Mountains are profound homes that never abandon devotees, especially nature fanatics. The fascinating element is that the rocky terrains spread many colours of various hues throughout the year, luring nature lovers to pay a visit. Sikkim, on India’s northeastern border, is a magical realm of snow-capped peaks that enchants visitors all year. Traveling to Sikkim in January, on the other hand, could be a demanding as well as unforgettable experience. And after you’ve visited, you’ll realise that Sikkim is well worth your time and effort.
Sikkim’s scenery, like those of another alpine paradise, change with the seasons.While many remote passes and high-altitude terrains are accessible in the summer, popular North Sikkim destinations such as Zero Point and Gurudongmar Lake may be closed in the winter. It’s difficult to get about, so snow equipment comes in handy on a winter trip to Sikkim.
Above all, one thing is certain: when you look back on your wonderful photos from your Sikkim trip, you will undoubtedly exclaim, “What a remarkable vacation that was!” So, let’s see what we can do to make a vacation to Sikkim in January a great experience.
How to reach Sikkim In January
By air: The nearest airport to Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport, which is 124 kilometres away. Bagdogra Airport is easily accessible, as it is well connected to major Indian airports. From Bagdogra to Gangtok, helicopter services are available. Taxis run in tandem from the airport to Gangtok, taking up to four hours.
By railroad, the two major railheads nearest to Gangtok are New Jalpaiguri (188 km) and Siliguri (145 km). Buses and taxis go from NJP to Gangtok, and a four-hour journey should deliver you to Sikkim’s capital.
By road: From the nearby cities, NJP and Siliguri, buses and taxis are readily available. Depending on your comfort and cost-effectiveness, you can choose your favourite form of transportation.
Most popular festivals in Sikkim in January
Festivals in Sikkim are one of the region’s most popular tourist attractions. The Tibetan culture is practised by the majority of the people of Sikkim, and it can be seen in their daily lives and activities. There are many reasons to visit Sikkim throughout the year, including several colourful festivals. The following are the significant festivals in Sikkim in January:
New Year – Start your New Year traditinally
While New Year’s Day is celebrated with happiness and unity throughout the country, the lovely towns of Sikkim are even more gorgeously decorated, presenting Sikkim in a dazzling light. Sikkim, like the rest of the globe, is bathed in light and colour as the new year approaches.
The entire area is tastefully decorated, from street lights to hotels and well-known structures. Restaurants provide customised meals, and pubs and clubs have pre-planned dance programmes and dining parties.
Maghey Sankrati – The incredible cultural extravaganza in January
In North India, this is referred to as Makar Sankranti by the majority of people. In January, Maghey Sankranti is one of the most prominent holidays in Sikkim, and it is widely celebrated. While many cultural activities are held around the state, the mela in Jorethang is a magnificent display of cultural relics that Sikkim has managed to maintain over the years. Jorethang is 85 kilometres from Gangtok and 83 kilometres from Siliguri in South Sikkim.
Mela in Jorethang near the river, numerous cultural programmes, exhibitions, stalls of local crafts and ethnic food are among the festival’s highlights.
When: January 14-15
Popular activities in Sikkim in January
In January, visitors to Sikkim are there for a very specific reason. Because leisure visitors arrange their trips to Sikkim mostly between May and July, when the entire area is at its most beautiful. The majority of visitors visiting Sikkim in January are seeking for adventure tourism.
Under Sikkim, there are many outdoor activities to choose from, and these activities appear much more exciting in the snow. People arrange a variety of tourism activities during their visit to Sikkim, including:
Adventure tourism
Sikkim is a one-stop shop for all adrenaline junkies. Sikkim’s magnificent outdoors will transport your spirit to the enormous Himalayan mountains. However, considering winter is India’s coldest month, there aren’t many activities to participate in.
Mountain biking and cycling, paragliding, rock climbing, snow trekking, mountaineering, and yak safari are some of the top activities to attempt in Sikkim in January.
Eco & wildlife tourism
Nothing quite like eco-tours to bring a place to life. Sikkim, as a biodiverse and culturally diverse region, has a lot to offer. All you have to do now is get out there and immerse yourself in the finest of northeast and Bhutia culture.
Kanchendzonga National Park, Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, and Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary are the top ecotourism destinations in Sikkim in January.
Village tourism
A village tour is a necessity for every traveller searching for a unique experience with a small population and eco-friendly accommodations. Visit one of these villages to experience Sikkimese culture.
Machi, Pelling, Chayatal, Kaluk, Sribadam, Tashiding, and Namchi are the best spots to visit in Sikkim in January for rural tourism.
Places to visit in Sikkim in January
While snowfall is the main attraction of all tourist activities in Sikkim, most of the areas in the state provide breathtaking views of the surrounding area, making Sikkim an ideal honeymoon destination in India and a best place to visit in the northeast in January.
Snowfall, cultural festivals, music festivals, and visits to old monasteries are some of the popular activities during a vacation to these areas. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Sikkim in January:
Kupup, Tsomgo, Tsomgo, Tsomgo, Tsomgo, Tsomgo Snowfall locations are a popular Tsomgo attraction.
Annual dances are a popular feature in monasteries.
Mangan Music Festival is a popular event at Jorethang Maghey Mela.
Basic guidelines for travelers
Given that Sikkim is primarily an adventurer’s paradise during the winter months, planning a dangerous journey to Sikkim in January requires extraordinary bravery. When you’re ready to leave, there are a few fundamental rules to follow!
- Be well-prepared. If your plan calls for walking in the snow, as it almost certainly will, bring a trekking pole with you.
- Bring or rent adequate snow boots. Boots and jackets may be rented quite simply.
- Get a suitable cover for your baggage to make it rainproof.
- Bring plenty of warm clothing. A fleece jacket and thermals are a must-have.
- Have enough food on hand in case of an emergency.
- In Sikkim, shared cabs are often accessible.
