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Sikkim\u2019s high-altitude Green Lake Trek has officially reopened to trekkers after a four-year suspension. The route was relaunched with support from the Lachen Dzumsa\u2014the traditional self-governing body of Lachen\u2014and local expedition operator Khangri Tours, Treks and Expedition. To mark the reopening, a seven-member Russian expedition led by Andrei Fedorovich set out on October 31, 2026, completing the high-altitude route on November 9 alongside local trek guide Shumiran Rai and a regional support crew.<\/p>\n
For trekkers planning to put the trail back on their radar, here is everything to know about the Green Lake Trek, from route logistics and altitude to permits and the best season to visit.<\/p>\n
What and where is the Green Lake Trek?<\/strong><\/p>\n Located inside Khangchendzonga National Park in North Sikkim, Green Lake sits at an elevation of roughly 5,000 metres (around 16,400 feet). Historically used as the traditional base camp for mountaineering expeditions attempting the eastern face of Mount Kangchenjunga, the glacial basin offers close-range views of Kangchenjunga, Mount Siniolchu, Simvo, and surrounding peaks without the heavy footfall of Sikkim\u2019s more commercialised trails.<\/p>\n The trail and route<\/strong><\/p>\n Unlike the popular Goechala trek in West Sikkim, the Green Lake trail cuts deep into the remote valleys of North Sikkim. The journey begins from Gangtok with a drive to Lachen (around 2,750 metres), which serves as the acclimatisation base. From Lachen, the out-and-back trek starts near Zema and follows the Zema Chu and Lhonak Chu rivers through dense rhododendron, conifer, and birch forests before opening into alpine meadows and glacial moraines.<\/p>\n Key campsites along the route include Tallem, Jakthang, Yabuk, and Rest Camp before reaching the Green Lake basin, returning along the same trail. Depending on acclimatisation days, the entire itinerary spans 10 to 12 days round-trip from Gangtok.<\/p>\n Permits and regulations<\/strong><\/p>\n Because the route lies inside a protected biosphere reserve and close to the Indo-China border, independent or solo trekking is strictly prohibited. Both Indian and foreign trekkers must book through a registered Sikkim tour operator. Foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a Protected Area Permit (PAP), while Indian nationals require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) alongside forest department clearance and approval from the Lachen Dzumsa. A minimum group size is required for permit approval.<\/p>\n Difficulty level and preparation<\/strong><\/p>\n Graded as a strenuous high-altitude trek, the Green Lake route demands strong cardiovascular fitness and prior experience at elevations above 4,000 metres. Days involve sustained climbs across rocky moraine terrain, river crossings, and sub-zero night temperatures at higher camps. Building in proper acclimatisation stops in Lachen and lower camps is essential to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).<\/p>\n Best time to visit<\/strong><\/p>\n The trek operates during two primary Himalayan windows. Autumn (October to November) is widely considered the best season for clear skies, dry trails, and unobstructed views of the Kangchenjunga massif. Spring (April to May) offers milder daytime temperatures and blooming rhododendron and magnolia forests along the lower valleys, though snow can linger near the higher moraines.<\/p>\n Monsoon months (June to September) are avoided due to heavy rainfall and landslide risks in North Sikkim, while extreme winter snow closes the upper passes between December and March.<\/p>\n