The scenic state of Sikkim witnessed a dramatic turn in weather this week, as heavy to very heavy snowfall blanketed regions along the Indo-China border. Popular high-altitude areas like Nathula Pass, Kupup, and Tsomgo Lake (Changu) are now covered in thick snow, forcing authorities to issue a red alert and restrict movement of tourists to the upper reaches.
The snowfall, which began early in the morning, intensified by evening, turning Sikkim’s mountain passes into a white wonderland but also causing disruptions in connectivity and transport.
IMD Issues Red Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Sikkim, warning of continuous heavy snowfall over the next 24 hours.
According to reports, temperatures in the affected regions have dropped to sub-zero levels, leading to frozen roads and limited visibility.
Local authorities have instructed tourists and travel operators to avoid visiting higher altitudes until conditions improve. The alert extends to regions along the border, where both weather severity and terrain risks remain high.
Impact on Connectivity and Tourism
The snowfall has disrupted road transport between Gangtok and Nathula, a key route popular among visitors. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has deployed snow-clearing teams to keep essential supply routes open, while the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been placed on standby.
Tour operators have temporarily suspended trips to high-altitude destinations such as Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir, citing safety concerns. Hotels in Gangtok have reported cancellations from tourists who were planning mountain excursions this weekend.
Local Conditions
Residents in nearby towns and army camps have reported significant snow accumulation — in some places up to a foot deep.
Power fluctuations were also noted in certain areas due to the cold wave and ice buildup on transmission lines. The sudden temperature drop has brought winter conditions earlier than expected, affecting daily life and logistics in mountain zones.
Safety Advisory for Travelers
Authorities have urged travelers to take precautions and avoid non-essential travel to high-altitude regions.
Here are a few key safety tips for those currently in or near Sikkim:
Carry adequate warm clothing and insulated footwear.
Check the latest weather updates before starting your journey.
Avoid driving or trekking in snow-covered areas without proper equipment.
Keep emergency supplies and portable chargers handy in case of delays.
Follow all official travel restrictions and local advisories.
Why It Matters
Early heavy snowfall in Sikkim is not only a weather concern but also an indicator of changing climate patterns across the Himalayan region.
For locals, it affects trade and mobility, while for tourists, it brings temporary closures to some of India’s most scenic destinations.
For the armed forces stationed along the border, the early onset of snow means heightened logistical challenges in maintaining posts and transport routes.
Outlook: What Lies Ahead
Meteorologists predict that the current spell of snowfall will continue for another day before easing into scattered snow and rain. However, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing in areas above 10,000 feet for the rest of the week.
If the pattern persists, early winter conditions could set in across much of North Sikkim and neighboring high-altitude zones, signaling a longer and harsher cold season ahead.
Final Take
While the fresh snow has transformed Sikkim’s mountain landscape into a picturesque spectacle, the situation remains serious.
With the red alert still in place, authorities are prioritizing safety over tourism — and rightly so. Travelers are advised to stay patient, stay informed, and wait for the weather to stabilize before heading toward the border regions.
FAQs
Q1: Which areas of Sikkim are affected by the snowfall?
Heavy snowfall has been reported in Nathula Pass, Kupup, and Tsomgo Lake, along the Indo-China border.
Q2: What is the current alert level in Sikkim?
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Sikkim, warning of continued heavy snowfall.
Q3: Are tourists allowed to visit Nathula or Tsomgo Lake right now?
No, authorities have temporarily restricted travel to these areas until the weather improves.
Q4: What temperature has been recorded in the region?
Temperatures have dipped to below 0°C, with strong winds and low visibility in higher elevations.
Q5: When is the situation expected to improve?
Weather conditions may ease in the next 24–48 hours, but temperatures will remain low throughout the week.
Published on : 31st October
Published by : SMITA
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