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Tosar Lake Trek: North Sikkim

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Trek Details

Trek Introduction

Overview

The Tosar Lake in North District was proposed by the Mangan Tourism Development Committee (M.T.D.C) for development of Tourism in North Sikkim. Mangan Tourism Development Committee is a registered body (N.G.O) formed to develop Eco-Tourism in the North District as per the policy of the State Government. A recce to the Tosar lake area was jointly conducted by the representative of the TOURISM Department & Forest, Environment and Wildlife management Department, Government of Sikkim on the request of Mangan Tourism Development Committee from 19th to 25th of july 2006. The report of the recce team with the proposed route for trekking to Tosar lake and photographs of its surrounding areas with map was submitted to the Department for an official recognition of the proposed trek as requested by the M.T.D.C. As per the direction of the department, Mangan Tourism Development Committee has submitted Environment Management Plan which is enclosed here with for reference.

Duration: 12 Days 11 Nights

Trip Itineraries

Tosar Lake Trek: North Sikkim

Day 01 Pick up from NJP/Bagdogra/Phontsoling and drive to Gangtok. Overnight
Day 02 Gangtok to Mangan. Night halt.
Day 03 The trek begins from the road head at Naksuk, Naga RF above Naga Village which is about an hour drive from Mangan base camp. The route follows very steep path used by herds of cows through wet temperate forest of board leaved species & bamboos. The distance of 1st day trek is about 12 km. First Camp Site: Sohar Dhe-located at Altitude of 2750M or 8036 ft.
Day 04 The second day tr ek passed through the Sub-Alpine forest of Conifer and Rhododendron at altitude range from 8000ft to 10500ft.
Second camp site identified is Saohar Antsok patam valley at altitude of 10496ft the literally meaning of Sohar Antsok Patam Valley in Lepcha language means the Stamping ground of Musk Deer.
Day 05 Rest and exploration of Valley.
Day 06 From Valley to up hill trek to Tosar Lake at the altitude of 13120 ft which passed through Rhododendron & Conifer forest with Alpine flora. The distance of the up hill trek is about 8 km. The 6th camp site identified is about 1 km below Tosar Lake.
Day 07 To follow the same route back to Maram Forest, which is identified as 7th camp site at the altitude of 10660 ft.
Day 08 To trek same route upto 3rd camp site and then towards the Meyong Tar which is inside Meyong RF. Meyong Tar at altitude of 10594 ft.
Day 09 From Meyong Tar to Kaley Village which passes through Kaley RF.
At Kaley Village out side the Reserve Forest.
Day 10 Back to Mangan base camp. Drive to Singhik night halt
Day 11 Singhik to Gangtok
Day 12 Gangtok to NJP/Bagdogra/Phontsoling

Important Information

Permits Required: Many areas in Sikkim, especially North Sikkim and border regions, require permits. Ensure you have the necessary documents in advance.
Altitude and Weather: Sikkim has varying altitudes, so pack appropriately for both lowland and high-altitude climates. Prepare for temperature fluctuations.
Respect Local Customs: Sikkim is culturally diverse and deeply spiritual. Show respect at monasteries, prayer flags, and other sacred sites.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Sikkim promotes sustainable tourism. Avoid littering, reduce plastic use, and support eco-friendly practices.
Health Preparedness: Carry basic medicines and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms in high areas like Yumthang and Gurudongmar Lake.
Connectivity: Internet and mobile network coverage can be limited in remote areas, so plan accordingly, especially for communication needs.

Things Not to Miss

Kanchenjunga Views: Wake up early to catch sunrise views of the majestic Kanchenjunga, especially from spots in Pelling, Gangtok, and Darjeeling.
Tea Gardens in Darjeeling: Explore lush tea gardens and try local Darjeeling tea at its source for an authentic experience.
Monasteries: Visit iconic monasteries like Rumtek, Pemayangtse, and Tashiding to experience Sikkim’s Buddhist heritage and peaceful ambiance.
Yumthang Valley: Known as the Valley of Flowers, it’s a must-see for its colorful blooms and alpine beauty (seasonal blooms in spring/summer).
Local Cuisine: Savor Sikkimese delicacies like momos, thukpa, and local fermented dishes for a unique culinary adventure.
Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs, such as those in Yumthang and Reshi, known for therapeutic benefits and scenic surroundings.