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Sikkim Weather in December marks the beginning of winter in this part of India, as temperatures start dropping across the state. Located in the Himalayas, Sikkim enjoys a temperate climate but December is one of the coldest months. Days are sunny but you can expect nighttime temperatures between 5-10 degree Celsius. Places like Lachung and Gurudongmar Lake can even go below zero degrees.
This is thus a good time to visit Sikkim Weather in December if you wish to avoid the harsh winters or extreme cold. The skies are clear, offering splendid views of Kanchenjunga snow peaks. With lesser rainfall, traveling is more convenient. The cold weather also enhances the beauty of the landscape, with frozen lakes, misty valleys and snow-capped mountains. Don’t forget to pack your woollens!
December heralds the start of an auspicious and culturally significant time in Sikkim. The winter chill permeates the air but the festive spirit warms up the people. Sikkim celebrates many unique festivals and events showcasing its rich culture and traditions. Witnessing these colorful celebrations is a highlight for visitors during December.
Read more : Sikkim Weather in November & Places to Visit in Sikkim in November
One of the most important Buddhist festivals, Lhabab Dhuechen is celebrated with much fervor in Sikkim every year. The festival is observed on the 22nd to the 23rd day of the 9th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, which corresponds to dates in December as per the Gregorian calendar.
Also referred to as the ‘Descending Day of Lord Buddha’, Lhabab Dhuechen marks the day Buddha returned to earth after spending three months teaching his mother Maya in the heavenly realm. Myths state that Buddha manifested his descent by a thousand-armed golden ladder, greeted by his disciples. The auspicious occasion is commemorated by special rituals, prayers and celebrations in Sikkim’s monasteries. This festival makes the Sikkim Weather in December even more breathtaking.
The main celebrations are held at Rumtek and Phodong Monastery. Chanting of religious scriptures, mystical masked dances and ceremonial processions form an important part. Monks prepare elaborate votive offerings made of colored butter and dough. People also exchange gifts and feast together to mark the joyous occasion.
Read more : Sikkim Weather in January & Places to Visit in Sikkim in January
The ethnic Lepcha community has inhabited Sikkim since ancient times and their culture is intrinsic to the land. Namsoong festival celebrated in December gives visitors a chance to immerse in authentic Lepcha traditions.
Marking the new harvest, Namsoong is spread over two days filled with singing, dancing, feasting and convivial spirit. People dress in traditional attire, adorned with bamboo hats and jewelry. Lepcha men and women perform cultural songs and dances like the Zo-Mal-Lok, which depicts the life of the tribe through music.
The festival also sees enthusiastic participation in activities like bamboo pole climbing, bow and arrow shooting competitions, food and handicrafts stalls, processions and music concerts. Watch skilled archers shoot targets to win prizes as spectators cheer. Don’t miss the chance to sample Lepcha cuisine like shisnu (fern), sino (bamboo shoots) and jaa (rice beer).
Read more : People and Culture & Gangtok Tourism
The Tibetan New Year called Losar is celebrated with exhilarating fervor among Sikkim’s Buddhist community. Marking the end of the harvest season, Losar signifies the heralding of a new beginning on the Tibetan lunar calendar.
In the weeks leading up to Losar, people indulge in traditions like home spring cleaning and buying new clothes. Elaborate prayer rituals are performed at monasteries. Sikkim’s streets are decorated with colorful prayer flags.
When Losar arrives, the first day begins by consuming ‘khaja’, a pastry made with sugar, dried cheese and rice. People also exchange gifts like ‘Khataks’ – traditional ceremonial scarves. Visiting monasteries for Losar prayers and lighting butter lamps are other key celebrations.
Savor the sweet and savory treats like ‘kapse’, ‘gyathuk’ and ‘chhurpi’ specially prepared for Losar. Join in the cultural performances, processions and general merrymaking that lights up the streets during this festival.
