Places to visit in Sikkim in January

Believe it or not, the allure and charm of Sikkim are impossible to resists. Sikkim is a wonderment that comes in a small package. It is nestled in the lap of natural beauty and in the abundance of snow-capped mountains and lakes, Sikkim has all the components that would sooth you on your trip. Whether you are looking for serene beauty, lush forests or mental peace, Sikkim is the place for you. It will give you a break from your day to day hustle bustle and will leave you spell bounded.

In fact, during the month of January, you can also encounter snowfall in Sikkim. This is one of the biggest highlights of visiting Sikkim in the month of January because not all places in India experience a snowfall. This North Eastern gateway of India not only offers you a pallet of enchanting beauty but also has a long list of places to visit that enhance the charisma of the state.

Here is a list of the top places that you can visit in Sikkim during the month of January.

1. Tsomgo Lake – Gangtok

Popularly known as the Changu Lake, this lake is made of a glacier. The lakes natural beauty is its high point and the snow-covered hills enhance the allure of the lake. A fun fact about the lake is that it is 1km long and is shaped like an egg.

Being at the lake during the month of January will help you experience the extremely cold climate and you can see the lake water turning into ice. That is a sight to witness, and a picture that you must capture as a keepsake. Tsomgo Lake is a must-visit place in Sikkim in January.

Things to Remember

The lake is situated around 35kms from Gangtok and it is advisable to make travel arrangements a day before you plan to visit the lake.

2. Yuksom

This quaint town in Sikkim is situated in the West district and is a gateway to a lot of important and beautiful places in the state. The town is majorly known for its monasteries and it was also once the capital of Sikkim. The small town is topped with stunning vistas and greenery all around the place.

Here is a list of the few places that you must visit around the town.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Situated at a height of 14,000ft above sea level, this base camp is a paradise for adventure junkies.

Tashiding Monastery

The monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. It is known for its architecture and the highlight of the monastery is its backdrop, of the neighboring Himalayan peaks.

Dubdi Monastery

Considered to be the oldest monastery of Sikkim, it is located on a hilltop. Surrounded by forests above the stunning village of Yuksom, you can hike uphill to the place. The monastery offers a panoramic view of the snow rugged mountain ranges and the far-off valleys of Pelling.

Also, it is said that the best time to visit these places is in January, because only during the winter season you will experience snowfall at the base camp, and that is something that you will cherish your entire life. The view of the mountains is adorable during that period and it is an experience that you should not miss out on. Same goes for the other two monasteries as they too offer a panoramic view of snow-capped surroundings form the hill. Yuksom is a really popular winter place to visit in Sikkim.

Things to Remember

Most places in the town of Yuksom are located up hill; to avoid any kind of leg injury while trekking, it is best to wear comfortable shoes.

To know in detail about the monasteries, you can also hire a guide/local who can help you further.

3. Nathu-la Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

Otherwise known as the Baba Mandir, it is situated just near the Nathu-la Pass. The temple is dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh who died on duty and it is said that his soul is still present in the surrounding mountains, for nearly 50 years. Now a pilgrim sight, many devotees come to this temple to seek blessings from Singh. In fact, a short film named “Plus Minus” that won the Film Fare Awards of 2018 for the best short film of the year was based on the story of Baba Harbhajan Singh.

January is an ideal time to enjoy trekking at the Nathu-la Pass. The mountain is covered with snow and it becomes easy to trek because it is not sunny. You can enjoy the climate while you trek and also take pleasure from the view of your surroundings because Nathu-la Pass is also one of the most visited places in Sikkim during January.

Things to Remember

Being really close by to Nathu-la Pass, you can also visit the place to enjoy the beauty that surrounds the attraction point.

The view from Nathu-la pass is extraordinary and something that you must capture in your camera.

4. Lachung, Lachen, and Yumthang

The three cities in Sikkim compliment each other. Each city has some of the most important places to visit in Sikkim during the month of January. It is said that Yumthang is famous for its Valley of Flowers and on the other hand Lachung boasts of the Khanda Waterfalls, not to forget Lachen that attracts tourists with the Gurudongmar Lake.

And to its surprise, all these places can be best visited during January because of the ideal climate. The valley of flowers has some really amazing flowers that bloom during the winters, the waterfall has ice cold water flowing from the stream and to stand under the waterfall for a shower is a different feeling altogether, while the temperature is in minus. Also, the Gurudongmar Lake offers a spectacular vista in the form of an azure blue water lake with a shiny reflection of the snow-white mountains that surround the lake.

