Sikkim tucked up in the Himalayas, is a stunning state no matter the time of year. It is quite relaxing and rejuvenating here. If you are looking for a cause to travel, go no farther than Sikkim, home of the world’s third-highest mountain, Mt. Kanchenjunga.
The allure of Sikkim, located in North-East India, is a shining example of the region’s legendary captivating beauty. If summer arrives in June, winter will arrive in November. The next month, March is a hybrid of the two. Moreover, if you are looking for information specific to that month, you have found the proper place.
Sikkim in March: 8 Must-Visit Places
1. Nathu La Pass in Sikkim
Nathu La Pass, in the Himalayas, is one of the greatest sites to visit in Sikkim in March since it links India and Tibet.
The pass is 4,310 metres above sea level and was originally used as a branch of the ancient Silk Way. Schedule your trip carefully if you want to see this breathtaking location at its finest. Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Trip To Nathula Pass, Sikkim.
Best Time to Visit: March can be tricky as the pass might still have snow. It’s essential to check if the pass is open during this time as it can close due to heavy snowfall.
Entry Requirements: Obtain a special permit through a registered travel agency in Gangtok.
What to Know: Being one of the highest motorable roads, the weather can be extremely cold with sudden drops in temperature. Dress in layers and carry windproof jackets.
2. Gangtok
The splendour of Gangtok as the capital of Sikkim is a testament to why it is so important. Stunningly gorgeous, boisterous, and adorned with clouds in every direction you look. Sikkim is rightfully proud of its heritage, and Gangtok is a testament to it. You must arrive at Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, to see the magnificent Kanchenjunga.
If you are interested in spirituality, you should visit Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten Rumtek Monastery, etc. Ganeshtok, Tashi Viewpoint, etc., are great places to get a birds-eye perspective of the city.
Best Time to Visit: March is ideal as the weather starts warming up, making it comfortable for sightseeing.
Transport: Reachable by taxi or bus from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station.
What to Do: Explore local attractions like the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Ganesh Tok, and the Flower Exhibition Centre which showcases orchids typical to this season.
3. Khecheopalri
Khecheopalri is a well-known holy lake connected to Guru Padmasambhava and is located around 147 kilometres from Gangtok. Khecheopalri, formerly known as the Kha-Chot-Palri, is located in the centre of West Sikkim and is one of the top tourist destinations in Sikkim during April.
This natural lake, which is almost like a crater since hills surround it, is a must-see because it is a gorgeous pilgrimage site and a prominent tourist attraction. This site is great for photographers because of the thousands of Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Best Time to Visit: Early March is still cold, but as the month progresses, the weather becomes more pleasant.
Transport: Accessible by road, around 147 km from Gangtok.
What to Know: This sacred lake is revered for its serenity and clear waters. Remember to respect the sanctity of the area—no swimming or boating is allowed.
4. Lachung
Lachung, in northern Sikkim, is a very beautiful destination. Tucked up in the Mountains, this once-bustling commercial post connected Tibet and Sikkim. The area is more of a cultural crossroads for Tibetans than a marketplace.
The same may be seen in the Lachung Monastery. Beautiful scenery can be seen everywhere around Lachung because of its abundant waterfalls, pine woods, and apple orchards.
Best Time to Visit: March marks the end of winter; however, the region can still experience cold weather.
Transport: About a 6-hour drive from Gangtok.
What to Do: Explore Lachung Monastery and the local village. The area’s natural beauty starts to bloom with the onset of spring.
5. Yumthang, Valley of Flower
For some reason, Yumthang starts to look its best in March. Yumthang is most beautiful and lively in March when the villagers celebrate the Losar festival, and the first flowers appear.
Massive fields dotted with roving yaks only add to the majesty of the setting. You can never spend enough time in Yumthang to enjoy its alluring splendour.
Best Time to Visit: The valley is usually accessible by late March, but the full bloom of flowers starts from April.
Entry Requirements: Secure a permit via a tour operator in Gangtok.
What to Know: At an elevation of 3,564 meters, the area is known for its stunning landscapes and is often referred to as the “Valley of Flowers”.
6. Bakthang Waterfall
The stunning Bakthang waterfall on the road to Tashi viewpoint in northern Sikkim is a must-see. This waterfall, fed by the Ratey Chu River, is one of the greatest spots in Sikkim to go in the summer for families and couples to make lasting memories.
For a good reason, this waterfall is a popular attraction in Sikkim. During the summer, when they peak, these waterfalls in Sikkim will provide the perfect setting for romantic selfies.
Best Time to Visit: March offers a pleasant climate to visit this nearby attraction of Gangtok.
Transport: A short drive from Gangtok, easily accessible by taxi.
What to Do: Ideal for a quick visit, the falls offer a tranquil spot for relaxation and photography.
7. Singalila National Park
Singalila National Park is one of the greatest spots to come near Sikkim in the summer if you love the irresistible Red Pandas. Located atop the towering Singalila Ridge at an altitude of almost 7,000 feet, the Singalila National Park is also well known as the home of the well-known Sandakphu hiking trail.
Part of this national park is in Darjeeling, although to the north, it borders Sikkim. The Chinese pangolin, chinkara, clouded leopard, and black panther call this region home, as do the scarlet minivet, satyr tragopan, blood pheasant, and slender-billed babbler, among many other avian species.
