Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake is a forest-ringed lake in Gyalshing district of West Sikkim, revered by Buddhists and Hindus alike and protected by the state government as a place of worship. Its old name, Kha-Chot-Palri, is taken to mean the heaven of Padmasambhava, while locals also call it Sho Dzo Sho, 'Oh lady, sit here'. Many believe that wishes made here are granted, and it is part of the pilgrimage circuit with Dubdi, Pemayangtse, Sanga Choeling and Tashiding.

Buddhist tradition says Guru Padmasambhava taught 64 yoginis at the lake and that the goddess Tara, Jetsun Dolma, lives here; the lake's outline is likened to her footprint, or to the Buddha's. Hindus link it with Shiva, who is believed to have meditated in the Dupukney cave above it, and on Nag Panchami devotees float butter lamps on bamboo rafts. Birds are said to clear fallen leaves from the water. Fishing, swimming and boating are banned, and a lake welfare committee works with villagers on its care.