Tsomgo Lake

Tsomgo lake is situated 35 Kilometers from Gangtok, on the Gangtok-Nathula highway which forms a part of the old trade route from India to China. Before 1962 caravans of mules carrying goods used to ply on this route. The stretch of the route just below Karponang, 15 Kilometers from Gangtok was particularly dangerous. Its steepness resulted in many mules slipping to their death into the ravine below "Karponang" is at an altitude of 3000 meters.

Tsomgo Lake, is cool placid water harmonies with the scenic beauty around which doubled by it's reflection in the lake. During the winter session the lake becomes frozen. A temple of Lord Shiva is constructed on the Lakeside. Lake has average depth of 15 meters, footpath along the lake takes one to a resting shed. It is said that in olden times, lamas used to study the color of the water of the lake and forecast the future. If the water of the lake had a dark tinge, it foreshadowed a year of trouble and unrest in the State. Tsomgo lake, Which is hardly 20 kilometers away from the famous Nathula Pass and about 400 kilometers from Lhasa, falls in the restricted area and hence an Inner line permit (Which can be obtained from the Police through the Tourism Department or travel agents.) is required by visitors to visit this place.