Itinerary
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Day 1
Gangtok to Lachen by Road (2700m/7-8 hrs drive) (Hotel) - L/D
After breakfast, we leave Gangtok and drive for 6 to 7 hours to reach Lachen with sightseeing on the way. After arrival at Lachen check in to the hotel room. After getting refreshed take an evening walks around the Lachen valley for stretching and acclimatization. Lachen is a small beautiful high-altitude village and is a base to visit the famous Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley. O/N at Lachen
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Day 2
Lachen to Zema by vehicle and then onto Tallem (3250m/5-6 hrs trek) (Camping) - B/L/D
After breakfast following the main North Sikkim Highway, we continue to Zema from where the real trekking begins. The road to Zema can be covered in a jeep and would take about 20 minutes or we can Trek along the highway as well. After crossing the Zemu Chu we move ahead westwards up the Zemu valley following a trail through the forest. The walking in this section is usually slow as the path travels through rhododendron thickets, boulders, and fallen tree trunks. Once you overcome the climb and difficult section you reached Tallem by early afternoon. After reaching the camp take lunch and rest or hike for acclimatization. O/N at Tallem
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Day 3
Tallem to Jakthang (3430m/4-5 hrs) (Camping) - B/L/D
Today it will be a relatively easy walk through a smooth trail. Only a small stretch at the end is steep. Verities of exotic colorful Rhododendron on the trail make this fascinating. Before Jakthang the path crosses the Lhonak Chu. Jakthang is situated in a small meadow. O/N at Jakthang
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Day 4
Jakthang to Yabuk (4040m/4-5 hrs) (Camping) - B/L/D
After breakfast starts your trek to Yabuk. Today the trail passes through forest and streams and after about three hours of steady walking you reach the snout of the Zemu glacier. Further trekking through several upwards and downwards sections you reach the Yabuk campsite. Yabuk is usually reached by lunchtime and trekkers may be tempted to make it to the Rest Camp on the same day, however, it is not recommended as it is important to properly acclimatize at 4000m before approaching a further high point. O/N at Yabuk
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Day 5
Acclimatization day at Yabuk (4040m) (Camping) - B/L/D
The rest day can be spent walking up the valley, bird watching, or just lazying at camp. O/N at Yabuk
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Day 6
Yabuk to Rest Camp (4500m/4-5 hrs) (Camping) - B/L/D
After breakfast gear up for Rest Camp. Today’s path continues to travel west and follows the glacier of the Zemu. The trail is mainly over pebbles, rocks, and boulders and is difficult to walk. The rough trail and height make the trek difficult however as the valley opens up the great peaks come into view, Mt. Sinolchu and Mt. Simvo. The Rest Camp is situated right opposite Mt. Siniolchu and offers a fabulous view of one of the most beautiful mountains in Sikkim. Blue sheep are often sighted on the hill opposite the Rest Camp. Snow Leopard, Himalayan Vulture, and other exotic animals are often seen in these areas. Upon reaching the campsite retire for a day and acclimatize with proper rest. O/N at Rest Camp
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Day 7
Rest Camp to Green Lake (5050m/3-4 hrs) (Camping) - B/L/D
After breakfast embark on the most fascinating part of the trek Green Lake. The trail from Rest Camp climbs gently up the valley in a northwest direction and is tricky and challenging. The walking pace will be usually slow because of the height gain and challenging terrain. Throughout the trek, one can have a magnificent view of Mt. Siniolchu, Mt. Simvo, Twin Peak, Nepal Peak, and Mt. Kangchenjunga that dominate the horizon. Green Lake camp is a lush green clearing surrounding by magnificent mountain views. O/N at Green Lake
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Day 8
Rest Day at Green Lake (5050m) (Camping) - B/L/D
Spend the rest day watching the majestic peaks and lush green meadows. Taking photographs of the magical surrounding and lazing around to refuel the body is a good option. One can also climb the hill behind the camp for about an hour or so to reach a high point from where a magnificent view of Mt. Kangchenjunga as well as down the valley is seen. The glorious gap that links the Zemu valley to the Talung valley is seen from this high point. O/N at Green Lake
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Day 9
Green Lake to Yabuk (4040m/5-6 hrs) (Camping) - B/L/D
After breakfast trek back to Yabuk the same way crossing Rest Camp on the way. The trails are mostly downhill till Yabuk. O/N at Yabuk
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Day 10
Yabuk to Tallem (3250m/5-6 hrs) (Camping) - B/L/D
After breakfast trek down to Tallem following the same trail. O/N at Tallem
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Day 11
Tallem to Lachen (2700m/5-6 hrs) (Camping/Hotel) - B/L/D
After breakfast trek back to Lachen following the same forest trail till Zema. From here it is a short drive back to Lachen. O/N at Lachen.
