West and South Sikkim · month by month
January
Tip for January
Pack thermals and a down jacket; many rooms rely on small heaters.
Prices and crowds
After the New Year week, rates fall to some of the lowest of the year and walk-in bargains are common.
Where to go in January
Kangchenjunga across the valley, a royal ruin and two old monasteries
The Rangeet river town where South and West Sikkim change jeeps
A 1730 monastery, a windy ridge and Kangchenjunga at breakfast
Build your own route Tell us your dates, who is coming and what you want to see. We draw the route and price it three ways. Start Working to a budget? Give us a number per person. We will tell you honestly what it buys, and where to save. Start Ask someone who has been A first plan and price within one working day. No payment to start. StartFestivals around January
Questions people ask
Good to know
Is January a good time to visit West and South Sikkim?
January is cold, clear and quiet. Mornings in Pelling are often frosty and the range is sharp against a deep blue sky. Snow can dust Ravangla's upper slopes and Barsey. Goecha La is out of season. The Maghe Sankranti mela fills Jorethang's riverbank in mid-month, and the monastery circuit is peaceful. Shared jeeps run normally and roads are dry, so it is an easy month to travel cheaply.
What is the weather like in West and South Sikkim in January?
Pelling 0–10 °C, dry, frosty mornings, very clear. Conditions differ by altitude and coast, so check the forecast for each stop a week before you travel.
Where should we go in West and South Sikkim in January?
We suggest Pelling, Jorethang, Rinchenpong and Kaluk. Pack thermals and a down jacket; many rooms rely on small heaters.