Khecheopalri Lake, located in the West Sikkim district of India, is a serene and sacred lake revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Nestled amidst dense forests and picturesque mountains at an altitude of about 1,700 meters (5,600 feet), it is part of the larger Khecheopalri Village, near Pelling. The lake is often referred to as a "wish-fulfilling lake," as devotees believe that wishes made here come true.
Khecheopalri Lake holds cultural and spiritual significance, with myths suggesting it was blessed by Buddhist deities. One legend tells of a star-shaped footprint belonging to the goddess Tara (a deity in Buddhism) that marked the lake's origins. Another captivating aspect is that the lake is famously free of any floating leaves. Local belief states that birds around the lake remove any leaves that fall into the water, keeping it pristine as a mark of respect to the sacred site.
The area around Khecheopalri Lake is a biodiversity hotspot, home to various flora and fauna. Visitors often notice prayer flags surrounding the lake, and there are prayer wheels nearby, adding to its spiritual ambiance. The lake is also a pilgrimage site, particularly during the Maghe Purne festival in March, attracting monks, pilgrims, and tourists alike.
