Road Tripping GANGTOK

The road trip from Gangtok to the glacial Tsomgo Lake, though only two hours long, is no routine drive. You must navigate rock-strewn terrain, hairpin bends, and steep slopes before you reach the high mountain lake at an elevation of 12,313 feet above sea level. Expect to encounter a biting chill, grazing mules and yaks, and swathes of land brimming with orchids and rhododendrons. Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary also falls en route, so keep your eyes peeled for a rare spotting of the red panda, Himalayan black bear or blood pheasant. International travellers to Tsomgo Lake need to be in a group of two or more, and must have visitors’ permits (obtained through a travel agency). A word of caution—this drive will not make those with vertigo or a weak stomach happy.

GETTING THERE Fly in to Gangtok, which has regular flights from all major cities.

STAY Summit Norling Resort & Spa (starts from approx. `4,000/US$ 57, summithotels.in); Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino (starts from `11,500/US$ 164, mayfairhotels.com)

PLAN IT WITH Travel Triangle (traveltriangle.com)