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Ultimate Guide to Plan a Trip to Old Silk Route, Zuluk: The Best Kept Secret of Sikkim

About this blog : Old Silk Road Tour in Sikkim is a prized road trip experience. Traversing the high passes of Sikkim Himalayas that touch the sky at 14,000 feet high, the Old Silk Road Tour takes you to Zuluk, and further if weather permits. In this blog post, we would sketch the entire road trip plan, with a tentative cost of traveling to Zuluk, places to stop for the night on the old silk road map, and practical travel tips. For viewing pleasure, you can watch my YouTube series on Sikkim travel as well!

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Falling in Love with old Silk Route, Sikkim: Why visit Zuluk?

Simply answering this question, we chose to visit old Silk Route of Zuluk for stunning landscape of Himalayas and intense cultural ties with Central Asia with this part of the world that began with the Han Chinese! The hair-pin bends of Zuluk look looked ethereal with a sprinkling of snow during winter months.

The Old Silk Route Tour invokes memories of days bygone, when caravan tracts reigned the high passes and arid desert lands connecting the Mediterranean to the orient shrouded in the mist of glitters and opulence. We are talking about days from the second century BC.

Gone are the days of ancient history when the arduous road brought in fortune for traders in this part of the world. Old Silk Route in Sikkim lies dangerously close to the Indo-Sino international border which may turn into unspeakable mayhem at the turn of the day! A mellow memory of Tibet covers the land with a mist. Ancient history confronts modern politics eye to eye as incredible abundance of nature prepares the battle field!

If you have been in awe of the mighty Sleeping Buddha even once, the Old Silk Route would take your breath away! The mountain stands in close guard at the bend of every road! It is quite an adventure to cross each of the multiple hairpin bends on the old Silk Route. But once you do, you will be rewarded with an elusive view of the Sleeping Buddha. there, just there.. a little further up the road and you can touch her magnificence!

The Old Silk Route is an obscure remote land where not many tourist crowd has reached till date. To a large extend, you can find yourself alone, amidst some of the tallest ranges of the mountains of the world! If you desire to steal a few quiet moments like this from the world, Old Silk Route is where your home is!

Also read: 20 Stunning pictures from Sikkim travels from December

Suggested 6 days 7 nights Old Silk Route Tour Itinerary

If You plan to return through Gangtok , you can plan a week exploring the Old Silk Route in the following order. This Old Silk Route Itinerary entails the best of the both world, jungles of Terai, verdant valleys and craggy high passes of High Himalayas!

• Day 1: Reach NJP- Proceed to Reshikhola
• Day 2: Reshikhola- Pedong
• Day 3: Start for Aritar
• Day 4: Ascend to Zuluk with permit from Rongli. Sunset at Thambi View Point
• Day 5: Visit Nathang and head back to Thambi view point for another sunset. Stay at Lungthung if you are comfortable with the cold and limited amenities. You may choose to stay at Nathang valley as well. If you can brave the cold, omit Reshikhola from the plan and start from Aritar with an extra day allocated at Nathang Valley.
• Day 6: Return to Gangtok with a stop at Tsomgo Lake (Changu lake). You may also start early and visit Nathula Pass
• Day 7: Gangtok to NJP/ Bagdogra depending on further travel plan

This is the complete loop of old Silk Route. Nathula is now open for tourists where you may see the clear border between India and China as recognized by the world!

If you do not plan to visit Gangtok to complete the Old Silk Route loop but want to visit till Nathang (this ideally happens if you are visiting during peak winter when the entire stretch of Nathang valley is off limit to tourist) this itinerary can come handy.

• Day 4: Ascend to Zuluk. Sunset at Thambi View Point
• Day 5: Visit Thambi View Point. Stay at Lungthung or Zuluk
• Day 6: Descend to Sillery gaon. Visit Ramitey for a beautiful view of Mt Kanchenjunga!
• Day 7: Gangtok to NJP/ Bagdogra

Please note, this trip can be made reverse way as well, like starting from Gangtok. Do this if you are visiting North Sikkim first. However, weather has to be clear to be able to “do it all!” It makes sense to ascend to Zuluk from Bagdogra or NJP first as you would be making shorter trip to Aritar compared to Gangtok.

If time is not an issue, this is how the route actually looks like: NJP/ Bagdogra –> Icchey Gaon –>  Sillery Gaon (trek to Ramitey) –>  Kaagey –>  Pedong –> Reshi Khola –> Mankhim (Aritar) –> Rangli check point –> Lingtum check point –> Padamchen (8000 ft) –> Zuluk (9000 ft) –> Thambi View Point (11200 ft)–> Lungthung View Point–> Nathang valley (13,700 ft & many things to do here)–> Old Baba Mandir –> New Baba Mandir –> Nathula Pass –> Tsomgo Lake (12700 ft) –> Gangtok

As of now Sikkim does not have any railway but works are in progress to establish a railway route for faster movement of troops and then locals and then the tourists!

Also read : Offbeat day trips from Leh, a complete itinerary for 5 days!

Things to know before planning a trip to the Old Silk Route, Sikkim

Being one of the remote and obscure places tucked away in the Himalayas, you need to keep in mind few practical travel tips to visit the old Silk Route. This ranges from permits to safety tips to planning an effective itinerary etc.

Permit for Old Silk Route

You need to rent a local car to drive through the entire stretch of Old Silk Route. It is possible to take your own car but that entails a prolonged paperwork and a slurry of permits sanctioned by government officials.

Instead, we chose to go with a local car rental company. It was a decent experience with a mindful driver who also doubled as a kind photographer at times!

The travel agency would ideally help you get the permit done at Rangli. You also need to pass a check point as you cross the West Bengal and Sikkim border (if you are flying to Bagdogra). For permits, you need to provide a few hundred bucks, two passport sized photographs, your entire route map and recognized ID proof (passport, DL, Aadhar etc) for Indian nationals. Rangli is a nice little town with beautiful forest trails and lovely little doggos!

The permit to Old Silk route comes handy to control the tourist rush to the remote land where infrastructure is limited. Permit is also granted based on weather conditions. If a snow storm is predicted, you may not be allowed to visit Nathang valley or further.

Much like Tawang, traveling to Zuluk requires foreigners to follow a few specific rules. 

• One must not be traveling solo. People must travel in a group. 
• To apply for PAP (protected area permit), please apply with the tour operators who are registered with the Sikkim Tourism Department.
• Required: passport, Valid Visa, Passport size photographs, application fees. 
• Foreigners’ Registration Office (FRO) is located at Tadong which is 5 kms from MG Marg, Gangtok.
• After India opens up for foreigners, there is a fair chance these rules would be different, especially for traveling to places as remote as Zuluk and old silk route!

Also read : Complete guide to explore Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Best time to visit the Old Silk Route

We visited old Silk route from 19 to 25th December and we loved that time. Sun shine washed the valley clean. there were instances of infrequent snow falls. It was extremely cold. but the weather was clear and we had extremely beautiful sunny sky that let us view Kanchenjunga and the entire sleeping Buddha range in prime glory!

Choose a time to visit Silk Route which is dry. The summer months of mid April to Mid June is a good time to visit the old Silk Route with roads blushing in red hue with blooming Rhododendron. Autumn in the mountain starts from late October to early November. Of course it changes with the course of monsoon. Wait till the monsoon has completely faded and then venture into the deep of the mountain. Ideally, till mid-January, you can safely plan a visit to Old Silk route and make it till Nathang valley. With increased snow fall, this route eventually closes down for tourists from February.

Check out: Sikkim Travel packages

Cost of a 6 days 5 night trip to Old Silk Route

Prices start from 30 thousand for an Innova for a 5 days trip to the mountains. With oscillating fuel price, vehicle prices change too. You need at least 4 nights to see the Old silk route properly. The more the merrier!

Prices for homestays starts from 2000 rs per night. Of course it varies with demand and supply model. Overall, for a 5 days trip to the Old silk route with a private vehicle, you should have an estimated cost of INR 40,000 which includes a vehicle with a driver, homestays with food and permits. If the vehicle is shared, prices drop down drastically. Shared vehicles are available from Gangtok for Old Silk Route.

Places not to miss on the Old Silk Route

Please do not miss Thambi View Point, especially a sunset from this place. You must pay a visit to Nathang valley and see the milk white ranges of Sleeping Buddha rising atop the arid valley. I absolutely loved the silence when we were flying on a cable car on top of the Tsomgo Lake. A night stay at Lungthung is a prized experience at the Old Silk Route where the first rays of the sun easily penetrates the glass panes of the windows! Do take a stop at the Elephant lake, among many other glacial lakes on your way back from Zuluk to Gangtok! Words fail to gather praise for such stunning natural wonders!

All the places on the way to Zuluk offer different charms. The greens of Reshikhola (a Terai area) paves way for slightly elevated Aritar where clouds often come down to play with the peaks. The golden brown bush starts welcoming you as you approach Zuluk, all the way to Nathang valley, which is also known as the Ladakh of Sikkim. The dry winters paint these places at high altitude with arid hues while the monsoon yields in beautiful blooms. Talking about spring, the mountains of Sikkim bloom in bright beautiful rhododendrons, which is a site hardly one should miss!

Pro tip for Zuluk trip: If the cold becomes unbearable, ask the locals for a share of their moonshine. It is made of locally produced cherries and works better than brandy! They laughed and declared their children grow up drinking this! I do not doubt. I heard in Siberia they train their children to sleep on the ice!

Also read : Offbeat things to do in Goa, a complete guide!

Packing tips for Old Silk Route

Pack woolens. Enough woolens that you can withstand a night outside at sub zero temperature, braving gutsy winds!

There, I have said it. I have spent long, ice cold nights in Kargil, Ladakh . However, the hotel had basic amenities like a room heater, a centralized one and running water.

No matter which time of the year you plan your trip to the old Silk route, please be advised it is going to be lethally cold!

Especially the cold winds and the long lightless nights are going to be trying unless you are prepared to battle the cold. No matter what the weather prediction is, always carry enough woollens to fight bitter cold. Please carry the following in your luggage while packing for Old Silk Route:

• Comforters for legs
• Enough layers, with jackets and sweaters) 
• Thermals (this is going to save your life)
• A woolen cap that covers your ears
• Sunglass (sun reflects harshly on the ice banks)
• Socks with extra pairs in case one gets wet in the snow
• Gloves (with backup pair)
• Shoe that can withstand melting snow and with great grip to help you with small hikes
• A thermal flask to carry lukewarm water to keep you hydrated
• Portable Oxygen Cylinder (in case of breathing trouble this will be of immense help)

Carry cash with you since there is no AT along the way to Old Silk Route!

There is an absolute shortage of cash procurement, not just on the way to Zuluk through Old Silk Route but from Siliguri itself, especially during peak travel seasons, say Durga Puja and likes. Please withdraw enough cash in time to complete the trip. 

I wore a saree and a shawl on top and walked under beautiful sunshine. It all went fine until winds started to blow and sent chills to my bones. Always layer up. I can not put enough emphasize on this. Do not forget to drink water as well.

The owner of my homestay offered me melted yak butter that keeps the locals warm during winter. Apparently, yak butter helps in gouts too.

Also read : Complete guide to Bhaktapur, Nepal, an ancient city from the Silk Road!

Food and lodging at the Old Silk Route, Sikkim

Please do not expect café and fancy dining places on the old Silk Route. It remains an offbeat destination frequented by mostly tourists from West Bengal.

Food is served by the homestays. they serve three meals and you may include that in your package. If you are planning to get ready to eat stuff, it might be a challenge to find warm water at Zuluk and areas further to that due to insufficient fuel.

Food is basic and suitable for vegetarians as well. For non vegetarians meals include chicken (for dinner) and egg curry (for lunch). The curries are fiery hot and can be had with roti or rice. You may choose to order simple Daal Chawal with bhajis. Save your appetite for the night you reach in Gangtok and head straight to the taste of Tibet for a gala dinner!

Meal prices range from INR 80 to INR 200 per person. There are pit stops at places where you may get some Maggi or hot tea, especially near the military camps. Due to Covid, these places were all closed.

The homestays usually serve this in set meals: Maggi or bread toast for breakfast. Anda curry with rice and dal and a sabji (local vegetables) for lunch. Dinner is similar with chicken replacing anda. 

We stayed at the following places on our trip to the Old Silk Route Sikkim.

• Aritar: Orange Court Resort
• Zuluk: Snow Lion
• Gangtok: Fern Dzong
• After Zuluk, you may stay at Lungthung homestay (optional) however amenities are really limited.
• If you have to stay in Nathang, try to book Dafter Bungalow.

Also read : Best places to shop sarees in Kolkata

Trip to Zuluk: How We Completed the Old Silk Road Loop from New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok

To visit the Old Silk Route in Zuluk, I started from Kolkata and S decided to join me from Bangalore. I took the night train to NJP station (New Jalpaiguri Station). The journey to Old Silk Road would span for next 4 days at least. It would take us to some of the most astounding heights of the Himalayan range in the lesser explored North eastern parts of India! Old Silk Route is a part of East Sikkim and straddles the border between India and China!

The night train to New Jalpaiguri Station

In old times, the train, also known as Darjeeling mail, would witness a flurry of over enthusiastic tourists. We were traveling by the end of December. The wind had a hint of ice cold notes. Thanks to the present scare of pandemic looming large, tourist rush was considerably low. Even the ones who were traveling were actually heading towards Darjeeling , the tried and tested hill town of West Bengal which never fails to amaze even when pressed with the charge of over tourism. 

I started from Sealdah. Darjeeling mail was renamed as a special train as the Indian Railway was testing with limited locomotive engines in a post lock down world. We were not given any blankets. Food vendors were not to be seen anywhere close by. I bought a bed sheet for INR 80 from Behala hawker’s corner and decided to use it for the train journey. I was empowered with liters of hand sanitizers and packed food. I try to minimize water intake on the train just so that I do not have to frequent the washroom. However, the night train to Darjeeling had a surprisingly clean wash room. It was a new train, a new world!

Also read : Complete Guide to Explore Shillong for a week !

Sleeping in a locomotive comes easy to me. I wish I could measure the deep sleep time in all my train journeys. 

I woke up to find myself racing amid a scenic stretch of green valley. Paddy fields gently nodding. Silhouettes of towering mountains adorned the sky at a distance! Sunrays awashed the valley in golden hues. I looked out from the window and a cold breeze numbed my ear lobes. Promptly I put my head back and wrapped it with woollens. This is winter in the North. This is going to be an adventure! 

All I could hope for was for the roads on silk route to remain bereft of snow to ensure a smooth journey. I was eagerly waiting to experience all the thrills, the hair pin bends, the Jjilipi viewpoints, the entire range of magnificent Sleeping Buddha, the glacial lakes, the road to Nathula where Indo-Sino war ensued in 60s. 

At New Jalpaiguri Station, jam-packed crowd welcomed us. The night train from Kolkata to Alipurduar had just left the junction. The station was overwhelmed with wander-lusters and locals alike! I managed to carry my luggage and camera bags to the overhead footbridge and leave the station premises. An old school steam engine is installed outside the station, greeting people with a reminder of the past.

In olden days, New Jalpaiguri was one of the first junctions to be connected to the mainland India. This is where wagons filled with freshly plucked tea leaves passed through. The British further experimented with tea wherever they went, including Mauritius however seldom found a worthy contender to the mountain slopes of Darjeeling!

We had rented a cab from a local Sikkim Taxi rental company. They suggested a pick up from the NJP station itself. I waited for S at the Bagdogra airport for an hour and finished a quick lunch with Fish curry and rice. The curry was fiery hot. I think an ample amount of Dalley chilly (now GI tagged) had been used in the make of that curry! We started for Sikkim by 2 pm.

Also read : Practical tips you need to plan a trip to Egypt!

About Silk Route: The 6400 km Silk Route extended from Xi’an (Sian), followed  the Great Wall of China to the northwest, bypassed the Takla Makan Desert, climbed the Pamirs (mountains), crossed Afghanistan, and went on to the Levant. Goods were shipped through the Mediterranean sea. Middlemen of each region helped progressing the caravans. From Europe, the Black Death pandemic moved to Asia through Silk Route! In this blog, we are talking about the Old Silk Route, a part of the ancient Silk Route.

The Ascend to Aritar and an unprecedented delay

NJP to Aritar: 110 km (time took 7 hours)

We were heading to Aritar for the night. I have already told you the routes you can take as you ascend to the Old Silk Route of Zuluk. If I could start at dawn, I would have gone to Reshikhola village and lived by the beautiful mountain stream of Reshikhola. The pictures reminded me of Jia Bharali river of Bhalukpong as we were visiting Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh . 

Reshikhola is famous for Birding opportunities, especially in the winters. All the Terai forestlands are spectacular in this aspect. For example, Kaziranga or Manas National Park in Assam or Chitwan National Park in Nepal . All of them are National Parks. To visit Reshikhola, you need to walk for a few hundred meters amidst a jungle. 

The lake in Aritar is also known as Lampokhari (Pokhri meaning a waterbody in Nepali language) which reflects the lush green surrounding area in its colour! Spend the day visiting Mankhim, the hill top of Aritar for a clear view of Kanchenjunga. We saw it from the road itself, the entire sleeping Buddha range and rushed towards Zuluk with glee.

If you have time, spend a day at Reshikhola

If you stay at Reshikhola , which happens to be a part of West Bengal, or to be more specific, straddles the border between West Bengal and Sikkim, count a day extra to visit Pedong, a small town in Kalimpong. Famous for the old Sangchen Dorjee monastery, Pedong came to be during the reign of British India as their tea factories were buzzing with tonnes of produce. In February, Pedong hosts a fair named Pedong mela where Bhutia and Lepcha tribes from distant villages come with their annual produce. Do not miss that for the world if you love cultural nuances! 

In Reshikhola, you can stay at Prakriti Eco Resort. To reach these homestays which use the word resort in the name you have to cross the Reshi river through a wobbly wooden bridge. It may be a bit dicey for the elderly people in the travel group. You may reach Reshikhola from the West Bengal side by crossing a dried up stream during summer months. But monsoon makes the river turn voluminous in the Bengal side.

Also read : Complete Guide to the Best beaches in Goa

Things to do in Aritar: First stop on the way to Old Silk Route

However, we rushed to see Zuluk and decided to spend the first night at Aritar . Besides, our two weeks long Sikkim itinerary had many quaint village stays in Pelling and Temi Tea Garden. We drove past Teesta and Rangeet river confluence, where many people stops for a night to camp. We stopped briefly on the road for momo and tea. By the time we reached Rongpo , the sun had set. It was the proverbial pitch dark night, one in which you can not see your hand in front. Rangpo is a town between Sikkim and West Bengal where the authorities would check for Sikkim Travel Card and other necessary details including permits etc.

Rangpo is an industrial town in Sikkim with many manufacturing units and pharma companies. There was a huge traffic jam in front of the Rangpo check point, the first of many checkpoints where you have to produce your Sikkim travel card. The nightmarish traffic lasted for a couple of hours. 

While crossing Rangpo checkpoint, you can pick up alcohol from Lohapool. Alcohol is cheap in Sikkim. I had no clue why until I faced the biting cold of Zuluk! 

Aritar is famous for a man-made lake (Aritar lake) . Boating facilities are available here. You may rent a mountain bike and drive past the lake and the small tracts as well. The lake reflected the greens of the surrounding area! Aritar is situated at a height of 4000 feet. 

At Aritar, we stayed at the Orange Court Resort . It is a family run homestay. Do not be fooled by the resort tag. Almost all the homestays in this route carry the word resort in their names, whereas in reality they are far from what a real resort looks or feels like. I do not complain. A homestay is the best way to run tourism in the fragile ecology in Sikkim. 

The Owner of the Orange County resort sat with us in the evening, treated us to Chicken Pakora as her son and a beautiful German Shepherd Lucy kept us company. I am usually shit scared of dogs but Lucy took my heart away! A German shepherd dog could be so kind, so loving! I would have never believed it unless I would have met Lucy!

Also read : A Photoblog on Zanzibar, the paradise island !

Geeting a permit for Old Silk Route

At Rongli, we stopped the car for about 40 minutes, produced travel card, route plan, government ID and passport sized photographs and procured our permit to visit Silk Route. Weather was permissible and we were told we could take the entire loop from Zuluk to Gangtok with a stop at Nathang Valley. If weather shows alert, the authority would not allow you a permit to visit Nathang valley.

From Aritar we started early in the morning. We finished a hearty breakfast with puri and bhaji and some piping hot tea! The road paved the way to the heights of Himalaya. Myriad shades of greens greeted us on the way. Some of the plants had turned their leaves in blood red hue. A few blood pheasants, state birds of Sikkim stood in alert. We crossed small streams, fountains, villages shaking off from slumber, young kids heading towards school. 

The mountain streams in the region are known as Khola in Nepali language. One of the important points is Que Khola Falls before you enter Lintham village. In winter sunshine, plenty of colorful blossoms bloomed by the makeshift tea joints. Wooden bridges covered in Buddhist flags bring down elusive peace of Earth. 

We drove past Padamchen , one of the larger habitats of the Old Silk Route at 8000ft. After Aritar, once you have procured your permit, you can only stop at places for which your permit has clear written mentions. For us, Padamchen was not mentioned in the permit and we could not stop even when we wanted to. This is a beautiful destination though, with pleasurable weather all through the year. Padamchen is also a sought after destination among the birders.

The last marketplace with enough stock is located at Padamchen. At Rangli you may find many shops, serving almost everything from trekking gears to Rosogolla, that too freshly prepared! Stock up with enough snacks. Carry some Korpur and medicines as prescribed by doctors.Please do not carry maggi and stuff that needs to be cooked in boiling water because you may not get the option to boil water in this rough mountain terrain at all! For a geyser to work, you need to switch on power right at 3 am. 

Zuluk travel is tough love but it is very very much worth it if you plan it correctly is all I can say!

Also read : Complete travel guide to Hampi, a UNESCO world Heritage Site!

Zuluk, the Star Stuck Mountain Township!

Aritar to Zuluk: 41 km (time took: 3 hours with permit)

In olden times, Zuluk happened to be a small village inhabited by the shepherds and nomads who resided at this high altitude zone in the harsh winter months. Situated at 9000 feet high, Zuluk claims the fold of the mountain, where ice cold northern winds do not find a passage. 

A little ahead of Zuluk, serpentine roads take you to Nathang valley that straddles the Indo-Sino border at the Tibetan plateau. The proverbial silk route existing for thousands of years takes one to the forbidden Kingdom of Lhasa, Tibet. 

With the presence of the Indian army, Zuluk town developed to be what it is today. The army has established a permanent transit camp at Zuluk. If you drive for 20 minutes uphill from Zuluk, you can see China on the right side. The road takes further turns and reaches Doklam, infamous for the stand off between India and China from 2017. It connects Nathula if you drive straight, another sensitive international border point between the South Asian powerhouses.

