Thangu Valley

thangu-header

Thangu Valley is located at an altitude of about 13000 feet and about 30 kilometers north of Lachen. Since it is located at a high altitude, the place remains snow covered for most of the time. The tranquil and serene valley of Thangu looks like a carpet of flowers during the months of May and June. The whole landscape turns into a valley of snow from the months of October till March. Thangu Valley’s alpine meadows are dotted with wooden houses and army camps. The calm water of River Teesta flowing through the valley presents a fantastic contrast. Mostly inhabited by the Nomadic tribes, Thangu Valley is trespassed and crisscrossed by a number of streams and rivulets, the most important of them are Chopta Chu, Thangu Chu and Lassur Chu.

 

Attractions of Thangu Valley, North Sikkim

Thangu has a large military base as the place is close to the Chinese border. It lies midway between Lachen and Gurudongmar Lake. The Gurudongmar Lake, located at an altitude of more than 5000 meters, is filled with crystal clear water during the months of June-July. By October the water starts freezing and during winter the lake resembles a sheet of ice. One of the important rivers in Sikkim, Teesta, originates from a place called Cho Lhamu, which is close to Thangu. An annual Yak race is organized in the region and is quite popular with tourists.

 

Things to do at Thangu Valley, North Sikkim

You won’t have to remain idle at Thangu. Activate your muscles and rejuvenate your spirit by taking short treks. Thangu has become an important point where trekkers acclimatize before proceeding for the trek to Chopta Valley, Green Lake or Muguthang. These trekking routes attract a lot of adventure seekers both from India and abroad. The streams flowing through Thangu provide ample opportunities for river rafting and fishing. Bird watchers will not be disheartened. Keep your camera ready for the colorful and attractive birds that roam about the place. On your way to Gurudongmar Lake, this is the last civilian settlement. If you are not an Indian, your tour to the area will be limited to a visit to Chopta Valley which is just a couple of kilometers ahead from here.

 

Best time to visit at Thangu Valley, North Sikkim

The best time to visit Thangu is March – April.