Witness snowfall in Sikkim this winter

There are a couple of snowfall destinations in India and Sikkim is one of them. Located in northeast India, and in close proximity to the eastern Himalayas, Sikkim experiences frigid temperatures in the winter months in the higher altitudes and inevitably receives snowfall between December and February. The average temperature in high altitudes of Sikkim hovers between 5°C to -7°C. Though the terrain is not suitable for outdoor winter sports such as skiing, it’s still a great place to see snow, play around in it, and experience a winter wonderland.

Places to see snow in East Sikkim

Tsomgo Lake: A high-altitude glacial lake, it remains frozen in the winter months and is surrounded by snow. A ropeway ride at the lake gives a good view of the snow-covered terrain and you can spend some time at the top admiring the view. You can also enjoy a yak ride around the lake.

Zuluk: Once a trading route, it’s known for its 32 hairpin bends. Thambi Viewpoint situated at an altitude of 11,600 ft. above sea level offers an excellent sunrise view.

Places to see snow in North Sikkim

Yumthang Valley: In full bloom in the summer months, this valley completely changes during winter and is thickly blanketed in snow.

Gurudongmar Lake: The highest lake in Sikkim turns from a sparkling blue to white in winter. What’s astonishing about this lake is that no matter how much the temperatures drop, a part of it always stays unfrozen.

Zero Point: Situated at an altitude of 15,300 ft and close to the China border, Zero Point is one place that receives snowfall without fail.

Book your winter holiday in Sikkim, if snow is on your mind, with TourGenie

Your Guide to the Best Time to Visit Sikkim

As a state that’s so close to the eastern Himalayas, Sikkim not only enjoys a pleasantly cool climate but also experiences extreme cold, snowfall, and rainfall. This means, not all months are suitable to enjoy crystal-clear views of the Himalayas, especially Mt. Khangchendzonga, go on treks in its national parks, go up to the high-altitude lakes and passes, or go on bike rides.

Read on to know the best months to travel, sightsee, and enjoy different outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit Sikkim

Mid-March-May: Perhaps the best months to travel to Sikkim. Straight out of the winter months, the days are pleasantly warm, the skies are clear, and the whole of nature is hunky dory. The roads are open to travel to higher altitudes after the snow has melted, and you can travel to any part of the state, especially North Sikkim. Trekking trails are also open and the Goecha La trek is perfect at this time.

June-September: The worst months to travel to Sikkim as it’s the monsoon season. Multiple landslides cause long jams on the highway connecting the airport to Sikkim, causing delays of upto 8 hours. Thunderstorms are common at this time, and there’s very less scope for travelling anywhere outdoors. However, it doesn’t rain continuously, and whenever there are bouts of sunshine, you can enjoy the outdoors; not great for sightseeing though. Workation is best during these months.

October-November: Fresh out of the monsoons, the landscape takes a visible turn during these 2 months. Verdant hills, blue skies, crisp air, and specks of wildflowers start off October. By mid-October, leaves have turned orange and brown, and you can witness the slow transition into colder weather. This is again a good time to enjoy the outdoors with treks, bike rides, cycling, paragliding, helicopter rides, and more.

December-February: The coldest months of the year. If you love winters, then this is the time to come and enjoy the cold in your warm woollies. Barbeques, bonfires, and festivals make up winters here. Let’s not forget the snow. This is a great snowfall destination and North Sikkim is utterly beautiful at this time.

Additional read: Paradise found: The best time to visit Sikkim

One holiday, two destinations: Popular Sikkim Darjeeling tour

Most of us can afford a holiday to just one place, and sometimes we run out of things to do during a long trip because there’s nothing much on offer.

If you’re planning a trip to Sikkim, since you’ve heard endless tales of its beauty, you can also add one more destination that’s just 3.5 hours away—Darjeeling in West Bengal. These two destinations are often clubbed together because of the short distance between them and the experiences are totally different.

Both are Himalayan kingdoms but vary in certain aspects such as landscape, local culture, communities, etc.

