Zero Point Sikkim - Lachung

Zero Point Sikkim - Lachung : 

"Zero Point" in Lachung, which is a popular tourist destination in the Indian state of Sikkim. Lachung is a picturesque village located in the North Sikkim district and is known for its stunning natural beauty, especially during the winter season when the entire region is covered in snow.

"Zero Point" is often considered the highlight of a visit to Lachung. It's also known as Yumesamdong and is located at a high altitude of 15,300 feet above Sea level. This spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, including the majestic Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. The landscape here is characterized by its pristine white snow, high-altitude vegetation, and overall surreal beauty.

Due to its high altitude and remote location, Zero Point experiences extremely cold weather throughout the year. It's advisable to dress in warm clothing and be prepared for the chilly temperatures, even during the summer months.

We should carry 

• Warm clothes
• Overcoat
• Gloves
• Snow boots
• Cash
• Medicines for high-altitude sickness

How to reach :

To reach Zero Point in Lachung, you typically need to follow a specific route starting from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Here's a general guideline on how to reach Zero Point:

1. Reach Gangtok: You can either fly to Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal or take a train to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) and then drive to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim.

2. Gangtok to Lachung: From Gangtok, you need to travel to Lachung, which is the nearest town to Zero Point. The distance is around 160 kilometers and usually takes around 6-7 hours by road due to the hilly terrain. You can hire a private vehicle or take a shared taxi from Gangtok to Lachung. The journey itself is quite scenic, passing through picturesque landscapes and charming villages.

3. Lachung to Zero Point: Zero Point is about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) further from Lachung. This part of the journey requires a separate permit due to its proximity to the Indo-China border. It's recommended to arrange for a local vehicle from Lachung since the terrain can be challenging. The road conditions might not be the best, especially during harsh weather conditions, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.

4. Permits: Remember that visiting Zero Point requires permits, as it's a restricted area due to its proximity to the international border. You can obtain these permits through your tour operator or at the relevant government offices in Gangtok.

5. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Zero Point is during February to July. When the entire area is covered in snow, creating a stunning winter wonderland. However, keep in mind that the weather can be extremely cold during this time.

6. Accommodation: Since Lachung is the nearest town to Zero Point, you might need to stay overnight there. There are various guesthouses and hotels in Lachung to choose from.

Nearest Places to visit

Here are some of the nearest places you can explore when you're in Lachung:

1. Yumthang Valley: Often referred to as the "Valley of Flowers," Yumthang Valley is a beautiful valley located close to Lachung. It's known for its vibrant and colorful flowers that bloom during the spring and summer months. The valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers a stunning landscape.

2. Yumesamdong (Zero Point): As previously mentioned, Zero Point is a major attraction near Lachung, offering breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains and landscapes. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

3. Hot Springs: Lachung is famous for its natural hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the warm mineral-rich waters. These hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties and are a popular attraction for visitors.

4. Lachen: Lachen is another picturesque village located not far from Lachung. It's the gateway to the famous Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The lake is considered sacred and is surrounded by stunning landscapes.

5. Thangu Valley: Thangu Valley is a high-altitude valley near Lachen, known for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere. It's a great place for trekking and experiencing the beauty of the Himalayas.

6. Gurudongmar Lake: While not exactly near Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake is a significant destination that can be reached from Lachen. It's one of the highest lakes in the world and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

7. Lachung Monastery: Explore the local culture and spirituality by visiting the Lachung Monastery. It's a peaceful place with traditional architecture and offers insights into the local Buddhist traditions.

8. Chungthang: On the way to Lachung from Gangtok, you'll likely pass through Chungthang. It's a small town with a historic significance and is located at the confluence of the rivers Lachen and Lachung.