Explanations:
Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is located in the eastern Himalayas at an elevation of approximately 1,650 meters (5,410 feet) above sea level. The climate in Gangtok is influenced by its high altitude and mountainous terrain, which results in significant temperature variations throughout the year. The city experiences a subtropical highland climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters.
The coldest month in Gangtok is January, which is the peak of the winter season. During this month, the city experiences the lowest temperatures due to the combination of high altitude and the natural cooling effect of the Himalayan region. The average temperature in January can range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), with occasional frost and light snowfall.
The temperature in Gangtok starts to drop significantly in December as the winter season sets in, but it continues to decrease into January. By February, the temperatures begin to rise slightly as the winter season starts to wane. Therefore, while both December and February are cold months, January is the coldest.
It is important to understand that the climate in Gangtok is different from other parts of India due to its high altitude and mountainous location. The city's climate is characterized by distinct seasons, with the coldest temperatures occurring in January. This understanding is crucial for anyone preparing for competitive examinations that include questions on the geography and climate of Indian states.