Sikkim Highlights:

Sikkim is close to the Tibet-China border, and you can get amazingly close to it at Nathu La Pass.
There are a lot of high-altitude lakes that are breathtaking such as Gurudongmar Lake and Tsomgo Lake.
You can visit a number of national parks that are teeming with unique flora and fauna. They are the perfect places for hikes and treks.
Sikkim has some of the oldest monasteries.
The presence of the 3 main tribes- Nepalis, Lepchas, and Bhutias- brings a unique gastronomical offering to try out.
Sikkim experiences snowfall in the winter months.

Darjeeling Highlights:

Darjeeling was once the summer destination of the British. The colonial buildings are a testament to it and provide an old-world charm to the streets of Darjeeling.
You get the closest view of Mt. Khangchendzonga from Darjeeling. And one of the best views is from Tiger Hill, the highest point.
It is home to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Tea is Darjeeling’s specialty, and it has numerous tea gardens where you can take a garden and factory tour and taste it ofcourse.

Check out this Sikkim Darjeeling Gangtok tour package and book a memorable holiday this year.

Why travel agents in Sikkim are your dream holiday makers

Many of us think twice before coming to Sikkim. Here’s why: For a reliable flight, you have to get down at Bagdogra airport in West Bengal before commencing on a 4-hour drive up the hills to Sikkim’s capital, Gangtok. MG Marg is the only happening part of Gangtok where there’s food, shopping, and live music, but if you’ve chosen accommodation for its looks and not location, you could be taking expensive cab rides to MG Marg often. There are also many high-altitude places in Sikkim that need permits. And can you rely on your driver to take you to all the places and not cut corners?

Here’s where the services of a travel company/agent come in. They make sure your trip goes flawless from the moment you step out of the airport to checking in comfortably at a hotel, arranging for permits for sightseeing tours, and making sure your driver arrives on time every morning.

But are all travel agents the same and just as helpful? Unfortunately, not. Then again, it’s all based on your requirements. If you’re looking at a budgeted tour, there are many operators that will hand over to you the standard itinerary and have you share cab and room space throughout the tour. But if you’re looking for comfort, you will have to do a bit of internet research and read reviews before deciding on a trustworthy tour operator.

Good travel agents in Sikkim will choose the best location for your accommodation that also has good services, make sure your rooms are ready before your arrival at the hotel/homestay, choose a comfortable cab with a reliable driver, get all your permits ready, and stay connected with you throughout your trip to handle additional requests.

Tip: Choose a travel company that is actually based in Gangtok, Sikkim. Travel agents in other states only pass on the enquiry to someone locally, so there might be some disappointments in terms of services and changes.

Sikkim: A pristine honeymoon destination in Northeast India

Choosing a honeymoon destination can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. India as a honeymoon destination is yet to be fully explored, especially northeast India. Places such as Sikkim and Meghalaya are mostly frequented by honeymooners, and all for good reason. These Himalayan states share pleasant weather, untouched beautiful places, and outstanding local hospitality that makes the experience worth every penny.

Sikkim is gaining immense popularity as a honeymoon destination as it offers the beauty, serenity, and adventure that make up for an unforgettable couple experience. You can either stay in the modern capital city of Gangtok or go offbeat and explore South or West Sikkim.

Sikkim is often clubbed with Darjeeling, which is 4 hours away. This gives honeymooners an opportunity to experience different cultures, food, and iconic spots unique to each state. Sikkim is famous for its monasteries and high-altitude lakes, whereas Darjeeling is popular for its British architecture, tea gardens, and UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Toy Train. Sikkim’s cuisine is interesting with influences from Tibet and Bhutan. Souvenirs vary from Buddhist trinkets to spicy pickles and organic tea. Handmade carpets and woolens made by Tibetan refugees and local artisans are also prized.

Ropeway rides, yak rides, helicopter rides, and paragliding let you explore Sikkim in unique ways, and the stunning natural landscapes offer romantic moments to star gaze, take solitary nature walks, and take stunning photos for the album.

If you’re looking at Sikkim honeymoon packages, check out TourGenie’s Idyllic Sikkim-Darjeeling Honeymoon Package.

5 Good Reasons to Book a Sikkim Tour Package

Sikkim is a state that holds a special fascination for travellers—maybe because it was once a separate kingdom that was governed by a monarchy, or that it shares a border with China, or is praised by visitors for its cleanliness and unparalleled beauty.

