Sikkim Green Lakes Trek is one of the most picturesque and enthralling treks in north Sikkim. The trail combines natural beauty, majestic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other higher Himalayan peaks. North Sikkim is one of the famous adventure lovers’ destination in Sikkim. Also impressive natural scenery, lakes, lofty plains on mountains, waterfalls and colourful dense flora and fauna. The truly unimaginable majestic paradise for the visitors. The Green Lake trek begins from Lachen. The trail gives you amazing views of snow-capped mountains, colourful flowers like rhododendrons, primulas, magnolia, Blue poppies, rare wild Orchids and rivers. Green lake trek is suitable and perfect spot for Bird-watching and flowers. The Zemu glacier is the largest glacier in the Eastern Himalayas. The glacier drains on the east side of Kanchenjunga, world’s third highest peak. The Zemu glacier is the main source of Teesta River. Green lake trek is at the base of Mt. Kanchenjunga in a sprawling green landscape more than 5000 meters high. From Zemu glacier is quite close from Indo-Nepal border. In case you cross Zemu Glacier you will be in Taplejong district of Nepal. The approach from Sikkim via the Zemu Glacier, was followed instead. Pre-war Everest expeditions also passed through North Sikkim and this trail was part of their route. Today it is still largely unexplored region as not many parties have been allowed across to Green Lake. And you can enjoy staying in comfortable camps with all your requirement facilities with Black Yak Expedition. And we will organize start from Bagdogra Airport /NJP station.
Short Itinerary
Day 01: pickup from (N J P) New Jalpaiguri railway station / Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok (1,950.mtrs) 125km appx.
Day 02: Gangtok (1,630.mtrs) to Lachen(2750.mtrs) 123km, 6-7 hrs.
Day 03: Lachen (2,750.mtrs) to Tallem (3,468m) 5 to 6 hrs.
Day 04: Tallem (3,468.mtr) to Jakthang (3176m) 4 to 5 hrs.
Day 05: Jakthang (3,176.mtrs) to Yabuk (3,978m) 4 to 5 hrs.
Day 06: Yabuk (3,978.mtrs) to Rest Camp (4,570.mtrs) 5 hrs.
Day 07: Rest Camp (4,570.mtrs) to Green Lake (5,050.mtrs) 4 to5 hrs.
Day 08: Green Lake (5.050.mtrs) Rest day / (Excursion).
Day 09: Green Lake (5,050.mtrs) to Yabuk (3,978 meter).
Day 10: Yabuk (3,978 mtrs) to Jakthang (3,176.mtrs) 4 to 5 hrs.
Day 11: Jakthang (3,176.mtrs)to Lachen (2750.mtrs / 4 to 5 hrs.
Day 12: Lachen to Gangtok (1, 630.mtrs) 5 to 6 hrs.
Day 13: Gangtok (1,630.mtrs) NJP/ Bagdogra Airport(3 to 4 hrs drive.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : pickup from (N J P) New Jalpaiguri railway station / Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok (1,950.mtrs) 125km appx.
The nearest airport from Bagdogra around 125.km from Gangtok And nearest railway station from (NJP) around 120.km. Bagdogra airport and (NJP) are serves as the confluence point for many travellers. From here you can get connecting flights for many destinations.From airport helicopter service is available between Bagdogra and Gangtok around 35 minutes one way. Pick up from Bagdogra airport /NJP to Gantok 3 to 4 hours.The road routes from Bagdogra airport, NJP and Siliguri all meet at Sevoke Road which leads to the National Highway NH31A. The route passes through Teesta bazer and then all the way goes to Gangtok through Police Check Post at Rampo. Foreigners need Inner Line Permit (ILP). Our Guide, driver will help you get the necessary permits. From here take aTea and Snacks and then continue to drive toward Gangtok. Check into hotel. Evening is free.
Day 2 : Gangtok (1,630.mtrs) to Lachen(2750.mtrs) 123km, 6-7 hrs. Appx.
This day after breakfast drive from Gangtok to Lachen. It is around 6 to 7 hours. The journey will take you through various places of interest such as the Tashi View Point, Phodong Monastery, Kabi Longstok, Mangan and Chungthang. We take a lunch break at Mangan.Mangan is a small town at 1,185 mtrs. After lunch drive towards Chungthang. We still drive on the left alongside a big valley and river towards Lachen. Lachen is a small town at an elevation of 2,700 meters in North Sikkim. The name Lachen means big pass. The Lachen is one of the popular tourist destination in North Sikkim for Gurudongmar Lake, Green lake trek and Choktha valley. Lachen is approximately 123.Km from Gangtok. Drive around 6 to 7 hours. Lachen, quite close to the China border, serves as an excellent base for adventure lovers. The main occupation is agriculture and people mainly produce potatoes, cabbage and green peas during the summer. Here livelihood mainly depends upon agriculture and on tourism, besides herding cattle like Yaks and cows. Lachung remains as the highest inhabited Himalayan village in Sikkim and in winter months of January and February this village regularly receives snowfall. Lachen Village majorly has people from Bhutia community.
Day 3 : Lachen (2,750.mtrs) to Tallem (3,468m) 5 to 6 hrs.