Read more : Foods in Sikkim & Cultural Trip to Sikkim
The festive cheer of Christmas celebrations is felt across Sikkim in December. The Christian community gears up for the festivities with much gusto and homes are decorated with stars, tinsel and Christmas trees.
Special prayers and midnight mass are held at churches on Christmas eve. Bakeries whip up plum cakes, pastries and cookies to indulge those Christmas cravings. Children eagerly wait to meet Santa bearing gifts for them.
In Gangtok, the Lal Bazaar square comes alive with food stalls serving Christmas delicacies. Shops showcase glittering decorations and goodies to ring in the Yuletide spirit. Hotels organize events like cake mixing ceremonies and music programs.
A key event is the Winter Carnival held at White Hall by the Tourism Department featuring song, dance and comedy shows along with a snowman making competition. Don’t miss joining locals and tourists alike soaking in Christmas revelry.
Read more : Festivals in Sikkim & 33 Things to do in Sikkim
Tashiding monastery situated near Pelling hosts the annual Bumchu festival in December. On the 14th day of the Tibetan calendar, the holy waters of a sacred spring near the monastery bubble up.
Monks perform rituals and offer prayers on this auspicious day. Thousands of devotees gather to immerse themselves in the holy water. It is believed that the water can heal people of ailments and wash away misfortunes. The more you explore in the Sikkim Weather in December, the more things you get to know about this place.
Visitors can witness the devotees taking a dip in the chilled water amidst fluttering prayer flags. The excess water also flows down as a waterfall. The festival ends with mask dances and spiritual chanting.
Held around December 20th, the Khanchendzonga Festival is hosted by the Tourism Department to highlight Sikkim’s cultural extravaganza at one place. Named after the state’s revered mountain, the festival brings together different communities to celebrate Sikkim’s eclectic heritage over a week.
Venues across Gangtok host music concerts, dance performances, food stalls, flower shows and handicraft exhibitions by talented local artisans. Shop for exquisite Sikkimese crafts or immerse in cultural shows reflecting ancient traditions. Don’t miss witnessing the colorful Pang Lhabsol mask dance depicting the state’s guardian deities.
In the Sikkim Weather in December, with icy waters and snow-capped surroundings, Tsomgo Lake transforms into a winter wonderland. Ride on decorated yaks, gaze at the clear reflections of the mountains, and capture the stunning views. Don’t forget to try the warm noodle soup!
Read more : 15 Things to do in Gangtok & 10 Things to do in Lachen
Plunging down from a great height, the Seven Sisters Waterfalls look absolutely magnificent in the winter. The flow is heavier due to melting snow, while the mist creates dreamy views.
Yuksom’s natural beauty and old-world charm makes it perfect for December visits. Go hiking through forest trails lined with rhododendrons and magnolias or explore ancient monasteries like Dubdi and Kartok Monestry. Try the acclaimed local dish Bathuk too.
Nestled in verdant forests, the quiet town of Rinchenpong basks in wintry beauty in December. Long walks in the charming countryside dotted with traditional homes and cardamom plantations rejuvenate your senses.
Read more : How to Reach Ravangla & Things to do in Sikkim
One of Sikkim’s most important and picturesque monasteries in to visit in Sikkim Weather in December, Phodong is located near North Sikkim’s capital Mangan. During December, you can witness the elaborate 4-day Lhabab Dhuechen festival here, marked by chanting monks, dancing maskers and special rituals.
A dip in the warm sulphur-rich waters of Reshi Hot Springs is perfect during Sikkim Weather in December. Located close to Rangpo, it’s a great place to unwind, with the steamy pools set amidst forested hills.
Read more : Nightlife in Sikkim & Darjeeling Tourism
Admire the majestic Mt Kanchenjunga from Singhik View Point, perched at an altitude of 5,134 feet. The panoramic vista of the highest peaks, vast valleys and Samiti Lake is unparalleled, especially on clear, cold December days.
