Menmecho Lake, Sikkim – Offbeat Himalayan Gem, Best Time & Travel Guide
Hidden deep in the forests of East Sikkim, Menmecho Lake is one of the region’s most enchanting high-altitude lakes. Tucked away at 12,500 ft (3,810 m), about 60 km from Gangtok, this secluded gem is surrounded by pine forests, snow-fed streams, and mountain slopes that change colors with the seasons. Unlike its more popular neighbor Tsomgo Lake, Menmecho remains relatively unexplored, making it a paradise for travelers who love peace, raw beauty, and offbeat destinations.
Quick Facts: Menmecho Lake
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East Sikkim, about 20 km ahead of Tsomgo Lake |
| Altitude | 12,500 ft (3,810 m) |
| Lake Type | Glacial, fed by snow and streams from Jelep La Pass |
| Best Time to Visit | May – June & October – November |
| Winter Experience | Frozen and inaccessible due to heavy snow (Dec–Mar) |
| Permits Required | Yes (Protected Area Permit via tour operators) |
| Nearby Attractions | Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Kupup Valley |
| Distance from Gangtok | ~60 km (3–4 hours by road) |
| Specialty | Breeding ground of trout fish |
| Activities | Photography, trout fishing (with permits), camping |
About Menmecho Lake
Menmecho Lake is fed by streams from the Jelep La Pass and remains one of the most pristine water bodies in Sikkim. It serves as the source of the Ranikhola River, which flows down to meet the Teesta. The lake is surrounded by dense pine and rhododendron forests, making it a serene spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Unlike other popular lakes in Sikkim, Menmecho is less crowded, which means you can truly immerse yourself in its tranquility. The lake is also known for being a breeding ground of trout fish, and fishing is allowed here with prior permits.
Best Time to Visit Menmecho Lake
- May – June (Summer): Pleasant weather, colorful alpine blooms, and clear waters.
- October – November (Autumn): Crisp skies, stunning reflections, and golden landscapes.
- Winter (Dec – Mar): Lake remains frozen, and the roads are often blocked due to heavy snowfall.
- Monsoon (Jul – Sep): Landslides are common, so travel is not recommended.
Most recommended: May–June & October–November.
Things to Do at Menmecho Lake
- Photography: Capture the serene lake set against pine forests and snow peaks.
- Trout Fishing: With permits, you can enjoy fishing in one of Sikkim’s best trout breeding lakes.
- Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding forests and alpine meadows.
- Camping: Stay overnight in camps or nearby forest guesthouses (limited facilities).
- Nearby Exploration: Combine your trip with Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Kupup Valley.
How to Reach Menmecho Lake
- From Gangtok: 60 km (3–4 hours by road).
- Route: Gangtok → Tsomgo Lake → Menmecho Lake (20 km further).
- Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport (Sikkim) or Bagdogra Airport (West Bengal).
- Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP), ~150 km from Gangtok.
Permits
- Since Menmecho Lake is close to the Indo-China border, visitors require a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
- Indians can apply through authorized tour operators in Gangtok.
- Foreign nationals are usually restricted from visiting this lake due to its proximity to the border.
Travel Tips for Menmecho Lake
Carry warm clothes—it can be chilly even in summer.
No eateries near the lake; carry snacks and water.
Road conditions can be rough, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended.
Fishing requires a special permit from the Sikkim tourism department.
Respect the natural surroundings—do not litter or disturb the ecosystem.
Suggested Itinerary
Day Trip (Gangtok → Tsomgo → Menmecho → Nathula):
- Early morning departure from Gangtok.
- Stop at Tsomgo Lake (30 km).
- Continue to Menmecho Lake (20 km ahead).
- Optionally visit Nathula Pass (if permits allow).
- Return to Gangtok by evening.
Nearby Attractions
- Tsomgo Lake: The famous glacial lake of East Sikkim.
- Nathula Pass: Historic Silk Route pass connecting India and Tibet.
- Kupup Valley (Elephant Lake): A heart-shaped lake surrounded by meadows.
- Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary: Known for rhododendrons and rare orchids.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an offbeat lake in Sikkim, Menmecho Lake is the perfect escape. With its untouched beauty, crystal waters, and peaceful setting, it offers a raw Himalayan experience far from the crowds. Whether you’re an adventure lover, a photographer, or someone seeking quiet moments in nature, Menmecho Lake will leave you mesmerized.
Instagram Captions for Menmecho Lake, Sikkim
- Offbeat, untouched, unforgettable – Menmecho Lake awaits.
- 12,500 ft above sea level, where silence is the loudest sound.
- When the Himalayas hide a secret, it looks like Menmecho Lake.
- For those who wander beyond Tsomgo, peace flows here.
- A lake less traveled, a memory forever.
- Where pine forests meet turquoise waters.
- Not just a detour from Tsomgo, but a destination of its own.
- Serenity has an address – Menmecho Lake, East Sikkim.
- The offbeat gem that keeps the crowd away and beauty close.
- 12,500 ft of pure Himalayan magic.
- At Menmecho, time slows, and nature speaks.
- Snow-fed, soul-fed – that’s the Menmecho vibe.
- Some treasures don’t need fame to shine.
- A mirror of the mountains, framed by pine forests.
- Hidden, holy, and hauntingly beautiful – Menmecho Lake.
