Skiing in Sikkim

Yumthang Valley is located 134 km from the capital city of Gangtok, surrounded by towering mountains. Elevated at 3575 meters, the valley is blessed with slopes, offering skiing opportunities to travelers. It provides skiers and thrill-seekers coming from all around the world with excellent adventures.

The change of scenery with the change of seasons is the beauty of Yumthang Valley. In the summer months, nature’s garden blossoms all around, and it is draped in powdery snow in winters. However, from November to March, Yumthang is blanketed with snow, which makes it a perfect site for skiing.

The slopes of the valley create great skiing opportunities for experts as well as beginners of the sport. Sikkim Mountaineering Association (SMA) has recently introduced this sport when a thick carpet of snow settles in the valley.  If you are planning a trip to Sikkim, make sure to indulge in skiing in Yumthang Valley for an unforgettable India tour.  

Where to go for Skiing in Sikkim?

The entire Yumthang Valley offers beautiful snow-draped slopes in the winters. The Sikkim Mountaineering Association (SMA) organizes skiing for tourists in the valley as the natural slopes have the requisites of exciting skiing. Moreover, beginners can get the hang of the sport, and experts can have a great time. 

How to Reach Sikkim 

Among the unexplored places of North Sikkim, Yumthang Valley shines the brightest. A trip to the Valley takes around two hours from Lachung. The sparsely populated valley remains away from cities' chaos, with the small hill town being its only urban connection.
 
Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal at a distance of 221 kilometers is the nearest airport to Yumthang. It has good connectivity with several cities across the country. Once you land at the Bagdogra Airport, Tourism of India’s representative will transfer you to Lachung and further to Yumthang Valley in a hygienic and comfortable vehicle.  

Best Time to Visit Sikkim for Skiing 

Yumthang Valley in winters becomes a winter wonderland, which starts in December. January to March is the best time to visit Sikkim for skiing. Yumthang Valley sees cool weather most of the year but as winter arrives, the temperature dips to as low as -17ᴼC, with the highest levels in the range of 8ᴼC. 
 
Snowfall makes the valley a lovely sight. But remember the extreme temperatures don’t suit everyone. So make sure you are physically and mentally ready to go on a ski adventure in Yumthang Valley.

Safety Tips for Skiing in Sikkim 

Here are some tips that will help you enjoy skiing in Sikkim safely - 

Skiing Gear -

• Skis, boots, poles, and bindings fitted by a professional.
• Helmet made for skiing and make sure it fits you properly.
• Choose goggles that fit your face and are tinted for sun protection. Of course, you can also wear sunglasses, but goggles are much better if it snows or rains.
• Carry warm clothes like gloves, hat, snow pants, winter jacket. Also, have a neck gaiter that will keep your face warm. 
• Thermal is a must.
• Sunscreen (SPF 40+), moisturizer, and lip balm.

Safety on Slopes - 

• Learn about the slopes which suit for skill level and ski on those. If it gets too tricky, sidestep down the hill. Never ski alone. 
• Ski on marked paths only. Do not cross the boundary and pay attention to warning signs like ‘Slow Skiing Area’ or ‘Caution’.
• Keep control of your movements if a skier is in front of you. 
• Do not stop in the middle of a trail, especially where you cannot be seen from above.