From December to March, February fits exactly in the center of Sikkim’s dry season. The winter cold has vanished, replaced by comfortable daily highs of 15°C. Given 7 to 8 hours of daylight, you can anticipate plenty of sunlight. This is perfect for outdoor pursuits and touring.
In much of the state, the quite chilly evenings have average lows between 3°C and 6°C. There is a pleasant humidity; rainfall is not very expected. Though light woollens are advised for morning and evening, you may get away with lighter cotton clothing in the afternoons.
February is one of the greatest times to experience Sikkim’s amazing views with clean blue sky and almost no rain. The mountains shine in golden sunshine, and the vegetation looks even more alive.
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February Fun Festivals
Two of Sikkim’s most vibrant celebrations in February allow you to fully experience local culture:
Losar Festival
Celebrated with great enthusiasm by Sikkim’s Buddhist population in monasteries such Rumtek and Pemayangtse, marking the Tibetan New Year is Losar. This is a weeklong event including pilgrimages, religious rites, dance, eating, and more.
Witness describes masked dances like the dramatic Chaam dance showing the victory of virtue over evil. Homes are meticulously cleaned and adorned with lucky objects as a kind of preparation for Losar’s eve. On the first day, people exchange presents and greetings while dressed in their best attire. Common celebrations include archery contests, musical events, and torma cake presentations.
Sonam Lochar
The Tamang people of Sikkim celebrate their vivid Sonam Lochar festival in January and February. Celebrated five to fifteen days at many sites, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring, this happy celebration Tamangs assemble dressed in their vibrantly traditional attire and jewelry.
Buddhist ceremonies conducted at monasteries, masked dances, musical concerts, and eating on regional cuisine are part of the celebrations. It gives visitors an opportunity to participate in the festivities of this significant community event and a window into Tamang culture.
Also Read: Sikkim Weather in March
Top Attractions & Travel destinations
Sikkim promises a remarkable vacation with its varied scenery and gems. Here are a few of the top February destinations:
Gangtok
- Gangtok, the capital, is a cosmopolitan hill town surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Two to three days of touring its many attractions are readily spent:
- Perfect for walks are flower-filled parks like Ganesh Tok, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, and Ridge Park.
- Comprising a 200-year-old tranquil Buddhist monastic complex with elaborate artwork, Enchey monastic is
- One of the holiest monasteries in Buddhism, Rumtek Monastery situated 24km from Gangtok. Here we preserve the remnants of the sixteen Karmapa.
- Gangtok’s busy pedestrian strip, MG Marg, is dotted with stores, restaurants, clubs and street food vendors.
- The shamanistic theme park and waterfall descending seven levels at Banjhakri Falls Legend has it that the shaman saint Banjhakri meditated here.
- To reach Tashi Viewpoint from Deorali Market, use the cable car. It presents Kanchenjunga in panoramic sequences.
- For Sikkimese cuisine like momos, thukpa soup, gya thuk rice noodles, shah-phaley pancakes and more, try neighbourhood restaurants.
Tsomgo Lake
In February this breathtaking glacier lake close to the China border becomes divinely beautiful. It’s picture beautiful with snow covering the surrounds and clear heavens. Here ride a yak or climb around for expansive views of the eastern Himalayas.
For residents, Tsomgo Lake is holy.
The turquoise blue waves are supposed to change color based on the temperature. The lake’s lack of freezing in the severe winter symbolizes nature’s might. There are lots of migratory yak herders near here. Stop for some warm chhaang (millet beer) and nibbles at the Tibetan booths close by.
Also Read: Sikkim Weather in April
Nathu La Pass
At 14,140 feet, Nathu La offers amazing Himalayan vistas from the Old Silk Route among the highest motorable crossings on Earth. Proper permissions allow you to travel and stroll a little beyond the China border. Clear February days show Mt Kanchenjunga in all its beauty.
You have to first drive via the Baba Mandir war monument honoring an Indian soldier before Nathu La. Nathu La forbids photography there. Following the views here, you may go down to Changu Lake, which is recognized for its glistening cleanliness. Stop at neighborhood food booths for some very hot noodles and tea.
