A rare mid-March snowfall has blanketed the higher reaches of Sikkim, drawing an unexpected surge of tourists to the Himalayan state at a time when most of India is already easing into summer.
Snowfall has been particularly heavy along the Tsomgo Lake–Nathu La circuit, a scenic high-altitude stretch around 40 kilometres from Gangtok. The glacial Tsomgo Lake, sitting at over 10,000 feet, has been a focal point for visitors eager to witness the unusual winter conditions. Hotels, homestays, and travel operators in and around Gangtok have reported a sharp spike in bookings as a result.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the development, noting that the timing coincides with early school holidays in the region, further boosting footfall. Local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators alike, have seen a meaningful uptick in activity.
That said, the snowfall has also brought logistical challenges. Several tourist vehicles were stranded on snow-covered roads in the Tsomgo–Nathu La belt, requiring coordinated rescue operations by the army and local authorities. A reported shortage of LPG supplies has added pressure on accommodation providers in Gangtok.
