Lachen

     Lachen is a scenic mountain village, home to the Lachenpas, a unique Sikkimese Bhutia community. Lachen, which literally means [Big Pass], clings to grassy mountain slopes in a magnificent natural setting against a backdrop of imposing snow capped peaks, glaciers and rock cliffs. The village is in a picturesque valley amidst mixed conifer and Rhododendron forests.
     Just about 120 km from Gangtok, Lachen is located at an altitude of 8838 ft. Nearby villages of Rabom, Chaten, Talem, Yakthang, Kalep, Samdong and Thangu form a larger part of Lachen. Foot trails to the country’s highest mountain peak Mt. Khangchendzonga and Mt. Sinolchu the most beautiful peak begin at your doorstep in Lachen.
     Wonders never come to an end in Lachen, all valley painted with flowers during monsoon, followed by afterglow of autumn and snowfall greeting the village in winter. The valley has almost everything a traveler could wish for: a land of fairs and festivals, snow-clad mountains, lakes, valley of flora, fauna and a vibrant local culture. Visits to the Lachen monastery and the women’s handicraft centre to view weaving of traditional blankets and carpets will provide insights into the local way of life and many more