Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake is 1700 meters high in the mountains and is a holy site for both Buddhists and Hindus. It is part of a well-known Buddhist travel route. It is situated in the Khecheopalri Village in the West Sikkim district and is one of the places to visit in Pelling.

The lake's name, Khecheopalri, originally meant 'Kha-Chot-Palri', which refers to the sky of Lord Padmasambhava. Known as a "wish-fulfilling lake," many people from all over the world visit it, hoping to have their dreams come true.

Legends and Spiritual Significance of the Lake

Khecheopalri Lake is special because its shape resembles the foot of Lord Buddha, visible from the nearby hills.

There is another story connected to the lake. Long ago, the Goddess Tara Jetsun Dolma was sitting in front of a monk. She asked him to get water for her from a lake. The Goddess told him where to get water. The monk followed the directions and went to a small lake near the Khecheopalri Hills. The monk prayed and filled the container with water from the lake. As soon as he did that, the lake suddenly grew bigger and deeper. This lake is Khecheopalri Lake, which is well-known today.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake has become more famous because birds quickly remove any floating leaves from the water. Because of this, many people gather by the lake to see the wonderful moment happen. Many people who follow Buddha celebrate different Buddhist holidays and spend a lot of time at the temples by the lake.

The beautiful Khecheopalri Lake is an important part of Buddhist temples. It is very important for eco-tourism and religious visits because of its wide variety of plant and animal life. They have maintained the lake's holiness and cleanliness until now, making it a key attraction in Pelling tour packages.

Festivals and Rituals Held at the Lake

They hold a religious fair, one of the biggest events at the lake, every year for two days in Maghe Purne or in March/April. Many people from Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal, and India come to watch it. They bring food to the lake and take water from the lake as a blessing.

People think that Lord Shiva meditates quietly in Khecheopalri Lake. During the holiday, pilgrims place butter lamps on bamboo boats tied with special scarves called khadas and move them on the lake. This happens in the evenings when they say prayers to show respect, along with bringing food supplies.

Another event, called Chho-Tsho, is held at Khecheopalri Lake. In October, after the cardamom harvest, people thank for the food it provides.