After breakfast take a 30 minute drive from Lachen to the start point. The trek starts from Zemu towards Tallem with a gradual ascent alongside Zemu River and rhododendron forest towards west. Once you complete the climb through the forest to reach Tallem camp side you can have lunch and are free to explore the area. Overnight at camping.
Day 4 : Tallem (3,468.mtr) to Jakthang (3176m) 4 to 5 hrs.
This day trek is a fairly easy walk that you will cover within 4 to 5 hours. The trail is Paradise passing through at least twenty exotic classification colourful Rhododendron. Before Jakthang the trail crosses the Lhonak Valley. There is also a bridge to be crossed in the Muguthang valley. After walking through the forest to Shobuk the trail gradually descends towards your camp site. Overnight in camp.
Day 5 : Jakthang (3,176.mtrs) to Yabuk (3,978m) 4 to 5 hrs.
Today, start from Jakthang and make your way towards Yabuk through the familiar dense and magnificent rhododendron forests and streams. It is a well-defined trail that takes you to the snout of Zemu Glacier. The route further passes through several ascents and descents to reach the Yabuk campsite. Once there, freshen-up with a pleasant and leisurely walk around camp. Overnight stay in the camp.
Day 6 : Yabuk (3,978.mtrs) to Rest Camp (4,570.mtrs) 5 hrs.
This day brace yourself for a difficult trek through rough rocks and boulders towards to Rest Camp. Though the high altitude trek is a bit challenging, the spectacular views of snow-capped mountains such as the Mt Siniolchu and Simvo makes it worth the challenge. Mt.Siniolchu is one of the most beautiful peaks in Sikkim. And upon reaching the Rest Camp, retire for the day and settle down in the camping overnight in tents.
Day 7 : Rest Camp (4,570.mtrs) to Green Lake (5,050.mtrs) 4 to5 hrs.
Today, after breakfast you will embark on the most fascinating part of this trek to Green Lake. As you gain height you can expect a bit of a tricky terrain and challenges on the way. Along the entire trek you are served on a platter, astounding views of the Mt. Siniolchu, Mt.Simvo, Mt.Twin Peaks, peaks in Nepal and Mt.Kanchenjunga, that will keep you enthralled till you reach the Green Lake; overnight stay will be on the plains beside the lake.
Day 8 : Green Lake (5.050.mtrs) Rest day / (Excursion)
This day, whole day you will be surrounded by breath-taking sights of the majestic mountains and lush green meadows. Spend your day clicking photographs, taking walks or resting your tired body. Be rejuvenated for the remaining days of walking. Explore the kaleidoscopic surroundings of the lake and spend the night at the Green Lake camp.
Day 9 : Green Lake (5,050.mtrs) to Yabuk (3,978 meter)
This day after breakfast you will be trekking back to Yabuk. Follow the trails that you have traced since last few days and trek downhill to the reach the Yabuk campsite. Overnight at camp.
Day 10 : Yabuk (3,978 mtrs) to Jakthang (3,176.mtrs) / 4 to 5 hrs) (Camping)
After breakfast camp move down to Jakthang the route offer majestic views of impressive or beautiful natural rhododendron scenery. And proceed towards Jakthang. The journey will give you joy, satisfaction and enjoyment. The trail will take you through rare and exotic flora and fauna towards Jakthang camp side. Overnight in camp.
Day 11 : Jakthang (3,176.mtrs)to Lachen (2750.mtrs / 4 to 5 hrs) (Camping)
This day walk is gradual and easy. It will take around 4 to 5 hours towards Lachen. The trail offers you amazing views, natural beauty, colourful dense flora and fauna. The truly unimaginable majestic paradise for the visitors.This last day of trekking is a memorable experience. Overnight in hotel. You will be free in the evening to visit Lachen village and monastery.
Day 12 : Lachen to Gangtok (1,630.mtrs) 5 to 6 hrs.
After having breakfast, we depart for Gangtok. Ideally it should not take more than 6 to 7 hours. And it is advisable to start early since it is a long drive. We suggest you pack the luggage in advance before starting on your journey. And Lunch can be enjoyed at Magan Bazar. After having lunch, continue your drive towards Gangtok. Overnight stay at the hotel. In the evening, free time for Shopping/marketing.
Day 13: Gangtok (1,630.mtrs) NJP/ Bagdogra Airport(3 to 4 hrs drive)
After having breakfast, we depart to NJP or Bagdogra Airport depending upon the trekker’s mode of transportation to their respective homes. It is advisable to start early since it is a long drive. We suggest you pack the luggage in advance before starting on your journey. The distance from NJP/ Bagdogra airport is 125 kilometres which ideally should not take more than 3 to 4 hours. Lunch can be enjoyed at Siliguri after having lunch, continue your drive to your destination at the N J P/Bagdogra Airport.
Please contact us directly through phone or email us through filling up the enquiry form for the Best Rates and Availability. The rates depend on Number of people and the minimum required number of the person for the trek. The more the number of trekkers the better the Price. The given rates will be based on per head per day basis which will include all the necessary facilities required during the trek from the point of start to the end. We arrange up to the maximum number of 60 people and minimum should not be less than 2 people.