Trucks of army personnel are transported to the army camps. They gradually scale a high of 14000 feet and higher. Zuluk town was planned to act as a transit camp to help the men acclimatize at this astounding heights.

The army arranged for a permanent water tank, a luxury in an area where inhabitants are dependent on sunrays to melt the tap water that turns into ice in the dark of the night. The water tank stands atop the mountain, like an alert eye assuring and safeguarding the valley and its inhabitants with an assurance of sustenance. 

Also read : 10 Things to know before planning a trip to Darjeeling!

Army now but History came earlier!

The old silk route traversed a large distance of 900 km from Lhasa to Tamralipta. It mapped through Chumbi valley (now the conflict zone, Doklam) between India and Bhutan. Through the ancient trade routes, the Chinese and Tibetans traded silk, textile, livestock, chinaware, tea (read Jormer Chokh by Tillottama Majumdar) and ideas (Sri Atish Dipankara). Geopolitics of the twenty-first century may have stripped away importance from the old silk route but who can predict the course of history?

Thanks to the water supply, Zuluk developed two distinct places of stay. The Upper Zuluk Basti area , with a couple of hotels and a village that grows its own vegetables and manages its own waste with periodic visits to the nearby towns. Upper Zuluk has a military settlement just by the side, hence access to medical assistance (read need based oxygen supply) is a cakewalk here. Network was not available though, unless you are willing to wait by the main road for a while till a Jio signal picks up faint connectivity. 

Lower Zuluk Basti is a more crowded area, located a few km ahead of Upper Zuluk and a lower altitude zone. Lower Zuluk has a number of makeshift stay options, cheap homestays and a few grocery stores where local women with babies tied to their back sell toothpaste, maggi and cigarettes. 

Lower Zuluk resembled a haphazardly created locality to accommodate tourists. Most of the houses are in shambles. Bright blooms of myriad mountain flowers hanging from earthen hots at the entry of each house comes to rescue, to add hue to a foggy day. 

If I were to choose a place to stay in Zuluk, I would opt for upper Zuluk. The homestays range between 2500 to 5000 depending on demand. Food cost is extra. The homestays in lower Zuluk are cheaper alternative stays. However, do not expect luxuries like warm running water or room heater and stuff. 

It is imperative to choose a comfortable homestay in Zuluk. Zuluk is going to be one of the highlights of your trip. A few things you need to consider before booking a stay in Zuluk. 

• The Homestay in Zuluk should have access to running water. 
• The homestay in Zuluk should give you a room heater. 
• The homestay in Zuluk should have local networks to provide you medical assistance in case of emergency, think low oxygen level or breathing troubles. 
• Please ask your homestay provider if they have power back up. Usually power back ups provide for a faint light after sunset. Nights are long and dark in Zuluk and onwards.

Also read : Complete guide to Chitwan National Park for a first time visitor!

Things to know about traveling to Zuluk

• Many people visit Zuluk, make it a base for the next two days, explore Nathang Valley and then head back to Padamchen and descend to West Bengal. I have already elaborated on this route plan. 
• You may stay at Padamchen, if Zuluk seems tough. It may seem a bit tough if you are traveling with a baby or elderly people. The mornings are mellow. The valley is sun washed. However, sunset brings a different world to Zuluk. With cold gutsy winds and pin drop silence, it can be nightmarish. 
• I can not emphasize enough on this, but please make sure you start early and reach Zuluk before sundown. 
• In case you want to stay at Padamchen, which is located at a lower altitude than Zuluk, please mention that at the time of procuring your permit.

The quirky symmetry of 32 loops of Zuluk, which are part of the ancient 93 hairpin bends through which priceless silk used to be traded from Lhasa to modern day Tamralipto (Tomluk of West Bengal).

In Zuluk, you do not have much to see but a few chortens, a Shiva temple, army barracks.

Also read : Guide to all the Bonedi Barir Durgapuja of Kolkata

Is Zuluk worth Visiting?

Zuluk as a stand alone destination does not have much to offer however you need to visit Zuluk to experience the sheer beauty of high Himalayas that lies ahead at Lungthung and Nathang valley. Also, at 9000 ft height, Zuluk is the safest place to tuck in for the night if you can not stand the severe cold that Nathang Valley will unleash on you! 

Zuluk is located at the fold of the mountain. You can not see the Sleeping Buddha range from here. However, you can visit Thambi view point, a 15 minute drive from Zuluk and voila! It is a different world out there!  

Things to do in Zuluk

• Visit Thambi view point and spend the evening there. It is at the Thambi view point, I had experienced the most ethereal sunset of my entire life. Many people spend the night at Zuluk and start at the crack of dawn to visit Thambi. The first sunrays kiss the peak of the Sleeping Buddha range. Pregnant clouds crowd at the bottom of the mountains. Standing at Thambi, you get to witness a sunrise show of a lifetime! I had seen similar views of sunrise from Switzerland on Instagram! 
• From Thambi view point, you will also see the three level zigzag bends of the Old Silk Route. At the start of the day when the clouds are far up on the sky, you will be able to spot Zuluk town from a distance.
• It is only fair to assume you will fall in love with Thambi as you witness the first sunset! You would ideally want to spend the night there to wake up to a magnificent sunrise. For that choose a homestay at Lungthung, a few km ahead of Thambi view point. For a thousand and a few hundred bucks, you may get a room at one of the local run homestays at Lungthung. The homestays have huge glass window pens through which you may get a stunning glimpse of the world outside! In hindsight, Lunthung can be lethally cold at night. Check the window pens and take a call accordingly. Running water is unavailable here. They give you a bucket of water which might get frozen at night. Staying at Lungthung may not be the most cherished memory but waking up to witness that sunrise is going to be a prized experience indeed! 
• From Zuluk, you may visit Jelepla Pass, Kupup & Memencho Lake which are on the way to Nathang valley. Many people plan to stay in the Nathang valley. Some choose to stay back at Zuluk and visit Nathang as a day trip. Nathang Valley is situated at an even higher altitude. A handful of homestays are there. You may choose to spend one night at the Nathang valley before heading back to the plains.

Please note, be it sunrise or be it sunset, the look and feel are going to be the same from Thambi view point. thus, if you visit Zuluk on day one and witness sunset, schedule an early sunrise visit and to Thambi again and proceed to Nathang valley. Many people start the descend on day 2 itself however in my honest opinion that is a bit rushed affair. After Zuluk, allow some time to Nathang valley and plan for at least a couple of days at Zuluk if you want to complete the old Silk Route loop and end it at Gangtok. Alternately, you may choose to descend down and spend a night at Sillery gaon or Icche Gaon, quaint little hamlets in the West Bengal Himalayas.

Also read : Guide to Luang Prabang, the UNESCO heritage Temple Town of Laos!

Nathang Valley: A forgotten no-man’s land!

Zuluk to Nathang valley: 23 km (3 hours)

I was spellbound at the Thambi View point and thought this is the high point of the entire Old Silk Route tour until we reached natahng. By the end of December, Fresh snow kissed the pathway as we approached the arid mountain top. A few bends upwards Zuluk, the mighty Sleeping Buddha range presides over the sky!

Nathang is an even more remote spot compared to Zuluk. Once a few yak herders roamed this land. Now the over enthusiastic tourists have started to come and live here, hence few homestays sprung up. Spending a night at Nathang can be roughly compared to that of living under the starry night on a mountain top, while even craggier peaks stand at adistance. Nathang is a valley bordered with towering hills but the real deal is Mt Kanchanjengha!

You may spend a day at natahng and make day trips to the glacial lakes. I suggest visit till the elephant lake, also known as Kupup and return back if you are to descend down. I must mention, you can only visit these routes if you receive permit from the check points. The official order is to issue permits only if the sky is clear for coming days. Otherwise, you might be turned back from Zuluk itself. Fear not since Thambi View Point is a treasure of this part of the Himalaya.

While many chooses to descend down from Nathang valley through Padamchen, and rest a few days at Icchegaon and Sillery Gaon, small quiant village stays in West Bengal, we chose to complete the loop and head for Gangtok.

Also read : Most beautiful sunsets of Masaimara, Kenya!

Baba Mandir is standing in memory of Baba Harbhajan Singh where visitors irrespective of religious identity may visit and experience the magic! We are transient passengers in this mystic and harsh land. We must learn to shut up and listen to stories of motivation and faith prevalent among the locals, that includes inhabitants as well as army professionals. Loics fail when they state with confidence it is due to Baba’s blessing that nathang valley remains safe against intruders. I also try to gather the mellow tune that emerges from losing Tibet to the Chinese PLA. 

People of Nathang valley are originally descendants of the Tibetan tribesmen. Once upon a time a school was operational. But teachers referred to teaching in such extreme weather conditions. You can not really judge. On days one can wake up and see the entire valley is covered under the thick blanket of snow. Another day, merciless rain brings in thick fog. Cars get frosted. Batteries get damaged. Running water is a luxury. 

When it rains in Nathang valley, Oxygen level also drops in the air, causing trouble for tourists. The locals are made of iron lungs! 

I wonder what makes the old people of Nathang valley endure such extreme hardship. “This is my home!” An old lady grinned. Her toothless face lits up as she points out her son has gone to Gangtok, to study and work. 

Nathang valley to Gangtok

On our last day at Zuluk, we started at 11 from Zuluk and reached Gangtok by 5 pm. On the way, we stopped at Nathang valley and Changu (Tsomgo Lake) and saw Nathula as well. We did not venture to Nathula as we did not have permit and border was closed due to the ongoing lockdown issue. Recently, road to Nathula has been open and permits are given at check points. If you want to visit Nathula, mention the same at Rangli check point where your permit will be prepared.

Start early for the day and proceed to Gangtok. This way, you will have ample time to make multiple stops on the way. It is going to be one of the most beautiful road-trips in the Himalayas. I often compare this to the day trip to Bum La Pass from Tawang.

The road from Nathang is maintained by army and created by BRO. It is designed in a way that heavy duty army vehicles can easily operate on the high altitude terrain. Heavy snow and stuff do not usually perturb its make. I have heard many people complain that Sikkim has terrible road condition. I agree if you are talking about west Sikkim and the districts bordering with Indian states. But the international border is extremely well laid!

You can choose to stop at Baba Mandir. There are two, one is old baba Mandir and the other one is new baba mandir. The entire stretch is arid, with sparse vegetation. Wooly yaks roam with élan. A few shepherds appear out of nowhere. On the right hand, we had an entire valley covered with clouds. This happens in high altitude areas. We were told, that is China, once the stronghold of Tibet, the forbidden kingdom.

Also read : Phang Nga Bay, the other ace of Phuket that is hardly seen!

Should one plan a night at the Nathang valley?

At a height of 14,000 feet, Nathang Valley stands as an ode to the poem, Life Finds a Way! Once only inhabited by the yak herders of Tibet, Nathang valley had makeshift night arrangements for the caravans of silk route. Now, a few homestays have taken over with meagre arrangements to sustain life for a limited time. Nathang is accessible by tourists only for a handful months of dry summer and early autumn. During winter, gutsy wind blows in to the valley from every corner of the world, making life, forget holidaying, an adventure! Our guide mentioned the time he was stuck here with his vehicle under 5 feet deep snow!

Staying at Nathang valley is a daring adventure, is what I hear from my friends who spend a night at one of the many homestays at Nathang Valley. It is a task to take out your feet of the blanket and feet the toes after sundown. During sunrise, you see Kanchenjunga and the entire sleeping Buddha range standing in alert at a distance. From Nathang valley, the Sleeping Buddha range feels closer and more magnificent than ever. May be Pelling comes to a close comparison, however Pelling is a touristy town.

From Nathang valley, driving down to Gangtok brings you closer to the Hati Lake (elephant lake), Memencho lake and a few more high passes. It was biting cold and I barely could put my nose out of the car!

If weather condition shows a bit of red alert, authorities would not issue permits to visit Nathang valley. You have to take your car back from Zuluk itself. Zuluk usually does not receive heavy snow. Thambi view point, on the other hand, may be covered with snow, making the ride to Thambi quite an exciting one!

Places to visit near Nathang Valley

I laugh as I write this but Nathang Valley has the most of “Things to do” in the entire area. This is like nature being playful and throws a challenge. “Can you do this?” If you can not stand the cold, stay back in Zuluk, visit nathang valley as a day trip and see the following points. 

• Baba Mandir
• Trek down from Baba Mandir and visit Memencho Lake (4 km trek downhill)
• A little monastery where a handful of local Buddhist monks live in Nathang Valley
• The Eagle Nest Bunker (13,700 feet & a hard find). However, visit this place for an early morning sunrise view when you can have a 360 degree view of the entire valley, with kanchanjengha at one side and Tibet at another. I hear people say, you can even spot the mighty Bramhaputra river (Tsongpo River, his origin which is now in occupied Tibet). For astrophotography, eagle’s nest Bunker is a golden hunt!
• Tukla valley: 15 km from Kupup, Tukla straddles shoulder with Chinese border and remains partly accessible by the tourists. An eighteen-hole golf course called Yak Course (13025 feet) makes Tukla the highest golf course in the world. The Yak Golf Course has found a place in the Guinness book of world records for being the highest in the world. Golfers do not use a car here, instead they ride a yak! Many compare Tukla to be similar to Yumthang of North Sikkim.
• On a clear sky day, you may see Jelep la from Tuk La valley. Through Jelep La, one could travel all the way to Lhasa. Now the road is closed (under PLA). Old Trades have eventually paved way for short lived tourism.

Nathang valley is incredible! They say the mountains are different with the onset of a new season. I do not think you can witness the change any better anywhere else but nathang valley. A few mountain streams mark a boundary for this little village. Once a halt for the caravans coming from Lhasa, Nathang is now a brave halt for adventure seekers of plainlanders. 

The battle of Natahng was fought here in 1888, between the Tibetan & British forces. Legends of the fallen soldiers resonate in the air. 

In Nathang, please stay at the Daftar Bungalow! Once used by the British to collect custom duty (ugh the colonists) Daftar Bungalow is the only stone construction in the village where gutsy wind does not find a way in! It has been renovated by the department of tourism Sikkim Govt. In the peak of winter, winter skiing takes place in the valley. 

I recommend you visit Nathang on a clear sky day to truly experience the beauty of this vast land! But then mountains and her moods, we have no control over! If Nathang remains under thickets of fog, you will not be able to see many prime attractions on the road, including the Zuluk zigzag roads. 

Stop at the Changu lake (Tsomgo Lake) on the way back to Gangtok

Nathang valley to Gangtok: 5 hours ( with stop at Changu lake for an hour)

The highlight of returning to Gangtok from Zuluk was albeit a stop at Changu Lake. The glacial lake, a sacred waterbody to the locals, is a touristy spot. Much like the Pangong Tso, Tsomgo lake too changes its colour with the movement of Sun. Order piping hot Maggi, ride the largest cable car, get a picture with the decked up yaks or just walk close to the bank of the lake. Plan for a couple of hours to spend by the beautiful Changu lake!

Due to its close vicinity to Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake is frequently visited by a number of tourists, making is a bit underwhelming with the crowd and the usual touristy things. Despite being located at 12,300+ feet height, Tsomgo lake lacked the celestial vibe all thanks to the crowd.

Steal a few lone moment as you ride the highest cable car of Asia over Tsomgo Lake and reach for the table top plateau that lets you take a bird’s eye view of the high passes you have covered to make this journey a worthwhile!

make sure you reach back to Gangtok before sunset. Black ice starts to set in at the end of the day when sunlight do not abound the valley, making the ride a challenging one.

Also read : 2 weeks itinerary for planning a trip to Myanmar !

A Responsible Traveler’s Guide to Old Silk Route, Sikkim

Needless to point it out but old silk Route happens to be one of the most fragile ecological zone in the entire world. To top on it, it is a dangerously protected zone, reminding you a sleeping demon may wake up at any moment, disbalancing the peace that prevails in the valley! The trade caravans have retreated their old tracts paving way for amphibious war vehicles reigning the distant emptiness.

Thankfully, the major crowd puller in Sikkim remains the road to North Sikkim that empties vehicles by the banks of Gurudongmar lake or the beautiful Tsomgo Lake. The later has been taking it one for the team for ages now!

Sikkim is famous as one of the cleanest states of the country. Inhabitants of Sikkim state are well disciplined and follow the decorum. However it will take a while to grow that civic sense among the tour parties who frolic around with empty plastic packets of chips and glass bottles of beers. Be it the scenic Thambi view point or the banks of Tsomgo, no place finds a respite from this unrelenting litter.

people in the mountain usually wake up early, say 5 am. Nights are long and dark with power supply being erratic. dinner would be served by 7 or at best 8 pm since the homestay owners have to finish kitchen work by 10. Please co operate with them.

One way to help save the chastity of the region is by not playing Hindi music in loudspeaker. Please?

Please do not click pictures of Military installments. It is written on boards too.

Refrain from night drives because the road is lonely and black ice is lethal.

There is no hospital in close vicinity. In case of medical emergency, locals and tourists usually rush to army camp.

Avoid staying at Nathang valley if you are traveling with a small kid. That thing air may not be suitable for young lungs.

PLEASE DO NOT LITTER. I am sure if you had been my reader for a while, you know this. But this is for the newer ones, plastic waste by one tour party seems to be an innocent mistake but in reality that litter goes on to live for thousands of years and eventually becomes a part of the ecology in broken down form, increasing the power to pollute to infinity.

Also read : How to plan a trip to Varanasi as a solo woman traveler?

Medical facilities in the area is extremely limited with communication limited to faint network by the main road on certain network ones only. Please get your basic medication handy. Do not rush. DONT RUSH. Allow your body to acclimatize to the astounding heights of Old Silk Route and climb slow but steady. Not everyday you come so close to nature. It is absolutely okay to stay back and soak in the atmosphere!

Please get your Covid tests done, along with latest RTPCR report. Always keep the mask on when you are dealing with the locals. You have means to travel back to the city, quarantine, access to information and latest medical treatments. Locals in Zuluk do not have these privileges. Please get the test done. Do not be a rule flouter by any means.

The flags on the mountains are hoisted to bring peace to the valley. respect them, especially if they seem to be fallen off grid. If you have not received the permit to access a particular zone, do not try to play around. It is IAF we are talking about. Rules are meant to be adhered at old Silk Route.

If you are visiting the ancient monasteries, please respect the monks and the hand painted artefacts and thangkas. They are priceless to the locals and these antiquities date back to thousands of years!

Resources are scarce at the old Silk Route. Be mindful of what you can consume and take only that much on your plate. Homestay owners grow a little bit of vegetables including potatoes and cabbages which will be stored for the long bitter cold winter too. They will share a bit with your for a price.

Respect for locals and rule of the land comes imperative while you traveling to a remote land such as Old Silk Route. this not only sustains the tourism infrastructure of Zuluk but also ensures you have a safe ride back home!

Also read : Offbeat destinations in Greece for the first time visitor!

FAQs on Planning a trip to Old Silk Route

Q: Best Time to Visit Old Silk Route?

-Plan your trip to the Old Silk Route during Dry months, from Mid Oct to Mid Jan and Mid April to Mid July

Q: Can I visit Old Silk Route During Mid December?

-I visited Old Silk Route during Mid December and the trip was worth it! The weather was clear. We did the entire loop from Aritar to Gangtok with Zuluk and Nathang valley in between.

Q: Should you stay at Nathang Valley?

-If you can withstand biting cold and gutsy winds, please choose to stay at Nathang Valley for a night. It is going to be an experience of a lifetime! Of course it depends if you can procure a permit to visit Nathang valley at Rongli check point.

Q: If Zuluk Safe for solo women travelers?

-Zuluk is sparsely populated. there is no hostel. Overall it is a safe place with hospitable and kind locals. Weather could be a challenge though. getting medical help is a challenge too at Zuluk.

Q:Is it safe to visit Old Silk Route?

-Old Silk Route is an ancient trade route that connected India and China through Tibet. It is famous for the hair pin bends known as Zuluk loop. Zuluk is a safe and offbeat destination in east Sikkim however due to increased altitude, there might be breathing troubles. Please acclimatize well as you ascend to Zuluk, Lungthung and Nathang valley.

Q: Is it expensive to travel to old Silk Route in Sikkim?

-You have to arrange for a car for the entire road-trip. Ideally you should get an Innova or a similar car and prices start from 30 thousand INR onwards. Homestays cost INR 2000 onwards. For meals, prices go up a bit higher. Everything is chargeable, starting from hot running water to room heater. Overall, traveling to to Old Silk Route is by no means a cheap travel however it is worth every penny you spend due to the beautiful scenic beauty the road entails!

Q: Is Silk Route Tour in Zuluk open in December?

-Usually Old Silk Route remains open in December however North Sikkim gets closed by the mid of December.

Q: Old Silk Route in Sikkim height?

-Zuluk stands at 9400 feet. Nathang valley is at 13,400 feet. Tsomgo Lake sits at 12,700 feet.

Q: Is Silk Route Worth Visiting?

-The Old Silk Route in Sikkim is one of the best offbeat destination in India. It is one of the stunning road-trips across Himalayas that lets you take a beautiful view of the entire Sleeping Buddha range throughout he journey!

Q: The Best places to visit on the old Silk Route?

-On the Old Silk Route, my favourite destinations are: Zuluk, Lungthung, Nathula and Tsomgo Lake.

Q: Can I travel from Zuluk to NJP in a day?

-Technically, you can however it is a long road with many possible road blocks and the journey would be too tiring. Instead, stop at Aritar for a day and break the journey in two parts. Safe journey and happy journey!

Q: Can I visit Silk route tour if it snows?

-If it snows lightly, you may be provided with a permit to complete the entire loop of Old Silk Route from Aritar to Gangtok. However, in case of heavy snow storm, you will only be able to ascend till the Thambi View point. Sometimes, permits are issued for Nathang valley as well. But the road onwards is heavily militized for proximity to international border and often limited for commoners due to increased safety risk.

Q: Should I stay at Zuluk or Nathang valley?

-Make your base at Zuluk and see if you can endure the extreme cold. If the answer is yes, head towards Nathang valley for a night stay or you can visit Nathang as a day trip destination too. It is only a 30 minutes drive from Zuluk.

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SIKKIM SILK ROUTE Tour in East Sikkim – A Complete Travel Guide

Last Updated on: Aug 8, 2021  

About this blog: Sikkim Silk Route tour is one of the most famous attractions in East Sikkim. Zuluk (also spelled as Dzuluk) was once an important stop on the Ancient Silk Road. Today Sikkim Silk Route is known for its clear and gorgeous views of the mountains, the dizzying zig-zag roads and hairpin bends and quaint villages on the route. Read this blog about Sikkim Silk Route Guide and get information on how to reach, where to stay, attractions and the tentative cost of Silk Route Tour.

