- Where
- Above Lachen village, North Sikkim
- Altitude
- About 2,750 m
- Distance
- Short drive or walk from Lachen village; about 110–120 km from Gangtok
- Timings
- Roughly daylight hours
- Entry fee
- Free; donations welcome
- Permit
- North Sikkim permit needed
- Best time
- March–June and October–December
- Time needed
- 30–45 minutes
Lachen Monastery, also called Ngodub Choling, is the village gompa of Lachen, the overnight stop for Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley. It belongs to the Nyingma school and has a calm prayer hall with murals and statues.
Visiting
Gurudongmar trips leave Lachen before dawn, so visit the monastery on the evening you arrive, or on the way back. Remove shoes before entering the hall and ask before taking photos.
How to reach
Lachen is about 110–120 km from Gangtok, 6–7 hours via Mangan and Chungthang. A North Sikkim permit, arranged by a registered tour operator, is required.
Lachen Monastery: questions travellers ask
Is there an entry fee at Lachen Monastery?
No. Entry is free; donations are welcome.
When should I visit Lachen Monastery?
On the evening you reach Lachen, since Gurudongmar trips start before dawn the next day.
Do I need a permit for Lachen?
Yes, a North Sikkim permit arranged through a registered operator.
Which school does Lachen Monastery belong to?
The Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism.
Sources
Timings and fees change. Check on the day, or ask us when you book.