Valley of Flowers – Yumthang

A sight to witness is when the mountains situated thousands of meters above sea level are covered with nothing but different colored flowers. It is a sight that you will never want to erase from your memories.

Khanda Waterfalls – Lachung

A tourist spot that is covered with snow during the month of January is the Khanda Waterfalls. The spot is your visit to a natural shower with water that is so clean that you won’t have to think twice before drinking it.

Gurudongmar Lake – Lachen

The lake is one of the fifteen highest lakes in the entire world. You will be bewildered by the splendid and scenic beauty of the place. The view is breathtaking and it attracts tourists from all over the globe.

Things to Remember

Make sure you carry an extra pair of clothes when you visit the Khanda Waterfalls.

The water of Gurudongmar Lake is said to have healing powers. If you believe in some spiritual healing, then do take an empty bottle along.

5.Ravangla

A lesser-known and quaint village located between the high mountains of the Eastern Ghats is Ravangla. Its elevation of 8000feet from sea level offers you a breathtaking view of the hills.

Here is a list of some beautiful viewpoints and places that you can visit in Sikkim in January in Ravangla.

Rayong Sunrise View Point

Rayong Sunrise View Point is known for the great vistas it offers. The viewpoint is located in the southern district and it catches the attention of many tourists, locally and internationally.

Temi Tea Garden

Growing alongside the steep slopes of Ravangla are the Temi tea plants. The 177-hectare land produces fine quality Temi tea leaves that have an international demand.

Ralang Monasteries

The monasteries in Ravangla are something to look out from. From their architecture to their history, the monasteries are like no other in Sikkim. Do look out for the exclusive paintings that enhance the charm of the place.

Things to Remember

The Ralang Monastery is around 13kms from Ravangla, so make sure you hitch a cab ride or hire a car to reach the trekking point of the monastery.

Hiring a guide/local for further historical reference about the monastery and Temi Tea Garden is advisable.

6. Namchi

The capital of the South Sikkim district, the town is also known as the cultural capital of the state. It is believed that the town has seen rapid development over the years and has become a must-visit place in Sikkim in January. It also houses the biggest statue of Guru Padmasambhava. This town is a religious hub for most tourists and has many temples that can be visited to seek blessings.

An important reason for visiting the town during January is because the climate is not hot and you can easily walk around from one temple to another and seek as many blessings as you want.

Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir

Known to be a favourite amongst all religions in India, this temple overlooks a high footfall each year. In fact, this temple was built by the Chief Minister of the state as a dedicated pilgrim center for the tourists.

Char Dham Complex

This complex is so huge that it is compared to a Char Dham Yatra as per the Hindu Religion. It consists of different temples that compliment each other.

Namchi Rock Garden

This well laid out garden is the pride of the city. With different species of plants, flowers and trees, it attracts a number of tourists from all over the globe. It also houses many waiting sheds, viewpoints and water bodies within its complex.

Things to Remember

It is advisable to wear traditional clothes while visiting the temples.

Many tourists also organize a prayer meet at the temples by speaking to the temple co-coordinators and saints.

7. Zuluk

Boasting a height of 10,000 feet above sea level, this small hamlet is surrounded by rugged Himalayan Mountains. Zuluk redefines natural beauty and in fact, it is situated very close to the Indo-Tibetan border.

Zuluk has many beautiful places to visit and is known to be a former trade route between the Tiber and Kalimpong via Jelep-la. It is best to visit Zuluk during January because during that time you can view the amazing snow covered mountains from the top and the zigzag road that leads you the place which is sandwiched between the white pathway of snow. This makes Zuluk an important place to visit in Sikkim in January.

Things to Remember

If you are someone who has motion sickness, it is advisable to be prepared to commute via the zigzag route to reach the top of the hill.

8. Gangtok

Alluring, Pleasantly Vibrant and Panoramic – This sums up Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. In fact, at a distant skyline, Gangtok also gives you the view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. The city is a base for a lot of trekkers who want to explore the Himalayan Range. The city’s prismatic beauty and the beautiful hill roads add to its charm.