We had explored Sikkim to a great extent. However, the Silk Route in East Sikkim seemed to elude us for a long time. While we explored the high altitude lakes, offbeat hamlets and the monasteries of Sikkim, we were yet to experience the famed hairpin bends of Zuluk. Finally, it was an impromptu decision that had us boarding the Darjeeling Mail to reach New Jalpaiguri and finally go for the Sikkim Silk Route trip.

The Sikkim Silk Route tour can be started from either New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal or Gangtok in Sikkim. We had decided to start our journey from NJP and end it in Gangtok and stop at Aritar, Zuluk and Nathang Valley for the night. Read on to know more.

Sikkim Silk Route in Visuals

History of Sikkim Silk Route

The Silk Route in East Sikkim that is open for the tourists to explore is actually a part of the ancient Silk Road. The Ancient Silk Road was actually a huge network of ancient trade routes that stretched from Asia to the Mediterranean traversing China, India, Persia, Arabia, Egypt, Greece and Italy. This route was formally established during the Han Dynasty of China in 130 BC. It linked regions of the ancient world in commerce between the periods of 130 BCE-1453 CE.

The Sikkim Silk Route as we see today was only an offshoot of the Ancient Silk Road. Infact, it is only a small part of the ancient silk route that connected Lhasa in Tibet to Tamralipta in West Bengal. Yes, Lhasa was once the hotspot of ancient trade and commerce. The nearest sea port to Lhasa was at Tamralipta, or present day Tamluk in West Bengal.

This entire Silk Route covered a distance of 900 km from Lhasa to Tamralipta starting from Chumbi Valley in Tibet, going across Nathu La and then through the hills of East Sikkim before finally entering into the plains of Bengal. The Chumbi Valley is connected to Sikkim to the southwest via the mountain passes of Nathu La and Jelep La. It is the thin slice of land between India and Bhutan that is known more for the Doklam issue between India and China.

A lot of commodities were traded along the Silk Road. The Chinese Silk was considered one of the luxury items and was traded from the east to the European countries. Other items included textiles, tea, spices, dyes, medicines, glassware, fruits and even camels. Apart from commodities knowledge, ideas and culture were also exchanged along these old routes. Well, the Silk Route is not of much significance today because of the geo-political boundaries.

Silk Route Sikkim Travel Guide

The Indian part of the Silk Route is open for tourists from Rongli to the Nathula Pass. The region is no doubt historically interesting, but it is the stunning vistas of the route that attracts tourists to this part of East Sikkim.

Although the Silk Route gets a lot of tourists from Bengal during the months of October (mainly due to the Durga Puja holidays), this part of Sikkim is relatively offbeat to tourists from other parts of India. There are actually no major towns enroute the Silk route circuit. Homestays are available all throughout the Silk Route in Sikkim that provides basic amenities to the tourists.

The Sikkim Silk Route circuit basically starts from Rongli, located at an altitude of 5000 feet near Bengal-Sikkim border. You might have seen Sikkim Silk Route packages mentioning stays at Rishikhola, Icchey Gaon or Sillery Gaon. Well, these places are located in West Bengal and are technically not part of the Silk route. These beautiful villages are located at the foothills of the route and you can stop at any of the villages to break your journey.

Our Itinerary

As I mentioned above, we started from NJP for our Silk Route tour. Here is a detailed itinerary of our Sikkim Silk Route Tour.

Day 1: NJP – Aritar (110 km)

We spent our first night at Aritar, a beautiful hamlet of Sikkim. Aritar is also a slight detour from the actual ancient Silk Route, located at an altitude of 4000 feet. 

Our train to NJP was a bit late and we reached at around 10 AM. We had already booked a car for the entire Silk Route trip. The car was waiting for us at NJP and we started as soon as we reached there. It took about 4.5 hours to reach Aritar after crossing the Rangpo Checkpost at Sikkim border. By the time we reached Aritar, it was drizzling.

We checked into our homestay, had our lunch and then went to explore the village on foot. As it was already late afternoon, we decided to rest for the day. We decided to explore Aritar the next day.

Alternative Stop: Mankhim

Day 2: Aritar – Zuluk (42 km)

Exploring aritar.

We started early from Aritar. The weather was a bit dampener with dark clouds hanging over us. Aritar is known for Lampokhri Lake, an artificial lake surrounded by hills covered with pine trees. There is also a small monastery near the lake. You can also go boating at Aritar Lake.

There is another monastery on the hilltop by the Aritar Lake. There is a trekking trail from the side of the lake leading to the Mankhim Top viewpoint and the local monastery. You can also reach the monastery by car. There is also an old British dak bungalow at Aritar.

Mankhim is located about 3 km from Aritar and is famous for the Mankim Top viewpoint. A forested trail through a rough and muddy road actually leads to the Mankhim Top. Aritar Lake is located just at the foothills of the Mankhim top.

Mankhim is a small village located at the top of the hill inhabited by the Rai Community. There is a temple and a monastery at Mankhim. From the Mankhim Top, you will get a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga ranges at the horizon. This is, perhaps, the best thing about the Sikkim Silk Route. Through the entire route, you will get viewpoints from where you can get unobstructed views of the snow-capped mountains.

You will also get a view of the Lampokhari Lake from the viewpoint. There are several places on the trekking trail from where you will get great views of the lake.

There is a homestay just located a few metres from the Mankhim Top. It is a great place to stay, mainly for the views and the hospitality.

Note: Both Aritar and Mankhim are located before Rongli. So you do not need a permit to visit and stay at these places.

The Que Khola Falls is located just 2 km from Mankhim. It falls on the way towards Rongli. Que Khola is a small waterfall on the road side having a few tea stalls. You will get tea, coffee, momo and snacks at these stalls.

Rongli was the next stop. This is an important town in East Sikkim. This small town is surrounded by greenery and the Rangpo River flows by the town.

Rongli is an important stop in the Silk Route because you have to get your mandatory permit from here. You can get your ILP (Inner Line Permit) from the SDPO Office for travelling beyond this point to Zuluk and Nathang Valley. We too stopped at Rongli to get our passes.

You can also stay at Rongli for the night. The town is quite peaceful and there are a number of forest trails from here.

After we got our permits from Rongli, the actual journey through the Silk Route started. The roads were smooth and we quite enjoyed our drive amidst the beautiful scenery of Sikkim. Just imagine, centuries ago, caravans laden with expensive goods would commute along these roads! That is definitely a goosebump inducing feeling! After Rongli, the increase in altitude starts.

The next village on this route is Lingtam. The permits are checked at the Lingtam Checkpost. This is a small village and a few homestays are found here. You can stop here for some time, take a few photographs before travelling further.

Padamchen, located at 8000 ft is one of the most beautiful villages in Sikkim Silk Route. It is only 15 km from Rongli and is surrounded by greenery all around. Padamchen has pleasant weather all throughout the year and the village offers a sweeping view of the surrounding valleys.

Padamchen is a good place to stay for the night at Sikkim Silk Route. There are a number of homestays in Padamchen that offer all the basic amenities for tourists.

Padamchen has a few walking trails in the adjoining forests. If you are lucky enough, you might see a few Himalayan birds or even the elusive red panda.

We stopped at Padamchen for some time and then proceeded towards Zuluk, our final destination for the day.

The actual fun started after we crossed Padamchen and headed near Zuluk. The hairpin bends, that the Silk Route in Sikkim is so famous for, starts before Zuluk. After crossing a few bends, we finally arrived at Zuluk.

Zuluk is probably the most famous stop on the Sikkim Silk Route. And Zuluk also happened to be one of the major transit points in the past as well.

Located at 10000 feet, Zuluk is a small settlement on the Himalayan hillside. The place also has a huge army camp on the hill top.

Zuluk is known for its picturesque mountain views. The view of the sunrise from Zuluk is also quite breathtaking. During the spring, rhododendrons bloom in the region making the place a riot of colours. Being at a high elevation, Zuluk is often covered by mist and clouds. This was what we experienced mostly at Zuluk. In our entire Sikkim Silk Route tour, the weather was a bit gloomy with no sunshine. However, mist and clouds also have their own charm!

During the winter months, Zuluk experiences heavy snowfall and the entire region is covered in a blanket of snow.

There is a Shiva Temple at Zuluk that you can visit. Otherwise, it is quite pleasant to walk around the small village.

It was late afternoon when we reached Zuluk. After checking into our homestay, we went out to explore the temple and the area. We walked aimlessly along Zuluk while enjoying the cool mountain air.

Day 3: Zuluk to Nathang Valley (24 km)

This was the curtain raiser day, when we would drive through the famous zig-zag roads of Sikkim Silk Route and view them as well from the Thambi Viewpoint . The viewpoint is also known for its spectacular view of sunrise. However, the weather did not improve and there was no chance of viewing a proper sunrise. So we did not bother to wake up early in the morning to view the sunrise.

If the weather is good and you want to view the sunrise from Thambi View Point, then you have to start quite early in the morning and reach Thambi by 6 AM.

Thambi View Point

Thambi Viewpoint is located about 14 km from Zuluk and it will take about 40 minutes to reach there. At 11600 feet, Thambi viewpoint naturally offers a breathtaking view of sunrise, as well as a majestic view of the loops. See the picture below!

Did you know, there are 32 hairpin bends on the way from Zuluk to Thambi Viewpoint?

About 2 km from Thambi is another viewpoint – Lungthung Viewpoint, located at 12000 feet. This is perhaps the best place from where you can get an all-encompassing view of the Kanchenjunga ranges.

Nathang Valley

Located at an altitude of 13500 feet, Nathang Valley will simply take your breath away. This beautiful hamlet was originally inhabited by Tibetan yak herders. Nathang Valley is known as the “Ladakh of the East” because of its similarities in landscape with Ladakh.

Mountain streams criss-cross the barren landscape of the valley. The valley changes colour according to season. During the spring, rhododendron blooms paint the landscape in a riot of red, pink and yellow hues. Autumn sees the valley in a golden-yellow hue. Winters are totally blanketed by white snow.

Nathang Valley has only about 50 houses inhabited by people of Tibetan origin. There are a few homestays in Nathang Valley. If you are staying at Nathang Valley for the night, carry woolen clothes. The altitude makes the climate quite chilly and the winds are strong as well.

There is a Buddhist Monastery and Krishna Temple that you can visit at Nathang Valley.

Day 4: Nathang Valley – Kupup Lake – Baba Mandir – Gangtok (74 km)

This was our final day. We wanted to travel a bit slow, so we stayed at Nathang Valley at night. You can also opt to carry forward from Nathang Valley towards Gangtok on the same day. There are a few attractions near Nathang Valley that you should not miss:

Eagle Nest Bunker

Eagle Nest Bunker is located a few kilometres from Nathang Valley at an altitude of 13700 feet. This abandoned bunker is perched on a strategic location and gives a panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayas. You get a beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga ranges and other peaks of TIbetan plateau.

Kupup Lake is quite beautiful and on a clear day, the lake looks clear blue. The lake is also known as Elephant lake, because of its shape.

Memencho Lake

Memencho Lake cannot be reached directly by car. You have to trek downhill about 4 km to reach the lake. Menmecho Lake is a beautiful Lake located amidst conifers on all sides.

Tukla Valley

Tukla Valley is located about 15 km from Kupup. This is a relatively unexplored valley located quite close to international borders. Only a part of the Tukla Valley is accessible to civilians. The place is as charming as Yumthang valley in North Sikkim, if not more.

There is another interesting attraction at Tukla Valley. There is an eighteen-hole golf course called Yak Course located at an altitude of 13025 feet making it the highest golf course in the world.

Old Baba Mandir

This is the actual bunker where Baba Harbhajan Singh resided. You can go inside the bunker and see Baba’s personal effects.

The New Baba Mandir is located about 10 km from the Old one and the Silk route merges with the conventional road towards Nathula and then towards Gangtok.

Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake

You can stop at Changu Lake or Tsomgo Lake on your way towards Gangtok. Tsomgo Lake is a beautiful lake considered sacred by the locals. The lake is a famous attraction of Sikkim and is visited by a lot of tourists.

Tentative Sikkim Silk Route Itinerary

The minimum days required for the Sikkim Silk Route is 2N/3D. You can extend your trip if you have more days in hand. We will share a few itineraries according to the number of days you have in hand.

Sikkim Silk Route Itinerary for 2N/3D *

• Day 1: NJP – Aritar/ Mankhim
• Day 2: Aritar/Mankhim – Zuluk
• Day 3: Zuluk – Nathang Valley – Gangtok

*You can do this the opposite way as well

Sikkim Silk Route Itinerary for 3N/4D *

• Day 1: Gangtok – Nathu La – Nathang Valley
• Day 2: Nathang valley _ Zuluk – Padamchen
• Day 3: Padamchen – Mankhim
• Day 4: Mankhim – NJP

Sikkim Silk Route Itinerary for 4N/5D *

• Day 1: NJP – Icchey Gaon/ Reshikhola
• Day 2: Icchey Gaon/ Reshikhola – Mankhim
• Day 3: Mankhim – Zuluk
• Day 3: Zuluk – Nathnag Valley
• Day 4: Nathang Valley – Gangtok

What is the Best time for the Sikkim Silk Route Tour?

March to May (Spring and Summer)

The best time to visit East Sikkim or Sikkim Silk Route is the spring time between March and May. During this time, the weather remains pleasant.  Rhododendrons bloom during the spring.

June – September (Monsoon)

This season is best avoided. Sikkim witnesses heavy rainfall as well as landslides during the monsoon. Roads are treacherous and often get blocked due to landslides. You will also not get good views of the mountains during monsoon.

October – November (Autumn)

Autumn is one of the best times to visit the Sikkim Silk Route. The weather remains pleasant and clear and is good for viewing the mountain ranges.

December – February (Winter)

Winters are usually harsh in the higher altitudes. Snowfall is experienced at Zuluk and Nathang Valley. Views are quite clear during December and January. However, during February, the weather remains foggy and you might not get good views. Also during the winter season, often roads are blocked due to excessive snowfall and you might not be able to complete your trip.

Where to Stay on the Sikkim Silk Route?

The only option to stay at Sikkim Silk Route circuit is the homestays. The homestays are basic in nature having all the basic amenities like comfortable beds, quilts and hot water facilities. Some of the homestays might also have televisions and geysers.

There are hardly any restaurants or eateries at any of the villages apart from Rongli. So the homestays are the best bet to have your meals. The homestays provide tasty and homemade food. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food is available. The homestays will provide breakfast, lunch, evening tea and dinner.

Usually, the homestays in the Silk Route circuit usually cost INR 800 – 1200 per head per day including food.

How to obtain permits for Sikkim Silk Route?

You will need Protected Area Permits to travel to Sikkim Silk Route. Permits can be obtained by going to the tourist Centre at Gangtok or contacting a travel agent. You will need an identity proof and passport size photographs to obtain the permit. You also need to keep the original ID proofs handy as it might be asked at the check posts.

Remember, that Adhar Card is not a valid ID proof for obtaining a permit. You can use Voter ID Card, Passport or Driving License to obtain a permit.

The Permits for the Old Silk Route are given out of both Gangtok and Rongli. However, the p[ermits for NathuLa are only given from Gangtok. So if you are entering from Rongli and exiting from Gangtok, then you cannot perhaps visit NathuLa. You can talk to your homestay owner or Driver to know more about the passes to Nathu La.

Currently, you also have to apply for a Travel Card for entering any area of Sikkim. This is an easy process and can be applied online . You have to carry a print out of the filled form with you while travelling to Sikkim.

Permit for Foreigners

While foreigners are allowed to travel in parts of Sikkim, they are not allowed in the Old Silk Route. Foreigners need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Sikkim. The ILP can be obtained from all Indian Missions, Sikkim Tourism Offices at New Delhi, Kolkata, District Magistrate’s Office of Darjeeling, Siliguri, and Rangpo on the strength of an Indian Visa.

How to reach?

New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest railway head. NJP is well connected by trains from all the major Indian stations. You can also fly into Bagdogra. You can start your journey from either NJP or Gangtok.

If you want to start from Gangtok, you can reach Gangtok from NJP/Siliguri or Bagdogra. You will get shared sumos from NJP Station and Siliguri SNT Stand to Gangtok. You can also book a car to Gangtok from Siliguri or Bagdogra or NJP.

Sikkim Silk Route Travel Guide (FAQs Answered)

The best time for the Sikkim Silk Route tour is the months of April and May as well as October and November. During this time the climate is perfect for road trip without the wrath of rains and snow. The months of April, May and October are the peak seasons for Silk Route Tour.

You can start your Silk Route tour in Sikkim either from NJP or Gangtok. Starting from NJP, you can stop at Aritar for the first night. On the second day, get your permits for Silk Route from Rongli and then carry on towards Zuluk and Nathang Valley and finally to Gangtok. You can also start from Gangtok and return to Siliguri or NJP.

The height of Zuluk is 2865 m

Zuluk is a small village in East Sikkim and is an important stop in Sikkim Silk Route. Zuluk is beautiful with a handful of settlements, surrounded by moutains and gorgeous views. Zuluk is also famous for the famous hairpin loops of Silk Route. Zuluk has emerged as quite a famous hill station in East Sikkim and is definitely worth your time.

Yes, homestays are available along the entire Silk Route. Most of the villages have homestays these days offering basic and comfortable stays, hot water and good food. The most famous points of stay in Silk Route are Aritar, Mankhim, Rongli, Padamchen, Zuluk and Nathang Valley. You can stay at any of these places as per your plan.

Mobile network works satisfactorily on almost the entire Silk Route, except near Nathang Valley. Vodafone, Airtel, BSNL & Jio network works pretty well. However, internet speed is not that good.

You will find a number of ATMs between Siliguri and Rongli, as well as in Gangtok. Beyond Rongli, there are no ATMs

I hope this blog on Silk Route will help you plan your Sikkim Silk Route Tour. If you have any queries, drop us a comment below or send us an email. If you liked this post and found it useful, please share it with your family friends and neighbours.

Pin it for a later read!

Agni Amrita

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I loved reading your blog post on the Sikkim Silk Route Tour. It was so informative and I learned a lot! I’m definitely going to book my tickets and go on this amazing tour!

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East Sikkim – The Old Silk Route

Today, let us dive into the East Sikkim Travel Guide where I will share with you some comprehensive details about this lovely place in North East India. There are some fabulous places in this region which all walks of tourists or call them travelers, can enjoy in this part of Sikkim. It has a mix of tourist and offbeat places of Sikkim.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

A bit of History – Old Silk Route

Ever heard of Lhasa? Probably yes. It was and still is the administrative and cultural headquarters of the entire Tibet. One of the highest cities of the world by elevation, it was also a major trading hotspot of the ancient times. Do you know what sea-port it was closest to? Probably not, right? The answer is ‘ Tamralipta’. Or present day ‘Tamluk’ in West Bengal, India, where now the ‘Haldia’ Port stands as one of the most important shipping ports in eastern India.

The distance between Lhasa and Tamluk was a mere 900 KMs. From Chumbi Valley in Tibet, a thin sliced insert of land between India and Bhutan, recently shot to fame for the Doklam stand-off between India and China, across the Nathu La and subsequently through, the majestic hills of East Sikkim before reaching the plains of Bengal. Another route existed proximal to this one through the Jepep La.  Sadly, in modern times, this route is no longer important, no longer traversable in its entirety due to “Borders” put in place by “Progressive” humans of the modern period.

This trade circuit was just but an offshoot which merged into the historical ancient silk route that connected modern day China to as far as Europe. Chinese Silk was a commodity of luxury and hence was traded extensively, which explains the nomenclature. However, a lot of other intangible things traversed willingly or unwillingly too, with the caravan of horses. Things like knowledge, ideas, religion, cultural exchange, etc.

Serenity with a whiff of History

The Indian portion of the route is open for travelers to come and witness. From ‘Rongli’ on the borders of Sikkim and West Bengal, up till ‘Nathu La’, the region is spectacular and remarkably thrilling, besides all the history that it was once a part of. This region is slowly getting the place it deserves on the otherwise flamboyant tourism scene of Sikkim. However, it is thankfully still an ‘off-beat’ destination owing to the absence of any major towns enroute. The road condition is top notch, being maintained by the BRO as a strategically important way for the army vehicles keeping the supply line green to the forward bases at the international border with China. The trail elevates from about 5000ft at Rongli to 14500ft at Nathu La over a span of 70 odd KMs, passing through lush greenery at its beginning, to glacial lakes and icy mountain passes higher up. Ambling by mountain streams, military camps, small mountain villages, waterfalls and viewpoints, the landscapes this route offers are ecstatic to say the least.

As discussed briefly in my last article on Gangtok, this route connects with the Tsongo-Nathu La road coming therefrom. So technically the old silk route can be done from both ends. Or else, if wishing to travel the route more comprehensibly without Gangtok, or as is the case in the winter months when the upper stretch gets snowed out, one can start and end from Rongli or any place nearby, traversing up and down the same road. Sillery and Echhey , discussed in an earlier article, can also be the starting or ending points for the old silk route, as they are quite nearby to Rongli.

There are not many settlements enroute and for the ones that are there, only basic homestay accommodations are available apart from the places at the foothills near Rongli like Pedong and Aritrar, which have a couple of luxurious resorts.

The Foothills of the route

The old silk route, whether traveled from either end, i.e., starting from Gangtok and ending at Rongli, or the other way around will enchant a traveler equally.

A small yet important town in east Sikkim. This is the first and the last place in the route which can be called a town for that matter. Set amidst greenery all around and the river Rongpo flowing by it, Rongli can be your first stopover on the first day coming from Siliguri.

This place is also important keeping in view that the mandatory ILP (Inner Line Permit) must be obtained from the SDPO office here, to travel up on the old silk route. Many nature trails lead out of Rongli, through forest paths and by the serenely flowing river Rangpo. Rongli being a sub-divisional headquarter, boasts of facilities like police station, ATMs, provision stores, liquor shops, medical facilities, etc. North of here these facilities will gradually become hard to find, so anyone coming up from Rongli, stock up.

About 20 KMs south of Rongli, at a meagre altitude of around 2000ft, Reshi or Reshikhola is slowly becoming a popular eco-tourism spot. Technically just on the edge of West Bengal, where the river Reshi marks the border with Sikkim, surrounded by evergreen forests and a charming khola (Small rivulet in Nepali), this place was first conceptualized as an eco-tourism destination by a local gentleman named Mr. Sebastian Pradhan around a decade back. In fact, much of what the old silk route has become these days from the view of tourism can be attributed to the effort and farsightedness of this man. He was the one who convinced the locals to start homestays out of their homes in various villages of the circuit. There are now about 5 resorts in Reshikhola including his ‘Eco Prakriti’ which is the oldest.

The resorts are all generally wooden cottages by the river stream, on both sides. A host of activities like, bonfire by the river bed, angling, taking a dip in the cold gush and walks inside the surrounding forests can be done while at Reshikhola. Reshikhola is one of the most opted starting place for the old silk route, owing to its proximity to Rongli and more importantly its beautiful location almost among nothingness other than a gentle river gushing on with its clear waters, within a circumference of greenery and endless silence.

