Poison Pokhri

Poison Pokhri is a small historic lake located in Rinchenpong in Soreng District, West Sikkim. Situated amidst dense forest near Rinchenpong Monastery, it is known for its association with a 19th-century conflict when its waters were reportedly poisoned to repel invading forces. Today it is a quiet natural attraction noted for its forested setting, historical folklore and tranquil environment.

Visitors can expect a small, secluded forest lake surrounded by dense woodland and quiet trails near Rinchenpong Monastery. The site is accessed by a short walk through forested terrain. There are no major structures at the lake itself, but the surroundings offer natural scenery, birdlife and a peaceful setting for sightseeing and photography. Interpretive context relates to local history and folklore associated with the lake.

Poison Pokhri is linked to local history from the period of British expeditions into Sikkim in the 19th century. According to local accounts, the waters of the lake were poisoned by local residents to prevent invading British forces from using it as a water source, thereby forcing their retreat. The lake retains its name from this episode.

The lake holds local folklore value for the communities of Rinchenpong and is often visited together with the nearby Rinchenpong Monastery as part of the cultural landscape of West Sikkim.