Sikkim is a state lying in the arms of the Chukung Hill, and with the changes that come in January, it becomes a winter fairytale land. Boasting of snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, clouded mornings and the gleaming mountain air, it is the northeastern piece of paradise featuring a maximum of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility.
January is a pleasantly unexpected month to visit when you are an individual traveler who needs the tranquility, an adventure lover who has to have the snow path to pursue, or a couple who wants to visit Sikkim on their honeymoon. Although it is cold, the scenery is very alive, cultural and colorful, thus being one of the best seasons to travel to Sikkim and have a whole different adventure in the mountains.
Let us see the 10 best things to do in Sikkim in January, which will make you want to be there again.
- See the Snowfall in Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) is one of the most famous winter tourist attraction spots in Sikkim. It is a glacial Lake at 12313 feet above sea level. In January it is often frozen over, the cliffs being of snow, the pines shrouded in mist.
The surrealistic atmosphere looks like in a fairytale with yaks wrapped with woolen blankets, local stalls with hot momos, and the reflection of the snow sky in the lake are all parts of this impression. In case you are a couple intending to travel to Sikkim with your precious honeymoon, Tsomgo would give you just the right dose of winter romance.
- REVEL in Sikkim Winter Festivals
Sikkim is probably not so busy in January, yet one can hear local festivals there. Losar, which is the Tibetan New Year, is one of the biggest festivals during this period, it usually commences in late January or early February.
- Bask in the Sights at the Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass, which is the border passing through the old silk route between India and China is not always open in winter, because of the snow cover; however, when the weather allows, it surely is one of the most exciting places to be.
There is snow on the road approaching the pass and the views are amazing at the top, with panoramas of mountains covered with snow and snow covered valleys. Remember, the permits involved are special, and it is normal to have closures due to weather conditions. However when the stars are in favor this can be one of the most memorable things that can ever happen in all of Sikkim.
- Deceptive Romance in Lachung and Yumthang Valley
Sikkim is already a success story among young couples who want a nice quiet hill station and the solitude of a mountain retreat. Lachung and Yumthang Valley transformed into dreamy, snow-bound scenery in January.
Trees loaded by snow, frozen rivers, and the silence of mountains define the scene of a romantic escape. When viewing listings of honeymoon packages in India, do refer to a package that will take you to North Sikkim, as it is a dream of a photographer and heaven of a lover, both.
- Warm Up On Preparing Traditional Sikkimese Cuisine
Just like the mountains, the food of Sikkim is heartwarming. Cold January nights and traditional local food such as thukpa (noodle soup), phagshapa (pork stew) and gundruk soup, and momos that just came off the steamer keep one warm, and, at the same time, introduce a visitor to the gastronomical heritage of the region.
You can visit Danfe Monastery. Check for opening hours, closure and rescinding the permit, the revision process is not a way of trying to take the power out of the hands of the people, although the people have the power and they can always eliminate the power and rescind the power out of their hands.
- See Snow Covered Monasteries
The monasteries of Sikkim are architecturally beautiful as well as spiritual protectors. There is a mystical experience in visiting structures such as Rumtek Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery and Tashiding Monastery in January because they are covered with snow and therefore relatively quiet.
- Local Bazaars of Gangtok Shopping
In January, the capital city Gangtok, does not lose its appeal. At a higher altitude, there is frozen snow, but Gangtok continues to be active, colorful and friendly. Visit MG Marg, a street by foot that is filled with cafes, stores and handicraft stores.
Purchase woolen garments, regional organic teas, hand-woven scarves or Tibetan jewels. A nice place to take honeymooners is MG Marg to take an easy walk, cup of warm coffee and some last-minute shopping.
- Take a Scenic Cable Car ride
A cable car in Gangtok is one of the ways to check out a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the city in winter and the snow-capped mountains’ silhouette. The ride stretches a distance of 1km between Deorali and Tashiling.
The hues of twilight, the snow and the mist transform into a floating painting in January. Unfortunately, it is a short yet beautiful ride, especially to those couples who wish to steal a moment of silence in the air.
- Sights of Sikkim Offbeat Towns
January is an excellent month to visit the offbeat towns such as Ravangla, Namchi or Zuluk, although most popular destinations such as Gangtok, Pelling, and Lachung attract the maximum attention.
Ravangla is a place of beautiful sunset look with the snow-covered Kanchenjunga mountain range, and you can see a giant Statue of Guru Padmasambhava in Namchi. Zuluk, which is a leg of the Old Silk Route, can be frequently snowbound in January, and has its lesser numbers of people, still vistas, and lots of space to roam.
Another amazing tip that a couple could consider is trying the off-beat destinations in honeymoon packages Sikkim during your honeymoon, without having the tourist traps around.
- Guest Sikkimese Homestay and Hot Springs
It is quite cold in the mountains during January and what could be more appropriate than to keep warm in one of the Sikkimese homestays! Wake up to snow-dusted mountains, have hot tea with your hosts and have organic meals which are fresh out of the garden.