Viewpoints · Aritar
A morning walk around Lampokhari
Walk the footpath around Lampokhari, Aritar's long, narrow lake, early in the morning while the water is still and the forest is quiet. Take a paddle boat if you like, then climb towards Mankhim for the view.
Lampokhari lies in a fold of forest just below the village, a long, slim lake whose shape locals often compare to a boot. The name comes from the Nepali for a long pond. A paved footpath runs around its edge, with benches, a few small shelters and paddle boats tied up near the entrance. It is one of the few lakes in this part of Sikkim where boating is allowed, which makes it popular with families on weekends.
Come early. Between about 6.30 and 8.30 am the surface is often perfectly still, mist lifts off the water and the reflections of the surrounding trees are at their sharpest. By late morning groups arrive and the boats come out. The circuit is easy and flat, and a slow loop with stops takes under an hour. Birds are common in the trees around the edge, and the light is good for photographs from the far end.
There is a small entry fee, around ₹20–50 per person, and paddle boats cost about ₹100–200 for a short ride; both change, so treat these as indicative. Keep the lake clean: carry rubbish back with you and do not feed fish or birds. If you have energy afterwards, the road and steps up to Mankhim start close by.
Cost: Small entry fee · boat ₹100–200
Questions people ask
Good to know
Is there boating at Aritar Lake?
Yes, paddle boats are usually available on Lampokhari in the main seasons, at about ₹100–200 for a short ride. Boating can be suspended in bad weather or for maintenance, so ask on arrival. Children should wear the life jackets provided.
What is the entry fee at Lampokhari?
There is usually a small entry fee of about ₹20–50 per person, with extra charges for cameras or boating at times. Fees change, so treat these as indicative and carry small change. The lake path is open in daylight hours.
What is the best time to visit Aritar Lake?
Early morning from October to April is best, when the water is still and the air clear. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. In the monsoon months the lake is green and full but paths can be slippery and views limited.
Also in Aritar
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