Whatever the reasons, Sikkim makes an unforgettable impression on anyone visiting this northeastern state of India that is fringed by the eastern Himalayas.

WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK A SIKKIM TOUR PACKAGE

(1) Pristine Nature

As a Himalayan state, the topography is made up of high mountain passes, verdant hills, valleys, gorges, forests, streams, hot springs, and waterfalls. The Himalayas can be seen in all their glory, and you get the best views of Mt. Khangchendzonga, the 3^rd highest peak in the world from here.

Sikkim’s National Parks allow you to closely observe the region’s native plants, birds, insects, and wildlife through its trekking trails and nature walks. Forest bathing, forest foraging, and hiking are all part of the local experience and help you relax, heal, and rejuvenate. It also snows in the winter months, making it one of the few snowfall destinations in India.

(2) Different Seasons

Sikkim experiences all the seasons, although it rains on and off throughout the year. Spring and summer see beautiful wildflowers painting the valleys. Monsoons are from June-Mid-September and are ideal for birdwatching. Autumn runs from September end to the beginning of November. The landscape blushes in autumnal hues of oranges, yellows, and reds. Winters are chilly but it’s a chance to enjoy snowfall.

(3) Culture and People

Sikkim’s 3 main tribes, the Bhutias, Nepalis, and Lepchas, offer different cultural experiences in terms of customs, food, crafts, and beliefs. Village tours, homestays, and festivals are great options to experience different cultures in close range. The locals are very hospitable and you wouldn’t have trouble getting around.

(4) Adventure Activities

There’s no dearth of outdoor activities in Sikkim. Whether on the ground or air, you can enjoy the beauty of the state. Popular activities include biking, mountain biking, trekking, paragliding, zip lining, helicopter rides, and rafting.

(5) Spiritual Wellness and Healing

The prevalence of Buddhism is evident in the scores of monasteries all over the state. The monasteries are free to enter and the residing monks are more than happy to give you a tour explaining the significance of symbols, relics, etc.

Sikkim’s hot springs are known for their healing properties and you’ll find many locals thronging these springs to take a healing dip throughout the year. The hot springs are known to heal skin diseases, arthritis, etc.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SIKKIM

The best time to visit Sikkim is the summer months from March-May, and from October-February. The beginning of the year is good for sightseeing and treks and the winter months for witnessing snowfall.

View Sikkim Tour Packages

Trekking season is here again: Pros and cons of trekking in peak season

Post monsoon, the national parks in northeast India are open again for trekkers. October to mid-December are the ideal months to trek in the eastern Himalayas before winter sets in and snowfall blocks all the trekking trails.

Two of the popular trekking trails in northeast India include the Goecha La Trek in Sikkim and Sandakphu Trek in West Bengal.

The Goecha La Trek runs through the Khangchendzonga National Park in north Sikkim. Some of the highlights of the trek include a closeup view of Mt. Khangchendzonga (the 3rd highest peak in the world), views of 14 other stunning Himalayan peaks, and the reflection of Mt Pandim on Samiti Lake early morning.

The Sandakphu Trek trails through the Singalila National Park. On this trek, you can see the 4 highest peaks in the world: Mt. Everest, Mt. Khangchendzonga, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Makalu, which is not possible on any other trek. 4 other reasons to do the Sandakphu trek.

Pros of trekking during peak trekking season:

(1) Clear views: As the monsoon ends, the skies become exceptionally clear and provide uninterrupted views of the mountain ranges.

(2) Pleasant weather: With its close proximity to the eastern Himalayas, the northeast region experiences cold waves and frigid winters. Rain is also unpredictable throughout the year. October-mid November though has a pleasant climate, staying mostly cool throughout the day along with plenty of sunshine.

(3) Picturesque landscape: Autumn can be felt and seen in the changing foliage and pretty flowers unique to the Himalayan region dot the landscape.

Cons of trekking during peak trekking season:

(1) Crowded trails: As it’s the ideal season for trekking, the trails are crowded with many trekkers. If you’re looking for a serene trek, then you can kiss that goodbye.

