Exploring Sikkim in Winter: Tips for Traveling and Visiting, Get Ready Now 2021

Exploring Sikkim in Winter: Tips for Traveling and Visiting, 2021

While each month of the year is said to be good to visit Sikkim, the beautiful hill state is at its best when winter comes. From Gurudongmore, the world’s highest freshwater lake, to mesmerizing landscapes alongside the old Silk Road, these are among the prime locations to visit in India’s second smallest state.

Located in north-eastern India, Sikkim shares its border with the nations of Nepal, China, and Bhutan. Although this has resulted in restricted movement of visitors, the exclusivity makes this destination much more interesting to discover. Try a carefully crafted list of sights and a few travel tips for a winter trip on this stunning area.

Getting there

Being landlocked, Sikkim is a bit tough to reach. The nearest railhead at New Jalpaiguri and the airport at Bagdogra are an excellent four-hour drive from Gangtok, provided there are no obstructions on the landslide-prone highway.

The recently opened airport at Pakyong, which is 21 km from Gangtok, is a boon for tourists coming from Delhi, Kolkata or Guwahati. That mentioned, even this vital link remains obsolete at instances on account of unpredictable weather conditions in Sikkim.

The drive to Gangtok is scenic alongside the Teesta River, the lifeline of Sikkim, which is your fixed companion from the plains to the Sikkim’s entry point, Rangpo checkpost.

Travel tips

Since Gangtok is located at an altitude of 5576′ above sea level, there are a number of things to keep in mind while traveling there in winter:

Depending on the place you plan to visit, keep in mind that temperatures can drop to freezing point in some areas. Heat woolens are a should on your packing list. The place necessary, wear snow boots in particular areas.
If visiting areas near the border such as Nathu La or Yumthang, plan ahead of time to secure the necessary permits to visit these areas. These could be obtained from the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation in Gangtok.
Mangan Sangeet festival is organized every year between 12-14 December and is the primary attraction of Sikkim tourism. To really experience the tradition and artwork of Sikkim, this can be a should visit.
Indian visitors don’t need a permit to enter Sikkim, besides in restricted areas. All international visitors are required to obtain an Inner Line Permit from the related authorities in advance to enter Sikkim.
Keep a daily eye on the climate forecast and street conditions earlier than reserving a tour throughout winter.

Gangtok

The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is the start line for a lot of exciting sights and tops the list for each customer. This charming city is the right amalgamation of beauty and tradition and is a base station for visiting some spiritual locations like Rumtek Monastery and Enchi Monastery. You’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Kangchenjunga from Tashi’s point of view in Gangrat.

Tsomgo Lake

Located at an altitude of about 11,000′, Tsomgo Lake is one of the main tourist attractions in Gangtok. The place is covered with snow in winters and gives panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains surrounding this glacier-filled lake. Tsomgo Lake is situated 40 km from Gangtok. And it takes round two hours to reach by street.

Gurudongmar Lake

Gangtok to Lachen (8 hrs)

Lachen to Gurudongmar (4 hrs)

Located at an altitude of 17,800 feet above sea level, Gurudongmar Lake is said to be the best freshwater lake on the earth. Whereas it’s nice to visit in summer time, it turns into a fascinating body of water in winter as part of the lake never freezes despite sub-zero temperatures. This ends in a stunning view of the combination of blue and white in opposition to the background. In regards to the snow-capped mountain peaks around it.

Yumthang

Gangtok to Yumthang (7 hrs)

Yumthang to Zero Level (4 hrs)

Located in North Sikkim, Yumthang is the gateway to the Valley of Flowers of Sikkim. At 8,800′ the weather right here freezes at least in winters. That mentioned, the zero level which is still over 14,000′ is all the time coated by a thick blanket of ice at this time of year. The riot of colours, uncovered by the rising sun, are a sight to behold in Yumthang.

zuluki

Gangtok to Zuluk (4 hrs)

The small village of Zuluk is located at an altitude of 14,500′ and is located on the traditional old Silk Street near the Indo-China border. The Serpentine Drive is nothing less than a curler coaster ride with many ups and downs until you attain Zuluk Valley. Aside from the alluring landscape, the area is blessed with spectacular views of the Kangchenjunga Peak and different high Himalayan mountains. Sunrise and sunset views from Thambi’s viewpoint are said to be out of the world.

Also Read:- Sikkim government will ban packaged drinking water from today 3sept 2021