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Tales of the Gurudongmar Lake
Most lakes in the Himalayan mountains are Tso-chen (sacred), and are deeply rooted in the socio-cultural and economic worlds of the surrounding communities. They have consequently maintained the pristine setting of the sites and developed spiritual myths around these lakes. Sikkim has 150 lakes and the Gurudongmar Lake has religious significance for the Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. At an elevation of 5,430 m above sea level, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. Situated in the Mangan District of North Sikkim in the Great Himalayas, it lies just 5 kms south of the Indo-China border. The lake has a surface area of about 1.18 sq km.
The Gurudongmar Lake receives its water supply from the Khang Chengyao glaciers, contributing to one of the tributary streams that eventually converge with the Tso Lahmu Lake, ultimately forming the origin of the Teesta River. The vicinity of the lake hosts a population of yaks, blue sheep, and other unique high-altitude wildlife species. It is additionally a habitat for diverse vegetation, captivating botanical wonders, and an array of exquisite bird species. This fusion of scientific significance and scenic beauty has established Sikkim as a sought-after destination for many.
Water from the Khang Chengyao glaciers feed the Gurudongmar Lake. Image Source: Lavomit Lepcha
Portrait of a Bhutia Lady. Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Bhutias, who inhabit the areas of Lachen and Lachung in Northern Sikkim, are followers of the oldest sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Nyingmapa, and they consider Gurudongmar Lake to be sacred. Their settlement patterns are also restricted along the basin of river Teesta flowing out from Gurudongmar Lake.
Many legends and beliefs are associated with the origin and sacredness of Gurudongmar Lake. According to one popular Buddhist legend, Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche, who is known as the saviour of Buddhism in Tibet, came to Sikkim (then known as Bayul Demajong) and subdued many mungs (evil spirits), blessed the land, and sanctified it. In the 8th century CE, he travelled from India to Tibet and stopped at several locations along the way, including this lake. This lake was the cause for severe water shortage each winter, as owing to its high altitude, the lake remained frozen during the winter months. When the locals appealed for his help, their pleas moved Guru Padmasambhava. He then placed his hand on a portion of the lake and thawed the frozen water. Henceforth, a portion of the lake never froze again and the devotees could now have drinking water all year round.
Another tale according to Sikhism is that, in 15th century CE Guru Nanak Dev visited the Gurudongmar Lake to show support for the Nyingmapas, who were driven out of Tibet by the Gelug sect. During his visit, a yak grazer approached Guru Nanak with a predicament that they could not find water as the lake was completely frozen. Guru Nanak hit the perpetually snow-covered lake with his staff and thawed its icy surface. Since then a portion of the lake never froze again. To commemorate Guru Nanak’s visit, the Assam Rifles officers and 20th Punjab Regiment of the Indian Army built a Gurudwara at Chungthang in 1998. The Sarva Dharma Sthal, which translates to ‘House of Worship for All Religions’, as the Gurudwara is known today, welcomes people of all faiths. The Gurudwara also offers a scenic view of Mount Khangchendzonga and Mount Siniolchu.
View of Gurudongmar Lake in winter. Image source: Dibya Rumba
View of Gurudongmar Lake during the summer. Image source: Lavomit Lepcha
As the lake’s water is considered sacred, it is incorporated in various rites and rituals. The locals also believe that the lake’s water has healing properties. Gurudongmar Lake is, therefore, also known as the “Wishing Lake”, with the vibrant prayer flags surrounding it only amplifying its mythical allure.
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