The Old Silk Route through East Sikkim once carried traders between Tibet and India. Today it is famous for the hairpin roads around Zuluk – more than 30 bends that loop down the mountainside – along with wide Himalayan views, high-altitude lakes and simple homestays.
Where Is It?
The route runs through the Rongli–Zuluk–Nathang–Kupup area of East Sikkim, near the borders with Tibet (China) and Bhutan. It can be approached from Gangtok or from Siliguri via Rongli.
Permits
The Silk Route is a protected area. Permits are usually arranged through registered agents, typically at Rongli or Gangtok, and you need original photo ID and photographs. Foreign nationals may face restrictions. Always check current rules.
Top Places
Aritar
A peaceful village with Aritar Lake (Lampokhari), boating and forest walks – a good first stop.
Rongli
The permit checkpoint and gateway town.
Zuluk (about 2,800–3,000 m)
A small village with homestays, used as a base for the zigzag roads and sunrise viewpoints.
Thambi Viewpoint
The famous spot to photograph the zigzag roads below, with Kanchenjunga visible on clear mornings.
Lungthung
A viewpoint known for sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range.
Nathang Valley
A high-altitude valley at about 4,000 metres, often called the "Ladakh of the East", beautiful in snow.
Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake)
A lake shaped like an elephant, near the Jelep La area.
Old Baba Mandir
The original shrine of Baba Harbhajan Singh, on the Silk Route.
Best Time to Visit
- October–December: clear views.
- January–March: snow – spectacular, but roads may close.
- April–May: rhododendrons and pleasant weather.
- June–September: monsoon – landslides and fog.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Siliguri/NJP to Aritar or Rongli; lake visit; permits.
- Day 2: Drive to Zuluk via the zigzag roads; Thambi Viewpoint at sunset.
- Day 3: Lungthung sunrise, Nathang Valley, Kupup Lake and Old Baba Mandir; continue to Gangtok via Tsomgo, or return to Siliguri.
Where to Stay
Zuluk and Nathang have basic homestays with shared bathrooms in some cases and home-cooked meals. Aritar and Rongli have more comfortable options. Nights are very cold.
Altitude and Safety
- Nathang and Kupup are around 4,000 metres – acclimatise and keep visits short.
- Travel with an experienced local driver familiar with snow and narrow roads.
- Carry warm clothing and medicines.
What to Pack
- Heavy woollens, thermals, gloves and cap
- Waterproof shoes
- Power bank (electricity can be limited)
- Cash
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Zuluk?
Yes, the Old Silk Route is a protected area and needs a permit arranged through registered agents.
What is the best time to visit Zuluk?
October–December for clear views; January–March for snow (with possible road closures).
How many zigzag bends are there on the Zuluk road?
More than 30 hairpin bends, best seen from Thambi Viewpoint.
Can I combine Zuluk with Gangtok?
Yes, the Silk Route connects to the Tsomgo–Nathula road near Kupup.
Are stays in Zuluk comfortable?
They are basic homestays; expect simple rooms and cold nights.
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Our Old Silk Route trips include permits, homestays and experienced drivers, combinable with Gangtok and Darjeeling.
- Phone / WhatsApp: +91 9220564155
- Email: info@ontravel.in
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Ready to go? These itineraries cover the places in this guide and can be customised to your dates and budget:
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- Sikkim Explorer – Gangtok & Pelling, 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Darjeeling, Gangtok & Lachung Grand Tour – 7 Nights / 8 Days
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Related reading: Sikkim Trip Cost · How to Reach Sikkim · Sikkim Food Guide
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