Kupup Lake

Kupup Lake, also known as Elephant Lake or Bitan Cho, is a high-altitude natural lake at about 3,900 metres near Kupup village in Gangtok District, East Sikkim. Located on the historic Old Silk Route close to Jelep La Pass and the India-China border, it is notable for its distinctive elephant-shaped outline, alpine setting, and sacred status among locals. It is a popular sightseeing stop en route from Gangtok to Nathu La.

Visitors can expect a serene high-altitude alpine lake set in a broad valley surrounded by mountains and yak grazing grounds. The lake's shape resembles an elephant lying down, best appreciated from the elevated viewpoint above the lake. The area is open and windswept with prayer flags, a small viewpoint shelter, and army presence due to proximity to the border. Access is by road only with permits, and visits are typically brief photo stops during a day trip along the Old Silk Route circuit.

Kupup Lake lies along the historic Old Silk Route that connected India with Tibet via Jelep La Pass. The route was an important trade corridor until 1962 and the area around Kupup, Jelep La and nearby Tukla Valley retains historical significance linked to border trade and military history.

The lake is considered sacred by local Sikkimese communities and is locally known as Bitan Cho. It holds religious and cultural importance and is respected as a holy water body in the region.