Best Time to Visit: March is great for trekking before the onset of the April rains.
Entry Requirements: Entry fee and trekking permits are required, available at the park entrance.
What to Do: The park is famous for its trekking routes offering views of the Eastern Himalayas. Keep an eye out for the blooming rhododendrons and diverse wildlife.
8. Pelling
Pelling, 131 kilometres from Gangtok, is the next most popular tourist destination. There is a lot of forest cover and many kinds of plants, so it is a beautiful area. Pelling, one of nature’s greatest presents to the state of Sikkim, is a welcome respite.
Pelling’s primary draws are the Khanchendzonga Mountain and the Changey Waterfalls. Those eager enough to forgo automobile excursions in favour of extended walking periods will find it an ideal destination.
Best Time to Visit: March provides clear skies and moderate temperatures perfect for exploring.
Transport: Located about 131 km from Gangtok, accessible by road.
What to Explore: Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, enjoy stunning views of Kanchenjunga, and explore nearby attractions like Singshore Bridge and Rabdentse Ruins.
Find out more about Sikkim:
- A Guide to Hiking to Dzongri Peak in Sikkim
- Top 11 Destinations to See in Sikkim in May 2025
- 7 Famous Honeymoon Places in Sikkim
- Sikkim’s 6 Most Popular Offbeat Destinations
- Top 10 Famous Hill Stations in Sikkim
- Sikkim’s 10 Most Beautiful Places to See
- October in Sikkim: Must-Visit Places
- Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Sikkim in April 2025
- Sikkim Travel in June for Best Places
- Places in Sikkim to Visit in July 2025
How To Make The Most Of Your Time At Sikkim’s Top Attractions In March
- As most of Sikkim’s tourist attractions are in restricted areas, securing the necessary permits is a good idea before making the trip.
- Before accessing a region, visitors need permission from the local tourism office, forest service, and Army experts.
- Be mindful of societal norms and customs while interacting with members of other faiths.
- Keep parks and national parks clean when exploring them.
- Trekking and mountain biking are activities best done in a group.
Conclusion
Admiring the visuals of this paradisiacal region in the Northeast and falling in love with it? Just try to fathom how stunning Sikkim’s summer tourist attractions are. It would help if you visited Sikkim to marvel at the state’s virgin green slopes and greatest monasteries.
North East India: A Quick Guide:
- 10 Places to Visit in North East India August 2025
- A Solo Traveler’s Ultimate Guide to North East India
- North East India 9 Most Popular Monasteries
- Best Time to Visit North East India – Month-by-Month Guide
- North East India’s Top 10 Snowfall Places to See
- Top 9 Tourist Places to Visit in North East India In November 2024
- 10 Romantic Sunset Points in North East India
- North East India Visit in October 2025 Best Places
- 9 Places to Visit North East India in September 2025
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is March a good time to visit Sikkim?
Yes, March is a great time to visit Sikkim. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. You can see blooming rhododendrons, clear mountain views, and enjoy snow in higher regions like Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake.
2. What are the best places to visit in Sikkim in March?
Top places to explore in March include:
- Gangtok – Capital city with monasteries and scenic viewpoints.
- Tsomgo Lake – A frozen lake surrounded by snow-clad mountains.
- Nathula Pass – A high-altitude mountain pass with snow and Indo-China border views.
- Lachung & Yumthang Valley – Known for the springtime bloom of rhododendrons.
- Pelling – Offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range.
- Ravangla – Famous for the Buddha Park and peaceful surroundings.
3. Can I see snow in Sikkim in March?
Yes, you can find snow in places like Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Gurudongmar Lake, and higher altitudes in North Sikkim. Lower regions like Gangtok and Pelling may not have snow but offer clear mountain views.
4. What kind of clothes should I pack for Sikkim in March?
Pack warm clothes, including:
- Heavy jackets, thermals, and woolen sweaters for higher altitudes.
- Light woolens and full-sleeve clothes for Gangtok and Pelling.
- Gloves, caps, and comfortable shoes for trekking or snow areas.
5. Is a permit required to visit Nathula Pass and North Sikkim?
Yes, Indian citizens need permits for:
- Nathula Pass & Tsomgo Lake – Obtainable through a registered travel agency in Gangtok.
- North Sikkim (Lachung, Lachen, Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake) – Also needs a permit, arranged by travel agencies.
Foreigners are not allowed in Nathula Pass and require a different permit for North Sikkim.
6. Are road conditions and travel safe in Sikkim in March?
Road conditions are generally good, but higher-altitude areas may have snowfall, causing temporary roadblocks. It’s best to check weather updates before traveling. Hiring a local driver with experience in mountain roads is recommended.
7. What are the best activities to do in Sikkim in March?
- Enjoy sightseeing in Gangtok, Pelling, and Ravangla.
- Visit monasteries like Rumtek and Pemayangtse for spiritual experiences.
- Take a cable car ride in Gangtok for panoramic views.
- Explore the flower-filled Yumthang Valley in full bloom.
- Experience adventure activities like river rafting in Teesta River or trekking in Dzongri.
