About Kupup (Elephant) Lake
Kupup Lake, popularly called Elephant Lake for its shape, sits at 3,950m on the Old Silk Route near the village of Kupup in East Sikkim. It is a sacred glacial lake and one of the highest accessible lakes in East Sikkim. The surrounding terrain is above the tree line — open grassland, yak herds and distant peaks. Birdwatchers note it for Bar-headed Goose (one of the world's highest-flying birds) during spring and autumn migration. The Army uses the adjacent area and restrictions apply on photography direction.
Why go to Kupup (Elephant) Lake
Sacred glacial lake at 3,950m
Open high-altitude lake with elephant-silhouette shape, set in grassland with no visible human settlement. The scale and silence are profound.
Why Kupup (Elephant) Lake is revered
Sacred to both the local Lepcha and Bhutia communities. The lake is considered a guardian of the valley and is associated with protective spiritual traditions.
What people do here
- Lakeside walk
- Birdwatching (Bar-headed Goose in migration)
- Landscape photography (toward the lake, not toward Army area)
Rules at the lake — please respect
- No photography of Army installations
- Do not disturb migratory birds
- No camping
- Stay on marked paths
How to reach Kupup (Elephant) Lake from Zuluk
On the Old Silk Route near Kupup village. 13 km from Nathang Valley. All travel by arranged vehicle with permits.
Best time to visit Kupup (Elephant) Lake
April–June and October–November. The lake freezes in winter (December–March).
Things we always tell our guests about Kupup (Elephant) Lake
- No photography toward the Army area.
- The lake edge path is the best vantage point for the elephant shape.
- Wind is strong — warm layers essential.
Kupup (Elephant) Lake — your questions answered
Other places in Zuluk
- ViewpointValleyHeritageTempleMonastery