Fall brings Sikkim to life like a picture of trees in shades of red and gold, with glistening bright sky and a hint of winter to come. October is a popular month for travelers to visit Sikkim, which is not unexpected. Sikkim’s “second spring,” October, is a time when every leaf is as lovely as a flower.
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Autumnal Gold and Glory of East Sikkim
Your base for touring the eastern part of this mountain state should be the Autumnal Gold and Glory of East Sikkim Gangtok (5,840 feet). The temperature in the city is between 11 and 16°C, which results in cold days and almost freezing nights. In October, expansive vistas can be seen surrounding Gangtok at the Buddhist monasteries and natural attractions.
Gangtok is a bustling city, yet as soon as you step into the sacred grounds of the Tsuklakhang Royal Monastery, you’ll feel at ease. The altars of this magnificent monastery next to Gangtok’s Flower Exhibition Centre are adorned with statuettes of Tantric deities and several forms of Buddha.
The Kagyu sect Rumtek Monastery is located 23km from Tsuklakhang, past gorgeous fall countryside. Perched atop a 5,500-foot hill, the gompa’s gardens provide a pristine view of Gangtok’s roofs, sparkling in the October sun.
Constructed in the 1700s, Phodang Monastery is a must-see for its unique frescoed frescoes, standing at 4,500 feet. The temple, which is 40 kilometers from Gangtok, is well-known among tourists and devotees for its significance in Tibetan Buddhism.
Travelers in October should schedule a day excursion to Nathu La Pass, which is located 60 kilometers from Gangtok, before departing eastern Sikkim. At 14,140 feet, this mountain pass is stunning in the sun’s slanting rays as the rainy season draws to an end.
This route, which linked Tibet and India, was formerly a significant branch of the Silk Route. October provides a clear view of the mountains and high-altitude flora.
Also Read: Sikkim weather in November
Make sure to stop at the glacial Tsomgo Lake (12,310 feet) on your trip to Nathu La. This body of water, also known as Changu Lake, is encircled by snow-capped mountains, and the pristine sky is reflected off the surface. This oval-shaped lake, located 40 kilometers from Gangtok, is best visited from above via the ropeway.
You will travel 15 miles to the renowned Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir as you leave Changu Lake. This temple is among the tallest in the nation at 13,000 feet, and the mythology surrounding it adds to its cultural value.
A soldier named Harbhajan Singh lost his life in combat. The soldiers positioned at the Sino-Indian border think he keeps them safe. Whether you choose to accept the mythology or not, Baba Mandir offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain range from its cloud-top location.
Make sure you pack a winter coat since Nathu La Pass, Changu Lake, and Baba Mandir are high-altitude locations. It is far colder than it would be in Gangtok.
North Sikkim’s Pristine Sky
October is a great month to visit the hill stations in north Sikkim. Travelers may enjoy expansive views of the surrounding alpine landscape thanks to the clear sky. You can feel the arrival of winter in the air if you visit north Sikkim in October.
The 8,800-foot alpine village of Lachen serves as a stage for the fall foliage spectacle. The summits are dusted with snow, while the trees burst into vibrant orange and golden hues. The October sights will entice you to linger longer as you explore Lachen. The hamlet is located 108 miles away from Gangtok, and the average temperature is between 5 and 15°C.
Also Read: Sikkim weather in December
The biggest lake in Sikkim and among the highest in the world is Gurudongmar Lake. Your adventure begins early in the morning from Lachen, and the 67km of hard climbing, alpine trees, and shifting light make for an enthralling drive.
At 17,000 feet, Gurudongmar Lake provides visitors with unmatched views of Mt. Sinolchu and Kanchenjunga. With clear sky in October, this vacation will be, to put it mildly, unforgettable. Here, the temperature ranges from -5 to 3°C.
Lachung, a charming village located at an elevation of 9,000 feet, approximately two hours away from Lachen. Admire the scenery of the tributaries that converge in this town before feeding the powerful Teesta.
