Mulkarkha Lake is one of the Holy Lake situated on the lap of Mt Kanchenjunga. This lake have different name given by the people though it shares boundaries with Sikkim. The people still believe it’s a wishing lake many pilgrimage are attracted to this lake. The most fascinating feature of this lake is the reflection of Mt. Kanchenjunga on its tranquil waters. The lake is very clear no sign of leaves or any other things.
It is situated 145km from Siliguri and it has different highways to reach this beautiful place which can be accessible by sharing cab too. This lake is surrounded by pine trees and different species of living habitat. Many times wild animals are found around this lake but till now no injuries have been recorded. After many years people started exploring this untouched trails and discovered a trekking route to Rachela once it was route to travel border of Bhutan.
Beside the lake there is a beautiful ground where you find plenty of strawberries. This place is suitable for nature lover where you can feel the fresh air peaceful area no noise the only sound you hear is a different species of birds chirping, roaring prayer flag and a bell which is hanged on a cow neck.
The road is not yet completed so for 5 km you need to ride in bumping road though it is a hectic ride but while climbing the hills the view will overcome your tierdness. after sometime you will reach the last village Mulkharka it is a small village where different tribes of people are seen. The main income of this village is from Potato farming and black Cardamom and Tourism. This village offers spectacular view of Mt Kanchenjunga and this is the best spot for sunrise and sunset slaying at this village is very worthy the morning view and night view is just awesome. After leaving this village you enter to dense forest and its a buffer zone to Neora valley national Park and it also shares a border to native state Sikkim so while entering to this lake you need to give some personal details and sometimes they also ask for Aadhar card for Indians and passport for foreigner so do carry your documents before travelling. The entry fee and parking fee is mandatory. The vehicle is allowed till the Government Tourist Lodge and then you have to hike for 3 mins to reach the lake, while hiking the environment welcome you with cold air and birds chirping you will find inner peace in nature. There is a footpath around the lake, you can see the lake from different angle. Though it is a wish lake so don’t miss the chance to make a wish. This place is a holy place so don’t ever try to litter garbage around lake, it is recorded that if anyone litters around the lake they fall ill, many locals still believe that eating non veg item around this lake is a sin. If you are travelling for a day trip or picnic there is a big garden beside the lake the lush green garden give a pleasant place to sit back a relax the fresh environment.
Tips for travelling Mulkharka Lake
The best time to visit this place is around (Jan- May) (mid Sep- December) if you are lucky enough you can see the reflection of Mt Kanchenjunga on this month, rainy season are not recommended due to leeches and no road access.
How to reach
Nearest railway station– NJP 120 km Nearest Airport– Bagdogra 130 km Pakyong Airport- approx 50km Nearest taxi Stand– Pedong 28 Km via Kagay Rhenock- km via Aritar Sikkim
There are many ways to travel you can trek from Lingsey or you can get a direct sharing cab from Kalimpong or you can book a cab and enjoy the view and the bumping roads. There are many Homestay and Resort with different tariff but the recommended one is a Home-stay where you can stay with Nepali culture and their food cooked in fire with fresh vegetables and local chicken.