About Chungthang
Opening time- 24 hours
Prime days and hours- Weekends
Suggested Duration- 1 day
Tickets- Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station- Gangtok Railway Station, about 94 km
Nearest Bus Stand- Lachung Bus Stand, about 21 km
Nearest Airport- Bagdogra Airport, about 173 km
Chungthang, nestled at around 5,500 feet in North Sikkim, is a quiet Himalayan town where natural beauty meets deep-rooted spiritual heritage. Located about 100 km from Gangtok, this small settlement sits where the rivers Lachen and Lachung join, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, forested hills, and calm mountain air.
According to legends, Guru Padmasambhava meditated here and blessed the land. His footprints are said to be imprinted on the Holy Rock, which still releases mineral water from a small opening. Close by, an unusual paddy field grows year after year, defying the cold climate. You can also visit the Gurudwara Nanak Lama, believed to be visited by Guru Nanak Dev during his travels.
Traditional wooden homes, friendly locals, and local eateries offering authentic Sikkimese dishes make Chungthang a beautiful cultural stop. It is one of the peaceful and lesser-explored places to visit in Sikkim, perfect for travellers seeking spirituality, calm, and scenic mountain charm.
Chungthang Highlights
• Visit Chungthang, a sacred Himalayan town in North Sikkim, where the rivers Lachen and Lachung meet to form the Teesta.
• Explore the Holy Rock blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, where mineral water flows from a small opening throughout the year.
• Stop by the Gurudwara Nanak Lama, a peaceful shrine believed to be visited by Guru Nanak Dev during his journey to Tibet.
• Take in the serene mountain views and use Chungthang as your gateway to Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake, and Yumthang Valley.
• Savour authentic Sikkimese cuisine in local eateries, with delicious dishes like Thukpa, Momos, and traditional Lepcha-Buddhist flavours.
How To Reach Chungthang
By Car- You can reach Chungthang from Lachung, which is about 21 km away, taking about 40 mins to reach via the Lachen and Gurudongmar Rd.
Best Time To Visit Chungthang
Peak Season (April to June)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The skies are clear and the landscapes are lush.
- Things to Do: Ideal for sightseeing, short treks, and exploring nearby destinations like Yumthang and Lachen.
Moderate Season (October to December)
- Weather Insights: Crisp air and golden hues as autumn sets in. Temperatures drop to around 10°C to 15°C.
- Things to Do: Enjoy peaceful views, photography, and festivals like Lhabab Duchen.
Low Season (July to September)
- Weather Insights: Monsoon brings heavy rainfall, frequent landslides, and roadblocks with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 22°C.
- Things to Do: Visit the village amidst fewer crowds, surrounded by greenery at its peak.
Chungthang Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go!
- Please note that Chopta Valley lies in a restricted border area, so Inner Line Permits (ILPs) are mandatory for all visitors. Permits must be arranged through licensed travel agencies in Gangtok. Foreign nationals may not be allowed beyond Lachung in some cases. Always check current regulations before planning.
- Carry warm clothes, especially in winter, as the weather can be freezing.
- Mobile networks can be weak or unavailable in some parts of Chungthang, so inform your family or friends in advance.
- Carry essentials like medicines, snacks, and cash (ATMs may not be available) as Chungthang is a small town with limited accommodation and food options.
- Dress modestly, avoid loud behavior, and always seek permission before taking photos of locals or religious sites, as Chungthang is spiritually significant for both Buddhists and Sikhs.
Trek through peaceful trails
Chungthang is ideal for travellers who love quiet mountain walks and soulful experiences. While the town itself is peaceful, it connects you to some of the most scenic trekking routes in North Sikkim. From here, you can head to the beautiful Yumthang Valley, famous for its meadows and flowers, or continue towards the high-altitude Gurudongmar Lake. Nature lovers can explore walking trails along the riverbanks or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere surrounded by tall hills and whispering winds.
Visit the Holy Rock and Paddy Fields
One of Chungthang’s most sacred and unique places is the Holy Rock, believed to be blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. A small stream of mineral water flows from the rock all year round, and a miraculous paddy field grows nearby, something rare at this high altitude. Locals believe the rice field came to life when Guru Rinpoche scattered leftover grains here. This place is deeply spiritual and peaceful, perfect for quiet reflection and a heartfelt experience.
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Stop by Gurudwara Nanak Lama
Another highlight of Chungthang is the Gurudwara Nanak Lama. According to legend, Guru Nanak Dev passed through this town on his way to Tibet. The Gurudwara, surrounded by forests and rivers, is calm and welcoming. It's believed that he subdued demons here and left his mark on a rock, making it a sacred spot for Sikh devotees. The peaceful setting and spiritual stories make it worth a visit for anyone looking to explore the region’s rich history.
See the meeting point of the rivers
The town sits where the Lachen Chu and Lachung Chu rivers join to form the mighty Teesta River. This natural junction is not only scenic but also symbolic, the coming together of sacred waters from two valleys. The sound of rushing water, the clean mountain air, and the breathtaking views create a perfect spot to pause, reflect, or even enjoy a riverside picnic. In certain seasons, river rafting can also be experienced nearby.
Savour authentic Sikkimese cuisine
Chungthang’s small eateries offer a flavourful peek into local life. Here, you can try warm, comforting Sikkimese dishes like thukpa (noodle soup), momos (steamed dumplings), and phagshapa (pork with radish). These dishes are often cooked with fresh mountain herbs and vegetables. Whether you sit inside a cosy food stall or by a wooden home with locals, every bite gives you a taste of the region’s culture and warmth.
Tourism Board Alliances
Chungthang FAQs
What is Chungthang famous for?
Chungthang is famous for its spiritual heritage, natural wonders, and strategic location in North Sikkim. It is located at the meeting point of the Lachen and Lachung rivers, forming the sacred Teesta River. The town is home to the Holy Rock, believed to bear the footprints of Guru Padmasambhava, and a miraculous paddy field where rice grows despite the cold mountain climate. Chungthang also holds Sikh significance as Guru Nanak Dev is believed to have passed through here, and a Gurudwara stands in his honour. Additionally, the town serves as the gateway to famous destinations like Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake, and Yumthang Valley.
What is the meaning of Chungthang?
The name ‘Chungthang’ is derived from the Tibetan phrase ‘Tsemo Rinchen Thang’, which means ‘Top Precious Plain’. This name reflects both the geographical and spiritual importance of the region. Located in the heart of North Sikkim, Chungthang is considered a sacred land blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. According to legend, he meditated here and left behind spiritual imprints, making the land spiritually “precious.”
Do I need a permit to visit the Chungthang?
Yes, a permit is mandatory to visit Chungthang in North Sikkim as it falls under a protected area. For Indian nationals, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required. It can be obtained from check posts in Gangtok, Rangpo, or through a registered travel agency. For foreign nationals, access is more restricted. You must travel in a group of at least two people and obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) through an authorized Sikkim travel agent.
