Attraction
An oval lake at about 3,750 metres, held sacred locally and frozen over in winter. Yaks are brought down to the shore for photographs, at a price agreed before you sit on one. Permits are checked at the barrier below.
Attractions in Tsomgo Lake & Nathula Pass
3 places to see, with what each one is and how long it takes.
Viewpoint
The high-altitude international border gate at 4,310 metres on the Silk Road, featuring a victory monument and direct visibility of Chinese outposts.
Attraction
A military shrine built in honour of a legendary soldier, kept up by the Indian Army high in the mountains.
Elsewhere in Sikkim
Not in Tsomgo Lake & Nathula Pass — these are in other towns across the state.
Attraction
Founded in 1958, holding one of the largest collections of Tibetan manuscripts outside Tibet along with thangkas and ritual bronzes. Quiet enough to take your time in; check the day's opening hours before making the trip.
Experience
The starting point for the multi-day Dzongri and Goecha La treks toward Kanchenjunga.
Market
The immaculate, vehicle-free public square walkway lined with international multi-cuisine restaurants, local handicraft emporiums, and cafes.
Attraction
A large multi-storey Tibetan Buddhist monastery 24 km away, and the principal international seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage.