After remaining closed for four years, Sikkim’s Green Lake Trek has reopened, bringing back access to one of the eastern Himalayas’ most striking trekking routes. Located in North Sikkim, the trail takes trekkers through remote mountain settlements, dense forests, glacial landscapes and spectacular views of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain. Its reopening is significant for adventure tourism in the region, although visitors will need to plan carefully given the route’s high altitude, restricted access and demanding terrain.
Green Lake Trek Reopens After Four Years
The Green Lake Trek officially reopened on October 31, 2026, with support from the Lachen Dzumsa, the traditional administrative body of Lachen, and local trekking operator Khangri Tours, Treks and Expedition. The reopening followed a four-year closure, restoring access to one of North Sikkim's most significant high-altitude trekking routes.
A seven-member Russian team became the first group to complete the reopened trail. The expedition concluded on November 8, 2026, bringing renewed attention to Sikkim's potential as an international adventure tourism destination.
The trek leads to Green Lake, a glacial lake at approximately 5,050 metres above sea level, located near the base of Mount Kanchenjunga. It is also regarded as the base camp for expeditions to the mountain's eastern face.
The route is known for its views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Siniolchu and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Trekkers pass through alpine forests, open meadows and rhododendron-covered slopes. The region's biodiversity includes rare orchids, primulas and blue poppies, while wildlife sightings can include Himalayan blue sheep and, more rarely, red pandas and snow leopards.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Green Lake?
According to Sikkim tourism, the two recommended trekking windows are April to June and September to November.
April to June: Spring brings flowering rhododendrons, alpine plants and relatively favourable conditions for mountain views.
September to November: The post-monsoon period generally offers clearer skies and better visibility of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The trek is graded moderate to challenging, with its high altitude and rugged terrain making physical preparation essential. The route begins at Lachen, approximately 107 km from Gangtok, and takes around 10–12 days to complete.
At 5,050 metres, Green Lake presents considerable altitude-related challenges. Trekkers should build cardiovascular fitness and endurance well before departure. Running, cycling, swimming and preparatory hikes at elevations above 3,000 metres can help with acclimatisation and stamina. Carrying suitable cold-weather clothing, waterproof outerwear, sturdy trekking boots, personal medication and a first-aid kit is also important.
Green Lake Trek: A Day-Wise Route Guide
The Green Lake Trek takes approximately 10–12 days, depending on the itinerary. The route begins with a drive from Bagdogra to Gangtok, followed by a journey into North Sikkim through Lachen and Thangu. The trekking section leads towards Green Lake, at an altitude of approximately 5,050 metres, near the base of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Here is the 12-day itinerary:
Day 1: Bagdogra to Gangtok
Day 2: Gangtok to Lachen
An early morning drive takes trekkers from Gangtok to Lachen, covering approximately 107 km in five to six hours. The route follows the North Sikkim highway, passing villages, forests, waterfalls and rivers. At an altitude of 2,750 metres, Lachen serves as an important acclimatisation stop before the trek. Overnight stay in a local guesthouse.
Day 3: Lachen to Thangu
The next leg covers approximately 30 km and takes two to three hours by road. The drive to Thangu, at 3,500 metres, passes through alpine meadows and forested landscapes. Trekkers can spend the remainder of the day getting accustomed to the higher altitude. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Day 4: Thangu to Green Lake Base Camp
The first major trekking stage covers approximately 12–15 km and takes five to six hours. The trail climbs through alpine meadows, rivers and rugged mountain terrain towards Green Lake Base Camp, at approximately 4,500 metres. Trekkers can expect views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Siniolchu and neighbouring Himalayan peaks. Overnight camping at the base camp.
Day 5: Exploring Green Lake
This day is dedicated to exploring Green Lake and its surroundings. Trekkers can take in views of snow-covered peaks, glaciers and wildflower meadows, and spend time photographing the landscape and exploring the area on foot. They return to the base camp for the night.
Day 6: Green Lake Base Camp to Thangu
The return trek covers approximately 12–15 km and takes five to six hours. Trekkers retrace their route through the alpine meadows towards Thangu, descending to approximately 3,500 metres. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Day 7: Thangu to Lachen
A two-to-three-hour drive covers the 30 km journey back to Lachen, at 2,750 metres. The day is reserved for rest after the high-altitude expedition. Overnight stay in Lachen.
Day 8: Lachen to Gangtok
Trekkers return to Gangtok, covering approximately 107 km in five to six hours. After reaching the capital, they can explore attractions such as Tashi Viewpoint and the Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Day 9: Gangtok to Yumthang Valley
The itinerary includes an additional excursion to Yumthang Valley, approximately 120 km from Gangtok, involving a six-to-seven-hour drive. A stop at Singhik Viewpoint offers views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding mountains. Yumthang, at approximately 3,500 metres, is known for its hot springs and rhododendron blooms. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Day 10: Yumthang to Lachung
A 25 km drive, taking approximately two to three hours, connects Yumthang with Lachung, at 2,700 metres. Trekkers can explore the village, known for its alpine scenery, monasteries and rivers. Overnight stay in Lachung.
Day 11: Lachung to Gangtok
The return journey to Gangtok covers approximately 108 km and takes five to six hours. The evening can be spent exploring the capital's markets and picking up local souvenirs. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Day 12: Departure from Gangtok
After breakfast, travellers depart Gangtok for Bagdogra or their onward destination, bringing the expedition to a close.
What Permits Do You Need For The Green Lake Trek?
Green Lake falls within a restricted area of North Sikkim, which means trekkers cannot undertake the expedition independently without the required permissions.
According to the Sikkim Tourism Department, the trekking permit is issued by its Adventure Cell, subject to clearances from the Forest Department, Home Department and Army. Applications must be made through a registered travel agency.
The state also has a Protected Area Permit (PAP) framework for access to restricted destinations. Foreign nationals need the requisite PAP to enter or travel within Sikkim's restricted areas. The application requirements differ according to nationality and the area being visited.
For Indian travellers, the Green Lake Trek's specific departmental clearances and trekking permit remain essential. It is advisable to approach a Sikkim Tourism-registered trekking operator well in advance to coordinate the paperwork, route arrangements, and permissions.
FAQs
1. Has the Green Lake Trek in Sikkim reopened?
Yes. The Green Lake Trek reopened on October 31, 2026, after remaining closed for four years. A seven-member Russian team was the first group to complete the reopened route.
2. Where is the Green Lake Trek located?
The Green Lake Trek is in North Sikkim, near Mount Kanchenjunga. The glacial lake is situated at approximately 5,050 metres above sea level.
3. What is the best time to visit Green Lake in Sikkim?
April to June and September to November are considered the best periods for the trek. Spring brings flowering alpine vegetation, while the post-monsoon months generally provide clearer mountain views.
4. What permits are required for the Green Lake Trek?
Trekkers need special trekking permissions from the Sikkim Tourism Department's Adventure Cell, along with clearances from the Forest, Home and Army authorities. Applications should be coordinated through a registered trekking operator.
5. How many days does the Green Lake Trek take?
The expedition generally takes around 10–12 days. The published 12-day itinerary includes travel from Bagdogra to Gangtok, the journey through Lachen and Thangu, the trek to Green Lake and additional excursions to Yumthang Valley and Lachung.
