Sikkim is one of the most beautiful places in North East India. It is famous for its beauty and glory. Covered in white snow and surrounded by greenery, It is a perfect vacation spot. I’ve tried to provide you with a complete guide on the best time to visit Sikkim. This guide is all you need before planning your much-awaited trip to Sikkim.
The best time to visit Sikkim is subjective for everyone. Your itinerary decides the best time for Sikkim tour. Mostly, tourists visit this place during the summer season between months of March to May.
Sikkim has various tourist spots. These places are famous for different things. Depending on your interests, the best time to visit Sikkim for you varies.
The Sikkim Tourism is Categorized in Four Parts:
- North Sikkim
- East Sikkim
- South Sikkim
- West Sikkim
These all 4 parts have different vibes and different kind of weather. In this blog I have mentioned all the must visiting places and there preferred visiting months.
1. If you’re planning to visit North Sikkim
The best season to visit is – Summers!!!
Undoubtedly, summers are the best time to visit North Sikkim. March to May are the best month to visit Sikkim. The temperature is comfortable and there is minimal rainfall. Traveling is comparatively easier. This makes it easy to access most places during these times.
- The weather is pleasant during the day. You can easily feel comfortable in cotton clothes.
- Nights are somewhat cold. So, carry some sweaters and hoodies.
- You can indulge in activities like adventure sports, trekking, and more.
- Summer is the best season to visit Sikkim
Temperature – 23 degrees in the day to 4 degrees at night
Places to visit in North Sikkim
- Gurudongmar Lake – It is one of the highest lakes in India, at a height of 17,100 feet. It provides a beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga mountains and valleys. People believe the lake has healing properties and it is often visited by spiritual seekers. Summer is the best season to visit North Sikkim as the lake is frozen during winter. You can also visit Cholamu Lake.
- Yumthang Valley – This valley is beautiful. The Teesta River flows through it. The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located here and comprises different species of flowers. The valley is also a grazing ground for different animals during summer. You can also visit the Thangu Valley and Chopta Valley.
You can visit North Sikkim in winter too. However, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. The weather conditions are extreme. If you love winter, it is the best time to visit sikkim to see snow.
Bonus Tip – Avoid visiting during the monsoon. There is always a risk of landslides and transport problems.
2. If you’re planning to see the South Sikkim
The best time to visit is – Summers Again!!
The best season to visit Sikkim is summer even north or south Sikkim. The winds are comfortable and the heat is also minimal. You will find easy to reach your destination from Gangtok.
- Adventure sports are mostly open.
- The weather is convenient.
- May is usually the peak summer month.
Temperature – Ranges from 25 degrees to 30 degrees in the day.
Places to visit in South Sikkim
- Namchi – Namchi, is known for Buddhist Monasteries. You can visit monasteries and pilgrimage places here. The place is also known for its biodiversity. March to May are the best month to visit sikkim.
- Maenam and Tending Hill – Forests surround both these hills. They offer a great view of greenery. March to June is the best time to visit Sikkim.
- Char Dham – This is a smaller version of the Char Dham temples. You can visit and pray here. People often buy Prasad and offer regards to the lord.
Bonus Tip – Do not visit South Sikkim during winter as the weather is extremely harsh. Monsoons are heavy. Roads often get blocked due to landslides.
3. If you’re planning to see the Eastern Sikkim
The best time to visit is – Winter to See Snow Else again Summer!!!
The best time in Sikkim to see snow is winter as East Sikkim is extremely cold during the winter season. If the main purpose of your trip is to see snow, then winter is the perfect option for you.
- Winter is only for those who can handle harsh weather conditions.
- Carry thick sweaters and thermals.
- Eat food that keeps you warm.
- The temperature is usually minuscule.
- Keep your ears and throat covered.
Places to visit in East Sikkim
- Nathula Pass – It lies between the India-China border. It offers a wonderful view of the Kanchenjunga peaks. It is one of the must-visit places in East Sikkim. Make sure to get your permit before you visit the place.
- Tashi View Point – It is another major tourist attraction. You can visit this place for a beautiful view of the mountain peaks. However, if you want a good view, be early. Try to reach before time to grab a good spot.
East Sikkim Tourist Places
Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Tukla Valley, Nathang Valley, Jelep La, Hanuman Tok, Tashi View Point, Gangtok Ropeway, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Ganesh Tok and many more.
Read More About Places to Visit is East Sikkim (Gangtok).
Bonus Tip – Summers are also a good time to visit East Sikkim. You can visit the different temples and monasteries. Avoid the months of July and August as there are heavy rainfalls during this time.
4. If you’re planning to visit the Western Part,
The best time to visit West Sikkim is – Summers!!!
It is the best season to visit West Sikkim. The weather is pleasant and the sun is usually bright and warm. Most of the adventure sports occur during the summer. There is greenery all around which makes traveling convenient.
- Temperature ranges from 10 degrees to 28 degrees.
- Cotton clothes and light sweaters are the perfect fits for this weather.
- The drives are comfortable.
March to May are the best month to visit Sikkim.
Places to visit in West Sikkim
- Goethe La – This is a trekking spot. You can visit this place if you have sufficient time on hand. The trek required almost a week to reach the snow-covered bottom of Kanchenjunga.
- Varsey – For all the nature lovers out there, this is the perfect spot for you. It is a beautiful sanctuary. Spring, usually during March and April, is the best time to visit the place. For those with some time in hand, you can also book a stay for yourself and enjoy this beauty.
Bonus Tip – Avoid visiting the place during monsoons as traveling becomes inconvenient. Landslides can get dangerous and the view is mostly not clear. You can visit the place during winter if you are fond of snow. However, try to visit before the beginning of December as it gets extremely harsh.
Conclusion – Best Time To Visit Sikkim
Sikkim is a wonderful option for vacation. The place offers a plethora of options for everyone to refresh, rejuvenate and recharge themselves. If you’re more interested in visiting monuments and adventure sports, then summer is for you. The greenery around will calm your mind and soothe your soul.
If you love snow, then October and November are the best month in Sikkim to see snow and get enchanted by the white powdery beauty all around.
So, choose the best time to visit as per your interests and plan your trip now.
