As the final days of 2025 approach, the iconic hill station of Darjeeling is preparing to gift its visitors a spectacular farewell—a snowy New Year's celebration. A significant drop in temperature has set the stage for potential snowfall, transforming the region into a winter wonderland and triggering an unprecedented tourist rush.
Chilling Temperatures Set Stage for Snowy Finale
The mercury in Darjeeling has been on a steady decline, creating perfect conditions for a white New Year. The temperature, which was recorded at 4.5°C on Saturday, dipped further to 4.2°C on Sunday. This sharp cooling trend over the past week has significantly heightened the destination's charm.
According to G N Raha, head of the IMD in Gangtok, night temperatures are expected to fall by another 2°C to 3°C across most parts of Sikkim and nearby north Bengal over the next three days. "From December 30, a western disturbance is likely to affect the region, bringing rain to Sikkim and the hill areas of north Bengal. Snowfall is also likely in the higher regions of Sikkim and the adjoining hills of north Bengal," Raha stated. Dense fog may blanket the plains during this period.
Tourism Boom: Hotels Booked Solid
This forecast of a picturesque snowy end to the year has catalyzed one of Darjeeling's strongest tourist seasons in recent memory. The winter tourism season commenced on an exceptionally high note, with accommodation across the town seeing full occupancy until the first week of January.
"Most hotels are booked till the first week of Jan, and we are making efforts to accommodate visitors across hotels, homestays, and tea-garden properties. We expect the season to extend till Jan 15," revealed Samrat Sanyal, General Secretary of the Himalayan Hospitality & Tourism Development Network. He emphasized that the current booking trend has restored confidence among tourism operators who suffered losses after the October 4 landslides.
Tour operators report a steady rise in enquiries and advance bookings stretching into mid-January, signaling a highly positive and extended winter season. This robust inflow is seen as a critical factor in reviving the region's tourism sector.
Sandakphu Joins the Tourist Frenzy
The tourist surge isn't confined to Darjeeling alone. Sandakphu, the highest point in the state of Bengal, is witnessing heavy footfall as well. Homestays, trekkers' huts, and other accommodations there are also packed for the New Year period.
Chandan Pradhan, president of the Singalila Land Rovers' Owners Association (SLROA), noted that nearly 35 vehicles are heading to Sandakphu daily. "We are fully booked till the first week of Jan. Our only concern is the weather — if conditions worsen, road closures for safety could lead to cancellations," he explained, highlighting the delicate balance between demand and mountain weather safety.
This collective optimism points towards a strong recovery for the local economy. Stakeholders are hopeful that the successful season will help recoup a significant portion of the financial losses incurred due to the natural disasters earlier in the year, marking a resilient and joyful start to 2026 for the Queen of the Hills.
