BEST TIME TO VISIT SIKKIM

It is vital to know the best time to visit Sikkim as this north-eastern state tops the wish list of many tourists across the globe. Sikkim is guarded by Mount Khangchendzonga and is known for its unparalleled natural beauty. You do not want to miss out on any of its offerings because of the weather conditions. As recommended by the Sikkim Tourism Board, the best time to visit this state is either between the months of March to June or November until February. However, all the seasons have their own unique grandeur to add to tourism. You can choose what suits your needs and then thoroughly enjoy the traditional yet modernity of the region where monasteries and skyscrapers coexist.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit in Sikkim, Things To Do in Sikkim & How To Reach Sikkim

Sikkim in Summer (March – June)

Sikkim packs itself with a number of things to do and see. These months sees summer and Sikkim stays pleasant and lovely. This is the best time for all those who want to spend a few days amidst nature’s tranquillity. The temperature in these months’ ranges from 5 to 25 degree Celsius and the weather is fragrant but moist. The rest of the country witnesses scorching summer and Sikkim becomes the perfect haven to escape the heat waves. The charm of the colourful flora and fauna can be witnessed along with the serenity of hilltop Buddhist monasteries such as the Pemayangtse. It is the ideal season for those who wish to indulge in trekking. There are a lot of other things to do in Sikkim in summer to beat the horrid heat of the plains. You can see the blooming rhododendrons and orchids in abundance all around in this beautiful Himalayan kingdom. For the nature lovers and photographers, the lush green landscapes and pristine lakes will await them in this season. Summer is also the time for Sikkim’s renowned International Flower Festival. It displays close to 600 orchid species and 240 varieties of other ferns, trees, shrubs and flowers. This makes visiting Sikkim a true delight.

Complete Summer Weather Information by Month: March, April, May & June

Sikkim in Monsoon (July – August)

Sikkim experiences a rocky monsoon season. The state is bombarded with heavy rainfall. Since the hilly roads are meandering, the roads get slippery and dangerous for travel. There are massive landslides that often occur so if you do plan to visit Sikkim in monsoons, prepare for a flexible itinerary. The rains start to set in from the last week of June, however July faces the brunt of the precipitation the most. Rains are said to make the surroundings gloomy and not fit for setting out on a vacation. But if you are someone who just wishes to sit in a cosy balcony and enjoy a cup of coffee, you can visit Sikkim in monsoons. The temperatures drops down massively and ranges between 4 to 15 degree Celsius. Countering all the downsides to rainfall, the waterfalls make up for it and add to the charm of the region. The Seven Sisters waterfall rages amidst thick greenery and is a sight for sore eyes. There is also an increased opportunity for bird watching that make many flock to the region, despite the weather.

Complete Mansoon Weather Information by Month: July & August

Sikkim in Autumn (September – October)

Unlike other states and cities in India, North Sikkim has a distinct Autumn Season. It is the best time to be outdoors in Sikkim when it is not very hot or not very cold. With the advent of autumn, the temperature ranges from 15 to 20 degrees celsius. These months in Sikkim brings to its visitors the clear picturesque view of the Khangchendzonga mountain ranges, which is the world’s third highest peak. The gorgeous waterfalls and the high altitude lakes look even more enchanting. Since this falls just after monsoons and before the onset of winter, it makes for the perfect time to indulge in adventure activities. Tourists from all over fly down to go trekking and hiking in the hilly regions of north Sikkim. The festivals of Dussehra and Diwali come round the corner and are celebrated with much excitement and vigour in the Himalayas. Lhabab Duchen, a festival that celebrates Buddha’s descent from Heaven to Earth also can be witnessed at this time of the year. The pleasing and mild weather during these months makes it the best time to visit Sikkim.

Complete Autumn Weather Information by Month: September & October

Sikkim in Winter (November – February)

Winters brings along an unusual vibe in the region and makes your holiday experience worth it. The barren lands have a unique rugged beauty. Sometimes unbearably cold, the temperatures in winters range from 4 degree celsius to 7 degree celsius. The views of snow-capped mountains become your constant companion in the background. The lakes get frozen lakes but its appearance adds to the entrancing beauty of Sikkim. It receives uninterrupted and immeasurable snowfall in winters. So for those who love snow, the Yumthang valley, Gangtok, Lachung and Pelling appear to be heavenly covered in a blanket of white glistening snow. This results in some of the most enthralling views that are hard to find anywhere else in the nation. Skiing and other snow sports adventures gives you furthermore reasons to plan your trip around this time of the year. During these months, you can also partake in various festivals like the Maniram Bhanjyang Tourism Festival, Cherry Tea Festival and the Red Panda Winter Festival. The cities are livelier than ever and you can enjoy local homestays among many other things.

Complete Winter Weather Information by Month: November, December, January & February