Editorial photo #13703396 Human Interest

Kupup Lake - Elephant Lake - High-altitude Himalayan Glacial Lake - Landscape

Kupup Lake, also known as Bitan Cho or Elephant Lake, is a high-altitude glacial lake near Jelep La Pass in East Sikkim, India, on April 17, 2026. The lake, situated at approximately 13,066 feet, is part of the Old Silk Route loop near the India-China border and is often frozen from winter through mid-May. It is shaped like a reclining elephant, which gives it the nickname ''Elephant Lake.'' Kupup Lake is considered a source of the Dichu River, a feeder of the Jaldhaka River, connecting to the Teesta basin. The area is known for its serene landscape and proximity to snow-capped Himalayan mountains. Kupup is one of the highest villages in the region and was a recognized transit point during the silk trade between India and Tibet. The image captures Kupup Lake amidst ice, clouds, and fog in Kupup Valley. (Photo by Soumyabrata Roy/NurPhoto)