Here, the daytime high is a pleasant 19°C, while the evening low is around 6°C. The small but peaceful Lachung Gompa is conveniently located if you’d want to cross visiting a monastery off your bucket list.
Get ready for the stunning October landscape of Sikkim as you travel from Gangtok to Lachung. Along the route, you’ll see golden-leafed trees, gushing waterfalls, turquoise mountain springs, and the strong Teesta.
Ninety minutes from Lachung, Yumthang Valley (11,800 feet) is a must-see for its breathtaking natural beauty, which reaches its peak in October. The towering mountains and dark alpine forests contrast well with the speckling blue sky.
Additionally, October is a great time to take a dip at Yumthang Tsachu, a natural hot spring.
Also Read: Sikkim weather in June
Zero Point, at an elevation of 15,000 feet, is the meeting point of three rivers surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Excellent visibility is available in October, and while the 23km route (from Yumthang) is uneven, the benefits much exceed the travel time.
West Sikkim’s Beautifully Melancholic
October is a popular month in West Sikkim because of the hill town of Pelling (7,200ft). Pelling is around 130 miles from Gangtok and offers the ideal fall weather (14–24°C) for adventure. The famous Pemayangtse monastery is located 9 miles from the town.
October is the best time to see the surrounding Himalayan range after seeing the gompa’s Buddhist artwork and monuments. The sad yet exquisite remnants of Sikkim’s former capital may be seen 32 kilometers from Pelling at the Rabdentse Ruins. Remember Khecheopalri Lake, a serene spot of artistic and religious value.
When trekking in Sikkim in October, trekkers should go directly to Yuksom, a 6,000-foot village in the west. Yuksom, the “gateway to the Kanchenjunga,” is 40 miles from Pelling and the starting point of many treks. Yuksom is the place to be in the fall, whether you’re going to Dzongri and Goech La, or the Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
Also Read: Sikkim weather in july
Relaxed Views of South Sikkim
Located 80 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim’s southern region, Namchi, comes to life in the fall with breathtaking landscapes and unspoiled nature. With a maximum temperature of 15°C, it is a little warmer environment for those who like it that way. The 138-foot Padmasambhava monument, which stands magnificently amid the slanting sunshine and fall air, is the main draw of Samdruptse Hill (7,000 feet).
The Ngadak and Sherdup Choeling monasteries are located in Namchi if you’re interested in learning more about Tibetan religious architecture.
Because of its closeness to the Himalayas, the southern Sikkim village of Ravangla—70 km from Gangtok—becomes a popular fall travel destination. For photographers wishing to capture the mountain ranges, a trek up Maenam Hill is essential; on brisk October days, Ralang Monastery is a stunning location. The expansive Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, located 26 km from the town, offers visitors a chance to see Sikkimese flora and animals in their native environments.
Dashain, also known as Durga Puja, is the most significant October festival observed by the people of Nepal. A fifteen-day celebration with religious rites and lucky traditions, offering travelers in the fall a great show.
In Sikkim, October brings perfectly crisp days. The elegance of fall may significantly enhance your vacation experience in this northeastern state.
Also Read: Sikkim weather in August
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there snow in Sikkim in October?
While other areas are blanketed in snow all year round, Sikkim has snowfall from October through March throughout the winter.
Does it rain in October in Sikkim?
Indeed, October is among the finest seasons to visit Sikkim because of the comfortable 18–22°C daytime temperatures. It is ideal for outdoor exploration since the skies are clear and there is very little rainfall.
Which part of Sikkim is best in October?
March and May are the best times to visit Sikkim, according to Sikkim Tourism, as well as October through mid-December. The Himalayan range may be clearly seen in October thanks to the magnificent autumnal vistas. The following are a few of the top attractions in Sikkim
Which festival is celebrated in Sikkim in October?
Durga Puja (Dassain)
The Hindu Nepalese people of Sikkim celebrate this event alone. September through October are the months when it happens. In other regions of the nation, it is observed similarly to Dushera. The first day, Prathma, to the ninth day, Navmi, is when the Goddess Durga puja is done.
