Far away from the din and bustle of the city, Aritar is a place synonymous to peace, calm and serenity. A place where you can rewind get the peace inside you back!!!

How would you define beauty of a lake if it is a lake of beauty? Well, it might sound a claim too big, but then, in the world of beauty, dimensions are defined by heart and not scales! Probably Aritar Lake and the adjoining areas stand more than true to this description.

A hidden valley with a beautiful lake, brimful of pure water and sparkling colourful fish, on a beautiful mountain top amidst lush green trees; offering a full view of one of the most beautiful snow-fed mountain peaks of the Himalayas, the Kanchedzonga, Aritar is a traveler’s treat.

Add to that, the delicious food and accommodating people of this pleasant place – it is a perfect retreat far away from the rush and chaos of urban life. But that’s not all. As the night descends over the mountains, wrapped in pin drop silence, the clear sky gets flushed with the milky flicker of the bright moon and twinkling stars that almost always remain grateful to this scenic spot. Aritar offers a truly Sikkim experience and a unique blend of ethnic and modern comforts in the lap of Mother Nature.

When the British secured monopoly-trading privileges in Tibet in 1904, the route started from Kalimpong and Aritar fell on the route. Sir James Claud White the first British political officer of Sikkim established the first police outpost in Sikkim at Aritar. Not surprisingly, just till a couple of decades before, Aritar had its commercial significance more than that of Gangtok. Today, situated in East Sikkim at an altitude of 4600 ft, destination Aritar is a completely unexplored territory that has some of the most idyllic spots around.

Aritar Lake (a.k.a Lampokhari): It is one of the oldest and most beautiful natural lakes in Sikkim. This is the only lake in Sikkim equipped with artificial paddle boating facility and is the major attraction of Aritar. The gentle splash of the serene Aritar water is a wonderful experience in this peaceful heaven.

Aritar Gumpa: A monastery belonging to the Karma Kagyu lineage order of Tibetan Buddhism, it is one of the holiest and oldest in Sikkim. The visitor’s can imbibe the tranquil air with splendor of monastic arts reflected in its traditional architecture, carved & painted murals and treasure of manuscripts and icons.

Phushrey Lake: Located few km uphill from Aritar in an isolated jungle, a years old log stands still delivering nice reflection on the water. Along the way to this lake there are scenic trees, jungle orchids and splendid giant mountains, all adding to the delight of watching the old log.

Changey water fall: This 50 m height fall near Lampokhari is an exciting add-on over your Aritar experience.

There are a couple of temples and monasteries as well apart from the simple lifestyle of villagers to explore. Nearby is Love Danra, a popular picnic spot.

How to reach:

Bagdogra is the nearest airport and New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station. From both Bagdogra and New Jalpaiguri, Aritar is roughly 4-5 hours ride. Aritar can also be reached from Siliguri in roughly 5 hours by road. From Gangtok it takes no more than 3 hours in a hired vehicle.

 

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