Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal at an elevation of 11,930 feet, experienced its first snowfall of the winter season on Thursday. This early snowfall, occurring weeks before last year’s December 7 event, has thrilled tourists and renewed optimism within the region’s tourism sector.
The region, located along the Singalila Ridge of the Himalayas, recorded snowfall of up to an inch by evening. According to local resident Testen Sherpa, who runs a homestay, the snowfall beautifully captures the romance of winter, and the place is currently swathed in a blanket of white.
Tourists visiting Sandakphu were equally ecstatic. “We came to Sandakphu without expecting snowfall in November. Everything looks so surreal suddenly—it’s beautiful,” said Biswash Mondal, a tourist from Garia, Kolkata.
Anil Tamang, coordinator of the Singalila Land Rovers’ Owners’ Association (SLROA), confirmed that the snowfall began around 2 p.m. but remained light throughout the day. “The Sandakphu region might receive snowfall again during the night. The roads are clear as of now, and the snow is expected to melt as soon as temperatures rise,” he added. Approximately 200 tourists experienced the snowfall during the day.
The meteorological department has predicted a continued dip in temperatures over the coming weeks, with a possibility of snow in the upper reaches of Darjeeling in the next two to three days. In Darjeeling town, located about 70 km away, the minimum temperature dropped to 4.8 degrees Celsius on Thursday.
Sandakphu is renowned for its breathtaking views of peaks such as Kanchenjunga, Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse, making it a popular destination during the winter season. The tourism industry is hopeful that this early snowfall will attract more visitors. “Snow is always an attraction,” said a hotelier.