Aritrar, Lampokhari and Mankhim

Aritrar, at around 4000 ft. and 20 KMs from Rongli is another popular starting or ending point travelers opt for. This infact is a slight detour from the actual old silk route. What makes it worth a visit is an Artificial Lake with boating facilities (probably the only one in Sikkim), a British era Dak Bungalow inside a forest which tourists can stay in, and a hilltop view point offering a majestic sight of Mt Kanchenjunga on a clear morning.

The lake is called Lampokhari (Pokhari in Nepali means small lake or pond). Earlier a natural lake later artificially reconstructed to facilitate paddle-boating facility, there is also an upscale resort nearby to it called Lampokhari Village Resort.

Around 3 KMs and 2000ft uphill from the lake, through a forested trail of occasional Kuccha roads, is Mankhim Top. Enroute which, the Aritrar Dak Bungalow is situated which looks quite appealing from the outside. A night spent in the heritage bungalow with a colonial past must be thrilling too. Mankhim is right at the top of the hill at the foot of which Lampokhari lies. It’s a small village atop a hill inhabited by the Rai ethnic group of people of Nepali lineage. There is also a temple of these people at the pinnacle beside which the tastefully built viewpoint is situated. From here a cemented footpath goes down through the forests and ends at the lake below. The view of the lake from places on this walking trail is quite a sight, apart from ofcourse the entire Kanchenjunga smiling at the top of the horizon. The specialty of this place is the absence of any other taller mountain in its immediacy, which grants Mankhim a commanding view all around. There is a homestay just 20 steps down from the temple which I will personally recommend for its location. Aptly named, Kanchenjunga Mirror Homestay, run by an ever-smiling Rai family, the view just out of bed is to die for.

Dheeraj Sharma

All the places discussed till now are before Rongli, hence no permits are required to visit them. These places are generally used as a stopover for the first/last night for the old silk route. That being said, these places have tremendous potentials for tourism by themselves as well.

The Journey upward

Once the necessary permits are obtained from Rongli, the actual fun begins. The smooth tarmac will be a pleasure for those driving their own vehicles. Do take a moment to introspect the fact that centuries ago, caravans of horses commuted these same paths with items of trade. Apart from articles of business and perhaps more importantly, cross-cultural wisdom, spread of Buddhism, inter-regional travel and exchange of humanity took place for hundreds of years predating any other form of communication.

Shortly after getting started from Rongli, Lingtam is where the permits will be checked. The names of the travelers are registered to keep track until one exits the region either from the Gangtok side or back here again. Few homestays have sprung up here as well in recent times. There is a small park by the side of the road beside the river with big rocks scattered around. Nice place for a few clicks.

Padamchen or Phadamchen

Around 15 KMs up from Rongli at around 8000 ft., Padamchen is all about greenery and solitude. The place offers sweeping views of the adjoining valleys with Himalayan evergreen forests, a pleasant climate all year, untouched walking trails inside the adjoining forests and if you are lucky enough, sightings of rare species of birds and animals such as the Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda and Steppe Eagles.

There is a wooden Forest Rest House dating back to the colonial era where tourists can manage to stay at apart from several homestays that have sprung up recently.

Interesting Read :  Dzongu – The Little Known Paradise of the Lepchas

Zuluk or Dzuluk

Probably the most popular of all places on silk route, Zuluk at 10000 ft. about 10 KMs up from Padamchen through thrilling hairpin bends, was even in a recent point of reality, a roadside Himalayan ‘ bustee ’ of about 100 houses. All that changed when a denizen named Mr. Gopal Pradhan started his homestay Dilmaya Retreat on the insistence of Mr. Sebastian Pradhan of Reshi. Together, they coordinated to pull this circuit out of oblivion and into public access. His homestay is the oldest in the entire of the Silk route. Atleast 6-7 other homestays exist nowadays in Zuluk, some infact are better in facilities than Dilmaya.

Zuluk is also known for its spring bloom of Rhododendrons which practically paint the treeless slopes in vivid hues of red and purple. The views specially in the mornings are breathtaking when the sun rises from the horizon and due to the elevation, the valleys below are engulfed in clouds, providing a sensational scene of a sunrise being witnessed standing above the white mist.

In the winter months, Zuluk experiences heavy snowfall which carpets the slopes and the roads in white. There is a big army base too in Zuluk. Apart from the hills of Sikkim, a portion of Bhutan in the east, can also be viewed from Zuluk.

The View Points (Ganek, Thambi & Lungthung)

Zuluk inspite of its elevation does not offer a clear peep to the Kanchenjunga Range and the Trans-Himalaya. Three strategic viewpoints close by are popular for that matter, especially for the sunrise, as it generally gets foggy and gloom in the afternoon in this region.

Just 6 KMs out of Zuluk is Ganek, It is more popular for the view of the Zuluk Loops . Around 30 hairpin bends are visible if the weather is clear.

Thambi Viewpoint at 11600ft is particularly famous for the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga , besides also offering a majestic view of the loops. The loops look like a serpent laying over a mountain ridge. Carrying a pair of binoculars is advisable.

16 KMs from Zuluk, travelling up through exhilarating hairpin bends (around 32), at around 12000ft, Lungthung is in my bet the best of the three. The entire panorama of Kanchenjunga is visible in a poised directness from here. Make sure you start early from Zuluk if wishing to see the sunrise out of here.

As the eastern night sky starts to bleed the first light before the sun actually rises, while the billion stars are still twinkling, the morning star the brightest, keep peeping westward every now and then. While the entirety will be still pitch dark, between the west and east, suddenly at a moment of miracle, the summit of Kanchenjunga invisible till then will bloom up in vivid red. Gradually hence, the victory of light over darkness will unfold, as if ceremoniously being celebrated by Mother Nature. The hues on the great Kanchenjunga will change from red to pink, then gold to silver. The eastern horizon brightens up spectacularly, vanishing the cliché stars, for quite a fantasy of ‘sea of clouds’ underneath your feet. White mist waves weaving an inconceivable magic for the eyes.

Nathang or Gnathang Valley

Probably the ‘apple of the eye’ of the entire Silk Route, Nathang Valley at 13500 ft. is magnificent. Originally inhabited by Tibetan yak herders, Nathang Valley in modern times is gaining popularity due to its pristine landscapes. Sometimes also referred to as ‘Ladakh of the east’, it indeed has some similarities. A flat grassy valley interspersed by winding streams of glacial melt surrounded by daunting barren mountains. It witnesses a riot of colors during the blooming season of Rhododendrons between June and September. Unlike any other place in the silk route, this small village of some 50 modest wooden houses are inhabited by people of Tibetan origin.

The valley changes its theme with time. From being engulfed with thick fog where visibility would be less than a meter, to pompous brightness in the sunlit mornings. Around 5 homestays take guests these days, some of which are traditional wooden houses. The altitude of the place makes it quite chilly in the nights, and if it is windy on top of that, it can get quite unbearable. There is a temple on a hilltop at the village. Be cautious before exerting on the steps, but if you get to the top, the view of the entire village and the extended valley will carve a place in your memories forever. Prayer flags adorn all corners of the village which makes it more colorful.

There is a wooden high school in the village, which is quite remarkable given its remoteness. The village gets intermittently inaccessible in winters when it recedes under thick blankets of snow. The surrounding slopes of the village are ideal for skiing and government of Sikkim is in talks with the army to set it up as a destination of winter sports. Apart from the homestays, an old Dafter Bunglow has been renovated recently by the ministry of tourism for accommodation. After Thangu in North Sikkim , Nathang Valley is the second highest place in Sikkim where tourists can stay but again, spending a night at 13500 ft., the body must be acclimatized properly.

Eagle’s Nest Bunker

Now this place is elusive. Very few people properly know about where it actually is. Even the locals of Nathang Valley and army officers posted there could not tell us about it, however it definitely is somewhere within a radius of 5 KMs from Nathang Valley on the main road. One of my friend could locate it successfully and witnessed a sunrise which left him, in his words, ‘spellbound’. It is an old army bunker atop a hill. A small uphill tread from the road would take you up there. The walls of the bunker have bullet marks from the Sino-Indian war in the early sixties. The location is perfectly strategic giving a 360-degree unhindered view of the surrounding. At sunrise, the bunker floats above a sea of clouds providing views of not only the entire Kanchenjunga massifs, but as far as the plains of Tibet on the North where the great Bramhaputra river (known as Tsongpo River in China) can be seen like a winding stream of molten gold echoing the first lights. Other distant peaks of Tibetan Plateau, western Bhutan, the Tarai plains of Bengal and even the hill town of Darjeeling can be spotted from the Eagle’s nest just like an Eagle would see it. An experience of witnessing a sunrise from up here would truly be mesmerizing.

Interesting Read : Guide to Gurudongmar Lake & Chopta Valley

On a clear day, if a lake manifests emerald blue hues and appears in shape like an elephant, it will be Kupup Lake . At the centerstage of a glorious adjoining valley, a small village Kupup with a sparse population and a police check post is situated on the banks of it. Bitan Cho, as it is locally called is also referred to as Elephant Lake due to its resemblance of shape.

Memencho Lake

Memencho Lake is another gorgeous high altitude lake quite near to Kupup. Unlike Bitan Cho, this lake is surrounded by straight standing conifers on all sides which makes it all the more alluring to the eye especially after a fresh snowfall when the trees wear a layer of white. This lake cannot be accessed directly by a car. A downward trek of 4 KMs through a winding road will have to be made to reach its shores. There is a beautiful view point set up at the banks. Few years back, accommodation in an inspection bungalow was started just beside it but could not be sustained due to the harsh climate almost around the year. Fed by the melts from the Jelep La Mountains just above it, the lake is known for changing colors with change in light conditions in a day.

Tukla Valley

About 15 KMs from Kupup, an untouched valley remains lost in ignorance due to its geographic immediacy with the international borders. Exotic is the word that would probably come closest in describing Tukla Valley. An extension of the lower Tibetan Plateau , at 13000 ft., vast and flat in expanse, with the Trans-Himalayan massifs smiling over it, Tukla Valley has potential to become what Yumthang could manage. Only a small part of the valley is accessible to civilians towards its eastern end. The valley is enveloped in red in the blooming season with rare orchids and rhododendrons. The access to Jelep La (also out of bounds for civilians) goes through the valley. A heroic expedition under Colonel Younghusband of the British Indian Army was led through the Jelep La in 1904 to capture Lhasa. A memorial for the lives lost thereby stands to this day in Tukla.

Another fascinating landmark of Tukla Valley is an Eighteen-hole golf course which has its place in the Guinness book of world records for being the highest in the world at 13025 ft. Called Yak Golf Course, for the reason being, senior golfers are transported across the fields on yaks. The course spreads across natural streams. Tournaments like the Kalimpong Cup has been held here.

Old Baba Mandir or Baba’s Bunker

Described in my earlier article on Gangtok, the new Baba Mandir which is a standard part of the Changu – Nathu La daytrip out of Gangtok these days, is a newly built structure in honor of baba Harbhajan Singh. The actual bunker, in which baba resided falls on the old silk route. It is also maintained with pure belief by the jawans of whichever regiment serves here. One can go inside the bunker and see baba’s bed, shoes, other articles etc. A lot of stories fly around, like how the bed is neatly draped every day and is found crumpled every morning, as if someone has slept on it, or how his shoes are found mud laden after being polished every now and then, etc. What is more astonishing, is the amount of honesty and truth in the eyes of these courageous men who narrate these tales. The trekking trail for Memencho Lake goes down from opposite the road from here. The backyard of the bunker is cordoned off and is said to be strewn with landmines laid during the war of 1962 in anticipation of a Chinese invasion which never happened because of “blessings of baba” and was never taken out. Baba’s favorite dry fruits are served as Prasad to everybody visiting here.

About 10 KMs from here is the new Baba mandir and shortly following which the Silk Route merges with the conventional road towards Nathu La out of Gangtok.

Best Time to Visit East Sikkim

The Winters are generally harsh and has the risks of roads getting blocked due to snowfall. However, this route is cleared up with priority by the BRO. The places mentioned, specially Gnathang Valley and Dzuluk are becoming increasingly popular as winter destinations for witnessing snowfall and the clearer views.

Mid-April to Mid-June. Then October-November, avoiding the monsoon months would be the best periods to make a visit.

Places to Stay & Eat in East Sikkim

Apart from some of the places in the foothills, all other staying options along the circuit are homestays. One can expect clean rooms with attached western toilets in almost all of them. Some of them are even more luxurious with TVs and Room-heaters. Extensive information about the places are widely available on the internet. Kanchenjunga Mirror at Mankhim top, and Palzor Homestay at Nathang Valley are where I stayed and loved both.

Apart from Rongli, there aren’t any restaurants or eateries elsewhere. The homestays generally charge an inclusive price per head including stay and food, ranging from 800 to 2000 INR, varying with place, season, group size and your bargaining skills. The quality of food served are generally quite good.

Indicative Itinerary for East Sikkim

Ideally a timeframe of 4 days should be spent exploring this route. The place with what it holds within it deserves that amount of time. However, a trip of 2Nights & 3Days can cut it. It would only give you enough reason to come back again someday.

DAY 1 : Reach NJP / Bagdogra and proceed to Sillery / Pedong / Kalimpong / Reshikhola / Rongli / Aritrar / Mankhim. Or one can add a day here to visit any two of the places

DAY 2 : Reach Rongli in the morning and obtain the permits. Thereafter proceed on the Silk Route. Plan the second night at either Padamchen / Dzuluk / Nathang Valley.

DAY 3 : Witness the Sunrise from Eagle’s Nest or Thambi Viewpoint. Go sightseeing to Kupup, Tukla, Baba’s Bunker etc. One can come down to any place of the foothills for the Night or proceed towards Gangtok otherwise

DAY 4 : Return or Continue to some other place

If travelling from Gangtok, after visiting Changu, Nathu La & New Baba Mandir, proceed towards Gnathang Valley or Zuluk for the first night. On Day 2, do the sightseeing after sunrise, and proceed to any place in the foothills, and thereby exiting for the return on Day 3

Interesting Read :  Himalayan Zoological Parks – An attempt to introduce wildlife to tourists

Other Things to Remember

• The region is heavily militarized. Abstain from clicking pictures off the army bases and other military infrastructures. People have got into trouble due to this,
• If considering to do the entire circuit, i.e., Rongli to Gangtok or vice versa, avoid the winter months, as it gets unpredictable.
• Zuluk is at 10k feet, Nathang Valley is even higher, if travelling with elderly or infants, take caution. At any point, if anything goes south, head straight to the nearest army camp, they have all necessary facilities including doctors.
• If self-driving, give the army trucks a little leeway as this road is primarily for them.
• Zuluk and Nathang Valley get windy and bitingly cold at nights, even in peak summer. Carry appropriate woolens.
• Avoid driving after sunset as there is hardly any vehicular movement after that. Even in daytime the amount of traffic is very slim apart from the convoys of army trucks.

Obtaining Permits for East Sikkim

Until a decade ago, this region was completely off limits for everyone except the local villagers. Even now, Foreigners aren’t allowed at all. Only Indian tourists on providing an identity proof and a passport size picture are provided with the required Inner Line Permits. Keep an original ID proof handy as it might be asked for at one of the check posts. It is better to let your homestay owner or driver of your vehicle to handle this matter which they are quite happy to do.

The Permits for the Old Silk Route are given out of both Gangtok and Rongli. However, there is one catch, as far as I am aware, the permits for Nathu La are only given out of Gangtok. Which means, if you are entering from Rongli and exiting from Gangtok, you cannot visit Nathu La. Do check once with your homestay owner, as sometimes they being locals, know how to bend little rules here and there.

Mobile Network / ATMs / Utilities

BSNL, Airtel and Vodafone work at most places except the region between Sherathang to Nathang Valley where nothing works.

Between Rongli and Gangtok, there is one single PNB ATM near Changu Lake within an army transit camp. It is claimed that this is the highest functioning ATM in India at more than 12000 ft., but please do not pin your hopes on this. Rongli and Gangtok have several ATMs.

There are no hospitals between Gangtok and Rongli in this route, however, the army bases are more than helpful in case of need. In fact, the villagers of this region too depend on the army medical facilities.

Interesting Read : Pelling – An offbeat place in West Sikkim

Location & Altitude

The places discussed in the article are parts or short detours of the Old Silk Route, which entirely falls in the district of East Sikkim, in the Indian state of Sikkim. The Altitude vary from 3000ft to 14500 ft. Across the borders north and west lies Tibet and Bhutan for some part

Getting There

New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest railhead to both Rongli and Gangtok. Bagdogra (IXB) is still the nearest operational airport. Pakyong airport, the only airport in SIkkim was recently inaugurated by our Prime Minister and is poised to begin operations from around second week of October, after which it will be the closest for all places in Sikkim.

Public transport is available for Gangtok and Rongli from NJP and Siliguri frequently. For Rongli, direct share jeeps are less in number. Break your journey from either Rangpo or Kalimpong.

Sadly, for the Silk route, availability of shared jeeps on spot is absent. However, travel agents club people together into bigger vehicles. For couples or small families on a budget it is better to take a conducted package than to hire an entire vehicle. There are many reliable agents available. For any help feel free to drop a comment.

If you are one of those travelers who could do without the luxuries of hotels for places that are worth it, if silence and tranquility calls out to your core, if nothing else matters over the rawness of nature to you, or if there is that bone in your body which craves for a little adventure or the thrill of reliving a definitive part of history, the Old Silk Route is your kind of place. Come here for the unforgettable views, come for the altitude and its thin air. Come here for the birds or come for the soft-spoken red-cheeked people with a genuine smile pasted to their faces, come for the greenery, come for the winding roads, come for the pristine lakes, come for the flowers that grow above the tree-line, but do come for sure.

An obscurantist wanderer in the abyss of perspectives... A mechanical engineer by profession working with a leading automobile company, though perhaps solely to afford my escapades. Hailing from Kolkata and being a bengali, the travel bug bit me quite young and irrecoverably. Mountains are where my soul dwells perpetually, so even when I'm not there, a part of me always is. Not yet there but want to call myself a traveler and a writer someday, A wannabe guitarist and photographer too. Poetry, music, deep logical conversations, fresh sense of humor and sarcasm turn me on. Can follow me on instagram @in_shadesofmediocrity

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We are a family of two adults and a child of 5 years age. We are planning for silk route tour between 23rd of March and 29th of March. Please get in touch with us asap. Thanks.

Arun is based in Kalimpong and can provide transportation for Sillery, Ecchey and the entire Silk route. 09679705875. 08927473119 Another person based at Zuuk (Collected from a source) Namgyal Bhutia – 09832043666, 09734955289

Hope it helps. have a great trip.

Can you please provide contact no of few car operator for hire A car to visit zuluk n nathang for one day.

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Exploring The Sikkim Silk Route: A Journey Through Time and Beauty

Embark on a Sikkim Silk Route trip that will take you through lush landscapes and culturally rich hotspots, showcasing the vibrant history of Sikkim Silk Route and the must-see places to visit in Sikkim . Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just in search of an adventure, the Sikkim Silk Route is a journey that surprises and delights at every turn.

About Old Silk Route In Sikkim

Reason behind the name – silk route.

The luxurious garments produced were highly sought after by wealthy Romans, making silk a key item traded from China to the West. While it wasn’t the only commodity exchanged, silk was among the most significant on the Silk Route, highlighting its importance in the History Of Silk Route.

The Sikkim Silk Route played a crucial part in this historical exchange, facilitating not just trade but also the spread of ideas, culture, languages, and technology across regions.

This Sikkim Silk Route trip offers a journey through the history of Silk Route Sikkim Travel Guide , tracing the paths that connected diverse civilizations and contributed to their cultural and economic development.

Overview of the Sikkim Silk Route

Historical background, cultural and economic impact, travel guide to the silk route in sikkim, the legacy of silk route sikkim.

The Silk Route Sikkim Travel Guide is essential for anyone looking to explore this unique route, providing insights into its rich past and guidance for navigating its beautiful terrains.

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Preparing for the Journey

Best Time to Visit: To fully enjoy the Sikkim Silk Route, plan your trip during the summer and autumn months, from April to June and September to November. These months offer pleasant weather, allowing for spectacular views of the Himalayas and vibrant landscapes.

Permits: Obtaining the necessary permits is a critical step for your Sikkim Silk Route trip. You’ll need specific permissions to access areas like Zuluk and Nathula and to enter and travel within Sikkim. Prepare multiple copies of these permits, along with your vehicle documents, to avoid any issues on your journey.

Transportation: For those starting their Sikkim Silk Route trip from Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri, it’s important to choose a reliable mode of transportation. If you’re bringing a bike, Indian Railways provides convenient options to transfer it to Siliguri. Make sure you have all your vehicle-related documents in order, such as registration, driver’s licence, and pollution certification.

Pack Wisely: The journey along the Sikkim Silk Route can vary in weather and terrain, so packing appropriately is key. Include warm clothing, sturdy footwear, a first aid kit, and sufficient food and water supplies. These essentials will help you handle the diverse conditions along the route.

Local Guidance: Leveraging local knowledge can greatly enhance your experience. Consult with locals about the Old Silk Route in Sikkim, sightseeing spots, and any travel tips they might offer. Their advice can provide invaluable insights into navigating the route and discovering hidden gems.

By considering these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the rich history and stunning scenery of the Silk Route in Sikkim.

Itinerary for Exploring the Silk Route from Bagdogra/New Jalpaiguri:

Day 1: arrival in gangtok .

• Travel Details: Your adventure begins at Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri. Arrange a pre-booked taxi or shared vehicle to Gangtok, the vibrant capital of Sikkim. The drive usually takes 4-5 hours, covering 124 km.
• Activities:
• Hotel Check-in: Relax at your hotel after the long journey.
• MG Marg: In the evening, take a leisurely walk down MG Marg. You will find lots of places to eat in Sikkim as well as places to shop in Sikkim , perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere.
• Enchey Monastery: Visit this peaceful monastery to learn about local Buddhist traditions and enjoy its calm setting.

Day 2: Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass

• Travel to Tsomgo Lake: Start early and head to Tsomgo Lake, situated at 12,400 feet above sea level. The 40 km journey from Gangtok through mountain roads offers stunning views.
• Tsomgo Lake: Admire the lake’s crystal-clear waters and the surrounding peaks. You might also enjoy a yak ride along its banks.
• Nathula Pass: Continue to this Indo-China border crossing, which offers expansive mountain vistas. The area’s strategic importance is highlighted by its rich history as a major pass on the Sikkim Silk Route.
• Baba Mandir: On your way back, visit this temple dedicated to a revered soldier, whose spirit is said to guard the borders.

