The Sikkim Himalayas’ icy slopes come alive in March as spring finally comes, bringing with it new shades of green after months of savage cold. The evenings are still cold and the sunlight is noticeable, but the air in the mountains is crisp and cool. Thus, it seems sense that eager travelers would want to witness this magnificent change of the mountains at this time of year.
Here are The Complete Details on Sikkim Weather in March
A pleasant start to the summer in East Sikkim
Gangtok experiences temperatures between 5°C and 20°C, but March is when Sikkim’s tourism season really begins thanks to the magnificent International Flower Festival. Sikkim, a region renowned for its wide range of flora, is home to an astounding 600 types of exotic orchids, both terrestrial and epiphytic.
In addition to several varieties of gladioli, magnolia, cactus, ferns, climbers, and alpine plants, it boasts over thirty species of the renowned rhododendron. Many of these are on show during the gathering in Gangtok that takes place close to White Hall. You may also go to any of the talks and seminars held during the festival if you really love the outdoors.
The Deorali Ropeway, which is not included in most pre-made tour packages, is a fantastic way to see Gangtok’s stunning valley and surrounding mountains in a broad perspective, particularly in March when there aren’t any clouds to block your view. An exciting adventure awaits you as the ropeway starts at Deorali market, which is conveniently located near M.G. Marg., and ascends all the way to Tashiling.
Also Read: Best Time to Visit Sikkim
Without taking a tour of some of Sikkim’s well-known monasteries, one cannot fully experience the rich Buddhist culture of the Himalayas during a March visit. Travel to Rumtek, one of the biggest and most significant monasteries in the state; it is around 24 kilometers from Gangtok, the state’s capital.
The monastery, which serves as the headquarters of the Black Hat or Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, is home to various priceless examples of Buddhist art and history, including elaborate thangkas. Clear, bright days are abundant throughout this month, and the monastery’s view over Gangtok city is breathtaking.
March days with a brilliant blue sky, plenty of sunlight, and a refreshing wind are ideal for picnics near waterfalls. The Banjhakri Waterfall, nestled inside a gorgeously designed park, is about 10 miles from Gangtok. An excellent outdoor activity on a spring day is the crystal clear water that cascades down from a height of about 50 feet, surrounded by rich vegetation. There is also a man-made lake in the park with boating amenities.
Also Read: Sikkim Weather in December
To get the most out of your springtime vacation to Sikkim, go to the about 30 km east of Gangtok location of Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. The sanctuary’s 31 square kilometers stretch as far as Lake Tsomgo, another well-liked Sikkim destination. The sanctuary is home to an amazing array of wildlife and flora, including several types of poppies, primulas, orchids, and rhododendrons, which all start to flower in March and make the mountains seem as picturesque as a postcard.
If you want to see snow, keep on to Tsomgo Lake. Situated at a height of 12,000 feet, this holy lake is frozen until March, during which time the surrounding mountains are blanketed in a thick layer of snow. This location is a must-visit if you like birdwatching. Many permanent and migratory birds, some of which go all the way from Siberia, may be seen around the lake.
Approximately 15 miles from Tsomgo Lake is Nathu La, a well-liked destination for tourists visiting Sikkim. Situated at an elevation of 14,000 feet, this mountain pass was a part of the legendary Silk Route that linked Tibet, which is now under Chinese rule, with India. It’s the ideal time to visit Nathu La to experience snow before it melts away since the region is blanketed in snow until March.
Visit the Baba Temple, a temple honoring the fabled Sepoy Harbhajan Singh, who passed away at Nathu La, while you’re here. There are many tales about him, and people think that his ghost guards troops in the region.
West Sikkim’s Springtime Attractions
Pelling, 113 kilometers away from Gangtok, may not seem like much at first, but it’s the starting point for some of the state of Sikkim’s top attractions. March has perfect temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 21°C, making it a great month to visit Pelling. Situated about 8 kilometers distant is the almost 300-year-old Pemayangtse Monastery, while the Rabdantse Ruins, the former headquarters of the Sikkim dynasty, are just 9 km away. About 32 kilometers away lies the holy Khecheopalri Lake, which is a must-see in March since it hosts the two-day Maghe Purne Festival.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Gangtok
Snow and Springtime in North Sikkim
The charming tiny mountain community of Lachung is located around 100 kilometers north of Gangtok. Standing at 8,610 feet, the region is still blanketed with snow in March. The month-long temperature swings from -5°C to 15°C, making it the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat. If you want to purchase some wonderfully woven indigenous carpets and rugs, don’t miss the 130-year-old Lachung Monastery and the Handicraft Center while you’re here.
After spending the night, go to Yumthang Valley, Sikkim’s very own flower valley. To enter both locations, you need a Protected Area Permit. Another little hamlet named Lachen is located 47 kilometers west of Lachung, at an elevation of 8,500 feet. Despite lacking a popular tourist destination, it is a natural wonderland. In addition to being the beginning of many treks in North Sikkim, such as those that pass via Chopta Valley, Lachen is the entry point to the stunning Gurudongmar Lake, which is accessible in two hours by car.
Locations of Pleasant Springs in South Sikkim
If you’re going to tour South Sikkim, Namchi (80 km from Gangtok), which is located at a comparatively lower altitude, is a must-visit. In March, the temperature ranges from 11°C to 19°C, which makes it the perfect destination for breathtaking views of the Kanchendzonga and Rangit Valley. From monasteries like Ngadak and Sherdup Choeling to the enormous statue of Guru Padmasambhava perched atop Samdruptse Hill, it has a lot to offer in terms of attractions.
Don’t miss the Lamapokari Festival, which takes place in the vicinity of Aritar Lake, also known as Ghati Tso, if you get a chance to be in Sikkim toward the end of March. The oldest freshwater lake in Sikkim, Aritar, is about a four-hour drive from Gangtok. The festival is a fantastic opportunity to learn about local culture since it has a lot of dance, music, and cooking events. For birdwatching, a 2-kilometer woodland route connects the lake to the neighboring Mankhim. One of Sikkim’s oldest monasteries, the Aritar Monastery, is worth seeing while you’re here.
Conclusion
March presents Sikkim as a haven for voyagers, boasting mesmerizing surroundings and lively festivities. The International Flower Festival displays a myriad of blossoming flowers, while Tsomgo Lake mesmerizes with its snow-capped vicinity. There is an adventure for every soul. Discover monasteries, savor the landscape from a moving ropeway, or traverse through quaint settlements like Pelling and Lachung. The refreshing breezes and Azure skies create an apt setting for thrill and comfort. Sikkim’s mix of gorgeous scenery and cultural wealth guarantees a memorable springtime outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is March a good time to visit Sikkim?
March to May or October to mid-December are the ideal times to visit Sikkim, according to Sikkim Tourism. The greatest time to visit Gangtok if you want to see the area’s natural splendor in blossom is in the spring, from March to May. However, autumn offers a good glimpse of the Himalayan Range.
Is there snowfall in Sikkim in March?
The snow begins to melt, revealing fresh green colors on the hills. Still, the nights are frigid and the weather is chilly. Thus, be careful to pack appropriately. You will see snow in the first week of March if you decide to visit Sikkim.
What is the season in Sikkim in March?
March in Sikkim has nice, windy weather the whole month. Enough sunlight is there, and the clouds are floating about with a little breeze. Warm clothing should be taken since it will be chilly in the late evenings and early mornings.
Is the Nathula Pass open in March?
No, Nathula Pass is not open all year. It is often closed during the winter months (December to March) owing to significant snowfall and poor weather conditions. The Nathula pass is usually available to travelers from April to November, depending on the weather.
