Lachung

The mystic town of Lachung, situated along the banks of Lachung Chu (river) which passes through the village dividing it into two parts and is renowned for its apples, peaches, and apricots. While catching up with its urban infrastructure, Lachung still is much a vintage place where the people live happily following the Sikkimese tradition and lifestyle. For example of which, it is the only place in the state which continues to follow a unique system of self-governance called the Zumsa, where disputes of the villagers are resolved by an elected body headed by the Pipon.
Major other attractions of the town other than the town itself are the Lachung Gompa and the Handicraft Centre. Most of the traditional houses at Lachung are made from pine wood. The entrance doors of these little but beautiful houses are most often covered with a Lungta or curtain featuring Tibetan designs and patterns and most common images of Tibetan deities.
A short separation from here is Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary that is likewise unquestionable must visit. This sanctuary lies only 8km ahead of Lachung. Blessed with a landscape that looks more Japanese than Indian, the sanctuary offers amazing views of snow-covered peaks as you drive along with myriad rhododendron trees. Surrounded by the Chuba-Sagochen mountain ranges on its east and Chomzomei Tso extending till the Lava Pass on its west, the sanctuary sprawls across an area of around 43 sq km and is perched at an altitude of 3048m-4575m. The landscape is dotted with massive grey rocks covered with red algae.
Also, a place to be visited is the Lachung Monastery known for its exquisite murals and ancient statues. Every year, monks perform religious dance on the 28th and 29th day of the Tibetan Calendar (usually December) drawing visitors from all corners of the country.