Kishong Lake

Kishong Lake - Trekking Expedition | Sikkim Saga | Sikkim Saga

Expedition Overview

Deep within the restricted wilderness of Upper Dzongu lies Kishong Lake (Keushong Tso), an alpine wonder perched at an altitude of 4,500 m (14,763 ft). To the indigenous Lepcha people, this is no ordinary body of water; it is a sacred portal, a place of ancestral origin, and a site of profound spiritual power nestled inside the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve. The expedition begins at the historic Tholung Monastery, a secluded sanctuary housing ancient Buddhist relics, before ascending through primeval forests and bamboo groves. As the canopy thins into rugged alpine meadows, trekkers are rewarded with staggering views of Mt. Khangchendzonga and the needle-sharp spire of Mt. Siniolchu. Remote, mystical, and challenging, the trek to Kishong Lake is more than a physical journey—it is an immersion into the living heart of Sikkim’s most guarded landscape.

Day-wise Route

Total Duration: 7 days

Day1

Arrival & Briefing at Mangan

Altitude: 1,560 m (5,118 ft) Activity: Arrival in Mangan. Spend the day securing final permits for the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve and briefing with your trekking team. Stay: Local Lodge/Homestay in Mangan.

Day2

Mangan to 12th Mile (Drive) & Trek to Tholung

Activity: A scenic drive to 12th Mile (the road head), followed by a 6-hour trek. The Path: Cross the Ringpi Chu river and follow the valley upward through dense, lush vegetation. Stay: Overnight at Tholung Monastery (2,438 m / 8,000 ft).

Day3

Tholung to Forest Bunglow (The "Hold")

Activity: A steady climb through the temperate forest. Terrain: The trail passes through groves of giant bamboo and ancient trees covered in moss. Stay: Overnight at the Forest Bunglow area. This day is crucial for acclimatization before hitting the high-altitude zone.

Day4

Forest Bunglow to Kishong Lake (The Summit)

Altitude: ~4,500 m (14,763 ft) Activity: The final push to the sacred Kishong Lake. Highlights: The lake is a massive, serene alpine body of water surrounded by jagged peaks. It is a deeply spiritual site for the Lepcha people. Stay: Overnight camp near Kishong Lake (weather permitting) or nearby high-altitude meadows.

Day5

Kishong Lake to Forest Bunglow

Activity: Begin the descent. The Path: Retrace your steps back down the valley. The descent offers a different perspective of the waterfalls and hanging valleys of Upper Dzongu. Stay: Overnight at Forest Bunglow.

Day6

Forest Bunglow to Tholung

Activity: Continue descending toward the monastery. Details: Enjoy a relaxed evening at Tholung, perhaps interacting with the monks or exploring the surrounding medicinal hot springs if time permits. Stay: Overnight at Tholung.

Day7

Tholung to 12th Mile & Drive to Mangan

Activity: Final 5-6 hour trek back to the road head at 12th Mile. Final Step: A vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Mangan. End: Celebration dinner and conclusion of the trek.