The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok has an experience or so to say a set of experiences to offer in every season. Gangtok primarily experiences three seasons - summer, monsoon, and winter. The summer season (March to June) is considered the best time to visit Gangtok since the weather here remains quite pleasant and offers respite from the heat. The winter season (October to February) in Gangtok is ideal for those who want to witness snowfall and play in it.
Summer Weather (March to June)
Temperature range: 15°C to 25°C
The weather in Gangtok is quite pleasant and comfortable during the summers. It is the time when tourists plan their summer holidays here. The season is perfect to witness the sight of Mt Kanchenjunga from Gangtok as the sky remains quite clear. It is also a good time to head for trekking and paragliding. In the summer season in Gangtok, festivals like International Flower Festival and Saga Dawa can also be enjoyed.
Monsoon Weather (July to September)
Temperature range : 10°C to 20°C
Monsoons arrive in Gangtok by late June and last till August. There is frequent moderate to heavy rainfall in the monsoon season in Gangtok. The temperature also drops down and even though sightseeing becomes a bit difficult in the monsoons, it’s the best time to visit the waterfalls, which come to life. Two of the most famous waterfalls near Gangtok are Banjhakri and Seven Sisters Waterfalls. The festival of Bhadauria Purnima is celebrated in Tsomgo Lake near Gangtok in August. Drupka Teshi Festival is another celebration that one can see in Gangtok during the monsoon season.
Winter Weather (October to February)
Temperature range : 0°C to 7°C
Winters in Gangtok are chilly. The temperature drops to sub-zero degree celsius. Gangtok experiences snowfall between December and February and before that around October and November, a change in landscape starts to become visible. You can visit the Nathu La Pass in November which looks absolutely stunning during this time of the year. In the winter season, a number of attractions around Gangtok become inaccessible. But if you are staying in the city itself, you can enjoy snowfall and piping hot Sikkimese food, tea, and even chhang (locally brewed alcohol).
Winter season in Gangtok is also perfect to witness various cultural festivals like Gangtok Winter Festival, Mangan Music Festival, Losoong, Losar, and Kagyed Dance Festival. If you are an adventure buff, winter is also a great time to do popular treks in Sikkim like Dzongri Trek.