Situated at an elevation of 6,500 feet, Ganesh Tok is a popular temple complex and viewpoint near Gangtok. During winter, get sweeping views of Mt Kanchenjunga and Sikkim’s landscape blanketed in snow.
Managed by the Forest Department, the Nursery Breeding Centre near Ravangla offers a unique experience. Visitors can see young pandas in enclosures and learn interesting facts about the endangered red panda through documentaries/ guides.
Read more : Sikkim in Summer & Sikkim in Winter
Stretching along the Himalayas, this reserve provides a sanctuary to exotic wildlife like red pandas, blue sheep and snow leopards. The high-altitude terrain swathed in snow makes for great hiking during December. Seek permissions and go with experienced guides.
Perched atop a hill near Namchi, this gigantic statue of Lord Shiva is made of fiberglass. Against December’s clear blue skies and snowy peaks, you get fabulous views of the statue and surrounding landscape from the temple complex.
December is a good time to sample Sikkim’s delectable cuisine, from momos and thukpas to unique dishes like Gya thuk, Sael roti, Nakksel Ko Achaar and more. Don’t miss trying the locally brewed wines too!
In the Sikkim Weather in December, you can find a wide range of woollen wear to exquisite handicrafts, Gangtok’s MG Marg is perfect for shopping. Thangkas, Lepcha weaves, masks, carpets etc make great souvenirs. The festive season sales are an added bonus!
Crisp winter air, snow-covered trails and fewer tourists make December ideal for mountain biking in Sikkim. Rent a sturdy bike and ride along meadows, villages and streams for a rejuvenating experience.
Read more : Temi tea Garden & People and Culture
Finding inner peace amidst Sikkim’s serenity is wonderful in December. Book yourself into a meditation retreat at a monastery or yoga center and learn ancient practices from experienced teachers.
The cold weather makes spotting wildlife easier in the Khangchendzonga National Park and Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. Look out for red pandas, Himalayan black bears, porcupines and over 150 bird species on guided jeep safaris.
Go glamping amidst Sikkim’s wintry splendor in December. Many places now offer luxury tents with stunning mountain/valley views and amenities. Fun activities like bonfires, local cuisine tasting and more add to the experience and it is a must take experience in Sikkim Weather in December.
Rejuvenate yourself at December with indulgent massages, herbal treatments and thermal therapies offered at spas or hot springs like Borong and Reshi. The steamy waters soothe aching joints perfectly during winter.
Make the most of December by attending Sikkim’s lively festivals like Namsoong, Losar and Lhabab Dhuechen. Absorb the electrifying atmosphere, try the delicious food and get a taste of Sikkim’s rich culture.
With its carpets of rhododendrons and magnolias, unspoilt hills and snowy peaks, Sikkim offers bountiful day hike and short trek options in December. Popular ones are trails around Pelling, Yuksom, Dzongri, Goecha La and more.
Ans: A 7 to 10 days long trip allows you to cover most key places in North and South Sikkim at a relaxed pace. Make Gangtok your base to cover North Sikkim and Ravangla/Pelling for South Sikkim.
Ans: Pack warm woollen clothes, jackets, thermals, gloves etc. Several layers help trap body heat. Wear waterproof shoes with good grip and socks. Carry woollen caps that cover your ears.
Ans: Heavy snowfall is not very common in most parts of Sikkim in December except very high altitude areas. Only light snowfall may occur at select places like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, parts of North Sikkim etc.
Ans: Hire a private taxi for the whole trip so that you have the freedom to customize your itinerary. Shared jeeps are also available for fixed point-to-point routes. Avoid buses as roads are prone to blockages due to snow.
Ans: Snow leopards are extremely rare, elusive creatures. While the Khanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve offers a chance, sightings are very difficult and cannot be guaranteed. You may be able to spot other wildlife like red pandas, Himalayan Tahrs etc.
December presents a good time to visit Sikkim, away from the harsh winter or monsoon. The fabulous views of snow-laden mountains, soothing hot springs, lively festivals and abundance of activities make it an ideal winter holiday.
