Khecheopalri Lake Gangtok Entry Fee
- 20 per person
Khecheopalri Lake Gangtok Phone
N/A
Rating: 
| 4/5 stars
Based on total 36 reviews
Khecheopalri Lake Gangtok Address: Sikkim, 737113, India
Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is full of lush green forests, lakes, mountains and hills. Hiking, trekking, paragliding, and river rafting are the various activities that make the city even more attractive for visitors.
Imagine walking down a road full of trees and dense forest on either side with a view of snow-capped Himalayan ranges! It surely would give you goosebumps, right? This view is just a glimpse of how the entire city is. There are many more such places, like Enchey Monastery, the Indo-China border, Yumthang Valley (a valley of flowers), Rabdentse Ruins, Tsomgo Lake, etc.
The city is home to many valleys and lakes which flow directly from the mountains. One such serene lake is the Khecheopalri Lake. This lake is of spiritual significance. Sitting on the rocky mountains and enjoying the sound of lake waters babbling would be blissful.
All about the Khecheopalri Lake, Gangtok
Often referred to as the "Wishing Lake" or "Wishing Well," Khecheopalri Lake is located at an altitude of approximately 5,600 feet (1,700 metres) near Tsozo village. It is a sacred lake for both Buddhists and Hindus.
#Trivia: The lake is 3500 years old, era glacier formed it.
The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, creating a serene and picturesque environment. The lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
One unique aspect of this lake is that fishing is prohibited. Legend has it that the lake birds collect the bait and release the fish unharmed whenever someone tries to fish here. This belief has led to the preservation of the lake's aquatic life.
History of Khecheopalri Lake, Gangtok
According to local folklore, the lake is believed to be a wish-fulfilling lake where whatever you wish for comes true. It is also believed that no leaves can be seen afloat the lake despite being in the centre of a dense forest. Locally, the lake is known as Sho Dzo Sho, which means "Oh Lady, Sit Here".
There is a fascinating story about Khecheopalri Lake. Some say it has the footprint of a revered figure named Tara Jetsun Dolma, often called the 'mother of liberation.' She is believed to have spent time in this area. Another belief says Guru Padmasambhava, a spiritual teacher, taught his preaching near the lake with a group of 64 yoginis.
In Hinduism, they tell a different story. They say that Lord Shiva, a powerful god, meditated in a cave above the lake. Some people even think the lake formed when Lord Shiva's foot touched the ground.
In Sikkim's rich folklore, there is a belief that Khecheopalri Lake symbolises a specific part of the human body: the chest area or thorax. According to this tradition, three other important places in Sikkim represent different parts of the body: Yuksom represents the third eye, Tashiding represents the head, and Pemayangtse represents the heart.
Entry fees and Timings of Khecheopalri Lake, Gangtok
There is a charge of Rs. 20/- per person to visit this spiritual hidden gem. The lake timings are 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and is open all days of the week.
Best time to visit the Khecheopalri Lake, Gangtok
The summer and the spring are the best seasons to visit this sacred lake. February- March is good to visit because the weather allows for beautiful hikes with clear skies.
How to reach Khecheopalri Lake, Gangtok?
Khecheopalri Lake is located 147 km from Gangtok. If you want to visit this lake, there is a 5-hour trek from Pelling to Khecheopalri. Taxis, jeeps, and private cabs are available to reach the destination. Pelling is 34 km from the lake. There are no railways or airports in Pelling. Hence, it would help if you travelled by road. All roads are well connected to reach the lake.
Khecheopalri Lake in Gangtok is not just any typical tourist place. It gives you a hiking experience, and you can visit this sacred lake and wish for anything you want. It can be granted. You never know.
You can sit by the lake area where prayer flags are waving because of windy weather and have a chit-chat with the village people to find out the true story of the lake. I am sure after all this you will be eager to visit this lake and discover the truth. So, make sure to keep this lake in your itinerary to Gangtok and book a Gangtok tour package with Gangtok Tourism for a funfilled vacation in this amazing destination. Please fill the Contact Us form for further details.
