#DiscoverTheUndiscovered: The Khecheopalri Lake in Sikkim is a wish-fulfilling lake, layered with countless magical tales. Here is a quick travel guide for you. By Kashish Arora
Perched at an altitude of 5,600 ft, Khecheopalri is a 3,500-years-old lake. It is also known as the heavenly abode of Padmasambhava, an 8th-Century master believed to be the second incarnation of Lord Buddha.
As a miraculous pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, alike, the entryway to the lake leads to the centre point through a wooden jetty decorated with prayer wheels. The fluttering of the Tibetan flags sets a beautiful entrance portal adorned with temperate trees and bamboo. The refreshing greenery around the lake creates an ideal recreational spot, hard to circumvent.
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From an acclivity, the lake appears to be in the shape of a foot. A common belief prevailing in the region for the past 3,000 years is that Lord Shiva meditated in the cave located above the lake, hence the footprint. While this belief is constituted by Hindus, Buddhists consider it to be the foot trace of goddess Tara.
Folklore suggests that the region stays clear of any dirt, debris or leaves. Despite being tucked amid thick shrubberies and hedges, the lake seems to remain pristine. The birds keep swooping up and down to pick whatever falls on the surface. Upon visiting this mystical lake, you would never find a single leaf floating on the lake.
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A separate place is devoted for praying. All tourists who wish to offer prayers by lighting lamps, candles or incense sticks can visit this area and sit for as long as they want. Tourists visit the Khecheopalri Lake in March and April to participate in the annual religious fair.
Getting There
Tourists need to reach this location through Pelling. The Pelling-Rimbi road is just 60-minutes drive away from the monastery. Private cars and jeeps are available for rent to visit the lake.
Nearest Airport
Bagdogra, Siliguri (140 km)
Nearest Railway Station
Jalpaiguri, Siliguri (138 km)
Best Time To Visit
October to May is the perfect time to visit Sikkim. However, avoid monsoon months if you want to make the most of your trip.
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