Day 3: Gangtok to Zuluk

• Travel Details: After breakfast, drive approximately 90 km to Zuluk, navigating the winding roads of this less travelled but visually stunning area of the Sikkim Silk Route.
• Zig Zag Road: Experience the thrilling Zig Zag Road that offers panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains and deep valleys.
• Thambi View Point: Try to time your visit for sunrise—a breathtaking sight as the sun rises over the Eastern Himalayas.

Day 4: Zuluk to Nathang Valley – Kupup Lake

• Explore Nathang Valley: Often referred to as the “Ladakh of the East,” this area is known for its stark beauty and strategic importance in the history of Sikkim Silk Route.
• Kupup Lake: Visit this uniquely shaped lake, also known as Elephant Lake, set against the backdrop of the rugged Himalayan terrain.
• War Memorials: Take time to explore the local memorials that narrate tales of past military engagements in this strategic corridor.

Day 5: Nathang Valley to Rishikhola

• Travel Details: Cover the scenic 60 km to Rishikhola, expected to take about 3-4 hours.
• Relaxation by the River: Rishikhola offers a peaceful setting perfect for relaxation. Enjoy activities like angling or simply unwind by the soothing sounds of the river.

Day 6: Rishikhola to Bagdogra/New Jalpaiguri

• Return Journey: Complete your journey along the Sikkim Silk Route by driving back to Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri, a trip of about 180 km lasting 6-7 hours.
• Optional Activities: If time permits, consider visiting Kalimpong or Darjeeling. Both towns are renowned for their unique blend of cultures and beautiful scenic views, adding a perfect end to your Silk route tour package.

Things To Do on the Sikkim Silk Route:

1. explore historical sites.

• Discover Ancient Monasteries: Visit prominent spiritual sites like the Enchey Monastery in Gangtok, which offers insights into the vibrant Buddhist culture integral to the history of Sikkim Silk Route.
• Visit Baba Mandir: Learn the legend of Baba Harbhajan Singh, the hero soldier revered by both locals and travellers along the Old Silk Route in Sikkim.

2. Enjoy Natural Beauty

• Tsomgo Lake Visit: No Silk Route tour package is complete without seeing Tsomgo Lake. Ride a yak along the lake’s edge and take in the stunning reflections of surrounding peaks.
• Sunrise at Thambi View Point: Experience a breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga from Thambi View Point, a must-do for photographers and nature lovers on the Sikkim Silk Route.

3. Cultural Engagement

Sample Local Cuisine: Try local delicacies such as momos, thukpa, and local millet beers, which reflect the culinary heritage of the region.

4. Adventure Activities

• Trekking and Hiking: The Old Silk Route in Sikkim offers numerous trekking and hiking trails that allow adventurers to explore the rugged terrain and enjoy panoramic views.
• Bird Watching in Zuluk: Zuluk, not only a critical point in the history of Sikkim Silk Route but also a biodiversity hotspot, offers opportunities to spot rare Himalayan birds and wildlife.

5. Relaxation and Reflection

• Rishikhola Leisure Time: After days of trekking and exploration, Rishikhola provides a serene spot to relax by the river, reflect on your journey, and perhaps even indulge in some meditation or yoga by the water.

6. Photography

• Capture the Landscape: The dramatic landscapes and historic sites along the Old Silk Route in Sikkim provide ample opportunities for amateur and professional photographers alike to capture stunning images of this unique area.

7. Educational Opportunities

• Learn About the Silk Trade: Deepen your understanding of the history of Sikkim Silk Route by visiting local museums or taking guided tours that explain the historical significance of the silk trade and its impact on the region.

By engaging in these activities, travellers can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural and diverse ecosystems that make a Sikkim Silk Route trip truly memorable. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, the Sikkim Silk Route offers something unique for every visitor.

Travel Tips To Keep In Mind for the Sikkim Silk Route Trip:

2. Respect Local Customs: The regions along the Old Silk Route in Sikkim are rich in cultural traditions. Show respect by dressing modestly and behaving courteously at cultural sites.

3. Stay Environmentally Conscious: Keep the trails clean by carrying back all your trash, and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.

4. Prepare for the Weather: The weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Dress in layers and carry rainproof gear to stay comfortable.

2. Don’t Feed Wildlife: Feeding animals can disrupt their natural foraging habits and lead to ecological imbalances.

3. Don’t Overlook Local Guidance: Ignoring the insights of locals can mean missing out on lesser-known spots that could be the highlight of your Sikkim Silk Route trip.

4. Don’t Skimp on Supplies: In remote areas, stores might be sparse. Bring essential supplies including water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight.

In conclusion, embarking on a Sikkim Silk Route trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this historic pathway. 

Whether you’re seeking adventure, spiritual solace, or a chance to connect with nature, a Silk Route tour package is an excellent way to experience the beauty and history of the Old Silk Route in Sikkim. From the rugged terrains of Nathang Valley to the serene waters of Tsomgo Lake, each stop along the route promises a unique story and an unforgettable experience. 

So pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and set off to discover the ancient paths that have connected civilizations for centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: how long does it take to explore the silk route in sikkim, q: what is the sikkim silk route, q: what is the best time of the year to visit the sikkim silk route, q: are there any permits required for traveling on the silk route in sikkim.

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• Silk Route Tour Plan – A Complete Guide

The Old Silk Route in Sikkim is a historic trade route that once connected India through the plains of Bengal with the ancient Tibet. Traversing through rugged terrains and breathtaking landscapes, this fabled route continues to captivate travelers with its mystique and charm. Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, the Silk Route in Sikkim offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and mesmerizing natural beauty.

How it is named as Silk Route:

The Old Silk Route takes us on a journey back in time, where merchants from India and Tibet engaged in bustling trade of silk, spices, and other valuable goods. Today, this ancient trail serves as a gateway to explore the remote and untouched beauty of Sikkim. Starting from the small village of Zuluk, the route winds its way through lush green forests, high-altitude passes, and quaint mountain villages. Each step on this trail unveils the untold stories of the past.

Amazing Landscapes & Zigzag Roads:

As you travel along the Silk Route, you will be greeted by one breathtaking vista after another. The panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, terraced hills, and pristine valleys are simply awe-inspiring. The shimmering blue waters of Tsomgo Lake, the rugged beauty of Gnathang Valley, and the tranquility of Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake) add to the enchantment of the journey. Don’t forget to wake up early to catch the glorious sunrise from Thambi Viewpoint, where the first rays of light paint the peaks in hues of gold and orange.

Enjoy Local Experiences:

One of the highlights of exploring the Silk Route is the opportunity to stay in traditional homestays. The warm hospitality of the local hosts, the authentic Sikkimese cuisine, and the chance to participate in their daily activities provide a truly immersive experience. Engage in conversations with the villagers, learn about their customs, and witness their traditional dance and music performances.

Spirituality & Buddhist Monasteries:

Sikkim is also known for its vibrant Buddhist culture, and the Silk Route is dotted with several monasteries and stupas. Take a moment to visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a revered temple dedicated to a soldier who is believed to protect the area. The Tukla Valley also houses a war memorial that pays tribute to the brave soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo-China war. These spiritual sites offer a sense of serenity and introspection amidst the wild landscapes.

The Old Silk Route in Sikkim is not just a destination; it’s an unforgettable journey that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler’s heart. From its ancient tales to its unspoiled beauty, the Silk Route offers a unique and soul-stirring experience that beckons wanderers to come and explore its secrets. So, put on your traveling shoes, pack your curiosity, and embark on this extraordinary odyssey through the land of mountains and mystique.

Places to visit in Silk Route Sikkim

The Silk Route in Sikkim is a treasure trove of scenic beauty and cultural heritage. It offers several fascinating places to visit that will leave you in awe of the region’s charm. Here are some must-visit places along the Silk Route in Sikkim:

Zuluk (Dzuluk): This quaint mountain village is the starting point of the Silk Route. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and is famous for its winding roads with 32 hairpin bends called the “Zig Zag Road.” Don’t miss the sunrise from Thambi Viewpoint for a magical sight of the Kanchenjunga range. Nathang Valley (Gnathang Valley): A high-altitude plateau with stunning landscapes, Nathang Valley is a picturesque destination on the Silk Route. It offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and is often covered in snow during the winter months.

Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake): This high-altitude lake is named Elephant Lake due to its shape resembling an elephant. Surrounded by snow-clad mountains, the lake offers a serene and picturesque setting. Dalapchand: This is a small village after Kalimpong which comes under West Bengal.

Sillery Gaon: Sillery Gaon is situated in West Bengal and Sikkim border from where the Silk route starts. It is around 4-5hrs drive from Siliguri. Sillery Gaon is famous for it’s majestic view of Kanchanjungha range. Icchegaon: This village is also a calm and quite village for those who are looking for a village life stay in Silk Route.

Rishikhola : This destination in Silk route is situated beside Rishi river which is very beautiful during full moon nights. There are a few homestays in Rishikhola but most of them are situated on the mountains so its not recommended for aged people who has knee pain or injuries.

Rongli: Rongli is the entry point of Silk route from where you will get the permits done. This is like a small town in this route.

Padamchen : This village is situated in the Silk Route and you might stay here for a night.

Lingtam : This small village also falls into enroute Zuluk.

Rolep : This village is named as per the river Rolep. A few homestays in Rolep is accomodating guests who they are visiting Silk Route.

Aritar : Aritar is a serene village with beautiful lakes and forests. Don’t miss visiting the Lampokhri Lake and Mankhim Temple for stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Mankhim : This village is known for its cardamom plantations and offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature. The Mangkhim view tower provides excellent views of the Himalayas.

Tukla Valley : This valley has significant historical importance, as it houses a war memorial in memory of soldiers who lost their lives in the 1962 Indo-China war.

Gnathang Valley: Another charming village along the Silk Route, Gnathang offers a quiet escape amidst the mountains and is perfect for nature lovers.

While visiting these places, ensure you respect the local culture and traditions, and practice responsible tourism to preserve the natural beauty of the region. The Silk Route is a unique and unforgettable journey that will leave you with cherished memories of Sikkim’s captivating landscapes and warm hospitality.

Where you should stay in Silk Route

To get an answer to this question you have to understand that the Silk route is a linear road which goes towards Zuluk and then to Gangtok via Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. If we consider Nathang valley as the top point where tourists can stay and the lowest point of Silk route is Sillery Gaon the total distance is around 100km. So even if you stay 3 nights on a daily basis you just travel 35km in avg. You should make your plan at a distance of 35km from each night stay destinations.

This Silk Route Tourist Map will help you to plan your trip better.

Recommended Night Stay Options.

Sillery Gaon Rongli Padamchen Zuluk Aritar

Best Time to Visit Silk Route

You can visit Silk route anytime except Monsoon (June middle to Sept Middle). If you want to see snow you have to visit during March-May. But if you are travelling before mid of April avoid staying in Nathang or Zuluk. If you are travelling during winter keep heavy woolen jackets.

How to Reach Silk Route

You have to reach Siliguri / New Jalpaigudi if you are travelling by Train. If you are travelling by Flight you have to reach Bagdogra (IXB). Siliguri is also connected with Kolkata by overnight Volvo buses. Considering Sillery Gaon or Dalapchand as the first point for Silk Route you can reach there by hired vehicles. Its recommended to take a SUV rather than a hatchback car because of the road conditions. If you want to travel by public transport you can take buses to Kalimpong from Siliguri and then from Kalimpong you have to take a hired vehicle to reach Sillery or any other destinations in Silk Route.

Transportation in Silk Route

Hired vehicles are the only option to travel Silk Route. Tata Sumo / Boleros are better for road conditions. You can also take a Xylo or Scorpio for this trip. The best way to arrange vehicle is either you take it from any homestay you book or you book from some trusted tour operator in Kolkata / Siliguri. Reaching out there and booking local taxi wont be a good idea. Remember in Silk route cars wont be at your disposal. Cars will pick you up in the morning, will be there with you during the travel and then after dropping you to your hotel / homestay they will leave.

Silk Route Tour Cost

If you ask how does it cost for a Silk route package its not possible to answer however we can help you with the calculation by which you can calculate your own. Homestays will cost you from Rs.1000 – Rs1400 per day per head including 4 times meal. A Tata Sumo or Bolero will cost around Rs.4000/day. During Bijaya Dashami and Bhai phota (bhai duj) the price of cars might go very high due to unavailability of cars.

Homestays in Silk Route

All the mentioned places have homestays and they provide simple homely food and basic stays. You can book Silk Route Homestays from www.fusionstays.com. Tourism in Silk route is still under development and therefore the homestays are basic so if you are coming to Silk Route please come with an anticipation that there will be small issues everywhere. You have to ignore those small things and enjoy the nature.

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Silk Route Tour (Sikkim) – Attractions, Trip Itinerary

• June 11, 2023
• 10 min read

The Silk Route is a historic trade network that linked Central Asia and the Mediterranean Sea for centuries. A part of this 10000 kilometers long route is situated in East Sikkim. It has shaped the civilizations of the past by facilitating the exchange of goods and cultures.

This route is regarded as the world’s first information superhighway and offers some of the most spectacular landscapes.

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From the part of the Silk Route situated in Sikkim, you can get mesmerizing views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga along with the marvelous horizon. Here you will also learn about the rich cultural and historical heritage of the place, where different civilizations met and exchanged goods and ideas.

The route is a paradise for tourists and travelers who are drawn to its beauty, tranquility, and heritage.

In this article, you will get to know the following points about the Silk Route in Sikkim,

• Trip Itinerary
• Permits needed

Let’s see each of these points in detail.

History of the Silk Route

The Silk Route in Sikkim is a part of the ancient trade route that was used by traders for more than 1500 years. The route originates from Central Asia and connected India, China, Persia, Arabia, Greece, and Italy before reaching the Mediterranean. This route is said to have been established during the Han Dynasty. They opened trading in 130 BCE. Business in these parts was still on when the Ottoman Empire closed off any kind of trade with the Western world.

The term ‘Silk Route/road’ was first used by German Traveller and Geographer Ferdinand Von Richthofen in 1877 CE. The words particularly mean a well-traveled pathway of trading silk between Europe and East Asia. The route crossed some of the most challenging terrains in the world, such as the Pamir mountains and Gobi Desert. Merchants carried silk from China to Europe, where it was transformed into luxurious clothing. They also brought porcelain, tea, jade, spices, and other valuable items with them from Asia. In return, they took back glassware, textiles, horses, and other manufactured goods.

The famous traveler Marco Polo also traversed along the silk route between 1254 CE to 1324 CE. This route has had a profound influence on the history of Europe and Asia. It was a conduit for the spread of ideas and religions among different countries. It also fostered the growth of towns and cities with diverse cultures along the way. It stimulated innovations and new technologies through the sharing of information and knowledge. This historic pathway has witnessed so much of the past and now some of its sections are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

You can know more about the history of the route on various books available online.

3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary of Silk Route (Sikkim) Trip

Here, I will be sharing our experience of how we explored the stunning Silk Route and what was our feeling regarding the same.

You can start your journey by traversing the routes of Zuluk, either directly from NJP, from Gangtok, or anywhere near Rongli.

We, as in our group of 5 people, had explored the west and north of the state. Now we wanted to see the east as well. We spent a night in Rangpo, where we arranged a car for our journey along the silk route. We also enjoyed some sightseeing and shopping in the town before we set off.

You can also stay at Gangtok and book a cab from there. If you directly want to start with Silk Route, on this day, reach your hotel, rest, and explore the local attractions. Then, get ready to explore the next day.

Our adventure began when the car we had booked the previous day arrived at 6:00 AM to take us to Rongli, where we had to get our permits . We made it to Rongli in around 40 minutes and went inside the office where the PAP (Protected Area Permits) is made.

Rongli is a charming town and is quite important because from here you can get permits such as PAP and the Inner Line Permit (ILP) from the SDPO office. ILP is mainly for Foreigners and is required if you want to go beyond this place to Zuluk and Nathang Valley. Bliss surrounds the place and is worth looking around.

We couldn’t due to the lack of time and headed straight to the silk route. The journey through the silk route was mind-boggling. The smooth road, nature’s lap, clear blue skies, and clouds covering the path all add to the experience along the way. We felt like we were in a dream.

As we drove past Rongli, the road climbed higher and higher until we reached the charming village of Lingtam. We took a break to stretch our legs and admire the scenic views.

There were some homestays available for travelers who wanted to stay overnight. We wished we had more time to explore, but we had to move on.

Padamchen was our next stop along the silk route, at an elevation of 8000 feet. We took a halt again to have a warm meal and soak in the stunning sights of the towering peaks and green valleys. We lingered there for a while before continuing our journey.

The next destination in our journey was Zuluk. The path leading up there brings the actual thrill. Here come the hairpin bends and the stimulation that the silk route is so famed for. 

When we reached Zuluk, at 10100 feet above sea level, we could see the zigzagging route below us, with clouds wrapping us up at times. It looked like a painting from afar. The scenery was heavenly. This was the essence of the silk route that we had come to experience.

We also saw a large army camp, with trucks parked inside the fence. It reminded me of a video game I used to play as a child. 

We spent the night at a homestay in Zuluk and prepared to leave for Nathang Valley the next morning. I loved Zuluk and explored it as much as I could. The tranquility rejuvenated me in every way. My friends missed out on this opportunity as they were busy resting.

Nathang Valley

The next morning, we left Zuluk and followed the winding silk route for 24 kilometers until we reached Nathang Valley, our next destination.

On the way, we stopped at Thambi viewpoint, where we had a breathtaking view of the historic road. We could see the loops of the silk route, which was an amazing sight. The magnificence was awestricken.

After 10 more kilometers, we finally got to the much-awaited valley. It was so beautiful that we understood why it is called the “Ladakh of the East.”

Kupup Lake and Baba Mandir

After the scenic beauty of the valley, we continued our journey toward Kupup Lake. It is a must to get down at this site or else you will miss out on the charm. The lake is also known as the Elephant Lake and it changes its color with the sky.

Then we drove past Tukla Valley, which was beautiful but we didn’t get out of the car. We were more interested in Baba Mandir, the next stop. This is the residence of Baba Harbhajan Singh. There is a fascinating real-life story related to it, which we learned in detail from the locals there.

We entered the Bunker and saw the belongings of Baba. It was an incredible experience that we will never forget.

Changu Lake

One of the most scenic places in the state, this lake captivated me with its natural beauty. I couldn’t stop taking pictures of the stunning views, especially at this lake, which also goes by the name Tsomgo Lake. It is often listed as one of the most beautiful lakes in Sikkim .

We were hungry after exploring the lake, so we decided to try some local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. The momos and the Chow Mein were delicious. Coffee was in our order too to sip on while looking at the remarkable lake and clouds that were coming down to touch the cool waters.

To get a better view of the lake, we took a ropeway ride that cost us ₹360. It was worth every penny. When we reached the top, it started to rain lightly, and we were surrounded by clouds. The cold breeze, the drizzles, and the temperature of 2 degrees made us feel alive. We were standing under the open sky on the rugged rock, at an elevation of 14,500 feet. It was an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

It was already time for us to return and so all of us took to the road again. We looked back once again and started with our journey. The silk route joins the conventional road in the direction of Nathula; one goes towards the pass and another towards Gangtok. We had to end our Silk Route tour there as we turned towards Gangtok.

After about an hour and a half, we arrived at the city. We spent the night at a hotel and departed for NJP the next morning.

Permits and documents needed for Silk Route

There are two places from where you will be able to get the permits to enter all the restricted areas towards East Sikkim. These are Gangtok (MG Marg) and Rongli.

For the Indian Citizens:

If you are traveling through a travel agency or registered tour operator, then they will help you to get the PAP (Protected Area Permit). However, if you are on your own, you can ask your car driver to help you get the permit when you book the car for your trip. The fee is usually around ₹200 per person.

The documents that are needed are:

• A valid ID proof (Aadhar Card, or any other kind of Id proof, except a Pan Card, as it is not accepted).
• Two passport-size photos of yourself.

For Foreigners :

Foreigners need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit any area in Sikkim, and they are not allowed to enter the protected areas near international borders. The ILP can be obtained from the Foreigner’s Registration Office near MG Marg at Tadong.

It is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days if needed.

You can learn more about the permit requirements from the official website of the Sikkim government.

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Disclaimer: Some of the links provided in the article may contain affiliate links. This means when you book or buy something using these links, you help support the website at no extra cost.

Sikkim Silk Route: Know Everything to Plan Your Trip

Everything you need to know about sikkim silk route, old silk route in east sikkim-.

The Old Silk Route or Silk Road which passes through East Sikkim is a part of the ancient network of trade routes which connected China to India. This route passed through Lhasa and Nathu La and Jelep La Pass and finally reached the port of Tamralipta (present Tamluk in West Bengal) from where it took to the sea and reached far east. This Ancient Silk Route is expected to have been discovered by traders as early as First Century AD.

Best Time to Visit-

You can visit Silk Route in East Sikkim throughout the year, except very monsoon,from end of December to February end due to heavy snowfall some routes will remain close.

Silk Route Sightseeing

• Old & New Baba Mandir
• Changu Lake
• Eagle’s Nest Bunker
• Jelep La Pass
• Thambi View Point
• Lampokhari/Aritar Lake
• Laxman Chowk
• Menmecho Lake
• Nathula Pass
• Tukla Valley
• Yak Golf Course

15 Most Untouched Places of Ancient Silk Route in East Sikkim,You must visit once in your lifetime

Places to Stay-

Throughout Silk Route starting from Sillery Gaon to Gangtok,there are some villages to stay. There are no as such Luxury Hotels,locals of those villages have made some homestays to stay.They are very basic homestays with local cuisine. 

1>Sillery Gaon/Icchey Gaon-

Tucked amidst the alpine forest of pine and conifer tree Icchey Gaon is an offbeat destination of North Bengal. Icchey Gaon also spelt as Icche gaon or Echey. Situated at 5800 ft above mean sea level with a panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjungha.   

2>Reshikhola-

Rishikhola is a small settlement located on the bordering area between of West Bengal and Sikkim. 37 km away from Kalimpong,Reshikhola is a riverside destination, at an altitude of 2,000ft in Kalimpong Dist. Rishikhola can an ideal gateway for the tourists those who love to be within the lap of nature in absolute peace and tranquility. An ideal place for bird watchers, as Rishikhola is home several Himalayan birds.

3>Mulkharka Lake Trek-

Mulkharka lake is situated at an altitude of 7500 feet in North Bengal & Sikkim border.The trek route to Mulkarkha Lake is one of the most exciting and untouched trails of the Himalayan foothills.The most fascinating feature of this lake is the reflection of Mt. Kanchenjunga on its tranquil waters.The Mulkarkha Lake is considered sacred by the locals as Manokamana (Wishing) Lake.  Mulkharka Lake Trek package  

4>Aritar Lake or Lampokhri

Lampokhari is the oldest freshwater lake in Sikkim at an elevation of 1400 m and is popularly known as the Aritar Lake amongst the natives. You can do boating here, Aritar Lake is surrounded by verdant green pine forests. A narrow jungle path connects the lake from the nearby mountain top called Mankhim. Although Mt. Kanchenjunga is not visible from Lampokhri.  

