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Detailed Overview: Lampokhari Lake, also widely known as Aritar Lake, is one of the oldest and most beautiful natural lakes in Sikkim, situated at an altitude of about 4,600 feet. What makes this lake exceptionally unique is its distinct boot shape, which is clearly visible from higher viewpoints li ke Mankhim. Surrounded by lush green pine and fir forests, the lake offers a tranquil escape from the high-altitude cold of the upper Silk Route. Unlike many other high-altitude lakes in the region that are often frozen or inaccessible, Lampokhari is a vibrant ecosystem that supports boating throughout the year. The lake has been recently developed with a man-made embankment and a pathway that allows tourists to walk entirely around its perimeter, offering different perspectives of the emerald-green waters. The reflection of the towering pine trees in the water creates a serene and magical atmosphere. Historically, the lake was a natural catchment, but local authorities have beautified it to promote eco-tourism in the Aritar region. A small shrine dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava is located on its banks, adding a touch of spirituality to the natural beauty. The lake is the centerpiece of the annual Lampokhari Tourism Festival, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the local communities. The surrounding area is home to a variety of bird species, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers. The calm waters of the lake are perfect for paddle boating, providing a relaxing experience for families and couples alike. The proximity to the Aritar Dak Bungalow and the Mankhim temple makes it a central hub for sightseeing in the lower Silk Route circuit. The weather here is generally pleasant compared to the freezing heights of Zuluk or Nathang, making it an ideal first or last stop on a Silk Route itinerary. The combination of dense greenery, historical structures, and the calm lake water makes Lampokhari a gem of East Sikkim. It serves as a reminder of the diverse landscapes found within the state, transitioning from the rugged high mountains to the lush, temperate forests of the foothills.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Ideal Stay: 3 to 4 Hours for boating and walking; 1 to 2 Nights to explore the Aritar region fully.Place Type:
Category: Natural Lake, Adventure, Eco-Tourism,Entry Fees:
Nominal Entry Fee: A small fee of Rs. 20 to 50 is charged for lake maintenance.
Boating Charges: Paddle boating costs approximately Rs. 100 to 150 per boat for a 30-minute session. ...Nominal Entry Fee: A small fee of Rs. 20 to 50 is charged for lake maintenance.
Boating Charges: Paddle boating costs approximately Rs. 100 to 150 per boat for a 30-minute session.Timing:
Regular Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for boating and visiting the monastery.
Ideal Visit Time: Late morning or early afternoon when the sun is bright and the water looks most green. ...Regular Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for boating and visiting the monastery.
Ideal Visit Time: Late morning or early afternoon when the sun is bright and the water looks most green.Special Events:
Lampokhari Tourism Festival: Held annually in April, this event features traditional music, ethnic food stalls, and archery competitions.
Sakewa Celebrations: The local Rai community gathers at the lake for rituals, showcasing their rich cul...Lampokhari Tourism Festival: Held annually in April, this event features traditional music, ethnic food stalls, and archery competitions.
Sakewa Celebrations: The local Rai community gathers at the lake for rituals, showcasing their rich cultural heritage through dance and songs.Best Photo Spots:
The Mankhim Watchtower: This is the only place to capture the perfect boot shape of the lake. Use a wide-angle lens to include the surrounding pine forests.
The Boat Jetty: The colorful paddle boats against the emerald water create a vibran...The Mankhim Watchtower: This is the only place to capture the perfect boot shape of the lake. Use a wide-angle lens to include the surrounding pine forests.
The Boat Jetty: The colorful paddle boats against the emerald water create a vibrant and lively composition for social media.
The Pine Forest Trail: The sun filtering through the tall trees creates beautiful light patterns (God rays) that are perfect for moody photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Paddle Boating on the Lake: The most popular activity is renting a paddle boat and exploring the emerald waters of Lampokhari. The lake is calm, and the surrounding pine trees provide a beautiful backdrop. It is a peaceful way to spend an hour in the lap of nature.
Nature Walk Around the Perimeter: A well-laid path surrounds the lake, making it easy for people of all ages to enjoy a scenic walk. The path is about 500 meters long and offers multiple benches to sit and soak in the views. It is particularly beautiful in the morning when the mist rises from the water.
Visiting the Aritar Gumpa: Take a short uphill walk to the Aritar Gumpa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region. The peaceful environment and the beautiful Buddhist architecture provide a spiritual break. You can light butter...Paddle Boating on the Lake: The most popular activity is renting a paddle boat and exploring the emerald waters of Lampokhari. The lake is calm, and the surrounding pine trees provide a beautiful backdrop. It is a peaceful way to spend an hour in the lap of nature.
Nature Walk Around the Perimeter: A well-laid path surrounds the lake, making it easy for people of all ages to enjoy a scenic walk. The path is about 500 meters long and offers multiple benches to sit and soak in the views. It is particularly beautiful in the morning when the mist rises from the water.
Visiting the Aritar Gumpa: Take a short uphill walk to the Aritar Gumpa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region. The peaceful environment and the beautiful Buddhist architecture provide a spiritual break. You can light butter lamps and seek blessings from the lamas.
