The highlight of travelling to Sikkim has almost always been a trip to Gurudongmar Lake (the highest lake in India). But the next time you go there, travel 34 km north-west of Pelling town to reach a step closer to heaven. We are talking about Khecheopalri Lake in Khecheopalri village, which is 147 kms west of Gangtok.
Originally known as Kha-Chot-Palri (meaning the heaven of Padmasambhava), the lake is apparently known to fulfil any wish you make there. So you can only imagine how serene the place is. It's considered to be sacred for both Hindus and Buddhists. The lake is locally known as Sho Dzo Sho, which means 'Oh Lady, Sit Here'. Interesting, huh? A nearby touristy place is the Demazong valley or valley of rice, which is a sight to behold.
One extremely unique fact about the lake which does the rounds is that leaves usually don't float on the lake because as soon as a leaf falls in the water, the birds meticulously pick each and every one of them. You have to be there to see it for yourself.
The minimum temperature can fall down to as low as 4 degree Celsius. So don't forget to pack your warmest jacket. The lake also has a rich aquatic fauna, surrounded by mixed temperate forest. You will find fish such as the European Carp, Giant Diano, Schistura and aquatic birds and ducks such as Grebes, Goosanders, Comorants, Tuffled Duck, Moorhen and Crane, among others species. If you happen to travel during March-April, you can witness Maghe Purne, a religious fair and one of the largest festivals held here every year for two days. Pilgrims from all parts of Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and India attend this fair in large numbers.