Yuksum
In the 17th century, Sikkim’s initial capital was this old town. Today is the portal to amazing mountain excursions over sites like Dzongri and Kanchenjunga. It also hosts the Throne of Norbugang, where 1642 consecrated Sikkim’s first king.
Main attractions surrounding Yuksom are
- Built in 1701, the first monastery built in Sikkim was Dubdi Monastery.
- Inscriptions about the coronation of Chogyal Phuntsog Namgyal in 1642 found on this stone throne at Norbugang Park
- Tashi Tenka: One of the three lamas who dedicated Yuksom’s first monarch, Lhatsun Chenpo is said to have left his imprint here with prayer wheels.
- See two beautiful waterfalls close to the Yuksom entrance bridge with little shrines.
- Popular hikes to Dzongri Peak and Goecha La base camp with amazing mountain views start from Yuksom.
Also Read: Sikkim Weather in May
Pelling
Pelling’s vistas are unmatched as the great Khanchendzonga mountain towers above it. On guided trips, see centuries-old monasteries, waterfalls, woods, towns, and more in the surrounding mountainscapes:
- Renowned for its elaborate sculptures, Pemayangtse Monastery is among the first and most significant monasteries in Sikkim.
- Perched with history, the ruins of Sikkim’s second capital city from 1670 to 1814 abound at Rabdentse Ruins.
- Considered among Sikkim’s sacred “tsho chen” lakes is Khecheopalri Lake. Rich woodland envelops its calm waves.
- Inside Sangacholing Monastery are elaborate paintings and a large monument of Guru Rinpoche.
- With homestays and a genuine rural experience including learning about Sikkimese food and culture, Darap rural close to Pelling provides.
- Perfect picnic locations among nature abound from Rimbi Falls, Kanchenjunga Falls, Changey Falls, Shiva Cave Falls, Jhakri Falls in and around Pelling.
Ravangla
Situated at 7000 feet, this hill town offers calm beauty with its Buddhist temples, hiking paths, birdwatching chances and panoramic vistas. Top suggestions:
- See the enormous 35-metre Lord Buddha monument at Buddha Park.
- Get up early to see the dawn over mountains like Kanchenjunga from Rayong dawn Viewpoint.
- Explore the spirituality found in monasteries such Ralang, Doling, Pemayangtse.
- Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary has approximately three hundred different bird species.
- Actually sit at Tendong Hill Viewpoint, at 8500 feet, in amid the clouds.
- Trekking across Borong, Yangyang, and Ralang’s hills and woods.
Zuluk
In February this little town becomes a white winter paradise. Retrace unforgettable events back home.
- Go on exhilarating sled runs down snowy hilltops.
- See ancient monasteries along the Old Silk Route include Lingsi and Gnathang.
- From Tukla to Zuluk, drive the zigzag 32 hairpin route with jaw-dropping valley vistas.
- From Eagle’s Nest viewing point, see the dawn lighting the Himalayan heights. On fortunate days even Kanchenjunga is visible.
- Engage with the rich and friendly east Nepali community here.
- See the battle monument at 14,000 feet honoring the 1960 Chinese attack at Nathu La.
Namchi
See the rich orchid paradise surrounds Sikkim’s greatest monument, a giant 87-foot-tall idol of Guru Padmasambhava often known as Guru Rinpoche. Other attractions consist:
- Among foggy hills with breathtaking architecture are centuries-old monasteries include Tendong, Rumtek, and Ralang.
- At 8530 feet, Tendong Hill Viewpoint gives amazing aerial views of nearby mountains and valleys.
- Red pandas, Himalayan black bears, barking deer and others call Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, 35 square km home.
- On a clear day, Samdruptse has a 135-foot-high monument of Guru Padmasambhava viewable from Darjeeling. There is also a meditation center on the campus.
- Based on epics and texts, Rock Garden exhibits detailed sculptures and paintings.
Also Read: Sikim Weather in June
Thrilling Activities
From heart-stopping excursions to revitalizing events, Sikkim has a range of activities in February
Mountain Biking
Many mountain bike rides carry you off-road via isolated Sikkim villages, monasteries, woods, and mountain passes.