(2) Fully booked stays: With no dearth of trekkers but limited stays, accommodations run out pretty fast. So if you haven’t booked your stay well in advance be prepared to carry a tent and camp outdoors.

If seeing the views during the trek means a lot to you (as they should), I suggest you plan your trek well in advance, making all the necessary bookings. However, if you’re trekking for a peaceful getaway in nature, then plan your trek after the peak season, which is still good enough, provided you can brave the cold.

Witness the world’s highest peaks on the Sandakphu Trek, Darjeeling

The Himalayas have held a surreal fascination for not just mountaineers but practically anyone anywhere in the world. One reason could be that it is home to the highest mountain in the world- Mount Everest.

What if you had the chance to see not just Mt. Everest but also the 3rd, 4th, and 5th highest peaks in the world (also a part of the Himalayas) on a fairly moderate trek that doesn’t require you to be fanatically fit and the altitude gain is no more than 12,000 feet?

The Sandakphu Trek promises such visuals and more and it’s in West Bengal, India.

The trek route can last between 3-7 days, depending on if you plan to walk all the way or take a ride on the Land Rovers designated on the route, and also the starting point of the trek.

The best time to trek is throughout the year with the exception of the monsoon season. Spring is ideal to spot wildflowers along the route whereas autumn and early winter are great to view the mountains across the clear skies.

If this trek fits right up your alley, TourGenie is planning fixed departures for this trek in October and November.

Dates: October 2nd, 9th, and 23rd; November 6th and 13th.

Priced at Rs 13,500 per person for 5 days 4 nights, the route starts from Maneybhanjang and ends at Rimbick Village. They are providing a discounted rate of Rs 12,900 for a group of 5 and above.

More details on Sandakphu Trek

Tour the stunning Northeast India

Northeast India is a region of high mountain passes, valleys, rivers, lakes, and forests. This varied terrain is hard to navigate, but over the years, new roads, bridges, railways, and airports have made it easier to travel between states.

If you’re looking to travel to a few northeast states at a go, you can club Mizoram, Tripura, Manipur, and Nagaland. You can discover the tribal crafts and culture of Nagaland, dwell in the beauty of Mizoram, feast on Manipur’s Loktak Lake with its floating phumids, and explore the princely traditions of Tripura.

An amalgamation of people, culture, food, language, crafts, beliefs, and more, Northeast India offers an experience like no other. Except for the monsoon season, and the winter months of December and January for some states that receive heavy snowfall, the rest of the year is perfect to visit. The stunning views of the Himalayas are a crowd-puller to this part of the country, and it’s a welcome alternative to the crowded tourist places of Himachal Pradesh.

From leisure tours and pilgrimage visits to adventure trips, Northeast India is the perfect destination for anyone looking to run to the mountains.

For immersive experiences, opt for homestays, village tours, participation in local activities, and volunteering for community services.

Things to note while touring Northeast India:

Be respectful of religion places.
Do not litter.
Intermingle with the locals politely.
Read up on the places you are visiting to stay knowledgeable.
Keep ready cash as cards might not work due to poor network.
Shop from local markets to support local business owners.

Note that many places need permits to visit, so make sure to arrange for them before leaving on your vacation.

Explore Northeast India for a refreshing break

The year-end months in India are usually marked with festivals. It’s a time for big gatherings, celebrations, and family holidays. If you’re looking for a relaxing break, northeast India is probably a good choice.

Fresh out of the monsoons, the landscape of these Himalayan regions is intoxicatingly vibrant and refreshing. Nature walks, hikes, treks, ropeway rides, jeep safaris, and mountain biking are just some ways to enjoy the scenery.

For a cultural experience, you can attend numerous festivals such as Pang Lhabsol in Sikkim, Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, and Majuli Festival in Assam that are eagerly awaited throughout the year. From dances to food, festivals are celebrated extravagantly here.

Close to the Eastern Himalayas, Northeast India enjoys a pleasant climate most of the year. Monsoons and winters can be harsh but enjoyable with the right activities and snowfall can be witnessed here from December-February.

Read all about tourist places in Northeast India to understand each state’s unique offerings before planning your trip.

It’s best to go through a travel agent to avoid the hassle of obtaining permits as some states lie close to international borders with numerous restricted areas.