The climatic conditions of Sikkim

Sikkim is an east-Indian state situated to the south of Tibet. And to its east and west you can find Bhutan and Nepal respectively. Just above this small and beautiful paradise is the Kanchenjunga Mountain which is 8534 mts high.

It stands third in the world for its height. If we look into a map it seems as if this peak is providing protection to Sikkim.

Sikkim got its name from the two words “su” and “khyim”, where su means new and khyim means house or palace. You will be amazed to know that in Tibet Sikkim is known as “Denjong” (“valley of rice”).The capital city of Sikkim is Gangtok which is a center of attraction to every tourist who visits the state.

Sikkim has lush green forests (40% of the area), mountain peaks, rivers and all bounties of the nature which makes it a perfect place to visit.

WEATHER CONDITIONS:

The climatic conditions of Sikkim are very varied from place to place as in the north it is extremely cold where as in the south you will find almost tropical climate. In January Gangtok has its lowest temperature (about 0 °C) and is warmest during August. In the months of the south-west monsoon (May-October) the precipitation varies between 50 to 200 inches. And due to heavy rains and extensive snowfall Sikkim also has to witness landslides.

ATTRACTIONS:

Monastries: Sikkim is no doubt an apt place for meditation lovers as there are more than 200 monastries here. However, Rumtek (near Gangtok), Pemayangtse (West-Sikkim) and Tahiding (West-Sikkim) are the most often visited monasteries by the tourists.

Yuksom and Dzongri trek: If you love trekking then Sikkim is the place to be. Yuksom to Dzongri peak and further Dzongri to Goecha are the most popular trekking destinations in Sikkim and if you are up for a challenge then no second thoughts please. As this magnificent trek passes through the green lush forests, Rhododendron’s wide gardens and not to forget the rivers of Kanchenjunga National Park.

Teesta river rafting: If you want to experience world class river rafting then Teesta River Rafting is definitely a place to visit. Makha-Sirwani-Bardang-Rangpo is the major route of this turbulent river. You can also enjoy the overnight camping here.  

Deorali Orchid Sanctuary: There are diversified varieties of birds, butterflies, orchids, rhododendrons and other animals here making it is a perfect place for a sanctuary.

Nathu La Pass and the Old Silk Route: If you are up for an adventure then Nathu La Pass is where you should be. This Old Silk Route is just a 3 hours drive from Gangtok that is on the Chinese border. Only people with Indian nationality can travel this far and that to exclusively on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. And a permit from a registered travel agency is a must.

HOW TO REACH

By Air: Flights are regularly connected from Kolkata, New Delhi, Mumbai Chennai and all the major cities to Gangtok regularly.

By Rail: Trains are available even in the late nights from the major cities to New Jalpaiguri Station.

By Bus: You can get availed by the transport facilities of Sikkim National Bus Transports to reach Sikkim.

By Taxi: Taxi’s basic charge is 100 per person from New Jalpaiguri Station.