Good month · Sikkim
Sikkim in December
Cold and mostly clear. Early December is calm and good value. The Christmas and New Year weeks bring crowds to Gangtok and Pelling, and snow can close Nathu La, Yumthang and Gurudongmar. Tsomgo begins to freeze. Good for mountain views and winter light.
Photo: IamBumba · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsWhere to go
Our picks for December
Photo: IamBumba · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Gangtok
Sikkim's ridge-top capital and base for the north and east
Photo: Santanu Paul · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Pelling
Kangchenjunga views, Pemayangtse and the ruins of Rabdentse
Photo: Indrajit Das · CC BY 3.0 · Commons
Tsomgo Lake
A glacial lake at 3,750 m on the road to the Nathu La
Trips
Trips at their best in December
Photo: IamBumba · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Comfort
Sikkim monasteries and ridges, 6 nights
Private car with driver
Photo: IamBumba · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Saver
Sikkim west by shared jeep, 6 nights
Shared jeeps and local taxis
Photo: IamBumba · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Signature
Sikkim heritage hotels, 6 nights
Private SUV with driver and local guide
Elsewhere in December
Other hives this month
Questions
Sikkim in December, answered
Is December a good time to visit Sikkim?
Cold and mostly clear. Early December is calm and good value. The Christmas and New Year weeks bring crowds to Gangtok and Pelling, and snow can close Nathu La, Yumthang and Gurudongmar. Tsomgo begins to freeze. Good for mountain views and winter light.
What is the weather like in Sikkim in December?
Gangtok about 5 to 14 °C; snow likely in the north. Conditions differ by altitude and coast, so check the forecast for each stop a week before you travel.
Where should we go in Sikkim in December?
We suggest Gangtok, Pelling, Tsomgo Lake. For snow, plan Lachung or Tsomgo in late December, with a day spare for closures.