One of India’s finest and calmest states, Sikkim, is a popular hill station travel destination. People come to this place for a laid-back holiday from all over the globe. You will never meet a more modest group of individuals than the ones that live here. Sikkim transforms into the Himalayan winter landscape in December.
Christmas is the time of year when the Himalayan mountains are at their most pure. This month may be rather chilly at times, and there is a good amount of snowfall. India is a hot nation, therefore Sikkim, one of the few states with genuine snowfall, provides a welcome break from the heat. There’s no better time or location for relaxation and detoxification than December in Sikkim.
It’s officially the Christmas season. Mountains covered in snow, a hazy atmosphere, and very cold weather. Savor every moment of this December in Sikkim. While Sikkim is a fantastic destination in any season, the extended month of December adds a certain kind of allure with positive energy that will make your trip one you will remember for a very long time. December brings out even more beauty in Sikkim’s most popular tourist destinations.
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Weather in Sikkim in December
In Sikkim, December temperatures typically range from 10 to 4 degrees Celsius. It may sometimes go very low, falling to zero or even less. However, nothing can prevent you from taking in Sikkim’s gorgeous white scenery provided you’re brave kind and are dressed suitably.
Things to Do In Sikkim in December
- Try Local Food
- Mountain Biking
- Wildlife Safaris
- Meditation Retreats
- Shopping in Gangtok
- Spa therapies & Hot springs
- Local festivals & events
- Day hikes & treks
- Camping
Festivals To Enjoy in Sikkim in December
In Sikkim, December symbolizes the beginning of a fortunate and culturally meaningful season. Despite the pervasive winter cold, everyone is cheered up by the celebration. Sikkim showcases its rich culture and customs via a variety of distinctive festivals and events. For tourists, seeing these vibrant events in December is a delight.
Lhabab Dhuechen
Lhabab Dhuechen, one of the most significant Buddhist holidays, is widely observed in Sikkim each year. On the 22nd and 23rd days of the 9th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar—dates that fall in December on the Gregorian calendar—the event is celebrated.
Lhabab Dhuechen, also known as the “Descending Day of Lord Buddha,” commemorates the day when Buddha returned to Earth after a three-month sojourn in the celestial sphere to instruct his mother Maya.
The primary festivities take place in the Monasteries of Rumtek and Phodong. A significant portion includes religious text chanting, ethereal mask dances, and ceremonial processions.
Namsoong
Sikkim has been home to the ethnic Lepcha minority for a very long time, and their culture is deeply ingrained in the region. During the December Namsoong festival, guests may experience real Lepcha customs firsthand.
Namsoong is a two-day celebration of singing, dancing, eating, and good company that honors the fresh crop. People use jewels and bamboo hats to accessorize their traditional clothing.
Activities like bamboo pole climbing, archery contests, food and craft booths, processions, and musical performances are all highly anticipated throughout the festival.
Khanchendzonga Festival
The Tourism Department organizes the Khanchendzonga Festival, which takes place around December 20th, to showcase Sikkim’s cultural splendor in one location. The celebration, which takes its name from the state’s most venerated mountain, unites many ethnicities to commemorate Sikkim’s diverse traditions over the course of a week.
Music concerts, dancing performances, food booths, flower exhibits, and exhibitions of handcrafted goods by gifted local artists are held in various locations across Gangtok. Take in cultural performances that showcase age-old customs or shop for stunning Sikkimese items. Don’t miss seeing the vibrant Pang Lhabsol mask dance, which represents the guardian deities of the state.
Losar
Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is celebrated with great enthusiasm by Sikkim’s Buddhist population. Losar, which marks the conclusion of the harvest season, heralds the start of a new cycle on the Tibetan lunar calendar.
When Losar comes, the first day is spent eating ‘khaja’, a pastry made from sugar, dried cheese, and rice. People often give presents such as ‘Khataks’, which are traditional ceremonial scarves. Other important festivities include visits to monasteries for Losar prayers and the burning of butter lamps.
Enjoy sweet and savory sweets like ‘kapse’, ‘gyathuk’, and ‘chhurpi’ created especially for Losar. Participate in the cultural events, processions, and general merrymaking that brighten the streets during this holiday.
Also Read: Sikkim in January
Christmas
The joyful spirit of Christmas festivities pervades Sikkim throughout December. The Christian community prepares enthusiastically for the celebrations, with houses decked with stars, tinsel, and Christmas trees.
On Christmas Eve, churches host special prayers and a midnight service. Bakeries provide plum cakes, pastries, and cookies to satisfy Christmas desires. Children excitedly await Santa’s arrival, who will bring them presents.
In Gangtok, the Lal Bazaar plaza comes alive with food vendors selling Christmas treats. To ring in the Yuletide mood, shops display sparkling decorations and sweets. Hotels host events such as cake-mixing ceremonies and musical performances.
