14/05/2019
Lachung means the 'Small Pass' (so there must be a 'Big Pass' as well? Yes, it's another place called Lachen. From Chunthang a road bifurcates and leads towards Lachen). Lachung is a small mountain village at an altitude of 8,610ft and located about 118kms from Gangtok. Although the distance looks easy, it takes about 6 hours by car to reach Lachung from Gangtok, and the road although very scenic, is often not in good condition. Lachung is part of North Sikkim.
The residents of Lachung who are mostly Bhutias call themselves Lachungpas. They have their own self governing body known as 'Dzumsa' to settle all social and other disputes through consensus.
On your way to Lachung, you had crossed the town of Chungthang which is about 22kms away. You should take a halt here and watch the lovely confluence of the rivers Lachung and Lachen chhus which then join the river Teesta. Nearby there is a sacred stone (Naydo) having footprints of guru Padmasambhava. Visit the Chungthang Monasterysurrounded by stone houses and large edifices. The monastery has rich collection of rare Buddhist paintings. Other things to see here are the many waterfalls coming down the rock faces, lush forested landscapes and scenic views all around.
About 11kms ahead of Chungthang (30 minutes drive) you will come across a wonderful waterfall along the way known as Bhim Nala (also known as Amitabh Bachchan Waterfalls because a scene of the film 'Ankhen' was shot here with Amitabh in it). Take a break here for 10 minutes and enjoy the lovely view of the fall roaring down from high above and splashing into the ground near you. The sound of the gushing water can be heard from far and the water is cold. There is an wooden platform made by the villagers (with bamboo and logs) so that you can go close to the waterfall.
