Snowfall Bathes Sandakphu on May Day, Bengal's Highest Peak, in White

Courtesy & source of Photos: Facebook-  Gyatccho Pema

Agencies, Darjeeling, West Bengal, May 1, 2025 :  On May 1st, Sandakphu, the highest peak in West Bengal, received an unexpected blanket of snow, adding a rare May twist to the region's already unpredictable weather. 

Located at an altitude of 3,636 meters (12,310 feet) on the Singalila Ridge, this iconic peak—shared with Nepal—has once again become the center of attention due to unusual snowfalls that have swept across the Himalayas in recent weeks.

Just days before, on April 28th, Sandakphu also witnessed unseasonal snowfall, a phenomenon that took many by surprise. This marks the second snowfall in just a matter of days, following the previous snowfalls recorded on April 13th and 27th.

Sandakphu, renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Everest and Kanchenjunga ranges, is a favorite destination for trekkers, adventure seekers, and nature lovers. In winter, the region transforms into a pristine snow-covered wonderland, making it a prime spot for those eager to witness the Himalayan peaks in all their glory.

However, the recent May snowfall highlights a broader trend of erratic weather patterns that have been sweeping across the region, linked to global climate change. Experts point to these unpredictable shifts as an indication of altering weather patterns in the mountainous terrain.

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Unseasonal Snowfall and the Changing Climate

Sandakphu is no stranger to snowfall, with the peak winter months—typically from December to February—offering the heaviest accumulation of snow, often reaching temperatures as low as -10°C to -15°C. This period remains the ideal time for trekkers looking to experience the stunning, snow-clad landscapes.

Yet, snow in late April and May, well outside the traditional winter months, has raised alarms among meteorologists and climate experts. Dr. Suman Roy, a prominent climate scientist, noted, “The unpredictable snowfalls this year indicate an ongoing shift in global weather patterns, with some regions experiencing temperatures and weather events that deviate from the long-established cycles.”

Locals and tourists alike have been left in awe of the unusual sight, with trekkers who braved the conditions during the last snowfall on April 28th finding themselves hiking through knee-deep snow, a rare experience for this time of year.

Though the recent May snowfall has been a surprise, it still highlights the allure of Sandakphu as a destination for those seeking an adventure in the Himalayas. The region is famed for its incredible trekking routes, with the Sandakphu trek being a top pick among outdoor enthusiasts. While winter is considered the peak season due to heavy snowfalls, the summer months from March to May are also popular for visitors looking to avoid the harsher winter conditions.

For trekkers planning a visit, it is essential to come prepared for extreme temperatures, especially if visiting during the winter months. With the region often dipping to as low as -15°C during the peak winter season, appropriate cold-weather gear is highly recommended. However, the spring and early summer months offer a more moderate climate, though the recent May snowstorms indicate that nature can always throw in a surprise.

As the world faces the growing reality of climate change, the changing weather in the Himalayas serves as a poignant reminder of the shifts underway in even the most remote and majestic corners of our planet. For now, Sandakphu’s stunning snow-covered vistas continue to captivate all who visit, even if the snowy months seem to be stretching longer than expected.