Travel over difficult terrain at your own speed to get a close-up view of neighborhood life.
Among the often used paths are Gangtok to Rumtek, Pelling to Yuksom, Namchi to Jorethang, and Singhik to Gnathang. Gangtok has bike rentals, and specialist companies like Sikkim Mountain Biking provide guided trips.
Trekking
Trekkers’ paradise, Sikkim has unearthly scenery. February is when several high-altitude paths like Dzongri Goechala are open. See spectacular mountains, glacial lakes, rhododendron woods, and more.
Among the best routes for February are Goecha La Trek with Kanchenjunga vistas, Dzongri Trek over Yuksom exploring rich woods, Green Lake Trek to glacial lakes, and Sandakphu Trek for dawn over four mountains. Stay at nearby homestays and dhabas on route.
Dip in Hot Springs
Explore the natural hot springs of Sikkim close to locations such Yumthang, Borang, and Ralang. The warm mineral-rich waters are very healing, soothing body as well as mind.
Here surrounded by mountains, a winter swim is spectacular!
It is said that the springs offer healing and therapeutic ability. Among the well-known ones are the hot springs at Reshi and Yumey Samdong with 57°C temperatures. To see daybreak among the steamy mists of the springs, spend night in tents or retreat cottages.
Bird Watching
Discover among Sikkim’s approximately 200 kinds of unique Himalayan birds pheasants, hornbills, barbets, and more. Bright tropical birds also call many sanctuaries and woods home. Always carry field guides and binoculars.
Pelling’s Pemyangtse Forest, Kitam in south Sikkim, birding paths at ecotourism sites like Pangolakha, and monasteries like Rumtek with numerous migrating species in winter are among good places for birding.
Village Tours
Discover locations known for its homestays, Tingchim, Hee Gaon, Lingdong, and Aritar to really experience Sikkimese country life.
Engage in everyday agricultural chores, interact with nearby families, learn about customs, taste homecooked food using organic products. Village visits provide an opportunity to see regional celebrations and traditions as well.
Also Read: Sikkim Weather in July
Essentials & Clothing to Pack
Sikkim has a quite nice winter in February, hence you may take light warm clothes along with basic needs:
- For colder mornings or nights, light coats, sweaters, hoodies
- Afternoons call for cotton shirts, t-shirts, jeans or trousers.
- Warm gloves, stockings, hats made of wool.
- Hiking boots, trekking shoes, strong walking shoes
- Sunscreen, spectacles
- Little daily rucksack or bag
- Water bottle and water purifying pills
- Trekking poles, hiking gear including headlamps should you be trekking.
camera; binoculars - global adaptor, power bank
- Lip balm, cold cream, moisture-retaining agent
- medications, first aid box
- Flashlight, headlamp should one be planning treks.
- Thermal leggings, thermals if you’re traveling higher altitudes
Muffler or warm shawl - Good to have also are windproof and waterproof coats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sikkim’s snow-kissed landscapes provide a mesmerizing mix of adventure and tranquility in February. Its unadulterated beauty and rich cultural legacy fascinate tourists, who may enjoy everything from serene frozen lakes to exhilarating winter sports. Take in the pristine sky and pure air for a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure.
Also Read: Sikkim Weather in March
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be snow in Gangtok in February?
The months of December through February see a new snowfall, leaving the city completely blanketed in a thick layer of snow.
Can we visit Lachung in February?
Yes, please remember to visit Zero Point. The winter months are the ideal time to visit Lachung if you like snow. The winter air often blows here from October through February, bringing with it a lot of snow that turns the whole area a creamy white.
Is Zero Point open in February?
October through December is the best time of year to go on excursions and see the beautiful snow-capped mountain ranges. 4. The Zero point is still blocked in January and mid-December. In February, depending on the weather, tourists are welcome to return.
Can we go North Sikkim in February?
Winter in North Sikkim (October to February)
But if you have the audacity to go to this location during the winter, you will be met with the unspoiled beauty of the place, with snow-capped mountains serving as your continuous backdrop companion and covering all of the roads, pastures, and farms.
