Winter Magic Returns: Sandakphu Witnesses Second Snowfall of 2026

Snowfall Graces Sandakphu for the second time 

Source & Courtesy : Joy Mondal, FB

KalimNews, February 25, 2026, Kalimpon: Sandakphu experienced its first snowfall of the year on February 21, 2026, delighting tourists and locals with a picturesque winter landscape. Just three days later, on February 24, the hill station received its second snowfall of the year, draping the high-altitude region in fresh white snow once again. Meteorologists indicate that more snow may be expected in the coming days, offering continued winter charm to the area.

Located at 3,636 meters above sea level and 61 km from Darjeeling, Sandakphu is part of the Singalila National Park and is famed for its panoramic Himalayan vistas. Snowfall in the upper reaches, including Phalut and Kalpokhari, created stunning scenic views, while roads became slippery, temporarily affecting vehicle movement. Tourists were advised to carry light luggage, leaving heavier items to hotel staff to ensure safer travel.

While Sandakphu received snow, Darjeeling experienced rain and hail, providing much-needed relief after months of dry weather. The region, along with Sikkim, had not recorded any significant rainfall since October, 2025. 

The rainfall helped alleviate water shortages and brought respite to tea gardens, which had begun plucking the premium first flush. This weather was a welcome change for residents and farmers coping with prolonged dry conditions and warmer-than-normal winter temperatures.

This winter has been warmer in the Darjeeling, Mirik, Kurseong, Kalimpong Hills and different parts of Sikkim than usual in the region. In January, Darjeeling’s average minimum temperature was around 3°-4°C, which was comparatively higher to the last year's temperature. 

The warmer temperatures, combined with the delayed snowfall in December and January, made the February snowfalls especially significant for the region, attracting tourists eager for scenic winter experiences.

Travel to Sandakphu during snowfall requires caution. Roads to the summit can be slippery, and vehicles often reach only up to intermediate points such as Chauri Chowk or Kalpokhari. Tourists are sometimes required to walk short stretches, with local operators assisting in transporting visitors and luggage safely. Snow accumulation depends on weather conditions in the coming days, as warm temperatures can lead to rapid melting. Authorities remain prepared to support tourists in case of heavy snowfall or blocked roads