Green Lake Trek located in the remote Northern Part of Sikkim Himalayas adjoining the Tibetan Plateau with it's secluded trekking trail can be called a true wilderness Trek. Closed to the out side world and was opened only in the year 1999, this trek in North Sikkim is still very less explored. The apex of the Green Lake Trek in Sikkim is the Green Lake Basin and the Zemu Glacier which starts from the foot of Kanchenjunga. This is the highest point of this trek at an altitude of 5550m.
Who Can do this Trek ?
Green Lake trek is a strenuous 12days trek that starts from the small town of Lachen (7000ft) and goes upto 5550m at Zemu Glacier. The twelve days journey passes through River Valleys, Forests and high meadows making it one of the most strenuous treks in the Indian Himalayas. But, after having said that it is fair enough to say a person with ability to walk for long hours and with a day or two of acclimatization can attempt this most scenic trek in Sikkim.
Best Time to do this Trek
Best time suited to do this North Sikkim Trek is during the months of April and May when the temperature is very pleasant and the Flowering plants have sprung up. The Horizon may remain a little hazy for the mountain views but the will be compensated by the colorful rhododendron and wild flower blooms.
October to November is the other season recommended for the Sikkim Green Lake Trek when the surroundings are crisp and fresh and the air clean for the mountain views because of the just concluded monsoon season.
Trekking Formalities
Trekkers will need a special permit to trek to Green Lake Basin as the Green Lake Area falls in the restricted zone. The Trek Permit for the Green Lake Trek in Sikkim will be issued by the Home Ministry, Government of India and will be issued to a registered company and for a minimum of two persons only.
Brief Itinerary for Green Lake Trek
Day 1 : Short Drive to Zemu Bridge(6Km). Trek to Tallem (3300m).
Day 2 : Trek Tallem to Jakthang (3430m/8Km).
Day 3 : Trek Jakthang to Yabuk (3850m/12Km).
Day 4 : Trek Yabuk to Rest Camp (4500m/9Km).
Day 5 : Trek Rest Camp to Green Lake (4930m/8Km).
Day 6: Day Hike from Green Lake to Zemu Glacier.
Day 7: Trek Back to Yabuk.
Day 8: Trek Back to Jakthang.
Day 9: Trek Back to Lachen.