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Day 12
Lachen to Gangtok (1650m/7-8 hrs drive) (Hotel Stay)
After breakfast and final goodbye to crew members drive back the same way to Gangtok.
Trip Highlights
1) Gangtok - The third and the present capital of Sikkim. Gangtok is one of the most well-known hill stations in India.
2) Lachen - A beautiful high-altitude Himalayan village situated at the height of 2700m. The name Lachen means "Big Pass". It is one of the main tourist destinations in Sikkim and serves as a base camp for Green Lake Trek and Gurudongmar & Chopta valley sightseeing.
3) Green lake - Base camp to Mt. Kanchendzonga and one of the most adventurous and exciting high altitude trekking routes in Sikkim. It offers magnificent views of the mountains and serene landscapes.
4) Mt. Sinolchu 6,888m - Magnificent views of one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.
Health and Fitness
You have to be Relatively Fit and Healthy to undertake the Green Lake trek. Trekking for 6 to 8 hours a day is one of the most important requirements for this high-altitude trek. Apart from good health condition basic mental preparation is also very important to undertake this Trek.
People suffering from Acute Heart and Lung diseases, Asthma, and High blood pressure are not recommended to take up this trek.
To complete this high-altitude trek regular exercises like running, skipping, aerobics, Zumba, and long-distance uphill trekking (4 to 5 times a week) are highly recommended. One should start making basic physical preparation at least a month before a trek. These exercises help you during the Trek.
The packing of right and comfortable clothing also makes a difference in the completion of Trek, so it is necessary to be disciplined while packing your clothing for the trip. You can contact us for help with clothing choice and packing!
During the Trek, we provide a basic medicine Kit which includes Medicine for High Altitude sickness, Headache, Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Common Cold, etc. All of our medicine is scientific medicine purchased in India, however, we advised you to bring your small medicinal kit for the trip if possible.
Trekking/Tour Tips
1. A common tendency among young blood and beginners is to show enthusiasm by walking fast with excitement. Even the experienced sometimes try to show off by walking fast, this is soon exhausting and not recommended. Walk slow - warm up gradually and continue at a slow comfortable pace before pushing yourself a little more.
2. Develop a personal rhythm. Maintain your steps to synchronized with breathing. This will help minimize getting out of breath.
3. Walking in Himalayan trails with loose soil and rocks is tricky. So, avoid stepping on loose soil and rocks and place the foot flat and firm with a better grip. Always follow the rule ‘heel first’ while walking in the Himalaya trail.
4. Walking in a zigzags manner while ascending on a very steep slope is advisable. While descending walking zigzag is a good technique to avoid excessive pressure on knees and avoid knee pain and blisters.
5. Avoid stepping on loose stones and soil to avoid an accident.
6. Avoid overtaking fellow travelers on a narrow trail. Only Overtake at comfortable wide space if necessary.
7. While ascending and descending a slope or over loose stones, leave sufficient space between the next person so that any stone rolling down does not hit trekkers below.
8. Do not run down a slope. Bend knees a little while descending. Dig heels into soft snow or soft ground.
9. Our Himalayan condition is mostly wet so avoid wet grass, wet roots, and the muddy zone which can be very slippery. Be careful while walking on them.
