In a significant boost for North Sikkim tourism, the roads to Lachen and Lachung have reopened after months of closure, with the final construction phase on the Tung Naga Road completed on November 11, 2024. However, tourists are currently not allowed to visit these destinations as the issuance of Protected Area Permits (PAP) remains suspended. Authorities expect permit issuance to resume by December 2024, enabling tourist access to these popular locations. Our updates provide travelers with essential road and permit information to plan a safe and seamless Sikkim trip.
Are Lachung & Lachen Open for the Tourists?
Yes, Roads to Lachung & Lachen are Open. But Tourists are not being allowed.
| Destination | Road Status | Tourist Access |
|---|---|---|
| Lachen | Open | Tourists not allowed. Permit issuance is suspended. Expected to resume in December 2024. |
| Lachung | Open | Accessible from November 11, but tourist access remains restricted. Permit issuance pending. |
| Other North Sikkim Areas | Open (varied conditions) | General access restricted until PAP issuance starts. |
Key Details
- Lachen: The road is open, and local connectivity has resumed. However, tourists cannot visit due to permit restrictions.
- Lachung: Full road connectivity restored, but travel remains restricted to residents and essential activities.
- Permits: Protected Area Permits (PAP) are essential for all visitors to North Sikkim. The process is expected to begin in December 2024.
Tourists are advised to wait for official updates on PAP issuance before planning trips to North Sikkim.
Road Status Update: (November 16, 2024)
| Route | Status | Timings and Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mangan to Gangtok (Rakdung-Tintek Route) | Open | No restrictions. Suitable for all vehicles. |
| Mangan to Gangtok (Phodong Route) | Open | No restrictions. Light vehicles only. |
| Mangan to Chungthang (via Toong Naga) | Blocked | Avoid this route. |
| Chungthang to Dikchu (via Phidang-Sangkalang-Shipgyer) | Open | Restricted timings: Downwards: 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM; Upwards: 4:30 PM to 10:00 PM. 4×4 vehicles recommended; emergency vehicles exempt. |
| Chungthang to Lachen | Open | Restricted timings: Upwards: 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM; Downwards: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. |
| Lachen to Thangu | Open | No restrictions. Suitable for all vehicles. |
| Thangu to Gurudongmar | Open | No restrictions. Suitable for all vehicles. |
| Chungthang to Lachung | Clear | No restrictions. Road is fully open. |
| Lachung to Yumthang | Clear | No restrictions. Road is fully open. |
| Mangan to Singtam | Clear | No restrictions. Light vehicles only at Marchak. |
Weather:
- Clear skies.
Source:
- District Police Control Room (DPCR), Mangan.
Note: Always confirm local conditions before travel and adhere to time restrictions where applicable.
Positive Impact on Tourism:
The phased reopening, starting with Lachen and soon followed by Lachung, is expected to significantly boost tourism in North Sikkim. Travelers can look forward to enjoying the winter season’s unique offerings, from snow-covered valleys to the region’s vibrant cultural experiences.
With both Lachen and Lachung set to welcome tourists, the upcoming weeks promise a resurgence of activity in North Sikkim, revitalizing local businesses and providing a perfect getaway for those seeking Himalayan adventures this winter.
Is this information correct? Is the pernits to north sikkim open now?
North Sikkim Roads are Open. Locals are being allowed to enter both Lachen and Lachung. But the North Sikkim permit for the tourists is yet to be opened and expected to be started from the the end of the November, 2024.
Will the new route and reconstructed route for Lachen and Lachung be safe to travel during Christmas season i.e Dec End???
In winter there is no threat of landslides or roads being washed away by the gushing rivers in Sikkim. So plan freely your Christmas and New Year Holiday Trip to Sikkim and Darjeeling. However visiting North Sikkim in Winter needs longer stays as an overnight snowfall can block the roads to the popular places like Yumthang, Dombang, Gora-La Lake, Katao, Yumesamdong and Sangalphu Lake.
Any update for lachung road is open for tourists?
It’s expected that Sikkim Govt. might start to issue PAP (Permit) for North Sikkim from mid-December.
Is mid December confirmed? Have done the booking of 1st week of December basis some old update bt still no confirm update on North Sikkim.
Your agent can charge higher as diverted routes require more distant to be covered.
Today at Gangtok.. waiting for permit for North Sikkim
But not sure..when will get access to Lachen & Lachung
Mostly opens on eve of Christmas… fingers crossed 🤞
The section from Tung to Naga is on the verge of completion and expected to be opened for the tourists with permit from 24th December, 2024.