Mount katao: High Altitude Valley in Lachung - North Sikkim

Mount Katao, is an offbeat, high-altitude valley located in North Sikkim. Perched on Donkila Hill, the valley sits at an elevation of 13,500 feet 144 kilometers from Gangtok.

The region is celebrated for its enthralling beauty, offering a panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and rugged Himalayan terrain. The valley’s scenery, considered a rival of Yumthang, includes natural vegetation such as primulas, poppies, and rhododendron forests. During the winter, Katao transforms into a magical wonderland, covered beneath a white sheet of snow.

Katao is a paradise for adventure sport lovers, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking thrill and solitude. The rugged landscape serves as the base for activities like snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing, and stone grinding. The most popular nearby places for sightseeing include Lachung, Yumthang Valley, and Zero Point. The distance between Lachung and Katao is about 24 to 28 kilometers. Access to this area, which is a military base near the Indo-China border, is restricted and requires a mandatory Inner Line Permit (ILP).