Khecheopalri Lake, Chojo Lepcha village, monastery and cave:

About 28kms from Pelling at a height of about 6000ft is Khecheopalri Lake which is the most  holy and wish fulfilling. According to Buddhist belief the lake is the emanation of goddess Tara blessed by Guru Rempoche. Local folk tales say the lake got migrated from elsewhere and  stayed in the valley which some of the then villagers saw it, therefore, they named the lake Chojoo “The lake that stayed” . However there are different versions from different faiths. The miraculous part of the lake is that surface of the lake clean and clear with nothing floating on it in spite of it being surrounded by the thick forest . 

Leaves do fall on it sometimes but the birds fly in and instantly pick them away. Large number of pilgrims from different directions come and make wishes all through the year. The 15th full moon day of the 1'st month of lunar calendar which falls in Feb- March there is usually a festival of mass worshipping of Lake with prayers and offerings during when the Lake area will be fully crowded with pilgrims. Above the lake in about one hour walk there is a monastery named Khecheopalri Monastery on the hill. The monastery was said to have been founded by the then first Khecheo Rempoche. All most all the monks of this monastery are Lepchas except a few Bhutia monks. On the other side similarly in about one hour walk from the lake there is a holy cave which the visitors can visit. There is also a beautiful village of Lepchas and their culture traditions and way of life are interesting to experience. Well equipped with road acess and spacious parking place and restaurants with curios and worshipping articles for sale Khecheopalri lake is enjoyable for a day out by car or trekking. In case of over night halt there are a few guest houses.