We provide considerable rates for the bigger group, Student Group, Religious Group and Senior Citizens. The rate is based on quality service requested by groups. Do email us info@blackyakexpeditionsgmail.comto know the special prices and services provided.
PRICE INCLUDE AND EXCLUDE
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN PRICE
1: 2 nights in the standard hotel at Yuksom (MAP plan).
2: Accommodation during the trek (camping/guest house).
3: All meals – vegetarian (starting from dinner at Yuksom and ending with breakfast at Yuksom.
4: Meals while on trek (Veg& Egg).
5: Trekking permits and forest camping charges.
6: Accommodation on trek Trekking equipment (sleeping tents 2 Or 3 man Dom, Dining tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, sleeping bags walking stick etc.
7: Safety equipment (first aid, medical kit, oxygen cylinders, stretcher, etc.
8: Services of an expert trek leader (qualified in basic/advanced mountaineering courses).
9: Services of an expert trek team (guides, cooks, helpers, porters/mules.
10: Transport from N J P / Bagdogra airport to Yuksam and return.
Note: Normally other company charges extra for uploading Bag Pack, but black yak expeditions allow up to 10 kg free. More than 10 kg you have to pay ₹. 250/- per day per bag pack.
If you have bag packs weighing more than 10 kg than you can give it to the yaks or horses prior to the trek before leaving arranged exclusively for the trek. The back pack cannot weigh more than 10 kgs. No suitcases/trolleys’/duffel bags will be allowed.
Withdrawing cash: If you are intended to visit places like Yuksam for Goechala Trek or Dzongri Trek or sightseeing then don’t expect for withdrawing cash in Yuksam because Yuksam does not have ATM services till updated the year 2021.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
1: We do not provide travel insurance except for any Expeditions.
2: Food during transport is not included (pick up point to and from the base camp to drop point)
3: Alcohol, Soft Drinks, bottled water
4: Anything Not Specifically Mentioned Under the Head.
5: Any costs arising out of unforeseen Circumstances like Landslides, Road Blocks, Bad weather, etc.
6: External purchase you make during your travel or on trek routes like food, local crafts or drinks.
7: Itinerary includes transport for pick up and drops yet if you do not want then you can exclude this option) Transport to and from the base camp (N J P/Bagdogra airport to Yuksom and return)
8: Any charges for carrying still/video cameras etc.
9: Personal expenses of any kind.
10: Anything apart from the inclusions.
11: Tips for guides, cooks or trekking staffs and telephone calls, laundry, etc.
If you are trekking with Black Yak Expeditions
Arrive at (NJP) Railway Station, Siliguri or Bagdogra airport by 9 am (on your own)
Black Yak Expeditions will arrange pick-up vehicles from NJP railway station and Bagdogra airport to Gangtok, we provide luxury vehicles like INNOVA, ZXILO or normal vehicles like TATA SUMO GOULD, BOLERO, etc. And mini cab suitable for 2 or three family with light travel bags like, Wagoner, Alto etc. We cannot arrange shared jeeps because it is not reliable. Above all there are no direct shared jeeps to certain parts of Sikkim from pick up points. You have to break down your points while taking shared jeeps. For example, if you are traveling to Gangtok Green Lake Trek or Lhaba-Pass Trek – Tarangchu Hot Spring Trek there are no direct shared jeeps from New Jalpaiguri Railway station NJP or Bagdogra Airport. First you have to reach silliguri junction from there you have to take a vehicle to Gangtok. Gangtok is a big business town or main point that connects to most part of Sikkim.) Even though if you reach Gangtok than here comes another challenging part that is all the regular shared jeeps that comes to Gangtok from many pert and Leave within 2:00 pm. So you have to be there within 1:00 or 2:00 an. Even after that there is no 100% guaranteed that you will get the shared jeeps because it is pre booked by locals by call and you should also keep one thing in mind that in tourist season most of the vehicles are pre-booked. So thinking about shared jeeps is not good at first place.
Transport is arranged in a Tata Sumo (or similar vehicle). Each cab costs Rs. 5000/-
If you request pre booking for pick up and drop along with trek or tour package than this statement is not applicable to you since Black Yak Expeditions will pay for the charges but in case if you have not asked for pick up and drop facilities than you should know that the transportation cost is additional, to be shared among the trekkers and paid directly to the drivers. On the day of pickup at least do your best to be present at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport within 9:00 Am or 10:00 it is good It takes around 3 to 4 hours’ maximum time from New Jalpaiguri Railway station NJP or Bagdogra airport to Gangtok.
GETTING BACK:
Depart from Gangtok early morning.
Black yak expeditions we will arrange reserved vehicle to drop trekkers to NJP railway station or Bagdogra airport. The transportation cost from Yuksom to NJP/Bagdogra is additional, to be shared among trekkers and paid directly to the driver.
The approximately cost for reserved vehicle is Rs. 5,000/-
Expected arrival time at NJP/Bagdogra is 5 pm. It is wise for you to book your train/flight tickets late in the evening to give you enough buffer time. Or Plan extra days in your itinerary to avoid busy schedule.