Gurudongmar Lake, located at an altitude of 17,800 feet (5,430 meters) in the northern part of Sikkim, India, is one of the highest and most sacred lakes in the world. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, including Mount Siniolchu and Mount Kanchenjunga, the lake holds immense religious significance for both Buddhists and Hindus.
According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist saint, blessed the lake, and it is believed that its waters possess healing properties. The lake is named after Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, who is said to have visited the lake during his journey through the Himalayas.
Gurudongmar Lake remains frozen for the most part of the year due to its high altitude and extreme cold, but during the summer months, a portion of the lake thaws, revealing its crystal-clear waters. Visitors brave the challenging journey to witness the breathtaking beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Despite its remote location and harsh terrain, Gurudongmar Lake attracts pilgrims, adventurers, and nature lovers from around the world, drawn by its spiritual aura and pristine natural beauty. It stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Himalayas and the enduring allure of sacred sites.