5>Mankhim-

Towering over the village of Dalapchand is the scenically beautiful hilltop destination known as Mankhim. Located near to the popular tourist hot spot known as Aritar, Mankhim is the gateway to famous silk route, so anybody planning for Dzuluk or Gnathang valley can easily spend a night at Mankhim and proceed. Mankhim has 3-4 decent homestays with basic yet very satisfying accommodation facilities. Mankhim can be an option for travel buffs to find solace among busy monotonous life  

6> Chochen Pheri-

7>Rolep-

Rolep is a virgin riverside destination near Rongli,20 kms. Rolep is the new-found heaven for birdwatchers and solace seekers. Here in Rolep, you can try your angling skills to catch trout in the Shokey Khola River or get wet at the 45-foot high Buddha waterfall. 

8> Lingtam-

Lingtam is the first village with a check post after Rongli on this route. It is a very peaceful small village with a sparkling weather guarded by a small river called Bakhuter Khola. Located at an altitude of around 5000 feet above sea level, Lingtam has two monasteries and is surrounded by hills on all sides.  

9>Padamchen-

Padamchen is a small village perched on a hilltop, situated at an altitude of 8000 feet above sea-level. Dense forests and the eastern Himalayas form much of the landscape around the village. It lies on the Old Silk Route circuit.Padamchen is a popular tourist destination because of its pleasant weather conditions throughout the year. One can enjoy mesmerizing a sunrise and sunsets from the hilltop. It also offers a beautiful view of the valley below and the winding roads of the Silk Route. The forests of Padamchen are home to a variety of rare birds such as Laughing thrushes, Fulvettas, Honey Buzzards, Steppe Eagles, Babblers, Tits, Wrens and others. Bird watching is a popular tourist activity here. There is also a Heritage Forest rest house one can visit.Weather: Summer 10°C to 22°C Winter 4°C to 10°C  

10>Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary-

Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve in the East Sikkim district of the state of Sikkim in India.The total notified area of the park is around 124 square kilometres (48 sq mi) while inside the wildlife sanctuary there are a few hamlets: Aritar, Lingtam, Phadamchen, Zuluk, Gnathang valley and Kupup. This wildlife sanctuary is linked to the forests of Bhutan and Neora Valley National Park of West Bengal.  Top five birds found in Pangolakha :(source Going Wild)

• Satyr Tragopan
• Himalayan Monal
• Fire-tailed Myzornis
• Asian House Martin
• Fire-capped Tit

11>Lungthung & Dhupidara-

Lungthung Village is located at an altitude of 11,500 feet above sea-level. It is perched on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan Ranges. One can also explore the famous Luxmi Chawk, which lies in the proximity of Lungthung. It is the dense forest of Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary that houses Mosses, Lichens, Rhododendrons and ferns.  

12>Dzuluk or Zuluk-

Zuluk, a small village in East Sikkim, part of Old Silk Route 10000 ft. above the sea level. Zuluk is most famous place to stay in Silk Route circuit. Zuluk is a small village with a large military settlement, given that the Indo-Tibet border is nearby. The village itself is an attractive tourist destination for visitors looking for a quiet sojourn. For most tourists, however, it is the base from which they explore the higher altitude tourist destinations of Nathang Valley, Kupup and Tsongmo lake. 

13>Gnathang or Nathang-

Nathang Valley is located along the Old Silk Route in east Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 13,500 feet above sea-level, the valley has also been referred to as “Ladakh of the East”.The valley changes its color according to seasons. It is dressed in golden in autumn due to the drying up of the grass. Snow clad in winter, it is strikingly white in color. Spring however, is the best time as a blanket of wild flowers covers the valley, dressing it up in vibrant hues of color. There is snowfall during winters. Nathang Valley has a host of beautiful lakes you can see.  There is a small Buddhist Monastery which is a popular tourist attraction. 

14> Doban Valley –

Tucked within lush forests, Doban is a grassland teeming with birds. The two rivers – Reshi and Rangpo meet here to create this picturesque landscape. You just need to cross a wooden bridge across Reshi River to reach Doban. Spending a day in Doban lazing around the grasslands and forests after your stint with the high-altitude passes and lakes in the Silk Route, would be a rejuvenating experience. 

15>Yakten-

Yakten (or Yaakten) is a small human settlement in the foothills of the Himalayas in East-Sikkim. It has marvelous views of the Kanchenjunga range and the lush green valleys. Located near Pakyong – the first international airport at Sikkim, Yakten is still a quiet peaceful place to spend your weekend. With it’s uninterrupted views of mountains and valleys, Yakten also offers rich cultural heritage of Sikkimese people. You can also enjoy the local cuisine and beverages. you can also go for a hike inside forests or trek to the historical ruin in Budang Gadi.​​ Located in the heart of high pine trees, Yakten featured traditional houses of all the ethnic communities of Sikkim.  

Dos & Don’ts-

• Most important thing to keep in mind is that never expect luxury accommodation during travelling Silk Route Sikkim. You cannot expect luxury meals, facilities etc. there as it are remote destination and mountainous area.
• Carry good amount of woolen garments, sweaters, gloves and caps to protect you from the cold.
• Suggest not staying at high altitude area if you are travelling with children and elderly person as it will create headaches, dizziness and vomiting among the aged and children
• Carry transparent glasses, sun glasses, torch, power bank, gas lighter, small knives and necessary items with you. Also carry first aid box etc.
• Carry Original and Photocopy of Id Proof like Votar ID Cards including passport size photograph for Silk Route Permit. Need to carry Birth Certificate or ration card in mandatory for minor too.

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A Travel Itinerary to Visit the Old Silk Route, Zuluk this Season

The Silk Route is one of the major tourist attractions in East Sikkim. If you wish to discover the lesser-known part of the Himalayas, the Silk Route is the ideal place to be. It is a prized road trip experience that traverses through the high passes of the Sikkim Himalayas, touching a height of 1400 feet. The route takes you to Zuluk, dotted with quaint villages which are nothing short of a beauty. You can plan a Sikkim tour package with the best agencies and enjoy a memorable trip to the Silk Route.

The ancient Silk Route once connected Sikkim to Bhutan and China for trade exchange purposes. It was established during the Han Dynasty of China in 130 BC. It was the preferred route for commerce between 130 BCE to 1453 CE. Covering a distance of 900 km, the silk route that we visit today is an offshoot of the old route.  Today the route is not important in a geopolitical sense. However, it makes for a great tourist travel spot.

Why Visit the Silk Route?

This old route invokes memories of the bygone days. The place offers a stunning image of the Himalayan landscape. You can catch a glimpse of the Sleeping Buddha from this place, enough to take your breath away.

The Silk Route Travel Itinerary

Tourists can visit the Indian part of the Silk Route, from Rongli to Nathula Pass. The route is of historical significance; however, you can visit it to enjoy a stunning view of the mountains in East Sikkim.

This part of Sikkim is not offbeat to the tourists from West Bengal. There are no major towns in this route circuit. You can choose a homestay which is available all through the silk route. They are well maintained and provide basic amenities to tourists.

You can follow this guide if you plan to explore the silk route.

• Day 1: Reach NJP and proceed to Rishikhola
• Day 2: Go from Rishikhola to Pedong
• Day 3: Start the trip to Aritar
• Day 4: Ascend to Zuluk after getting a permit from Rongli. Watch the sunset at Thambi View Point
• Day 5: Visit Nathang and head back to Thambi viewpoint to watch another sunset. You can choose to stay at Lungthung or Nathang valley. If you can bravely accept the cold, omit Rishikhola from the plan. Instead, start from Aritar and allocate an extra day to Nathang Valley.
• Day 6: Return to Gangtok after stopping at Tsomgo Lake. You can start early and visit Nathula Pass
• Day 7: Travel from Gangtok to NJP/ Bagdogra depending on the weather condition.

Keep the old silk route permit handy while planning a trip to this place. You can ask the agencies for a complete Sikkim travel package that includes the Silk Route trip. Get in touch with the experts at Northeast Tour to plan a trip to the Silk Route. Visit the website to know more.

Zuluk: Explore the Enchanting Old Silk Route

Zuluk (or Dzuluk) is a hidden gem nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas in the picturesque state of Sikkim, India. Zuluk is a small village located on the historic Old Silk Route, which once served as a crucial trade route between India and Tibet. This offbeat destination has gained popularity among travel enthusiasts seeking serene beauty, breathtaking landscapes, and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Himalayan region.

Table of Contents

Geographic Location of Zuluk

Nestled amidst the rugged lower Himalayas in the enchanting Rongli Subdivision of Pakyong District, lies the captivating village of Zuluk. This hidden gem has recently emerged as an offbeat destination, welcoming travelers with its untouched beauty and serene ambiance. Zuluk offers a unique vantage point to witness the majestic eastern Himalayan mountain range, with the grandeur of Kanchenjunga stealing the spotlight.

Despite its humble size, this quaint village is home to approximately 700 residents who warmly welcome tourists seeking an authentic experience. What sets Zuluk apart is its distinction as the very first village along the Silk Route circuit to provide homestay accommodations, offering visitors a glimpse into the local way of life.

This thrilling journey is marked by the renowned Zig Zag road, which meanders through a series of twists and turns, spanning a distance of 14 kilometers. The Thambi viewpoint, with its captivating sunrise views and the awe-inspiring vista of the eastern Himalayas, serves as a gateway to both natural wonders and untouched wilderness.

Historical Significance of Zuluk

Zuluk holds significant historical importance as it lies along the ancient Old Silk Route. This historic trade route played a crucial role in connecting India, Tibet, and China, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between these regions.

The Old Silk Route, also known as the Silk Road, was a network of trade routes that spanned thousands of kilometers. It served as a lifeline for merchants, explorers, and pilgrims from different parts of the world, promoting economic growth, cultural exchange, and the spread of knowledge.

Zuluk, situated at an elevation of 9,400 feet, was an important transit point along the Old Silk Route. It served as a resting place for traders and their caravans during their arduous journey across the high mountains of the Eastern Himalayas. The village provided a safe haven for travelers to replenish their supplies, rest, and acclimatize to the high altitude before continuing their journey.

The Old Silk Route not only facilitated trade but also served as a bridge for the exchange of ideas, technologies, and religious beliefs. It played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism from India to Tibet and China. Buddhist monks and scholars traveling along this route carried sacred texts, artistic traditions, and philosophical teachings, contributing to the dissemination and growth of Buddhism across Asia.

Adventurous Activities in Zuluk

Zuluk, besides its mesmerizing landscapes and cultural heritage, is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. The region offers a plethora of thrilling activities that cater to diverse interests.

Trekking enthusiasts can embark on a journey to the famed Lungthung-Dhupidara trek, which showcases the breathtaking beauty and immerse oneself in the unspoiled wilderness of the Himalayas, forging an intimate connection with nature. As trekkers traverse through rugged terrains, dense forests, and quaint villages, they are rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of snow-clad peaks, waterfalls, and vibrant meadows.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of avian wonders that call Zuluk and its surroundings home. Birdwatching in this region is a truly enchanting experience, as one can spot rare and exotic species in their natural habitats. Keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent Himalayan Monal, with its colorful plumage that glistens in the sunlight. The elusive Blood Pheasant, known for its vibrant red and maroon feathers, adds an element of mystery to the birdwatching expedition. And if luck is on your side, you may even catch a glimpse of the adorable Red Panda, a symbol of conservation efforts in the region.

In the summer months, Zuluk and its surrounding hills transform into a captivating spectacle as a multitude of rhododendrons burst into vibrant bloom. The blooming rhododendrons in Zuluk not only add aesthetic appeal but also signify the arrival of the summer season. These flowers thrive in the high-altitude environment, bravely weathering the harsh winters to emerge in full splendor as the warmer months arrive.

Best Time to Visit:

Zuluk enjoys pleasant weather for most of the year, offering a pleasant climate to its visitors. The village experiences distinct seasons, each characterized by its unique weather patterns. During the summer months, from March to May, Zuluk boasts cool temperatures with an average of around 20°C (68°F). However, there can be noticeable temperature variations between the daytime and nighttime.

The monsoon season in Zuluk extends from June to September. During this period, the area receives a fair amount of rainfall, often in the form of heavy to very heavy showers. The monsoon season brings a lush green transformation to the surroundings, with the hills and valleys teeming with life.

The best time to visit Zuluk depends on individual preferences and the desired experiences. Whether you prefer the vibrant greenery of the monsoon season, the cool and pleasant summer weather, or the enchanting charm of snow-covered landscapes during winter.

How to Get There

The closest airport to Zuluk is Pakyong Airport, located in the town of Pakyong, Sikkim. From Pakyong Airport, reaching Zuluk involves a scenic drive that typically takes around 1 to 3 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic.

The nearest railway stations to Zuluk are Siliguri Junction and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), both located in the state of West Bengal. It takes approximately 7 to 8 hours to reach the charming village of Zuluk.

Zuluk is located along the National Highway-717B, which connects the towns of Rhenock and Menla via Rongli.

• From Siliguri, it takes approximately 7 hours by hiring a private vehicle.
• From Gangtok, it s around 90 kilometers (56 miles) away and can be reached in approximately 4 hours by hiring a vehicle.
• From New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport, the distance is approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles), and the journey takes around 6 hours by road.
• From Kalimpong, it is about 87 kilometers (54 miles) away, and the drive takes approximately 3.5 hours.
• From Pelling, it is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) away, and the journey takes around 7 hours.

Foreigners looking to visit Zuluk are required to obtain a  Protected Area Permit (PAP) from either Rangli or Gangtok. More details on how to obtain a Permit have been discussed in our previous article .

(To know more about  Sikkim State Tourism  check the link  here .)

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• Post published: June 9, 2023
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• Silk Route Sikkim Guide

If you are planning a quest to discover the lesser-known parts of the Himalayas, Silk Route Sikkim takes you to places that will take your breath away with their natural charm. The route that once connected Sikkim to Bhutan and China for trade is now a box full of surprises for those who have never been to this part of the country. You can check our Tour Package of Silk Route Sikkim (Flat 16% Off). The route is dotted with quaint remote villages that are nothing short of a painter’s fantasy. From lush green valleys with river streams to hilltop destinations that offer panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas, the route has kept away some excellent surprises for explorers to discover. Whether you are interested in sightseeing or you want to explore the unexplored by embarking on a journey through the woods on foot, there is no dearth of scenic places. The route takes you to some villages that exhibit the rustic charm of the Himalayas like Pedong, Mankhim, and Reshi Kola. 

It also takes you to popular tourist spots like Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake. So, if you are travelling solo or it is your family or your gang accompanying you on your sojourn, you can choose the Silk Route and leave no room for regrets. Stay in the lavishing Gangtok resorts where you can relax and enjoy the culture of Sikkim. You can even take a tour to Sikkim , as some parts of the Sikkim Silk Route are in North Sikkim and it is full of awesome tourist attractions to awestruck you.

Here, we are presenting a detailed guide for Silk Route Sikkim: 

Quick navigation.

Old Silk Route Distance

Undoubtedly the most important trade route in the history of Asia, the Old Silk Route connected India with Bhutan and China. It is one among the large network of Silk Roads across the continents of Asia, Africa, and Europe. 

This particular stretch starting from NJP extends till Zuluk lying at a distance of 150 km before reaching Bhutan, and covers a number of picturesque places en route. The route is consist of many beautiful resorts in Sikkim where you can rest and enjoy the actual taste of Sikkim.

You may also have a look at various places to visit in East Sikkim which will delight you and will offer uniqueness in every attraction! For memorable Sikkim holidays Checkout 6 Days Enthralling Group Tour of Sikkim                                                                             Sikkim Honeymoon Packages

Best Time To Visit Silk Route Sikkim

The Silk Route can be visited during all times of the year except for rainy season and the peaks days of the winter season when the roads are blocked with heavy snow. 

However, the most ideal time to get the maximum out of your Silk Route trip are the months of May and October when the climate is perfectly pleasant for exploration and the roads are immune from the wrath of rain and snow.

The months of April, May, and June are the peak season with high influx of tourists. Another good time window is the months of October and November before the onset of the winter season. Explore the North East by booking 7 Days Tour of Gangtok Pelling and Darjeeling                                                             Family Trip To Sikkim   

Icchey Gaon

More commonly known as Echey Gaon, Icchey Gaon is a small but beautiful village in Kalimpong district of West Bengal, inhabited by approximately 30 families. Located at an elevation of 5,800 feet, this village is known to offer breathtaking views of towering Himalayan mountain peaks including Kanchenjunga to its visitors.

The scenic landscape of the village and the views of the snow-blanketed Himalayan peaks it offers make it a great destination for nature lovers and landscape photographers.

The dense forests of Pine, Birch, and Juniper trees surround the village, so it is a perfect destination for a holiday in the lap of Himalayas.

Location: 17 km from Kalimpong city center Check out our full guide on the best places to go in north east india  which will help in planning your trip.  Checkout More:  North East India Honeymoon Packages

Silk Route Map

Icchey Gaon – Sillery Gaon – Kaagey – Pedong – Reshi Khola – Mankhim – Lingtum – Padamchen – Zuluk – Thambi View Point – Langthung Dhupidara – Nathang valley – Old Baba Mandir – New Baba Mandir – Nathula Pass – Tsomgo Lake – Gangtok city . Be sure to check out our best North East tour packages for a trip according to your wish.  Book Now:  North East Tour Packages For Family

Sillery Gaon

Another picturesque village located in Kalimpong district of West Bengal that also happens to be a great place to take a halt on your journey to explore Silk Route Sikkim. 

The village boasts an elevation of almost 6,000 feet, so you can expect a pleasant climate even during the summer season. The village is engulfed in dense forests of Pine trees, ensuring a fresh air to detoxify your body and soothe your soul.

With the rising popularity of this village among tourists which was not known to many till a few years back, the locals have started to refer to it as New Darjeeling. Most importantly, the village has a hill top from where 360 degree vistas of the great Himalayas can be enjoyed. Adventure junkies can also go for rafting in sikkim , which is an amazing experience. 

Location: 23 km from Kalimpong city center Inculcate the thrill inside you by booking Paragliding In Gangtok, Sikkim Also Recommended:  Meghalaya Couple Package

Popular as a weekend getaway for the people residing in the nearby cities, Kaagey is a tiny hamlet within the realm of Neora Valley National Park falling on the famous Silk Route Sikkim. 

Thapas inhabit this village located near Kalimpong. With lush green forests, orchids, and flowers adorning the land of this village, it becomes an ideal spot for some quality time in the company of the Himalayan nature. 

Apart from the unblemished nature, what is there to see here includes a church that is 300 years old, a Buddhist monastery and meditation center, and a waterfall known with the name of Jhakri. Kaagey is a beautiful place where you can spend a day or two on your trip.

Location: 21 km from Kalimpong city center

Also, don't miss to check our full article on how to reach sikkim  bt various transportation modes.  Checkout & Book:  Meghalaya Tour Packages For Family

L ocated in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal at an elevation of 4,070 feet, this town is majorly known for Damsang Fort that overlooks it. The fort was built by Lepchas which now serves as a major tourist attraction.  

The word ‘Pedong’ translates to a place full of Fir trees. For culture vultures, the town has an old Buddhist monastery built in the year 1706. Pedong is a potpourri of different cultures which makes it an interesting place to visit. 

You can also find some good hotels here should you decide to take a halt. Do drop in at this small town to experience nature in all it glory on your Silk Route Sikkim expedition.

Location: 21 km from Kalimpong city center Must Book:  Tawang Packages                       Gangtok Tour Packages For Family

Location: 37 km from Kalimpong city center Here's the list of best places to visit in meghalaya , for having an amazing trip to meghalaya .  Check More:  Gangtok Tour Packages For Couple

Overlooking Darapchand Village, this hilltop destination is worth giving your heart to. It is one of the most beautiful stopover options on the Silk Route Sikkim.

If you are visiting the famous tourist destination, Aritar, you should definitely spend some time in Mankhim as this small place has so much on offer. From the views of Mount Kanchenjunga to the fun of paddle boating in the emerald waters of Lampokhari Lake, Mankhim gives you plenty of reasons to visit it at least once.

Besides, you can also spot a variety of exotic bird species while you are here. And if you breathe for adventure, you can trek to a serene lake called Mulkarkha Lake from here.

Location: 37 km from Kalimpong city center. You may also have a look at various  tourist places in cherrapunji which will delight you on your trip. Also Visit:  Darjeeling Holiday Packages                    Darjeeling Tour Packages For Couple

Also spelled as Lingtam, Lingtum is a small hamlet lying on the Silk Route with breathtaking scenery to behold. Tiny wooden houses, surrounded by dense forests of pine, and erected over velvety green grounds – this quiet valley looks bewitching, especially during the sunrise. 

What prettifies the village further is the sound of the fluttering prayer flags, rustling of the pine trees, and the sight of the picture-perfect fields of rai leaf and corn.

 A small river named Bakhuter Khola also passes by this village located at an altitude of 5,000 feet. Apart from a gompa, there is also a waterfall lying at a distance of approximately 5 km from the village known as Kiukhola Falls. 

Location: 23 km from Zuluk city center There are plenty of amazing places to visit in shillong which will add sparkle to your trip. You Can Also Book:  Family Trip To Darjeeling                                    Assam Trip Packages

Best of Manali

This high altitude village perched on the slopes of Himalayas boasts a height of 8,000 feet, and is absolutely a treat for mountain lovers. Padamchen offers awe-inspiring views of the mighty Himalayan mountains draped in the covers of snow which also makes it a great choice for you if you are a photography enthusiast.

The place has several homestays and hotels where you can relax for a while and relish the aura of the untainted nature. The residential area is surrounded by dense Himalayan forests, so you can take strolls in the woods where you will be greeted by some bird species you may not have seen before. 

For all the right reasons, this is an important stopover on the Silk Route.

Location: 8 km from Zuluk city center Here's our full guide on  the best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh , which will help in planning your  trip to arunachal .  Checkout More:  Shillong Trip Packages                              Kaziranga Trip Package

Best of Ladakh

Thambi View Point

Proceed further to cover a distance of approximately 18 km from Padamchen and you will reach Thambi view point. 

The spot claims an elevation of 11,200 feet and offers some unusual vistas of the grand Himalayas, especially Mount Kanchenjunga, that make it a popular view point among the tourists in the region.

Apart from that, the views of the zig-zag roads below are worth capturing on your camera. If you are planning to explore the Silk Route, this place cannot be skipped. A visit to this place in winter will offer you views of dazzling snow all around.

