Imagine sleeping in a warm room with the sound of rainfall pelting your roof and waking up to the sight of rain splashing on a tree. Isn’t that the definition of the ideal vacation? Rest and relaxation in the midst of nature’s splendours. In the month of August, a little village in North East India provides you precisely that. August is the ideal time to visit Sikkim, the lonely planet, for people who prefer getting drenched in the rain.

During the monsoon season, the waterfalls, rivers, and verdant surroundings are at their most beautiful. Try hiking through the state’s small pathways during the rainy season to see the spectacular beauty that they become.

What is the best way to get to Sikkim?

The magnificent region of Sikkim may be reached by plane, train, or road!

By Air: If you want to get to Sikkim by air, you’ll need to purchase a ticket to Bagdodra Airport in West Bengal, which is the closest airport. Book a shared cab to Sikkim after you arrive at the airport (4 hours drive). A helicopter journey from the airport to Sikkim is also available (20 minutes). You may also fly to Pakyong Airport, which is located in Sikkim. However, because this is a tiny airport, not all commercial planes land here, so double-check.

By Train: If you’re travelling to Sikkim by train, get out at Siliguri’s New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. You may take a bus or a taxi to Sikkim from here.

By Road: Those visiting Sikkim from adjacent areas will find that travelling to Sikkim by road is the most convenient alternative. The roads are in fantastic condition, and you also get a lovely view of the environment.

Festivals in August

Tendong Lho Rum Faat

One of the earliest festivals among the indigenous Lepchas is Tendong Lho Rum Faat. It’s a three-day celebration that culminates with a prayer on Namchi’s Tendong Hill. People create a mountain model and worship it in their houses during this holiday. To worship the almighty, they dance and sing while wearing a mask over their faces. This event is based on the belief that the Lepcha tribe was spared from the Mayel Lyang being destroyed by 40 nights of incessant rain. And the main purpose of this event is to thank the almighty for saving them throughout the disaster.

Phang Labsol

Phang Labsol is a one-of-a-kind Sikkim celebration that honours Mount Kanchenjunga as its guardian god. The event is based on the belief that the mountain God was instrumental in the introduction of Buddhism to Sikkim. This event is held at Rabong, which is located in South Sikkim. During this celebration, people from all around the state gather together to praise the mountain God. Spend some time walking to the Shar Chok Bhepu, one of Sikkim’s holiest caves, if you’re in Rabong to watch and experience this old age ceremony.

Bhadauria Purnima Festival

The Bhadauria Purnima Festival takes place in Tsomgo Lake, near Gangtok, Sikkim. On a full moon day in August, this event is celebrated with great zeal and excitement. Tsomgo Lake is also one of Sikkim’s most popular tourist spots. Faith healers, or Jhakris, perform rituals around the lake by reciting hymns and moving their bodies to the beat of musical instruments during this event. So, if you’re here to commemorate this important event, take some time to relax and take in the beautiful scenery that surrounds Tsomgo Lake. You may also pay a visit to Baba Mandir, which is located near Tsomgo Lake.

Places to Visit in August

Lingdum Monastery

Ranka Monastery, also known as Lingdum Monastery, is one of Sikkim’s oldest monasteries. It is roughly 20 kilometres from Gangtok, the state capital. It’s a tranquil spot away from the hubbub, where you can unwind and take a stroll around the grounds. Monks lead prayer sessions here every evening; do join these sessions for a sense of exciting peace and quiet. You may also take some stunning photographs here because the background and surrounding area are both stunning.

Nehru Botanical Garden

The Nehru Botanical Garden, in Gangtok, is home to a variety of tree, plant, and oak species. Surrounded by a lush green forest and gorgeous flowers, this research centre is ideal for a night of serendipity. A greenhouse with several species of Orchids is also located within this area. The Government of Sikkim maintains this garden, which is named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

Tashi View-Point

Want to take in a panoramic view of Sikkim’s snow-capped mountains and the entire state? If that’s the case, make your way to Tashi View-Point. The massive Kanchenjunga and the valleys that surround Gangtok may be seen from here. You may also enjoy some cool beverages and shop for gifts in the nearby little shops. Gangtok is 8 kilometres distant from Tashi View-Point. Visit this location for a panoramic view of the whole state.

Ban Jhakri Falls

The monsoon season is the optimum time to view this waterfall. The Ban Jahkri Falls, around 7 kilometres from Gangtok, are at their most beautiful in August. This waterfall is located within a groomed park and has mythical significance since it is thought to be able to heal evil. You may sit on the park seats and watch the river pouring by. It is a favourite picnic location for the locals. Spend some time here relaxing and enjoying the cool breeze.

Ganesh Tok

Ganesh Tok, at 6500 metres above sea level, is one of Sikkim’s most prominent Ganesh Temples. From here, you may get a panoramic view of the city and the mountains because it is located on a hilltop. Despite its tiny size, this temple gets a high number of visitors throughout the year

1. Waterproof your bags, as August is a wet season in this area.

2. Always have your ID credentials on hand.

So what’s the harm in waiting a little longer? Now is the time to plan a vacation to Sikkim during the off-season in August!