Khecheopalri Lake is one of the most beautiful and best places to visit in Pelling, a hill station in Sikkim. The lake is located near Khecheopalri village, about 34 km from Pelling town. The lake is also known as the wish-fulfilling lake, as it is believed that whatever you wish for while visiting the lake will come true. The lake is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus and is associated with many legends and myths.
The lake is situated in the midst of the Khechoedpaldri hill, which is considered a sacred hill by the locals. The lake has a unique shape that resembles a footprint. Some say that it is the footprint of Goddess Tara, a female manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
Others say that it is the footprint of Guru Padmasambhava, who preached to sixty-four yoginis here. The lake is also said to be the hiding place of a precious gem that was given to a Lepcha girl by the lake goddess.
Khecheopalri Lake: Sacred and Scenic Pelling Monastery
The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, which add to its beauty and tranquility. The lake is home to many fish and birds, which are considered sacred by the locals. See many prayer flags and offerings around the lake, which show the devotion of the pilgrims who visit here.
The lake is also part of a Buddhist pilgrimage circuit that includes Yuksom, Dubdi Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Sanga Choeling Monastery, and Tashiding Monastery.
The Best Time to Visit Khecheopalri Lake
The best time to visit Khecheopalri Lake is during the spring season from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and the rhododendrons are in full bloom. Visit during the autumn season from September to November, when the sky is clear and the views are stunning.
Also, witness some festivals and rituals that are held at the lake during these seasons, such as Chho-Tsho (the worship of the lake goddess), Bumchu (the opening of a sacred pot containing holy water), and Kagyed (the masked dance).
How to Reach Khecheopalri Lake
To reach Khecheopalri Lake, you can take a taxi or a bus from Pelling town, which will take about an hour. You can also hire a guide or a trekker to take you to the lake from Pelling or Yuksom. Walk for about 10 minutes from the parking area to reach the lake. Remove your shoes and maintain silence before entering the lake area. You can also make a wish by throwing a coin or a flower into the lake.
Khecheopalri Lake Timings
The lake is open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on all days.
What makes Khecheopalri Lake a popular attraction in Pelling?
As the sacred Khecheopalri Lake is known as a “wish fulfilling lake”, folklore and legends associated with it are many.
What festival is celebrated at Khecheopalri Lake?
The Chho-Tsho festival takes place in October.
Khecheopalri Lake is a place where you can experience nature’s beauty, culture’s richness, and spirituality’s depth in one go. It is a place where you can feel the peace and serenity of the lake goddess and the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava.