Gangtok looks the best in the winter season especially January. The beauty of the city lies in those mountains covered with snow and those hill roads when they are snowing while you drive around them. Hence, if you are ever planning a trip to Gangtok, try to make it in January, so that you do not miss out on snowfall.

Also, here is a list of the top three places in Gangtok that you should not miss out on.

Rumtek Monastery

Built in the 12th Century, this monastery is a powerhouse of unique murals and hand paintings. In fact, it houses 1001 Gold sculptures, which are a highlight of the monastery.

M.G Marg

If you haven’t visited M.G Marg in Gangtok, then your Gangtok trip is incomplete. Being the center of the town, this place is a shopping hub for tourists. The road has transformed over the years and is now like an open mall. Also, there a number of cafés and food joints in the area that are a must-visit. Do not miss out on the opportunity to savour the steamed momo’s, which are to die for.

Thangu Valley

Perched upon a height of 3,962m, the valley is shrouded under a carpet of snow almost throughout the year. The valley is also a base for the famous Chopta valley and Muguthang treks.

Things to Remember

Wear comfortable woolen clothes at Gurudongmar Lake.

Advisable to keep away from the frozen lake and not step on the ice.

9. Pelling

This beautiful city is located in the West District of Sikkim and is the second largest tourist destination of the state. Initially, the town was covered with thick forests and was home to many animals but now it is developed into a full-fledged city.

During January, the city remains cold and pleasant and it is easier to visit the ample amount of tourist destinations.

Here is a list of the places that are considered a must-visit.

Khangchendzonga Waterfalls

The waterfall is a hotspot of tourists considering the awe-inspiring view of its gushing chilled water.

Pemayangtse Monastery

‘Perfect Sublime Lotus’ – is the meaning of the word Pemayangtse. It is a famous tourist attraction and is visited by many tourists throughout the year. It is a perfect place to relax and attain nirvana.

Singshore Bridge

One of the oldest bridges in Sikkim, this bridge connects two beautiful hills. It is also convenient for treks. When you walk over the bridge you can’t help but take in the surrounding snowcapped mountain view with awe.

Khecheopalri Lake

Belief has it that if someone prays and sprinkles the lake water on oneself, the wishes of that person are likely to come true. In addition to that, it is said that no leaves are seen afloat the lake even though it is surrounded by a dense forest.

Kanchenjunga Falls

Situated at an hour’s drive from Yuksom, this perennial waterfall originates high up in the glaciers of Mount Kanchenjunga. It is the 3rd highest peak in the world and gushes down from a height of 100 feet.

Rabdentse Ruins

The ruins are an archeological site that glorifies the history of Sikkim. The place is a must see for any history lover who wants to know more about the culture and period history of the state.

Things to Remember

Hire a guide/local to learn about the history of the monastery.

Carry an extra pair of clothes when you visit the waterfalls. Also, the waterfall is a 3 hour drive from the city. So make travel arrangements back and forth, beforehand.

10. Khangchendzonga National Park

Khangchendzonga National Park is also known as Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve and its trekking trails are something to look out for. The trails lead to a number of places like; Yuksom, Dzongri, Zemu Glacier and even Goechala.

The national park is the largest wildlife reserve in Sikkim and houses the species like the red panda, Himalayan black bear and the very famous snow leopard. You will also find a number of exotic plants at the park.

January being the winter season, the sighting of the animals become easier because they tend to take haven at their nests and houses. This makes it easier for the guides to help you sight the animals.

Things to Remember

Make sure you make stay arrangements before you visit the park.

While taking a jeep safari be as quiet as possible, to not scare away the animals.

11. Goechala

Goechala stands at a height of about 4,940m above sea level. It is listed as one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. In fact, it is in the proximity of some of the highest mountains of the Himalayan Ranges. It is the perfect place for adventure lovers and trekkers. Go there for its panoramic view and you will not regret it at all.

A fun fact about the place is that the view from the pass is said to be so alluring that it was featured on the back of the 100 Rupee note of India. Now, it would be a waste to not visit the place in January and look at the same view of the 100 rupee note right in front of your eyes, covered in snow.

Things to Remember

Make sure you make carry comfortable shoes with you if you are planning a trekking adventure.

With this, we come to an end of our list of the places in Sikkim that will help you explore the state in the month of January. We hope you have a memorable getaway and that you make some keepsakes for life. Happy Travelling!!!