Exploring the Aritar Dak Bungalow: Visit this 19th-century colonial building to admire its classic architecture. The wooden floors and stone walls tell stories of the British officers who once stayed here. The bungalow also offers a great view of the valley below.
Attending the Lampokhari Festival: If you visit in April, you can participate in the annual tourism festival. It is a great opportunity to enjoy local folk dances, taste authentic Sikkimese cuisine, and buy traditional handicrafts from the local stalls.
Birdwatching in the Pine Forest: The dense forests around the lake are home to many species of Himalayan birds. Carry a pair of binoculars and look for the Green-backed Tit or the Fire-breasted Flowerpecker. The quiet environment makes it easy to hear their calls.
Picnicking at Love Dara: Spend a quiet afternoon at Love Dara, a scenic spot near the lake. It is an ideal place for families to sit together and enjoy a meal amidst the greenery. The spot offers a beautiful view of the hills and the lake.
Information
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Why Famous:
Unique Shape: Lampokhari is the only boot-shaped lake in Sikkim, making it a curiosity for geography enthusiasts and photographers.
Boating Hub: It is the only natural lake in Sikkim that provides organized paddle boating facilities for tour...Unique Shape: Lampokhari is the only boot-shaped lake in Sikkim, making it a curiosity for geography enthusiasts and photographers.
Boating Hub: It is the only natural lake in Sikkim that provides organized paddle boating facilities for tourists.
British Heritage: The nearby Dak Bungalow is a relic of the British Raj, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the location.
Cultural Festival: The Lampokhari Tourism Festival held here is a major draw for tourists interested in local music, dance, and food.
Spiritual Calm: The presence of the Aritar Gumpa and the peaceful atmosphere make it a famous retreat for meditation and relaxation. -
Architecture:
Architectural Style:
British Colonial & Modern Eco-Design: The area around Lampokhari Lake features a mix of 19th-century British influences and modern tourism infrastructure.
Structural Dimension: The lake i...Architectural Style:
British Colonial & Modern Eco-Design: The area around Lampokhari Lake features a mix of 19th-century British influences and modern tourism infrastructure.
Structural Dimension: The lake is approximately 1,120 feet long and 240 feet wide, featuring a man-made walking path of 500 meters.
The Dak Bungalow: A nearby landmark built in 1896 by Sir James Claude White, showcasing classic colonial stone masonry and wooden rafters.
Modern Embankments: The lake is reinforced with concrete embankments and a pedestrian pathway designed to prevent soil erosion while providing access to boats.
Spiritual Structure: A small, colorful Buddhist shrine dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava sits on the bank, featuring traditional pagoda-style architecture and vibrant murals. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Pakyong Airport is just 35 Kms away, making it very accessible. Bagdogra is about 115 Kms away.
By Train: NJP station is roughly 110 Kms from the lake, a drive of about 4 to 5 hours.
By Road: From Z...By Air: Pakyong Airport is just 35 Kms away, making it very accessible. Bagdogra is about 115 Kms away.
By Train: NJP station is roughly 110 Kms from the lake, a drive of about 4 to 5 hours.
By Road: From Zuluk, it is a downward drive of 42 Kms. If coming from Siliguri, the route via Rhenock is the most common.
By Local Transport: Shared taxis are available from Rhenock to Aritar. For a more comfortable trip, a private cab from Gangtok or Siliguri is recommended.
Road Condition: The roads to Aritar are generally in better condition than the higher reaches of the Silk Route, allowing for smoother travel. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Summer (April to June): The weather is pleasant, and the Lampokhari Festival makes it a vibrant time to visit.
Autumn (October to December): Great for clear mountain views and peaceful walks around the lake.
Mon...Summer (April to June): The weather is pleasant, and the Lampokhari Festival makes it a vibrant time to visit.
Autumn (October to December): Great for clear mountain views and peaceful walks around the lake.
Monsoon (July to September): The lake is at its fullest, and the surrounding greenery is incredibly lush, though roads can be tricky.
Late Afternoon: A beautiful time for boating as the sun sets behind the pine trees. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Mankhim (2 Kms), 2. Aritar Gumpa (1 Km), 3. Dak Bungalow (1. 5 Kms), 4. Que Khola Falls (15 Kms), 5. Reshikhola (18 Kms), 6. Rhenock (5 Kms), 7. Lingtum (30 Kms), 8. Pedong (25 Kms), 9. Sillery Gaon (35 Kms), 10. Zuluk (42 Kms).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The altitude is moderate, but carry basic medicines for motion sickness during the drive.
Packing: Light woolens for the evening and a good pair of walking shoes for the lake perimeter.
Accommod...Health & Safety: The altitude is moderate, but carry basic medicines for motion sickness during the drive.
Packing: Light woolens for the evening and a good pair of walking shoes for the lake perimeter.
Accommodation: Many good homestays and the Dak Bungalow are available in Aritar.
Cash & Connectivity: Rhenock (5 Kms away) has the nearest ATM. Mobile network (Airtel/Jio) is generally good.
Boating Tip: Wear a life jacket provided by the operators; the lake is deep in some parts.
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