Numerous snow enthusiasts hesitate to plan a Sikkim trip, primarily due to perceived challenges in securing permits for specific areas, notably North Sikkim, which, ironically, could effortlessly secure a spot among the top destinations in India for a remarkable snowfall experience. Yet, this apprehension shouldn’t dissuade you from considering Sikkim in the list of your upcoming travel destination in winter to revel in the joys of snow as with a little effort on your part and the assistance of your chosen vehicle provider in Sikkim, accessing North Sikkim can become a seamless part of your itinerary, eliminating any obstacles that may have held you back.
However, a trip to North Sikkim during the peak winter months of January and February, when the valleys and mountains undergo a magical transformation into a winter wonderland, requires careful planning as the key attractions in this region—Yumthang, Zero Point, Thangu, and Gurudongmar Lake—become inaccessible from the main tourist hubs of Lachung and Lachen and selective snow-covered spots, accessible by vehicle, are the only options left for the tourists to enjoy.
While the roads leading to the primary attractions in North Sikkim, including the journey toward the India-China border, are routinely cleared for military purposes, the conditions can be challenging as the presence of black ice makes it extremely risky for tourist vehicles, and it is strongly recommended not to venture beyond the points specified by the administration.
Moreover, at times, both Lachung and Lachen experience substantial snowfall, leading to road closures and interruptions in traffic to and from these areas. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your itinerary with additional time, minimum 3 days spending at Lachen and Lachung each (6 days total for North Sikkim), to fully appreciate these locales when they are blanketed in snow.
Beginning early in the month of January, Yumthung Valley- 24 km from Lachung, the most sought-after tourist spots in North Sikkim, turns into a serene and enchanting snow destination with it’s riverine forests, hills, and meadows gracefully donning a soft white coat, creating a postcard-worthy landscape against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Moving beyond Yumthang, Yumesamdong or Zero Point, considered an all-weather snow point in Sikkim, along with Kalapatthar in the Chopta Valley region— accessible from Lachen, remain almost inaccessible throughout the winter due to heavy snow accumulation along the roads leading to these destinations.
Situated on the Tibetan plateau, the high-altitude cold desert surrounding the Gurudongmar lake— the prime attraction in Lachen, showcases vast expanses of snow, presents a surreal landscape similar to a snowy moonland. Barren plateaus and rocky peaks, adorned in pristine white, create a stark yet captivating contrast against the earthy brown tones of the cold desert. The Lake itself becomes a frozen masterpiece, with portions shimmering in turquoise hues. The months of December and March, with clear skies, unveil the best of this winter wonder, showcasing the unique interplay of earthy tones and ethereal snow beauty while January and February may render certain areas inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.
However, there is no need to worry about these blockades, as the spots along the road, up to which tourists are allowed to go in such occasions, are well covered in snow and will give you the same vibes as the popular ones. These winter snow points depend on snowfall and snow accumulation in freezing temperatures. Checking the updates on the routes in North Sikkim every day is the best way to confirm which places the roads are open up to.
Now comes, Katao Pass, one of the very few places in Sikkim with the rarest powder snow and has an all-weather road for easy access, is my top choice for the best winter destination in North Sikkim. Go as far as you are allowed along the Lachung-Katao road. The prime time to experience the full snow cover is from February to March.
Keep an eye out for frozen waterfalls or cascades flowing through accumulated snow. Here, you’ll witness dense forests with 2 to 3 feet of snow on the ground. Thanks to its powder snow and undulating slopes, peak winter at Katao provides the best opportunities for enjoying snow activities and sports.
