Sikkim in December, a beautiful Indian state in the northeastern corner, turns into a snow wonderland. With its snow-covered peaks, peaceful monasteries, and lively culture, Sikkim is an exclusive place to visit for people who want to combine excitement and relaxation. With its cool air and holiday spirit, December is a great month to visit this Himalayan gem.
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This guide will help you plan your December trip to Sikkim by telling you about the weather, must-see sights, activities, and road conditions. It will also give you travel tips to ensure a great trip.
Weather In Sikkim in December
One of the best times to visit Sikkim is in December. The weather in Sikkim in December suits your trip because the average temperature is between 10 and 4 degrees Celsius. In high-elevation places, which are mostly closed in the winter, it can get as cold as 0 degrees Celsius. In December, it may also snow all the time, covering almost everything.
Road Conditions in Sikkim in December
In Sikkim, the state of the roads can change based on the route and the weather. Even though the main routes are usually in good shape, snow or landslides can happen in some streets in the winter, especially those that lead to higher elevations.
When you think about the roads in Sikkim in December, here are some essential things to remember:
Check for Updates on the Road: Before you start your trip, it is a good idea to ask the local government or a travel agency about the most recent road conditions.
Avoid High Altitude Areas in Severe Weather: Avoid high-elevation areas when the weather is bad. If there is a lot of snow or landslides, it is best not to go to higher elevation areas because the roads may be closed or dangerous.
Hire a Local Guide or Driver: If you want to get around quickly, you might want to hire a local guide or driver who knows the roads well.
Bring What You Need: If you do not expect road closures or delays, it is essential to bring what you need, like food, drinks, warm clothes, and first-aid supplies.
Top Places to Visit in Sikkim in December
In December, there are many beautiful places to visit in Sikkim. Here are some must-see places, ranging from busy cities to quiet monasteries:
1. Gurudongmar Lake
The holy lake of Gurudongmar is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. It is 17,800 feet above sea level. Even though it is beautiful in the summer, it is even more beautiful in the winter. People come to this lake in the winter because some of the deep blue water never freezes solid, even when it is below zero outside. It is a rural location and one of the best spots to visit in Sikkim in December with family.
- Where: Lachen, close to the border with India
- December’s average temperature ranges from -5 to 7 degrees Celsius.
- How to get there: Take a 7–8-hour drive from Gangtok to Lachen and another 3–4 hours to get to the lake.
2. Yumthang
Yumthang is the “Valley of Flowers” of Lachung in North Sikkim. It is 8,800 feet above sea level. Going a little higher until Zero Point is one of the best places to visit in north Sikkim in December, especially if there is no snow at Yumthang. Here, the landscapes are all white as far as the eye can see, but at sunrise, they turn into a massive rainbow of colors.
Where: Lachen’s Yumthang Valley
December temperatures range from -6 to 13 degrees Celsius.
How to get there: Take a seven-hour drive from Gangtok to Yumthang, then continue climbing to Zero Point.
3. Zuluk
Located 14,500 feet above sea level, Zuluk is a small town in a valley with beautiful scenery. Aside from the lovely views, tourists like going to this hamlet because it is close to the Old Silk Route, a famous landmark that marks the border between India and China. The Silk Route roads are so winding that they feel like a roller coaster ride. The valley of Zuluk has beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a delightful culture that shows an empowering past.
Where: On the boundary between the Tibet Autonomous Region and Sikkim, east of Gangtok, China
December temperatures range from -6 to 10 degrees Celsius.
How to get there: Take a taxi to go the 91 km from Jalpaiguri Railway Station.
Caution: Avoid driving while there is fog.
4. Teesta River
Teesta is Sikkim’s lifeblood and one of the best places in the state to do exciting things like river boating. In the summer and spring, this shimmering river’s fast-moving water attracts a lot of rafts. But in the winter, it transforms into a beautiful natural show. Photographers and travelers love the point of Sangam between the Teesta River and its offshoot, the Rangeet River, in December. If you go to Sikkim in December, you have to check out the frozen areas near this river.
Where: Chumthang, Teesta
December temperatures range from 4 to 13 degrees Celsius.
5. Kaluk
Kaluk is an unexplored Sikkim village 2 km from Rinchenpong and 5,300 ft above sea level. It is home to the Lepcha people. If you want to escape the cold weather in Sikkim, Kaluk is the perfect place. This is one of the less-known places in Sikkim to visit, where you can enjoy the peace and beauty of nature while also getting great views of Kanchenjunga.
Where: Hee Bermiok, West Sikkim; Pelling
December temperatures range from 2 to 16 degrees Celsius.
How to get there: Take a 1.5-hour drive from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station to Pelling, then continue to Hee Bermiok.
Advice: Do not miss out on visiting Gurung Monastery, a lovely sanctuary with breathtaking views of the nearby mountains and community atop a hill in Kaluk.
