The north Sikkim is
considered as the most beautiful and scenic area of Sikkim. In beauty, it is
compared to Switzerland, a remark given by a European guest of the late king
several decades ago. This legend still lives and one can find it mentioned in
various brochures and guide books. The exquisite scenery of this region gives
an experience to be cherished forever.
Lachung is an idyllic mountain village nestled in a fertile
valley with lush vegetation and apple orchards. A river traverses its basin and
there are lofty peaks on both sides. Earlier Lachung was the ideal weekend
getaway for those local people who had the appropriate connections to acquire a
temporary permit to enter this restricted zone. Now the entry procedures have
relaxed and visitors from nearby and distant areas have easy access to this
village. This village, located at 2550m, is a must-see spot for holidaymakers.
On the western side of the village, there is
an immense rock-face towering above slopes of the valley whereas on the eastern
side there is a forested hill rising between ranges of uneven snow capped
peaks. It is a tranquil place, with painted cottages spread in the beautiful
landscape and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. A beautiful river Lachung
Chu emerges from the melting snow lying high above. The village is spread on both
the sides of the river. At some time, Lachung was very famous for Cox’s apples
but at present, it has lost this distinction with the changing generation.
Nevertheless you can still find some trees, which flower radiantly in spring
but remain barren and leafless in winter.
Families residing here still prize their yaks.
The yak herders still follow the age old tradition of migrating with the herd
in search of green pastures and for keeping them away from heavily snowed up
areas. In winter the yaks driven down to lower altitudes and in summer, they
move high up into the remote Tibetan Plateau. The village has retained its unique
self-government system known as ‘Dzumsa’. In this system a headman called the ‘Pipon’ is
elected to preside the community where all disputes are settled in a very
democratic manner.Get Holidays to Sikkim in very affordable price.The Lachung monastery is also a worth see here. It
is known for the famous mask dance festival celebrated very year prior to the
Sikkimese New Year, Losoong. It has an important role in the spiritual life of the
native Lachungpa.