10. Shortcuts on a foot trail should be avoided.
11. Always put-on warm clothing while taking a rest. This will help avoid getting cold, cough and high-altitude sickness
12. Respect the sentiments and traditions of the local hill people.
13. Always carry enough water in your water bottle as water is essential in avoiding altitude sickness.
14. Wear comfortable and right set of trekking boots, pants and jackets. Avoid wearing new trekking boots directly for the Trek. Get used to it by wearing before the trek. Carry all necessary clothing’s.
Halts and Rests:
1. While taking a rest, lie against a tree trunk, a big stone, or on flat ground. Place your legs on your bags or any other higher ground. This helps regulate blood circulation.
2. Stop at any comfortable point after the first start to readjust your rucksack, jackets, or to tie a shoelace for better comfort and adjustment.
3. Do not make frequent or prolonged halts. Too many small stops destroy the walking rhythm. Frequent rests are not helpful. You should follow your own rhythmic walking pace and technique to avoid unnecessary tiredness. A stop should be made only at natural stopping points, like on the top of a ridge, or before an ascent, or at a scenic viewpoint.
4. Stop and place yourself on the safer (Mountain) side to give way for the pack animals to pass through. Avoid bags carried by the animals that can push you. Be aware of the yak's horn too.
SERVICES INCLUDED:
1) HIGH ALTITUDE TREKKING PERMITS/PERMISSION
2) LOCAL ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE
3) EXPERIENCED LOCAL COOK
4) LOCAL PORTERS
5) 2 MEN TENTS / HUTS
6) KITCHEN & DINING TENTS
7) SLEEPING BAGS
8) MATTRESSES
9) HOT WATER BAGS
10) NATIONAL PARK FEES AND PERMISSION
11) TOURISM FEES AND PERMISSION
12) ENVIRONMENTAL FEES
13) ALL MEALS AND DRINKS THROUGHOUT THE TREK
14) TABLE & CHAIR
15) BASIC MEDICINAL KITS
SERVICES EXCLUDED:
1) INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC FLIGHT TICKETS
2) TRANSPORTATION TO / FRO STARTING & ENDING LOCATION
3) INSURANCE OF ANY NATURE
4) ALCOHOL AND BEVERAGES
5) TIPS AND GIFTS
6) PERSONAL SHOPPING COST
7) ANYTHING NOT INCLUDED IN INCLUDED LIST
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
HOW TO REACH LACHEN?
The closest Airport to Lachen, Sikkim is PAKYONG AIRPORT & BAGDOGRA AIRPORT. You have to fly either to Bagdogra Airport or Pakyong Airport. From there you can drive to Gangtok first and stay for a night. The next day drives to Lachen with a private reserve vehicle.
Pakyong Airport is around 1 hours drive from Gangtok. Bagdogra Airport is around 7 hours’ drive from Gangtok.
WHAT GEARS AND CLOTHING TO CARRY FOR GREEN LAKE TREK?
No matter what season you are planning for the mountains are always going to be cold, rough, and tough so it is absolutely necessary to pack yourself with adequate and proper clothing. Here is the standard kit checklist for the Trek.
Proper packing of the trekking gears is absolutely necessary with eyes on the weight limit. It is important to have a good brand of clothing.
