Memencho Lake or Menmecho Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes of Sikkim at an altitude of 13000 feet. Surrounded by untouched pine forests and deep slopes, Memencho Lake is said to change colours every minute. The lake is fed by the waters of the surrounding mountains of Jelep La Pass and stays frozen from January to May. A narrow 4 kilometers winding road beside Baba Mandir would take you to Memencho Lake. A newly built rough motorable road through high mountains and untouched forests crisscrossed by streams would take you to the banks of Memencho Lake.
What to see in Memencho Lake
This high altitude lake is surrounded by virgin forests and fed by the glacial waters brought by gurgling rivers and water falls. The sandy banks of the river gives it an appearance of a sea beach. The crystal clear water teems with trout and the high mountain walls guard the secrets of this lake. Apart from its mystic beauty, Memencho Lake is also famous for its trout population. The lake is one of the best trout cultivation centres of Sikkim.
Its a different world out here – the mountain streams meet the lake skirting through a sandy beach surrounded by pine forests inhabited by Ghorals and Himalayan Bears. Just before the winters in November, you would find migratory birds resting on these placid waters.
Accommodation in Memencho Lake
There is a bungalow with 04 rooms overlooking the forest and streams just 10 mins walk from the lake. Special permits are required to reach this bungalow and the lakeside because the road leading to this lake is guarded by the Indian Army. There is a viewpoint on the bank of the lake for the trekkers to rest and watch the beauty of the lake unfold before them. However, you really need to stay overnight in this lakeside bungalow to stand witness to some of the most amazing moments of your life.
Imagine! – a moonlit night – you are sitting in the bungalow’s terrace amidst deep forests – the sound of lake water lapping on its shore – the gust of wind through forests and gorges making an eerie sound and the sandy beach of the lake seems like a silver lace all around the lake. To top it all – the caretaker and his wife serves you some local delicacies.
Best time to visit Memencho Lake
We can only keep Memencho Lake in your Silk Route itinerary from 31 May to 01 December. Other times of the year the road is not motorable due to heavy snowfall.
Photos of Memencho Lake