Chungthang – Gateway to North Sikkim’s High Valleys

Overview

Chungthang is a strategically located Himalayan town where the Lachen and Lachung rivers meet to form the Teesta, Sikkim’s most important river. Almost every traveller heading towards the iconic destinations of Lachen, Lachung, Yumthang Valley, Yumesamdong, Katao, Gurudongmar Lake, and Thangu must pass through this historic settlement. Beyond being a transit point, Chungthang holds deep spiritual significance, dramatic landscapes, and a unique cultural identity rooted in Sikkim’s legends.

Weatjer

Pleasant throughout the year; cooler in winter but not extreme.

• Summer: 15°C–25°C
• Winter: 7°C–15°C
  Receives heavy rainfall, especially from July–September.

Chungthang lies at the exact point where the North Sikkim Highway splits into the two major routes—one towards Lachung and the Yumthang side, and the other towards Lachen and Gurudongmar.

Mythology & Local Legends

Chungthang is steeped in legends associated with Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to have passed through on his journey to Tibet. According to folklore:

• The Guru rested here and consumed rice.

• Some grains fell to the ground, and since then, rice grows in a patch of land where it shouldn’t, given the altitude and climate.

• A rock here bears what is believed to be the footprint of Padmasambhava.

• This is said to be the origin of the name Demaong – “The Hidden Valley of Rice,” an ancient term associated with Sikkim.

These mystical associations make Chungthang culturally significant despite its small size.

The Chungthang Dam – Teesta III Project

Below the confluence of the Lachen and Lachung rivers, the Teesta III hydroelectric project is underway. Key highlights:

• A 60-metre-high dam is being constructed.

• Power generation will occur downstream at Singhik.

• The project aims to generate 1200 MW of electricity, making it one of the major power initiatives in Sikkim.

• Due to the scale, substantial infrastructure and worker colonies have developed around the area, especially across the Lachen Chu.

This project has dramatically changed the landscape around the town.

How to Reach Chungthang

The journey to Chungthang is an adventure in itself.

From Gangtok

• Distance: 95 km

• Travel Time: ~5 hours

• Route: Gangtok → Mangan (64 km) → Tong → Chungthang

• Roads follow the Teesta River with dramatic views of cliffs, gorges, and waterfalls.

Permit Requirements

North Sikkim is a restricted area.

• Travellers must book a package tour through an authorised operator.

• Permits are checked at Mangan and Tong.

• Independent travel is not allowed.

• Foreign nationals can visit Lachung and Lachen, but not all high-altitude destinations.

NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd. can assist with all permits, transport, and logistics.
Contact: +91 9733300696 / +91 9733000593

Accommodation

Chungthang has minimal tourist infrastructure.

• A few small restaurants and teahouses serve basic meals.

• Accommodation options are extremely limited.

Where to Stay Instead

Most travellers base themselves in:

• Lachen (26 km away) for Gurudongmar, Thangu, Chopta Valley

• Lachung (22 km away) for Yumthang, Zero Point, Katao

Both towns offer a range of hotels, lodges, and homestays, making them practical bases.

Nearby Places

• Lachen: 26 km

• Lachung: 22 km

• Mangan: 31 km

• Gangtok: 95 km

• Tong: 11 km