Wishing lake, and the heaven of Padmasambhava and sho dzo sho are the few names of this beautiful Khecheopalri lake in Sikkim. The lake is a pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus and a popular tourist attraction for visitors.
In addition to the spiritual peace, the lake is home to rare flora and fauna along with many breathtaking sites that will surely fill your Instagram account and heart with eternal memories.
The best time to visit Khecheopalri lake is between October to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant to explore the place to the fullest. In addition to beautiful weather, you can witness fairs and religious festivals in March and April.
Major Attractions Around Khecheopalri Lake Sikkim
Legends have it that Lord Shiva used to meditate in a cave close to the lake. Some people also believe that because the shape of the lake is like a footprint, it is the footprint of Lord Shiva himself, while the Buddhist followers believe that it’s the footprint of Goddess Tara.
Another fascinating fact about the lake is that no leaf ever floats on the surface even after being surrounded by lush green forest, because birds take them away as soon as any falls on it!
The way to the lake premises goes from a broad wooden passage that is adorned with prayer wheels and prayer flags on both sides. Visitors have to remove their shoes to walk through this passage and reach the lake.
Places to Visit Near Khecheopalri Lake Sikkim
Khecheopalri Lake is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. Here's the list of the places you can explore near Khecheopalri Lake.
1. Khecheopalri Village
Also known as monastery village, Khecheopalri village is an exotic place set in the lap of nature surrounded by picturesque views, hills, and forests. Besides the divine ambiance and scenic vistas, you can also have a thrilling experience while trekking and camping under the mystical sky of Khechheopalri village. From the village, you can also gaze at the magnificent Kanchenjunga mountain.
2. Kanchenjunga Waterfalls
The waterfall is one of the highest and the most beautiful in Sikkim, and you can’t call it a trip to Sikkim if you have returned without witnessing this enthralling beauty.
3. Tashi Choling Monastery
Located close to the Khecheopalri lake, this Buddhist monastery is a site that welcomes tourists and devotees alike. The tranquil ambiance, divine vibes, and heavenly surroundings make it perfect for some introspection and to spend some memorable moments with your loved ones.
How to Reach Khecheopalri Lake in Sikkim
From Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, you have to cover a distance of nearly 1600km, 2400km, 726km, and 2600km, respectively. Below we have compiled some best travel options that you may consider while planning an itinerary.
By Air. Bagdogra airport is the nearest to reach Khecheopalri Lake. From the airport, you can take a taxi to reach the lake which is nearly 140km away. Flights from all the domestic airlines arrive here and some of the direct flights from major cities have been listed below.
- From Delhi. SpiceJet, GoAir & Air India run non-stop flight from Delhi. The airfare starts from INR 3,700
- From Mumbai. Board IndiGo or SpiceJet flight from Mumbai. The airfare starts from INR 5,000
- From Kolkata. Board AirAsia flight from Kolkata. The airfare starts from INR 2,000
- From Bengaluru. Board SpiceJet from Bengaluru. The airfare starts from INR 4,000
By Road. You can arrive here via interstate-tourist buses or may drive in your vehicle. Traveling by road will allow you to witness the countryside landscapes, villages, and farms en route to Sikkim.
- From Gangtok. 154km via NH 10
- From Darjeeling. 95km via Nayabazar Legship Reshi Road
- From Siliguri. 155km via NH 10
- From Guwahati. 580km via NH 27
- From Patna. 613km via NH 27
By Rail. New Jalpaiguri railway station is where you must terminate your train journey to reach the Khecheopalri village. From the station, you can hire a taxi or get on a local bus to reach the lake, which is approximately 138km away. If you are looking for a comfortable and economical travel option, then opt for a train journey.
- From Delhi. Board NDLS DBRG SPL from Delhi and deboard at New Jalpaiguri
- From Mumbai. Board LTT GHY SPL from Lokmanyatilak station and deboard at New Jalpaiguri
- From Kolkata. Board Howrah GHY SPL from Howrah station and deboard at New Jalpaiguri
- From Bengaluru. Board BNC GHY EXP train from Bengaluru Cant station and deboard at New Jalpaiguri
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here.
