Treks and walks · Lachung
Orchards and autumn colour on the east bank
In October and November the maples and larches above Lachung turn red and gold, and the apple orchards between the houses are picked. A 2–3 hour walk on the east bank lanes is the easiest and cheapest way to enjoy the valley without a vehicle.
Lachung grows apples in small family orchards between the houses, with trees grown for home use and a little sale. Picking falls in autumn, which is also when the slopes above the village change colour. Maples go red, larches go yellow, and on a clear November morning the white peaks at the head of the valley sit above it all.
Cross to the east bank and follow the lanes uphill and then upstream. There is no single marked trail, so ask your host which paths are open and avoid crossing private orchards without permission. Two to three hours at an easy pace is enough. At about 2,700 m, walk slowly on the first morning and drink water.
If a family is selling apples at the gate, buy a kilo for the road; it is the only produce most travellers take home from Lachung. Bring a light jacket for the shade and sunglasses for the glare. In winter the same lanes are icy in the morning, so wait until late morning and wear boots with grip.
Cost: Free · apples ₹100–200 a kg
Questions people ask
Good to know
When is autumn colour best in Lachung?
Usually from mid-October to mid-November, with the peak in the first half of November in most years. The exact timing shifts with temperature. October has the more stable weather, and November has the deeper colour and the first frosts. Check current status before you travel, as roads can close after early snow.
Can I buy apples in Lachung?
Yes, in season. Families sell apples from their orchards in autumn, and you will find them at small shops in the village. Expect about ₹100–200 a kilo. Supplies are small and vary year to year, so do not expect a market; ask your homestay host.
Is the orchard walk hard?
No. It is a gentle walk on village lanes with some uphill stretches. The main challenge is the altitude of about 2,700 m, so go slowly, especially on your first day. Families with children and older people can manage it with rests.
Also in Lachung
More things to do
Monasteries · 1.5 hoursLachung Monastery in the quiet hoursLachung · Free · donation welcome
Culture and history · 2 hoursA Dzumsa village walk with your hostLachung · Free · tip your host if they guide you
Food · 1 hourThenthuk and butter tea in a homestay kitchenLachung · Included in homestay meals · ₹100–180 a…