541 vehicles stranded near Tsomgo Lake after heavy snowfall; 2,736 tourists rescued

Police, BRO and tourism officials coordinated a successful evacuation of over 2,700 tourists

February 25, 2026

Heavy Snowfall Triggers Dramatic Rescue Near Tsomgo

Vehicles stuck between 15th Mile and Tsomgo amid heavy snowfall

Heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Sherathang and surrounding areas near Tsomgo Lake left 541 tourist vehicles stranded between 15th Mile and Tsomgo on Tuesday, prompting a large-scale rescue operation by authorities in Sikkim.

According to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, approximately 2,736 tourists were stuck due to heavy snow accumulation and road blockages.

Swift rescue operation launched

Immediate rescue and evacuation efforts were launched under the supervision of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. The operation was carried out in the presence of the SHO, Check Post officials, Tourism Permit Cell officials, Presidents and members of ASTHA, personnel from GREF/BRO, members of the JN Road Drivers Association, travel agencies, and other local stakeholders.

Through coordinated and prompt action, all stranded vehicles and tourists were successfully evacuated.

With active support from the Sikkim Police, GREF/BRO personnel, driver associations, and concerned stakeholders, the evacuation was completed safely and systematically, the department said in a statement.

No casualties reported

Officials confirmed that the entire evacuation exercise was executed efficiently and without any casualties. Authorities ensured that the safety and well-being of tourists remained the top priority throughout the operation.

The Tourism and Civil Aviation Department expressed sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Sikkim Police, GREF/BRO, Check Post officials, Tourism Permit Cell officials, ASTHA President and members, the JN Road Drivers Association, travel agencies, and all local stakeholders for their swift coordination and tireless efforts.

Advisory for tourists

The department has advised tourists and tour operators to strictly follow weather advisories, especially during winter months when snowfall is frequent in high-altitude areas.

It also stressed that vehicles travelling to high-altitude destinations must be properly equipped, including mandatory snow chains during snowfall conditions, to avoid similar situations in the future.

Tsomgo Lake, a popular high-altitude tourist destination located about 40 km from Gangtok, is known for heavy snowfall during winter, which often leads to temporary road disruptions.

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