Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake)
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a captivating gem nestled in the mountains of Sikkim, about 40 km from Gangtok. This glacial lake, perched at an altitude of 12,310 feet, offers visitors an mesmerising view of snow-capped peaks, cliffs, and valleys.
Tsomgo’s crystal-clear waters mirror the ever-shifting sky, creating a kaleidoscopic display of colors that intertwine seamlessly with the rugged mountain backdrop. Yak rides along the lakeshore add a touch of local charm, allowing travelers to delve deeper into this reimagined highland experience.
There are small eateries that beckon with steaming cups of tea and delicious regional snacks. The lake is especially enchanting in winter when a crucible of snow and ice transforms the area into a pristine labyrinth of white.
Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, also known as Baba Mandir, is a revered shrine in Sikkim dedicated to the memory of Baba Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier who has become a local legend. Located at an altitude of around 13,123 feet, between Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass, this unique memorial is a powerful symbol of courage and spiritual mystique.
Baba Harbhajan Singh was a soldier of the 23rd Punjab Regiment who, as the story goes, met an untimely end in 1968 while escorting a mule caravan. He reportedly fell into a fast-flowing stream, and despite extensive searches, his body was discovered days later. The legend says that Harbhajan Singh appeared in the dreams of fellow soldiers, guiding them to the location of his body and asking them to build a shrine in his memory.
Soldiers serving at the Indo-China border have reported unusual events they attribute to Baba’s spiritual presence. Many believe he continues to watch over and protect the troops stationed in the area.
Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass on the Indo-China border in Sikkim, located about 56 km from Gangtok. Situated at an elevation of 14,140 feet, Nathula is renowned for its breathtaking views, strategic importance, and unique history. This pass was a part of the ancient Silk Route, which connected India to Tibet, making it a significant corridor for trade and cultural exchange.
Nathula is one of the few places where visitors can stand close to the actual Indo-China border, marked by a barbed-wire fence and guarded by both Indian and Chinese soldiers. Visitors can sometimes witness the ceremonial exchange between border guards, which is an extraordinary experience.