Basic Gears:
BackPack & rain cover or Duffel bag (50 to 70 ltr)
Day Pack & rain cover (20 to 30 ltr)
Walking stick (1 pair or at least one)
Water Bottle (2 bottles of 2 ltr each)
Thermos flask (1 nos)
Head Light (1 Nos with 4 pairs of batteries)
Gaiters (1 pair)
Upper and Lower Clothings:
T - Shirt (2 to 3 full sleeves). Mostly noncotton
Fleece T-shirt (1 nos)
Thermal Inner-wears or base layers (1 nos or 1 pair) such as long jones
Fleece Jacket (1 nos)
Down, Feather, or Holofil Jackets (1 nos)
Wind and Waterproof jackets & pants (1 pair)
Trekking Pants (1 pair). Comfortable and durable
Short Trekking Pants (1 nos or 1 pair)
Poncho (1 nos)
Headgears:
Woolen cap (1 nos)
Sun cap (1 nos)
Balaclava or scarf (1 nos)
Sunglasses (1 nos) U/V protected and dark
Hand gears:
Waterproof gloves (1 nos)
Woolen gloves (1 nos)
Feet gears:
Waterproof Trekking boots (1 nos) preferably ankle high Goretex, North face, Colombia or Quechua
Snickers or running shoes (1 nos) preferably from any reputed brand
Gaiters (1 nos)
Sandals or flippers (1 nos)
Cotton socks (4 pairs)
Woolen socks (2 pairs)
Personal utilities:
Sunscreen cream
Moisturizers
Hand sanitizers
Toilet papers and wipes
Anti-bacterial powders
Lip balm
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Proper packing of the trekking gears is absolutely necessary with eyes on the weight limit. It is important to have a good brand of clothing.
CAN I EXIT LACHEN ON THE LAST DAY OF THE TREK DIRECTLY?
Yes, you can if you are looking to reach any other location near Lachen OR if it is too urgent and necessary. Driving to Airport and Railway directly after the trek is not recommended.
We will advise not to plan to leave Lachen directly after the last day of Trek as it will be too tiring and hectic. Driving at night on the Himalayan road is not comfortable and enjoyable.
The earliest you will reach Lachen on the last day of the trek is around 1 pm so long hours drive thereafter is not possible.
CAN I LEAVE EXTRA BAGS AT LACHEN/GANGTOK AND COLLECT THEM ON THE LAST DAY OF THE TREK?
Yes, you can keep a bag of clothes at Lachen or Gangtok hotel and collect it after the trek. In fact, we will advise you to leave unnecessary clothing and other stuff at Gangtok.
You can even keep valuables and cash at our office safely and collect them after the trek.
WHAT DOCUMENTS NEED TO BE CARRIED?
It is mandatory for Indian trekkers to carry identification documents such as VOTER ID CARRD, DRIVING LICENSE, INDIAN PASSPORT. Original documents need to be carried along with 4 pcs PASSPORT SIZE photograph.
Foreigners need to carry INDIAN VISA, PASSPORT & SIKKIM INNER LINE PERMIT along with 4 pcs PASSPORT SIZE photographs.
A medical fitness certificate is also mandatory however this can also be arranged at Yuksam in case you are not able to bring it.
IS THERE CONNECTIVITY DURING THE TREK?
There is no phone connectivity during the Green Lake trek. Lachen is the last village where you can get a phone and internet connection.
At certain specific locations between Lachen to Zema, you can get Vodafone, Airtel, and Jio networks.
There is no electricity throughout the Dzongri trek.
HOW IS THE WEATHER & TEMPERATURE DURING THE TREK?
There are two distinct seasons for doing Green Lake Trek. Mid-March, April to May (Spring) and Mid-September, October to November (Autumn). Normally weather remains good and clear in those given periods however there is no guarantee as weather is extremely unpredictable in our Himalayas and does change within hours and days.
The temperature at each campsite depends largely on each day's specific weather condition.
Spring (Mid-March, April till May)
* Lachen to Tallem
Morning and Evening – 12 to 16 degrees centigrade
Day time – 18 to 24 degrees centigrade
Late Evening and Mid Night – 8 to 14 degrees centigrade
* Yabuk, Jakthang, and above
Morning and Evening – 4 to 12
Day time – 12 to 18 degrees centigrade
Late Evening and Mid Night – minus 10 to 4 degrees centigrade
Autumn (Mid-September, October till November)
* Lachen to Tallem
Morning and Evening – 8 to 14 degrees centigrade
Day time – 16 to 21 degrees centigrade
Late Evening and Mid Night – 2 to 10 degrees centigrade
* Yabuk, Jakthang, and above
Morning and Evening – minus 8 to 10
Day time – 2 to 14 degrees centigrade
Late Evening and Mid Night – minus 15 to 2 degrees centigrade
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