East Sikkim, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for East Sikkim, India? If you're planning to go to East Sikkim, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to East Sikkim, India

Based on the climate and weather in East Sikkim, India, the best time to go is October. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for East Sikkim, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in East Sikkim, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for East Sikkim, India by month

January

January in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

Traveling to East Sikkim in February, you will notice that it can be chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to choose the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

March

March is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to get the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

April

April for East Sikkim is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June in East Sikkim is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

July in East Sikkim is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

August

In August, East Sikkim is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for East Sikkim, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

September

September in East Sikkim is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

October

If you vacation in East Sikkim during October, you may see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

November

November here is crisp. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

December

If you vacation in East Sikkim during December, you might see that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in East Sikkim. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

What to do in East Sikkim, India

East Sikkim, located in the eastern part of Sikkim state in India, is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors. The region is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, historic monasteries, holy shrines, breathtaking waterfalls, and a rich cultural heritage. There are endless options for visitors to choose from in East Sikkim, but here are some of the top tourist attractions that you must explore while you're in the region.

1. Tsomgo Lake

Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a striking glacial lake situated at an altitude of 12,310 feet above sea level. The lake changes its color with the change of season and weather. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is considered to be a sacred lake by the locals. Visitors can rent a yak or pony ride around the lake or even experience snow-covered regions around it.

2. Nathula Pass

Nathula Pass situated at 14,140 feet above sea level is the border between India and China. It is open to Indian tourists but they need to take a permit from the concerned authorities to visit it. Though Nathula Pass is known to be one of the most dangerous passes, it looks surreal with snow all around.

3. Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery, also known as Dharmachakra Centre, is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery located on a hill about 23 km from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. It is the largest monastery in Sikkim and houses a golden stupa that contains relics of the 16th Karmapa, the head of the Karma Kagyu Karmapa lineage.

4. Tashi View Point

Tashi View Point is a popular spot for nature lovers, located about 8 km from Gangtok. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the Teesta River. One can also enjoy a clear and captivating view of Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks from the view point.

5. Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake, also known as Wishing Lake, is a sacred lake located about 34 km from Pelling, a town in West Sikkim. It is considered to be one of the most holy lakes in Sikkim and is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and is believed to be inhabited by several mythical creatures. Visitors can also spot a variety of birds and animals around the lake.

6. Nathang Valley

Nathang Valley, also known as Gnathang Valley, is a high-altitude valley located in the eastern part of Sikkim. It is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts as one can enjoy skiing, trekking and paragliding among other activities. Nathang Valley experiences a considerable amount of snowfall during winters and is best visited between November to March.

East Sikkim is a place that has a blend of both scenic beauty and cultural heritage at its best. The above mentioned top tourist attractions can provide visitors with an enriching experience they'll never forget. A trip to East Sikkim is a perfect getaway destination from the hustle and bustle of city life.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Brest, France, Weybridge, England, United Kingdom, Les Cheneaux Islands, Michigan, United States of America, Saijo, Japan, Northtowns, New York, United States of America, Tokyo Haneda Airport, Japan, Rennes, France, Tokamachi, Japan, Colonial Beach, Virginia, United States of America, Hat Yai, Thailand, and Tsavo East National Park, Kenya.