Due to Lachung proximity to Nepal and the military presence, entry to North Sikkim is only possible on a guided tour, and a travel permit must be organised in Gangtok 1-2 days prior to travel. All travel is by 4-wheel-drive as the roads are subject to frequent landslides. Although the distance from Gangtok to Lachung is only 120 km, travel takes 5-6 hours on account of the mountainous terrain. Nevertheless, the journey into the valley is stunning.
