The Green Lake Trek is one of the most remote and rewarding high-altitude expeditions in Sikkim. Following the legendary Zemu Valley, this trek leads you deep into the heart of the eastern Himalayas, offering dramatic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Siniolchu, Mt. Simvo, and several lesser-known peaks. Designed for experienced trekkers, the journey emphasizes gradual acclimatization, raw mountain terrain, and pristine alpine wilderness.
Package Highlights
Depart Gangtok after breakfast and begin a scenic drive into North Sikkim. The road winds through mountain valleys, rivers, and forested landscapes before reaching the high-altitude village of Lachen. In the evening, take a short walk around the village to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Overnight: Hotel at Lachen
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Drive from Lachen to Zema, the point where the trek officially begins. Cross the Zemu Chu and follow the trail upstream into the Zemu Valley. The path passes through dense rhododendron forests, rocky patches, and fallen logs before reaching the campsite at Tallem.
Overnight: Camping at Tallem
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today’s trek is relatively gentle, following a well-defined trail through forested stretches adorned with colorful rhododendrons. The route crosses the Lhonak Chu before opening into a wide meadow where Jakthang is located.
Overnight: Camping at Jakthang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trail continues through forest and alpine terrain, gradually gaining altitude. After a few hours of trekking, you reach the snout of the Zemu Glacier. From here, the landscape becomes more rugged as you traverse undulating sections to reach the Yabuk campsite.
Overnight: Camping at Yabuk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
This day is reserved for rest and acclimatization. You may explore the surrounding valley, observe birdlife, or take short walks to help your body adapt to the altitude.
Overnight: Camping at Yabuk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Trek along the lateral moraine of the Zemu Glacier, navigating rocky and uneven terrain. As the valley opens up, spectacular views of Mt. Siniolchu and Mt. Simvo dominate the skyline. The Rest Camp sits directly opposite Mt. Siniolchu, making it one of the most scenic campsites of the trek.
Overnight: Camping at Rest Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Begin the gradual ascent towards Green Lake. The trail climbs gently but steadily, demanding slow and careful movement due to altitude. Snow-covered peaks surround the valley, with continuous views of Kanchenjunga and neighboring summits. Reach Green Lake, a pristine alpine basin enclosed by towering mountains.
Overnight: Camping at Green Lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Spend the day soaking in the grandeur of the high Himalayas. Short hikes around the campsite offer stunning panoramic views. A nearby viewpoint provides an exceptional perspective of the Kanchenjunga massif and the connecting valleys.
Overnight: Camping at Green Lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Begin the descent, retracing your steps past the Rest Camp and continuing downhill to Yabuk. The lower altitude makes the walk more comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace.
Overnight: Camping at Yabuk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Continue descending through familiar forest trails and rocky sections. By afternoon, reach the Tallem campsite and rest after a long but satisfying trek.
Overnight: Camping at Tallem
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Trek down to Zema through forested paths and then drive back to Lachen. Celebrate the successful completion of the trek with the team.
Overnight: Hotel or camp at Lachen
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, drive back to Gangtok through the same scenic mountain route, marking the end of the Green Lake Expedition.
Meals: Breakfast