Lampokhari: Gateway to East Sikkim’s Ancient Silk Route
Places to See in Lampokhari
Lampokhari, located in the Aritar region of East Sikkim, is a tranquil destination perched on the edge of the Eastern Himalayas. It is best known for Aritar Lake, one of Sikkim’s oldest natural lakes, now adapted for boating and surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden. Nearby, the Aritar Monastery (also called Ari Gumpa), with its ancient murals and traditional Tibetan architecture, offers a quiet spiritual retreat. The viewpoint at Mankhim Hill provides sweeping views of the valley and the shimmering lake below, especially magical at sunrise. Lampokhari is a perfect introduction to the historic Silk Route, echoing tales of trade and tradition along its winding paths.
Where to Stay in Lampokhari
Lampokhari has a handful of welcoming homestays and vacation cottages that blend comfort with local hospitality. Izifiso’s vacation homes in Lampokhari offer cozy accommodations near the lake, surrounded by forested slopes and panoramic mountain views. These stays are ideal for travelers seeking peace, with easy access to walking trails, local landmarks, and serene natural settings that let you unwind at your own pace.
Where to Eat in Lampokhari
Meals in Lampokhari are typically home-cooked and packed with local flavor. Most homestays serve traditional Sikkimese fare like gyathuk (noodle soup), churpi with vegetables, and phagshapa. You’ll also find locally prepared momos and thukpa, often accompanied by tangy bamboo shoot pickle or spicy dalle chutney. The simplicity and freshness of the ingredients—often sourced from local farms—add to the authenticity of the dining experience.
Best Time to Visit Lampokhari
The ideal time to visit Lampokhari is during spring and autumn, from March to June and September to November, when the weather is mild and the skies are clear. These months are perfect for enjoying boat rides on the lake, sightseeing, and trekking. Winters in Lampokhari offer a different charm, with misty mornings and occasional snowfall creating a quiet, dreamy setting. Monsoons, however, bring heavy rain and slippery roads, making travel more challenging.
The best time to visit Lampokhri is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and the perfect setting for boating, trekking, and sightseeing. Winters (December to February) are cool and serene, while the monsoon months (June to August) are best avoided due to heavy rainfall and slippery roads.
Top attractions near Lampokhri include the picturesque Aritar Lake (Lampokhari) ideal for boating and lakeside walks, the historic Aritar Monastery known for its spiritual ambiance and Tibetan-style architecture, and Mankhim Hill, which offers panoramic views of the valley and Mount Kanchenjunga. Other nearby spots include Lungchok Valley, Kagyu Thekchen Monastery, and the forest-surrounded Mulkharka Lake—perfect for a short nature trek.
Popular activities in Lampokhri revolve around nature and relaxation. Visitors enjoy boating on Aritar Lake, trekking to Mankhim viewpoint, birdwatching in the surrounding forests, and exploring peaceful monasteries. You can also spend time fishing, taking nature walks, or just unwinding amidst the misty hills and serene landscapes.
Lampokhri is located near Aritar in East Sikkim. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), around 110 km away, and the closest airport is Bagdogra, about 115 km away. From NJP or Bagdogra, you can hire a private taxi or shared jeep to Aritar, and then take a short drive or walk to reach Lampokhri.
Lampokhri is famous for its natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and historic significance along the ancient Silk Route. The area is known for Aritar Lake, one of the oldest natural lakes in Sikkim, and the scenic blend of monasteries, viewpoints, and lush greenery that make it a tranquil getaway.
Yes, Lampokhri is generally safe for both solo travelers and families. The local communities are warm and welcoming. As always, standard travel precautions are recommended, especially when trekking or traveling during off-seasons.
Food in Lampokhri is simple, home-cooked, and delicious. Most homestays serve traditional dishes like Dal Bhat, Gundruk, Thukpa, and Momos. You can also try Alu Dum, Sel Roti, and Chiura, along with spicy condiments like bamboo shoot pickle and Dalle chutney. Meals are usually made with fresh, local ingredients, giving you a taste of the region’s culinary charm.
Lampokhri offers a variety of cozy lakeview homestays and eco stays surrounded by forests and hills. These accommodations blend comfort with local hospitality. You can find options through Izifiso’s platform, which features stays tailored for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for a peaceful mountain retreat.
No special permits are required for Indian tourists to visit Lampokhri. However, if you plan to travel further along the Silk Route towards areas like Zuluk or Nathula Pass, you will need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which can be arranged in Gangtok or at the Rangpo check post.
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