Tashiding Bumchu
Every year in December, the Tashiding monastery, which is close to Pelling, organizes the Bumchu festival. The holy spring waters near the monastery burst upon the fourteenth day of the Tibetan calendar.
On this auspicious day, monks conduct prayers and perform rites. Thousands of followers congregate to dip into the sacred water. People think that the water may cure illnesses and wipe away bad luck. You learn more about this location the more you explore in December’s Sikkim weather.
Places To Visit in Sikkim in December
The green valleys and fields beautify themselves with shimmering white snow, while the amazing Himalayas are rendered even more beautiful when blanketed in pristine snow from head to toe. Even though December may seem like more than simply a frigid month, the experience you have will be worthwhile.
The top destinations in Sikkim to visit in December are listed below:
Tsomgo Lake
The Tsomgo Lake, a glacier-formed lake in Sikkim, is a sight to behold in December. It’s only 40 km away from Gangtok. Changu Lake, as it’s also called, freezes into a captivating icy wonder during winter due to the chilly weather of the area. Enclosed by snow-draped mountains, this lake serves up breathtaking views. It ranks among the country’s most picturesque high-elevation lakes.
Zuluk
Close to the border of India and Tibet, you’ll find Zuluk. It’s a tiny village perched on high at 10,000 feet. East Sikkim tourists love this place. It’s part of the Silk Route, once a vital path for those venturing to Tibet. Check out the must-sees – Thambi View Point, Lungthung, and Tukla!
Also Read: Places to Visit in Gangtok
Nathang Valley
Nathang Valley, hidden away in Sikkim, pulls in those longing for pure, serene beauty. It’s hard to reach, and that’s part of the thrill! A place where peace, nature, and adventure blend beautifully. Those seeking a calm escape from city noise will find it perfect here. Known as the “Sikkim’s Ladakh,” Nathang Valley sits high on the Silk Route, towering at 13,500 feet. Come December, its landscape transforms – covered entirely in a thick blanket of white snow, it’s a sight to behold!
Kaluk
The lovely town named Kaluk, nestled in the Himalayas, is ideal for a December holiday in Sikkim. It’s a perfect launching pad for treks, covering areas such as Varsey and Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. Outdoor enthusiasts really like these places. Kaluk sits elevated at 5,600 feet, offering stunning sights of Kanchenjunga Mountain, the world’s third highest peak.
Dzongri
An unforgettable excursion that is highly recommended for adventure seekers visiting the state of Sikkim in December is the captivating Dzongri Trek. Enjoy the splendor of the rhododendron, pine, oak, chestnut, and maple trees as you hike among a variety of natural flora and species found only in the Himalayan woods. Dzongri Trek is a thrilling adventure characterized by a harmonious blend of tranquility, beauty, and the natural world. The path begins at 17,800 meters in Yuksom and ascends to 4,030 meters to Dzongri View Point. The viewpoint provides breathtaking sweeping views of the powerful Himalayan Mountain peaks, which include the magnificent Rathong, Kabru, and Kanchenjunga. This seven-day hike has a medium difficulty level.
Darap Village
Your December vacation to Sikkim is completed until you visit and spend time in its little villages, which will provide you with a unique cultural and natural experience. Darap Village, one of the state’s less-explored stations, will surprise you with its picturesque beauty and calm environment.
The town is situated 8 kilometers from Pelling and is accessible via road. During your stay, you may spend wonderful time doing early morning village walks, going to surrounding areas, relaxing by streams, conversing with people, or just appreciating the beauty of unspoiled nature.
Also Read: Sikkim In June
Conclusion
Imagine December in Sikkim! It’s a special place, with pretty landscapes and lively festivals. There’s snow everywhere and local food to enjoy. If you’re into holidays, Sikkim’s the place to be. The cool air and beautiful views are perfect for chilling out. So, think about Sikkim this December. Make some lifetime memories.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can we see snow leopards in Sikkim in December?
Snow leopards are very uncommon and rare animals. While the Khanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve provides an opportunity, sightings are very difficult and cannot be assured. Other species may be seen, such as red pandas and Himalayan Tahrs.
Which mode of transportation works best in Sikkim in December?
If you want complete control over your travel plans, rent a private cab for the duration of your vacation. Additionally, shared jeeps are offered for set point-to-point trips. Steer clear of buses because snowclogging might cause roadblocks.
Does Sikkim often have snowfall in December?
With the exception of very high-altitude regions, Sikkim rarely experiences significant snowfall in December. Certain locations, such as Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and certain areas of North Sikkim, may only have little snowfall.
How long is a vacation to Sikkim Weather in December the best?
You may see most of the important locations in North and South Sikkim at a leisurely pace in seven to ten days. Make Gangtok your base of operations to cover Ravangla/Pelling in South Sikkim and North Sikkim.
