At an elevation of 12,500 feet, Menmecho Lake is one of Sikkim’s most picturesque lakes. Menmecho Lake, surrounded by virgin pine trees and steep hills, is reported to change colours every minute. From January to August, the lake is nourished by the waters of the adjacent mountains of Jelep La Pass and remains frozen. Menmecho Lake is reached through a small 4 km twisting road next to Baba Mandir.

Cars cannot access Menmecho Lake, but you may walk the 4 kilometres to the lake. There is a lookout on the lake’s banks where hikers may pause and admire the beauty of the lake unfolding before them. Menmecho Lake is well-known for its trout population in addition to its mystical beauty. The lake is one of Sikkim’s greatest trout cultivation areas, and the Fisheries Department even has a hut there.

Why should I visit this? there?

It’s no surprise that the incredibly gorgeous region of Sikkim contains a lake that changes colour every few minutes. Lake Menmecho shimmers with varied colours depending on the time of day, whether owing to minerals in the lakebed or a trick of light. This lake, located at an elevation of 12,500 feet, offers sandy shoreline and crystal blue waters.

Most visitors see this lake from the road as they go towards Nathu La. However, if you want to see a little lake with a vista unlike any other in Sikkim, make this a priority on your itinerary.

When should I visit?

Lake Menmecho freezes very swiftly as winter approaches. The lake progressively thaws over the summer, so your best chance is to visit in the late summer months. You’ll be able to see the tranquil waters of Lake Menmecho this way.

How should I visit?

To begin with, a jeep cannot transport you all the way to the shores of Lake Menmecho. This lake is located around 60 kilometres from Gangtok and is equidistant (23 kilometres) from Changu Lake and Tsomgo Lake on each side.

There is a dirt path that twists downwards to the right if you are visiting Baba Mandir. Follow this trail for about 4 kilometres until you reach Lake Menmecho at the end of your tour. While the forest route going down to the waterbody is steep, the banks are rarely crowded, and you may enjoy Menmecho Lake’s peacefulness.

Tips for smooth travel

As you approach Lake Menmecho, the first thing you notice are the tall pine trees that encircle the beaches and climb higher, acting as nature’s sentinels. The high mountain slopes against a beautiful blue sky are so captivating that you will find it difficult to leave.

The grandeur of Lake Menmecho is a nice break after the 4km journey along the forest path with scraggly shrubs and limbs jutting out like hands. At some time, big clouds will sweep across the sun, casting lengthy shadows on the trees, and as the lake changes colour, you will understand that nothing beats Mother Nature’s magnificence.