Location: 14 km from Zuluk city center Also Book:  North East Packages From Mumbai                     North East Trip From Delhi

Best of Darjeeling

Langthung Dhupidara

One of the most captivating places on the Silk Route for the lovers of snow, Langthung Dhupidara is a village that rests in the cold embrace of snow from December to April. 

Only 1 km away from the famous Thambi View Point, this village is ideally tucked on a hilltop at an altitude of 11,500 feet, so you can expect some really amazing vistas of some of the most prominent Himalayan peaks including Mount Kanchenjunga. 

If you want to witness a riot of colours with vibrant flowers and green vegetation, the period of July to September would be ideal. Whenever you are here, do not miss the magical sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga.

Location: 17 km from Zuluk city center Do check out our best sikkim holiday packages for a trip to remember.  Also Book:  North East Tour Packages From Bangalore                      North East Holiday Packages From Chennai

Best of Gangtok

Nathang Valley

A valley where the beauty of nature reigns, Nathang Valley is one of the most charming places in Sikkim , visited by thousands of tourists with the case of wanderlust.

What was once the abode of traditional yak herders from Tiber is a major tourists destination now, with landscape beautiful enough to call them heavenly. There are a few tourist attraction in the valley in the form of a monastery, a temple, and a bridge looming over a stream of water.

Since the altitude of this place is 13,500 feet, you can expect heavy sheets of snow here during the winter season that are bound to allure the spirit within you. If you want to get some rest here, there are homestays available with all basic facilities.

Location: East Sikkim Checkout More:  North East Tour Packages From Ahmedabad                               North East Holiday Packages From Kolkata

Best of Meghalaya

Old Baba Mandir

One of the most famous attractions on the Silk Route Sikkim, Old Baba Mandir calls for a short halt in your journey. Often visited by people travelling to Tsomgo Lake, this temple is located at a distance of 52 km from Gangtok.

The temple is dedicated to an Indian Army martyr, Baba Harbhajan Singh, and is located on the site of the bunker where he was posted. He had slipped and fell into a flowing stream, and had died there.

The shrine, surrounded by the colossal Himalayas, is more popular among the locals than tourists, and has huge reverence among the devotees. It is one of the must visit places near gangtok , so make sure to drop by.

Location: East Sikkim Also Recommended:  North East Tour Packages From Hyderabad                                       Mumbai To Meghalaya Tour Packages

Best of North East India

New Baba Mandir

The samadhi of the martyr Baba Harbhajan Singh was reconstructed at another site in the year 1982 for the convenience of tourists. The temple is thronged by devotees and tourists every year. 

This shrine, dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, is located on the trail that leads to Menmecho Lake, and is popular as New Baba Mandir. It is believed that baba has been guarding the Indo-China border since his death and sends signs to army men through dreams to warn about unfavourable circumstances. 

There are lot more interesting tales that are nothing short of miracles which you can get to hear when you visit this shrine.

Location: Kupup Gnathang Road, East Sikkim Must Check:  Meghalaya Tour From Kolkata                         Meghalaya Tour Package From Bangalore

Best of Pelling

Nathu La Pass

An iconic landmark of Sikkim on the Silk Road, Nathu La Pass is a high-altitude pass located at an altitude of 14,140 feet above the sea level on Indo-China border.

“Nathu” translated to “listening ears” in English and “La” means “pass”. Due to its proximity from Gangtok and the fame it has gathered over the past few years, the pass is visited by a number of tourists all round the year. 

Thanks to its elevation, you can find plenty of snow here during the winter season.  This pass served as the major passage between India and Tibet till the year 1962 when it was closed. 

Acclimatizing before visiting this site is recommended due to low oxygen levels on this altitude. Checkout & Book:  Meghalaya Packages From Chennai                                  Delhi To Meghalaya Tour Package

Best of Arunachal Pradesh

Tsomgo Lake

Also known as Changu Lake, this is the most famous lake in Sikkim. ”Tsomgo” translates to “source of water” in English. 

It is a glacial lake located at a whopping elevation of 12,400 feet. The sub zero temperatures during the winter season freeze the lake, while it stay surrounded by mountains fully covered in white blankets of snow. If you are shutterbug, you are going to have a really good time here freezing the moments at the freezing lake in frames. 

Otherwise, even during the summer and spring seasons, the lake looks equally beautiful with flowers bordering its azure waters catching the reflection of the mighty mountains that surround the lake. Adding grace to your visit is the scenic road that leads to this lake which is truly amazing.

Location: 40 km from Gangtok Also Book:  Arunachal Tour Package From Guwahati                     Kolkata To Arunachal Pradesh Tour Package

The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok has a lot on offer ranging from colourful monasteries that will help you take a plunge into the world of cultural vibrance and spirituality to unusual vantage points that will let you soak in the beauty of the enchanting realm of Himalayas in the best possible manner. 

The city is located at an altitude of 1,650 meters and ensures a pleasant climate throughout the year. Apart from the bountiful nature, the city has a number of man-made or man-developed attractions. 

Some of the best places to visit here are Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, and Rumtek Monastery. The cosmopolitan town also has a number of great accommodation options for a wonderful stay.

Checkout the favorite season to visit Gangtok to manage your trip accordingly.

Location: Sikkim

Book Now:  Siliguri To Gangtok Tour Package                      Darjeeling And Gangtok Tour Packages From Kolkata  

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Sikkim Top Attractions

If you are a true mountaineer, you can’t miss the chance to be a part of this expedition. Due to high level of precipitation the peaks of Kanchenjunga is mostly glaciated. You can simple enjoy an epic scenery which is truly going to leave you jaw dropped.  Highlights: Preservation of the rich flora and fauna is also important and you will get to witness them too during trekking. It is difficult to comprehend the scale of both valleys and mountains here. Difficulty Level – High. Best time to visit: October and November. Prices: USD$985 per person.

The first phase of the trek to Goecha La will take you from Yuksom to Sachen. Yuksom is situated at an altitude of 5,700 feet and Sachen is situated at an elevation of 7, 200 feet. The trekking trail passes through a route of immense natural beauty. You will come across lush green fields, valley of the Rathong River and thick forests. From Sachen you will need to climb ahead to Tshoka which is at an altitude of 9,650 feet.This trek is quite enjoyable in the initial phase but becomes tryingly steep towards the later phase. On reaching Bakhim, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Yuksom valley. As you trek on ahead, you pass through Dzongri and Phedang. You will also be able to enjoy the beauty of some of the densest rhododendron forests in India and get a breathtaking view of the highest mountains in the Himalayan range. You will pass through the beautiful Samiti Lake which will mesmerise you with its sparkling blue waters.The entire journey from Yuksom to Goecha La is a treat to the eyes. Despite being a test of physical stamina, the route is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful routes that you can come across while trekking in the Himalayas.Best Season: September- November & March-AprilDifficulty Level: Moderate to ChallengingMax. Elevation: 5002 mBest Offers on Goecha La Trek

Discover the ethereal charm of Tsomgo Lake, a shimmering glacial wonder cradled amidst the majestic landscapes of Sikkim, India. At an awe-inspiring altitude of 12,400 feet, this serene lake, also known as Changu Lake, captivates with its pristine blue waters and surrounding snow-capped peaks.Embrace the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this sacred lake, revered by the locals for its spiritual significance. Tsomgo Lake offers more than just visual splendor; it invites adventure seekers to indulge in yak rides and explore nearby attractions like the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary.For nature lovers and travelers seeking a respite from the mundane, Tsomgo Lake is a quintessential destination that weaves a tapestry of natural beauty, spirituality, and Himalayan allure.

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Trip To Old Silk Route – Zuluk – East Sikkim

I came to know about Silk Route first time from various trip reports in IndiaMike long back. And since then the idea to explore this part of Sikkim was in mind, but couldn’t materialize it somehow due to other assignments. I have been to North Sikkim , South Sikkim and West Sikkim previously, so I had fair enough idea about Sikkim but not Silk Route which constitutes the East part of Sikkim. Though we were aware that there would be huge rush in Puja vacations, but this year I had already extinguished so much leaves, as practically I was on holiday every month. Starting from February in Bhutan , March in Jhallong , April in South & West Sikkim , June in Bangalore (though this was due to annual checkup of my wife, but made a short trip to Coorg ), July was planned for Latpanchar but later on a verge, went to Goa . And now, I was planning for October!! Anyone working in IT Industry would raise their eyes!!

Thus I decided, not to take a single leave in these remaining two months to convince my manager for this holiday. So I thought of clubbing Puja Holidays with 1 or 2 leaves for this trip.

Planning : TL;DR 😛 Well every budget and do-it-on-your-own traveler like me, loves this stage the most. This is one of the most exciting stage for peoples like me, as most thing began here!! For me, it was, on a fine evening at Tea and Snacks, I placed the idea of this trip to Silk Route in East Sikkim among my family travel group. And guess what? My mom and my aunt just shooed it away stating, “dhur esob choto choto trip e amra zamu na, tui tor bou re loiya ja” (We are not going on such small trips, you go with your wife). Yes, who doesn’t loves long trip, but considering my situation, asking for more leaves would raise more eyebrows from senior management. Anyway, I started planning things. Trip Advisor didn’t helped much here though, but India Mike came to rescue with such awesome trip reports being shared there. I went through almost all past reports, that have been shared by various travelers out there, to understand the daily activities and the destinations.

With help of various such trip reports, I quickly made up an itinerary like NJP – Sillery Gaon – Reshikhola – Zuluk (actually spelled as Dzuluk) – Nathang (actually spelled as Gnathang) – Mankhim – NJP. But soon, I had to dismiss this plan, as my mom and my aunt was not getting agree to settle in anything less than 10 days. So I promised them to take Pelling which they wanted to visit badly during our trip to Gangtok and North Sikkim last time.

And then I came up with the base destinations of Silk Route, namely, Icche Gaon / Ramdhura, Sillery Gaon, Reshikhola, Aritar and Mankhim. One can use any one of these as base destination for starting their journey to Silk Route. I must say each destination offers different charm, so staying at one and passing through other would be an injustice. And to tell you the truth, I just wanted to stay at all these destination. But….that’s not possible, due to the number of days in hand and also as I cannot return on the same route covering different destination each way due to my plan of including Pelling.

So with help of Arup Da and some other members from India Mike, and from pictures shared in in various Trip Reports at India Mike and Google Images, I fixed up Reshikhola and Mankhim. I just loved the pictures of Reshikhola, so didn’t gave another thought on it. The attractive point of Aritar is to stay beside the Lampokhari Lake which seemed to be fine for Honeymoon Couples, but the same didn’t seem attractive much to me. So I safely kept Aritar as a sightseeing tough & go destination. Mankhim is the hill top of Aritar from where one can get some great views on a clear day as well as the Lampokhari Lake. And thus Mankhim seemed to be a perfect destination as I always tend to love clouds stucked in hills. I’d have surely chosen Sillery Gaon, if I had more days in hand. But then, I thought of covering Pedong – Icche Gaon / Ramdhura – Sillery Gaon on another trip next time. You know, there’s always a next time with me!! With the base destinations been fixed, it was time to plan Pelling through Gangtok. On our last visit to South & West Sikkim, we missed out Yuksom and Namchi as one of our friend caught fever. So I thought of covering them too this time!!

Anyway, the plan was almost fixed with the route being NJP – Reshikhola (1N) – Mankhim (1N) – Zuluk (1N) – Nathang (1N) – Gangtok (1N) – Pelling (2N) – NJP. This seemed to be perfect, as I’ll be done with 3 leaves only. And then I realized my 3rd leave is on a Friday, so what’s the point on catching train on a Friday? I can safely include another day as Saturday and Sunday is off day anyway. And thus I thought of halting at Yuksom for one night.

I started calling up the homestay owners along Silk Route, as during the Puja vacations, booking starts as early as from April. I got a quote of 850/- per person per night from Reshikhola, Mankhim and Zuluk (Dzuluk). But Miss Pema Sherpa from Nathang (Gnathang) quoted 900/- per person per day. So I called up Sebastian Pradhan from Reshikhola again but he was out for some work and asked to contact his daughter Pranita Pradhan. She said, she can arrange all the destinations for Rs. 850/- per head. That seemed reasonable, as I don’t have to transfer advance to each and every homestay owners separately and I was getting a flat rate of 850/- per person per day in average. But all of them I spoke to, said they will charge Rs. 3500/- per day for vehicle, which is absolutely a great offer considering Puja vacations and normal rates.

Last time while at Pachu Residency in Pelling , I noticed the tariff of the rooms we were staying in were mentioned as 1600/-, but we got it for 1500/- from Dipankar Da. When I asked Mr. Prantik, the owner, about such discrepancy and how am I getting it at a lower price from a tour operator instead if I contact the hotel directly? He smiled and went ahead to clear my confusion. He said, most hoteliers have some contract with tour operators for a special price because of the number of tourist they send every year. Now it’s upto the tour operator to make decision about the final rate. He further said, many times he came across unethical tour operators who charge Rs. 2000/- from tourists, for rooms that he offers for Rs. 1200/-. And in the end, when the tourist arrives having a mindset of a room for Rs. 2000/- often leaves unhappy and gives bad reviews. Because at the end of the day the room is of Rs. 1200/- not of Rs. 2000/-. So when a tourist is paying such amount, s/he would obviously have a picture of room of such value. He thinks keeping such profit margin is clearly unethical and it also affects the reputation of the hotel.

Anyway, so I knew I will get fair price from my old and reliable contact, Dipankar Da, than if I try to book directly in South and West Sikkim . So one fine morning I called him up and shared by plan. But the same evening he called me up, and said, he have modified the plan and increased two more days. Everyone reading this, please don’t this otherwise, as I have such good terms with him that he being an avid traveler, keeps me suggesting new destination and modifies my plan accordingly. So if you are contacting him for your own reasons, rest assured, he’s one of the best and most ethical tour operator I came across. And as I already said, he being an avid traveler can suggest you some great offbeat places at reasonable cost. Even though I requested him, not to do that, as I won’t be able to manage my leaves anymore, but he kept on insisting for the same and said it’d be a really good experience and he want me to explore this destination otherwise he wouldn’t have insisted this much. I knew, he never suggests anything wrong, and there must be something exotic about this. So I readily agreed, but kept on thinking of managing another leave somewhere in my unconscious mind.

I was in Coorg at that time when booking window of IRCTC was about to open, so I asked him to manage the tickets as I was not sure whether I’d able to do that from mobile at such rush condition. Though he tried hard but it still went to WL 133. But I managed to secure the return tickets on my own as we were back to Kolkata by then. Now that the tickets were booked, planning were done, it was time to transfer the advance to Sebastian Pradhan to secure the booking. Even though I had developed good relationship with Gopi and I was constantly in touch with him, I thought of making it through Dipankar Da only, as either way there’d be no price difference, but contacting him directly would surely make Dipankar Da offended specially when I’m booking all the hotels through him. As I was loosing out nothing, I thought of not to take such move and asked Dipankar Da to assign us with Gopi only. Gopi was already aware of this, as I used to speak with him every once in a while.

Finally, before transferring advance, for the last time, I thought of checking Silk Route portion once with Dipankar Da, and he offered me the same rate as of Sebastian Pradhan / Pranita Pradhan. Last time on my trip to South & West Sikkim , he offered me the car for 3300/- per day. So I enquired with him about the possibility to travel in same rate again 😛 I knew, it would be next to impossible due to Puja rush, but Dipankar Da assured he’ll try his best to ensure the same rate in both Silk Route and with Gopi.

Thus without giving it a second thought, I shared the details of discussion I had with the homestay owners and asked him to go ahead with the bookings for Silk Route too. Either way I’d be loosing nothing, as no homestay owners throughout Silk Route can offer me the rate of 3300/- per day for vehicle. Even if Dipankar Da couldn’t manage it, I’d be paying the same amount, but if he could, I’d be on the gainer side 😛

One fine morning, Dipankar Da called up and said, to check “Ei-Samay” or “Ananda Bazar”, bengali daily immediately as some special trains have been announced due to Durga Puja. He already informed me not to worry, when my ticket got in to WL, as it was sure that Puja Speical trains would be announced and asked me not to cancel the tickets anyhow, as many times Railway accommodates WL tickets on some special trains automatically.

He further informed that he have altered the itinerary on the South and West Sikkim part and made it like Gangtok – Ravangla – Yuksom – Pelling – Hee Gaon (Hee Patal). He further said that, the accomodation at Yuksom is not yet guaranteed due to lack of availability, in that case he’d make us accommodate in Ravangla for 2 nights. I was bit reluctant to do that, but he ensured, it’d not be a bad experience. And if at any point things get available at Yuksom, he’ll shift us there. As I have been to Ravangla before, I was unable to judge what’s the point of staying at Ravangla for 2 nights. But as Yuksom had no availability, I had no way. And regarding Hee Gaon, I kinda guessed that, because last time on our trip to South and West Sikkim, he was staying there when we were in Kaluk. So I somewhat guessed that, he’ll be making us stay there, as on various occasions he told me to visit there if I get a chance.

I kept a close eye from that day on IRCTC, as no one was sure when the booking window for the same will be opened. Finally one morning, I found it to be marked as “#” beside the availability which indicated that the booking was about to open that day. I got ready and quickly opened up excel and noted down the name and details of the passengers, so that I can quickly copy paste the same to extend my chance. And guess what? luckily I was able to score a confirmed ticket on Sealdah – Kamakhya Special!!

In between, Dipankar Da called me up one day to inform that he was able to secure our booking at Yuksom as some tourist have cancelled their visit recently. Good enough!! I was happy that I’ll be able to stay in Yuksom, which was a long pending plan. But in the meantime, I realized that, we’ll be changing hotels every day that means it can be rushing through the places without feeling it, which I particularly don’t like. But it was too late to re-think. But again, most of the places I have been to already, so it didn’t mattered much.

Here’s the final itinerary for your reference… Day 1 : NJP – Reshikhola Day 2 : Reshikhola – Mankhim Day 3 : Mankhim – Zuluk (Dzuluk) Day 4 : Zuluk (Dzuluk) – Nathang (Gnathang) Day 5 : Nathang (Gnathang) – Gangtok Day 6 : Gangtok – Ravangla via Namchi Day 7 : Ravangla – Yuksom via Tashiding Day 8 : Yuksom – Pelling via Pelling Sightseeing Day 9 : Pelling – Hee Gaon / Hee Patal (Chaya Taal) via Singhore, Uttarey, Dentam Day 10 : Hee Gaon / Hee Patal (Chaya Taal) – NJP

7th October : The Beginning… Gradually, the Mahalaya passed by, and things started feeling differently. Puja specific advertisement banners and hoardings started appearing here and there. It was full of Puja environment everywhere and add the excitement of the tour on top of that 😛 I was feeling very lazy to go to office anymore, leave alone any concentration on the work. It was like everyone was anxiously waiting for the “Mahasashti” (6th Day).

(Un)luckily I was offered to change my shift to UK time for some production issues and I grabbed this chance to get my leaves approved!! And thus, maybe, my manager agreed due to the hard work of last 2 months without a single leave and late night work hours. Finally the “Mahasashti” (6th Day) arrived!! People started hopping pandals from “Chaturthi” (4th day) only. Though our train was at 11:55 PM in the midnight, but my dad didn’t wanted to take any risk, and asked us to start for Sealdah before dusk. As post that, the roads will be full of traffic jam and he didn’t want to take any risk.

Well, one cannot argue and win with him, so we agreed, and I called up my manager to request Work From Home which got approved without much issue, as most of the people did same thing. Though it was work from home, but I spent most of the day charging my camera, checking memory cards for the last time and all.

The day passed like a breeze, and we started for Sealdah at around 5:30 PM and we managed to reach Sealdah within 7:00 PM. Sealdah was looking completely different this time. It was fully decorated with lights and “dhakiyas” (the drummers) were playing “dhaks” (drums) all around. But we were bit skeptical about how to spend this 4 hours now. Me along with my wife, Suparna and my cousin, Akash went ahead to check out Big Bazaar. We did some window shopping there roaming around here and there on AC (ofcourse we didn’t bought a single thing :P)!! And then we roamed around here and there around Sealdah to pass time and at around 9:00 PM we went ahead for dinner.

The bad news was both Darjeeling Mail and Padatik Express started late which indicated that ours would be late too. Although we were more or less aware of that, being a special train, it’d be late anyway and dirty as hell. Soon our train was announced and it arrived on platform. This being a full AC Train, the coaches were that of Rajdhani and Duronto had been re-used. Surprisingly, we found the train to be neat and clean and very well maintained even being a special train. May be due to the coaches of well known trains being re-used. But whatever it is, we liked it. Even the linens and towels provided were neat and clean. It’s good that Railways have improved and we felt like value for money. We generally don’t travel in AC at all, so we were excited a bit for this too!!

The train blewed whistle and started towards it destination at around 12:10 AM, 15 Minutes late than scheduled departure time. We pretty much had nothing to do, so we spent some time chit-chatting among ourselves and then we all hit the bed with dreams of Mt. K in our mind 🙂

8th October : Day 1 : NJP – Reshikhola Our train was bit late as expected and reached NJP at around 12:30 (instead of scheduled departure time of 10:05 AM), straight 2.5 hours late. In the meanwhile, we already informed Arpan, our driving partner for the Silk Route leg about the train being late. After coming out of the NJP Station, we called him up and met with him. He and his agency’s manager Mr. Mohan was waiting for us and upon noticing us greeted us warmly. After a small chit chat we started for our first destination Reshikhola.

We asked Arpan to stop at some ATM where he seems would be feasible. In the meanwhile, Mr. Chumbey Bhutia from Prakriti Eco Retreat, Reshikhola called up many times to inquire about out whereabouts. We informed him that we probably won’t be able to take our lunch there as we just started from NJP and the road through Siliguri Hong Kong market was full of traffic jam, so we’d be having our lunch on the way. Arpan stopped at few ATM’s but we were out of our luck as all the ATM’s were out of cash.

Soon we crossed Kalijhora followed by Sevok. Previously we thought of having our lunch here, but the road was full of traffic jam, thus we asked Arpan to carry on. Arpan gave us a stopover at Lohapool to have our lunch. It was already 2:45 by then. We were bit worried about ATM though, as we were not carrying much cash, and later on we won’t be getting any ATM throughout Silk Route. Arpan informed us that he’ll be taking the route through Rangpo, as it’d be full of traffic jam through Kalimpong, and thus he assured us that we’d get cash easily at ATM’s in Rangpo.

He further went on saying that, it’s very problematic to get cash in Siliguri and this region, because of this Puja vacation. Most tourists take out huge amount of cash and due to this locals face problems too. I asked him in that case how does local people manage it during Puja vacations? He informed us that local people takes out necessary cash much before this Puja vacation in order to avoid any unwanted situations.

