A stash of fresh green hidden among mountains

The trip to Gurudongmar Lake has been one of those rides, where the journey has been more fascinating than the destination.

After a four-hour drive from Lachen, we reached the blue-green Gurudongmar Lake.

The thrill, however, began at 4 AM itself... when the alarm went off. Checked the temperature (of Gurudongmar) before leaving our hotel in Lachen, and Google showed a number below the zero-line. But even in Lachen, the air was frosty and the sun still in its covers, when the bumpy ride began. Driver played some Tibetan music, which I later found out to be an ancient mantra. Soothing!

The slopes around looked dry and the plants withered, or maybe that’s how they had to be – red, yellow, brown… all around. And built among them were the army camps. Driving through broken roads, damaged bridges and occasional potholes, we reached the last check post.

After which, the car turned towards nothingness. A vast plain with rocky terrain, naked mountains but smooth roads. The only life visible, involved other tourist vehicles following their path to the lake.

At 17,000 ft, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. Oxygen levels are low, so be prepared to feel light-headed. The sun provided some warmth, but the temperature was freezing enough to enjoy snowfall, a few nano-particles.

Check more about North Sikkim tour in my travelogue.