Must Read – Gangtok Weather in December
Best Things to Do in Sikkim in December
When tourists go to Sikkim in December, they can enjoy many different activities. Here are some of the best:
1. Trekking and Hiking
December is an ideal season for trekkers to discover Sikkim’s numerous trails. Popular treks include:
Sandakphu Trek: This journey, known for its breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks, is best suited for experienced hikers.
Goechala Trek: An arduous trip that offers breathtaking high-altitude scenery and up-close views of Kanchenjunga.
2. Explore Local Markets
Sikkim marketplaces provide a colorful shopping experience. In December, local markets are frequently decked with Christmas lights and sell a variety of products:
Gangtok’s Lal Market and New Market are excellent sites to buy local handicrafts, woolen clothing, and traditional Sikkimese products.
Pelling’s Local Bazaar is ideal for souvenir shopping and experiencing local life.
3. Visit Monasteries and Temples
Visit one of Sikkim’s many churches or temples to get in touch with its spiritual side:
Rumtek Monastery is a large Tibetan Buddhist monastery close to Gangtok famous for its beautiful architecture and religious importance.
Buddha Park: This park in Ravangla has a giant Buddha statue and is a great spot to think and meditate.
4. Enjoy Local Cuisine
Food from Sikkimese is a mix of tastes from Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian cooking styles. Some foods you have to try are
Momo are steamed dumplings often filled with meat or veggies and are a popular snack.
Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup you can make with meat or veggies. It is excellent for cold days.
Sel Roti is a native doughnut made from rice and is often eaten with tea.
5. Festivals
In Sikkim, December is a happy month. We are not talking about Christmas, either! At this time, Sikkim is home to many festivals and culture events. Visitors in December will find a lot to see and do on the streets every day after 5 PM. There will be traditional food stands selling local alcoholic drinks like Chhaang and water, magic shows, professional bikers doing tricks, and dancers doing freestyle routines next to loud DJ booths.
Some of the significant festivals of Sikkim in December include:
- Gangtok Winter Festival: Sikkim’s Tourism Department organizes this festival, which features cultural folk dance and song performances. It is the ideal opportunity to sample some of the most excellent local Sikkimese cuisine.
- Mangan Music event: This annual three-day music event takes place in Mangan from December 12th to 14th. Bands from all over the Northeast gather to delight the large music-loving crowds of locals and travelers alike.
- Losoong is the Sikkimese New Year celebrated in the Phodong and Rumtek monasteries. The carnival’s highlight is the Black Hat dance.
- Losar: The Tibetan New Year, or Losar, is a three-day celebration featuring prayers, chanting, folk music, dance theater, and other performances.
- The Kayged Festival is a fantastic opportunity for travelers to observe the legendary ‘Cham’ dance of masked monks in the monasteries.
Tips For Visiting Sikkim in December
Tourism in Sikkim in December can be a mess for people who are not ready for the harsh weather there, even though the views are breathtaking. Here are some tips on how to have a smooth and enjoyable trip to Sikkim in the winter:
- In December, you should wear heavy woolens or layers everywhere in Sikkim and snow boots in places that need them.
- Before you book a tour of Sikkim in December, make sure you know what the weather will be like there. Also, while you are here, check the weather prediction and road conditions of the places you want to see often.
- Do not go out on the roads or drive if it is foggy.
- Instead of using taxis for commuting, opt for shared taxis or jeeps where possible.
- Because Sikkim is so close to China, many places need special permission from the state forest department, the army, and the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim. Make sure you get these passes well before the start of your tour.
The Bottom Line
Sikkim in December is a magical place to visit, with its snow-covered scenery, peaceful monasteries, and lively local culture. You can enjoy everything this Himalayan spot offers if you plan and prepare ahead of time. This guide tells you everything you need to know for a great trip, from how to deal with bad road conditions to discovering must-see spots and enjoying local food. Enjoy the cold of winter, take in the beauty of Sikkim, and make memories that will last a lifetime in this magical part of the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What locations should you visit in Sikkim in December?
Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang, Teesta River, Rumtek Monastery, and Yuksom are among the top locations to visit in Sikkim in December.
What are the best activities to do in Sikkim in December?
Some top things to do in Sikkim in December include visiting monasteries, witnessing Sikkim’s wildlife, shopping in colorful marketplaces, and trying different local cuisines.
Can I visit Gurudongmar Lake in December?
Heavy snowfall begins in Gurudongmar Lake in December. It causes roadblocks, but no one can forecast the weather. It is best to plan ahead of time and keep your trip itinerary flexible.
What clothes should you bring with you to Sikkim in winters?
Carry heavy woolen with layers of clothes such as a sweater, jacket, muffler, thermals, socks, and headwear. The weather can be exceedingly chilly at high altitudes since it is peak winter.
Is Nathula Pass open during December?
Nathula may be snowbound due to inclement weather, although the route is normally open. You can rent snow gear at the stalls put up along the way.
