Sikkim in December: Snow, Weather, What's Open and Where to Go
December in Sikkim brings the first snow at Tsomgo, Nathu La and Lachung, clear Himalayan views and cold nights in Gangtok. Weather, what's open and a sample route.
December is when Sikkim turns white. The first heavy snow usually reaches Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La, Lachung and Zuluk in the second half of the month, the skies are mostly clear for views of Kanchenjunga, and Gangtok is cold but sunny. It is also the month when roads to the high places can close after a snowfall, so a December trip needs a little flexibility.
Sikkim weather in December
| Place | Altitude | December weather | Snow? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gangtok | About 1,650 m | Cool sunny days, cold nights | Rare |
| Pelling | About 2,100 m | Cold, clearest Kanchenjunga views | Rare |
| Lachung | About 2,700 m | Very cold | Likely |
| Tsomgo Lake | 3,753 m | Below freezing much of the day | Likely from mid-December |
| Nathu La | 4,310 m | Bitterly cold and windy | Likely |
| Zuluk | About 2,800–3,000 m | Very cold | Likely |
Where to see snow in December
Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La
The easiest snow trip from Gangtok. Our Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Nathu La day trip is ₹1,299 per person with permits included. Read our Tsomgo Lake weather guide and Gangtok to Nathu La route guide.
Lachung and Yumthang
North Sikkim's Lachung is usually reachable in December, and Yumthang Valley often has snow. Zero Point and Gurudongmar Lake depend on the snow and road work, and can close at short notice. Check is North Sikkim open now before you plan.
Zuluk and the Old Silk Route
The zigzag roads of Zuluk are spectacular under snow. See Zuluk in winter.
A 6-day December route
- Day 1: NJP or Bagdogra to Gangtok.
- Day 2: Gangtok sightseeing; permits filed for the next day.
- Day 3: Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Nathu La.
- Day 4: Gangtok to Lachung.
- Day 5: Yumthang Valley (and Zero Point if open), back to Gangtok.
- Day 6: Gangtok to NJP or Bagdogra.
Add Pelling for two days for the clearest Kanchenjunga views. See our Sikkim tour packages or best places to visit in Sikkim.
Permits and road closures
- Tsomgo, Nathu La, North Sikkim and the Old Silk Route all need permits arranged through a registered operator. See the Sikkim permit guide.
- After heavy snow, the police may stop issuing permits until the road is cleared. Plan the high trips early in your stay so you have a spare day.
- Foreign nationals need a protected area permit and can't go to Nathu La.
What to pack
- Thermals, a heavy down jacket, gloves, a woollen cap and warm socks.
- Waterproof shoes; boots and coats can be hired near Tsomgo.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: the glare from snow is strong.
- Basic altitude medicine and a water bottle. Read our Sikkim packing list.
Helpful Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it snow in Sikkim in December?
Yes, at higher places such as Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La, Lachung, Yumthang and Zuluk, usually from mid to late December. Snow in Gangtok itself is rare.
Is North Sikkim open in December?
Lachung and Yumthang are usually open. Zero Point and Gurudongmar depend on snow and road conditions and can close at short notice.
How cold is Gangtok in December?
Days are cool and sunny, while nights are cold. Pack a warm jacket and layers.
Is December a good time to visit Sikkim?
Yes, for snow and clear mountain views. Keep a buffer day, as roads to high places can close after snowfall.
Can I visit Nathu La in December?
Yes, on the days it's open to tourists, usually Wednesday to Sunday. It can close after heavy snow.
Plan This Journey
Turn this Sikkim guide into a trip that fits your pace
If this guide is part of the kind of holiday you want, Breeziah can help shape the route, travel flow and stay style around your dates, comfort level and destination priorities.