After having our lunch and a small break we started for Rangpo at around 3:15 PM. It took us around 1.5 hours to reach Rangpo. We sought his suggestion for picking up liquors while at Lohapool, he told us that he’d give a stopover at Rangpo for ATM and asked us to pickup liquors from there only, as it’d be cheaper in Sikkim. Again unluckily, due to some occasion, all the ATM’s in Rangpo market were closed. We checked out 4-5 of them, but the shutter was down for all of them.

Without wasting much time, we bought a 750ml of BP (1Ltr bottles are not common and not available in Sikkim) and started proceeding to our today’s destination Reshikhola. Now my mom, dad and aunt was getting tensed due to this ATM issue. But I assured them, that we won’t be needing much cash throughout Silk Route leg as all being homestays with fooding and lodging package, everything is paid. Dipankar Da had already paid Arpan from the advance that I have transferred to him, so we don’t even have much scope to use cash anywhere till Gangtok. So I asked them to keep calm and not to worry. We’d be fine with whatever we were carrying.

In the meanwhile, Mr. Chumbey Bhutia called up 3 times, worrying about us for being so late. I handovered the phone to Arpan, and he explained the traffic throughout the route and bad condition of the road. Finally we reached Reshikhola at around 6:00 PM. We called up Mr. Chumbey Bhutia, and he informed us that, two porters are already waiting there, and they would guide us to the homestay. Arpan, by noticing curiosity in our face, explained us that, Reshikhola is on the Bengal side, but the point where the car drops you, is in Sikkim side. Thus one have to walk around 1KM (around 45 minutes – 1 hour), first by crossing the Reshi River through the wooden pools and then through the forest to reach the homestays. He further explained us that, one can also come from Bengal side, but there’s no wooden pool to cross the river, so except summer time when the river is much gentle enabling the car to cross the river easily, one cannot reach these homestays on other season.

A feeling of thrill ran through our veins!! We felt very excited and adventurous hearing this. Though we were travelling with family, all in their 60’s, my dad being 65+, my mom who is 62 and my aunt who is at 60, still they ensured, it’s kinda adventurous for them too. And as they are used to travelling, it won’t be an issue!! Arpan bid us good bye and said he’ll be here tomorrow by 10 AM. Though we asked him to stay with us, but he being from nearby village, went to his home instead. The boys packed the luggage in a basket same as like they do in Tea Gardens and handed over two torch to us. One of them asked us to follow him and another one said he’ll walk behind us to ensure nothing goes wrong. It was all dark, so we stepped slowly. After walking for around 15 minutes we reached the pool that we need to cross. There were 2 of them. Upon noticing few homestays beside the pool we thought to be one of them. But the porter boys confirmed that they were opened recently, and ours is still a bit far away. We kept walking through the forest which seemed to be denser in the dark.

Finally after walking for around another 40 – 45 minutes we reached the homestays. First one we crossed was Mr. Sebastian’s Homestay, Reshi Eco Resort and then the last one being ours Prakriti Eco Retreat, belonging to Mr. Chumbey Bhutia. Upon noticing us, Mr. Bhutia came forward and welcomed us warmly and showed us our cottages. It was really cozy and clean. We already fell in love with the atmosphere there. Staying in a cottage beside the river hearing it’s chirping sound made us felt right within the nature. The boys came forward to ask whether we’d like to have anything, we immediately replied “Tea” all of us at a same time!!. Mr. Bhutia excused himself and asked us to get fresh and said that in the mean time our tea will be here.

After some time, the boys came up with Tea and some onion pakoda for us. Mr. Bhutia too came up and asked me to join him at the balcony. After some time, my dad, mom, aunt, cousin and wife came up and joined us too. We discussed about various things from Nature to politics to his love for Football. He told us about his family and childhood!! He also informed us, that Reshikhola even being such a great destination, most people doesn’t likes to come up here due to the distance one have to walk from the drop point. He further went on saying “Everyone wants to get dropped right in front of hotel”. We knew, it was the bitter truth.

He further told us about, how much he loves travelling. He told us stories of his experience of bike tour to various destinations including Bhutan. I too shared my part of stories about travelling and he was happy to know that I have been to Bhutan too!! In the meanwhile it started drizzling a bit. He showed us some local drinks that they take, homemade with “kadu” and generally taken with a pierced bamboo being used as a straw. My mom, being spent her school life at Kurseong, identified this thing immediately!! And it was then he guessed that she might be well versed in Nepali!! Yes my mom can speak and understand Nepali quite well due to her whole childhood being spent at Kurseong.

Mr. Bhutia, excused himself informing us that, our dinner would be ready in some time and till then asked us to enjoy the nature, and to go near the River. I thought the road will be full of leeches, but he ensured nothing such exists here, so not to worry!! He further told us to wake up in the morning early to enjoy the nature. Me, Akash & Suparna went nearby the river to enjoy a smoke at such awesome weather. Akash was quite happy to came at such destination and thanked me to choosing this one in the itinerary!!

Later we were called for dinner, and we were served hot rice / roti, dal, sabji, chicken and egg. Mr. Bhutia came forward to inform us that, he adjusted the eggs as we didn’t had our lunch. But we really felt there was no need to do such thing. Post dinner, we spent some time chit-chatting among ourselves and had a peg each, before hitting the bed.

9th October : Day 2 : Reshikhola – Mankhim : My mom, dad and aunt being early risers, were up by 5 generally!! We woke up at around 6 o’ clock and literally rushed outside with the camera to capture the splendid views!! Me and Akash, went nearby the river and spent some time clicking pictures and having a smoke. Mr. Bhutia came up and wished us Good Morning 🙂 He further informed us that our breakfast would be ready in an hour. So went ahead to get ready, as we thought of start by 9, as it’d take around 30 – 45 minutes to walk up there. Later we went ahead to a shade nearby the river and it was like, we sat there getting soaked ourselves into the nature.

Later we were called up for breakfast, where they served hot puri and sabji along with Tea. Tough we already had a round of Tea before too!! Post breakfast, we went for a walk, and I decided to go and meet Mr. Sebastian Pradhan, as during my planning phase I had a lots of discussion with him and his daughter Pranita Pradhan. Though later I called him up to apologize, when I came to know that Dipankar Da have booked Praktiti Eco Resort instead of Reshi Eco Resort. He told us that it was absolutely fine and it’s great that we will be coming here and asked us to meet him once we are there. Though I felt very bad, but then I realized the how generous these people are.

I walked up there along with my mom, aunt and Suparna and upon enquiring a person busy watering flower, he himself introduced as Mr. Sebastian Pradhan to us and smilingly said “main malik nahi hun main mali hun” (I’m not the owner, I’m the Nurseryman). We shaked hand and I introduced my mom, aunt and Suparna. He then showed us his garden and asked us to take a look freely as we like. My aunt being a gardener too, got mingled with him quickly and they kept on discussing about various things related to various flowers in his garden. I then enquired about his daughter, but she was busy serving the guests, so I thought not to disturb her in that case. He further went ahead to show us coffee plantation in his garden.

Finally after spending some time we bid good bye and went towards our homestay. After returning, we informed Mr. Bhutia, that Arpan, would be there by 10, so we’d like to start, as it’d take us some time to reach there. It was already 9:00 AM by then and thus he informed the boys to make the arrangements. Mr. Bhutia informed that us we have to pay an amount of Rs. 400/- as porter charges (Rs. 200/- each way). That seemed reasonable, as we already thought of paying them some tip for carrying such heavy loads throughout the route. Last night when we came here, the route felt a bit long, due to synchronization required between us due to limitation of torch, but now while leaving, we reached the drop point within 30 minutes. We called up Arpan and he informed that he’s already on his way and he’ll here within next 5-10 minutes.

Finally we started at around 10:15 AM. Our first destination for the day was Lampokhari Lake in Aritar. Arpan stopped at Rehnock, by noticing an ATM there, and asked me to try here. As this is a bit offbeat area, chances are it won’t be out of cash. He was damn right, we took out some cash considering the remaining 3 days of Silk Route leg and started for Lampokhari Lake. We reached there at around 11:00 AM. It was a nice little lake in the midst of hills covered with clouds.

Pointing at one of the hill top, Arpan told us “That’s Mankhim, the halt for the day”. We took some time to roam around the Lake and clicking pictures. Me and Akash was keen to go for the boating. Though it’s not like, I kind of like boating and all, but it was a different charm at this destination. Me, dad, Akash and Suparna went for it. The allowed time frame was 30 minutes, which I felt was enough. We took almost 3 rounds around the lake.

And then we went to a nearby shop to have Tea and Momos. Arpan was having tea and gossiping with his friends already. Finally we started for Mankhim at around 12:10 PM and it took us 30 minutes to reach there. Upon noticing our car Mr. Robin Rai, the host for our day, from Heaven Valley Homestay came forward with some guys and carried our luggage. I being behind him, upon noticing a cottage at the top, asked him whether we can stay there? He smiled and replied “That’s your cottage only”. I cheered up with joy!! Mr. Robin is a very jolly person and took some time out to chit chat with us. His brother Mr. Prakash and Mr. Bimal joined us. He further told us that, this cottage has been newly constructed and belongs to his brother Bimal. He also showed us the properties belongs to him and his brother Prakash.

It’s a very large area, where they as a whole family run this homestay business. Everyone working there is either their brother or sister of other family member. In a quick time frame we got mingled with his niece who was there with his mother on a holiday, due to Dusherra. But whatever it be, she didn’t allowed to click her pictures. She kept mumbling “Pehle aunty ka photo khicho phir mera” (First take her photo and then I’ll allow to click mine) pointing towards my wife!!

Bimal and his sister came forward to chit-chat about our whereabouts. They all were quire jovial and friendly. You see this is the culture and warm hospitality I always talk about at homestays. No hotel, doesn’t matter how much you pay, can give you this friendly feeling. You’d feel like being one of them of their family. Within few minutes, we were called for lunch.

Post lunch, Mr. Robin came up and asked us to take a look around, go to the view points. They have two view point, one being private, designed with an Umbrella, and another being shared with Shantikunj, one of the 3 homestay’s in Mankhim. We went towards the private one, the one with Umbrella. We met up a Bengali couple there who were on a holiday, and did some chit-chat. They were there through Nature Wings. In the meanwhile, another bengali group appeared and noticing us speaking Bengali asked me “Which travel agency?”. They were also there through Nature Wings. I wittily said “Nature Wings seems to be very well known”. Yes even I have heard their name before, but for me I always like to do my trips on my own instead of going in a packaged tour. One of the person from the group card forward and smilingly approached “Nature Wings are self proclaimed expert in this region”. And then we all laughed out!!

Mr. Robin Rai too came up and asked us whether we’d like to check out the souvenir shop. Though we don’t like doing shopping while on tour, but still we thought of checking it out, as my aunt was looking for a Buddhist wind charm. Upon noticing us, his sister, came forward and welcomed us warmly. She introduced herself and told us, she’s now married off at Gangtok and now came here with her daughter, as her school is off due to Dusshera. We informed her that we already met her daughter and she’s very cute!! She asked us whether we’d like to try out traditional dress. Trying out dresses would cost Rs. 100/- with picture and Rs. 50/- without picture. Though we were very reluctant to such thing, but Suparna wished to try out. And then later on one by one everyone tried out the dresses while I clicked the pictures!! This time, I made her daughter agree to get her picture clicked!!

Later on we bought some Buddhist souvenir as they seemed to be cheaper than Gangtok and Pelling. As we thought of moving towards the 2nd view point, it started raining badly. So we spent some more time chit-chatting with them. After the rain halted a bit, we went ahead towards the view point. One can view Lampokhari Lake clearly from there. We further went ahead towards Shanti Kunj and crossing the same we reached till Kanchanjungha Mirror. Lalit Rait, the owner, came forward by noticing us and offered us drinking water noticing my wife panting. Later he informed us to go further up there to a Shiva Temple. Though my wife took rest there, Me and Akash went forward.

Later in the evening, I called up Bimal and asked whether a beer can be arranged, which he did in no time. Though we were carrying whisky, but Me and Akash tends to love beer more!! We all spent rest of the evening having drinks and chit-chatting among ourselves. Later at around 8:30 PM, we were called for dinner. They only had roti’s with sabji and chicken. Though I prefer rice, but at a homestay at such an exotic location, it didn’t mattered much. But what went bad was, all the homestay’s asks for number of roti’s before preparing the same. But they somehow guessed and prepared 3 roti per person in an average. Fortunately, we were carrying cakes and biscuits with us so we managed it somehow for that night.

10th October : Day 3 : Mankhim – Zuluk (Dzuluk) Mr. Robin already informed us last night to get up early, as because of the rain chances are there that the cloud will be cleared out and we’d be able to view Mt. K. Thus we woke up early today too, but out of out luck, it was full of clouds blocking the whole view. Though the cloud started smudging towards different end but that didn’t last long. We were served Puri and excellent Alu Sabji in breakfast and after last night’s incident we had a sumptuous lunch. We guessed, Bimal’s sister was not there yesterday, and thus he might have messed it up!! Anyway, we thought of leaving it after having such a great breakfast!!

Finally Arpan arrived at around 9:30, and we started for our today’s destination Zuluk (actually spelled as Dzuluk) after bidding good bye to Mr. Robin and his family. I took the Email ID of his sister though for sending the pictures of her daughter. Though she said, she doesn’t use it much, instead her daughter only keeps using her mobile for Facebook, WhatsApp and all those!! I’m aware of this generation, so it’s not a generation gap for me!!

Our first stop was Rongli, where we need to make the permits in order to proceed further. Rest of the Silk Route being restricted one needs Restricted Area Permit to visit these places. To get the permit one need a letter head from authorized tour operator of Sikkim with details of the tourists along with ID Proof and Photograph. I went with Arpan while others kept decided to explore the market. Arpan took me to a tour operator’s office where I needed to fill up the details for all us in a form as per the ID Proof. There were lots of drivers filling up the forms for their guests. Arpan thought I might feel offended and thus told me, he would have filled it up himself, but asked me because I’ll be well versed with our names and if he makes even a small mistake, they will reject it and we’ll have to apply it again. I assured him that not to worry, and it’s absolutely fine and makes sense. We payed Rs. 200/- for the permit which Arpan had to pay to the tour operator (probably for the letter head).

He then asked me, whether I’d like to go with him to the office or explore the market. I choose to explore the market instead as I’d have nothing to do there and no one knows how much time it’d take. He’d be standing in the queue and I’d be getting bored. Instead I called up my cousin and wife and met with them, and had a beer!! In the meanwhile, Arpan was done with the permit. He informed us that he thought it’d be a lot of rush in there, but not much queue was there and so he was done early.

We started at around 11:30 AM and crossed Lingtam within next 20 minutes. In between we had to pay a entry fee of Rs. 560/- for 2 days. The officials explained that this area have been declared as Wildlife Zone from 1st April 2016 and one have to pay a fee of Rs. 55/- per head per day. For students there was a concession of Rs. 20/- per head per day. One have to submit the photocopy of ID Proof along with passport size photo. The official was highly impressed by noticing me keeping the documents of each member in an organized way by clipping them. He said “This is a great idea, I’ll tell other tourists too, to keep their documents this way. That will save their and our time too.” 🙂

Further we crossed Que-Khola Falls in Nimachen and Phadamchen and reached Zuluk (Dzuluk) at around 1:40 PM. Our host for the day, Mr. Sherpa Passang, owner of Palzor Homestay, was right there when we reached. He welcomed us warmly and called up his sister. He asked us to follow his sister and said he’ll carry the luggage. His sister, said the lunch will be served shortly. Soon our lunch was served and as usual it contained Rice, Dal, Sabji and Egg Curry. We were damn hungry and the preparation was just awesome. We literally licked our fingers after finishing our meal!!

Post lunch, we hiked up the road where there was a Army Hospital. We noticed few homestay’s there too. After spending some time there enjoying the view, we came down as it was about to go dark. Later we went to a nearby shop to buy beer. It was very cold out there, so we thought of having a peg of rum. We found Mr. Sherpa there and then he introduced us to his mom, dad and his elder sister. He said the shop belongs to his father. He further kept on saying that everyone here in Zuluk (Dzuluk) are his family members. When I inquired about Mr. Gopal Pradhan, owner of Dil Maya Retreat, he introduced a women sitting beside him, as Gopal Pradhan’s wife and he said Gopal Pradhan is his uncle. Though I really couldn’t understand how the whole village can be his family members. Did he meant it otherwise? I’m not sure, as I thought of not stretching the matter much.

There were another Bengali group, came to buy some drinks and some drivers having Honey Bee brandy. Noticing us, they shifted, and asked us to be comfortable. Akash and Suparna, ordered a 250ml of Old Monk, and I ordered a Beer. Rest of the evening we spent there chit-chatting with them. Later we came to our room and after chit-chatting for some time, dinner were served. Post dinner it started raining heavily. Later on Mr. Sherpa came up to take his daughter and son who were also there. When I asked “Why Palzor Homestay?” he pointed towards his son and said “He’s Palzor, this is in his name”.

11th October : Day 4 : Zuluk (Dzuluk) – Nathang (Gnathang) I woke up in the morning once to check the weather but was able to barely anything due to huge clouds. Later after having our breakfast, we went to check the nearby Shiva Temple. Arpan arrived at around 9 AM and informed us that if the weather is like this only, we won’t be able to see anything from Thambi View Point. One can view the whole Zigzag road from Thambi View Point on a clear day. So he asked us to get ready and that we’d go to Thambi View Point and wait for the weather to get clear instead of staying here in the rooms. It seemed reasonable to us. So we quickly got ready and started around 9:30 AM for our today’s destination Nathang (Gnathang).

It took us 1.5 hours to reach Thambi View Point and as guessed, it was full of clouds and nothing was visible. We felt really bad. Arpan consolidated us by stating that, even he’s much surprised about the weather. It never rains this much in October, but god knows what happened this time. Even after waiting for around 30 minutes, things didn’t changed. We decided to have some Tea and Momo at a nearby shop. Finally loosing our hope, we started to proceed further. After crossing 3 – 4 turns, Arpan stopped and exclaimed, “Sir dekhiye, weather clear ho raha hai” (Sir see, weather is getting cleared). Yes it was getting cleared on the upper portion, but the lower portion was still same, so there was no point in going back. We waited there for sometime and clicked some pictures of what was getting visible.

We reached Laxman Chowk at around 11:30. We had a stopover for smoke and clicked few pictures.

Arpan informed us that he’d take us to Old Baba Mandir today only, as from Nathang (Gnathang), it’s a different route and sometimes Army doesn’t allows to take that route. It was 11:30 by then, so there’s no point in going to the hotel so early. It took us 30 minutes to drive to Baba Mandir from Laxman Chowk. We already been to New Baba Mandir on our last Trip to Gangtok and North Sikkim on our way to Nathulla. But the original one always have it’s own charm.

Finally we reached Nathang (Gnathang) at around 1:10 AM. Noticing us, Miss Nima Sherpa, younger sister of Miss Pema Sherpa, came forward and welcomed us warmly. She arranged our rooms at Drafter Bunglow. Though our booking was in Phinasa Lodge, but I called up Miss Pema from Kolkata, to make me stay in Drafter Bunglow only. Both the property belongs to her. We went ahead towards the valley, but were called for Lunch soon. Miss Pema Sherpa came up, and served us lunch. It was around 10 degree out there as displayed in the digital clock.

Post lunch we were thinking of exploring the Valley and walk up to the distant Monastery that was barely visible, but out of our luck, it started raining heavily. So we decided to take it up in the afternoon hoping the rain would stop by then. The temperature dropped severely and we couldn’t restrain ourselves getting under the blanket. When we woke up, it was evening by then, and we noticed it was still raining. Soon we were served Tea and some pop-corns.

We had plans to visit Sunrise Point in Lungthung tomorrow, but we were really worried now, that if it keeps raining like this, then the most important part of our tour would be a miss. All the sightseeing like Sunrise Point, Kupup, Memencho Lake were planned for tomorrow while going towards Gangtok. We were literally praying to god to stop this rain. But the time passed by and things seemed to got worse. The rain was catching it strength and due to the same temperature was getting dropped severely. Last when we checked in the digital clock it read 8 degree centigrade.

We noticed them providing wooden logs to another family staying beside our room. I went ahead to ask for the same, but they informed that it’d cost Rs. 600/- for the same. Though the price seemed to be reasonable, but then we thought, it was already 7 by then and here as per the norm, they would be serving us dinner by 8:30 and then we can anyway hit the bed. If god is with us, we have to woke up at 4 AM anyway for the sunrise. We spent some time chit-chatting among ourselves and the dinner was served in the room at around 8:30 PM. At around 9 we took our dinner and hit the bed.

12th October : Day 5 : Nathang (Gnathang) – Gangtok We woke up at around 3:30 AM just to see that it was raining like hell. It was literally storming outside. We stayed awake till 4 o’ clock, and then we loosed hope and went to bed. Later on we woke up at around 7:00 AM. Suparna, Akash and my mom was having breathing problem due to the thin layer of oxygen. Though we were aware of such in Nathang (Gnathang), and thus we were carrying camphor and pop-corn. Miss Nima came up in the morning to know our whereabouts. She informed that due to this bad rain, the oxygen have dropped severely and thus we were having such problem.

We all caught headache due to low oxygen and thus we were literally searching Arpan. But we found him nowhere. Later Miss Nima informed us that, he had to keep his vehicle in the valley due to the police and thus his car might have frost throughout the night. So he might have got there to defrost the same and bring it here. It might take time to start the car due to such situation last night. Though we were served breakfast, but we denied, as we were not feeling well because of the headache. Mom was having more problem specifically.

Finally Arpan arrived at around 9 o’ clock. He literally looked like, he just came up taking a dip in a lake or river. He smilingly said “Gari lane gaya tha, pura forst ho gaya tha” (Went to bring the car, it was full frosted). We immediately left the room and asked him to change first. But he choose to load the luggage instead otherwise there’s no point in changing. We offered him a umbrella but he said “pura to bhig gaya, kya fayda” (I’m all wet, what’s the point in taking the umbrella). We helped him loading the luggage as quickly as possible and then he went on to change.

After he was done with breakfast, we started at around 9:20 AM. Today our plan was to do the sightseeing and then reach Gangtok. We felt really bad about missing everything, as most of the things were planned for today only. What we felt more bad is the rain didn’t stopped for a single second since last afternoon. But what can be done, as they say “Weather is highly unpredictable in hills”. He showed us Tukla Valley and said on a clear weather one can view Jelep La Pass which used to connect Lhasa in Tibet.

The name Silk Route came from, this route was used to trade silk from Lhasa in Tibet. But after the China taking it over, the Jelep La Pass have been sealed. During that time most of the people who came here in order to do business to make a living had to suffer a lot due to such discrepancy. But mother nature understood their pain and offered her beauty in this region due to which tourism industry was flourished. It was then, these people started homestay business throughout Silk Route in order to make their living.

Arpan stopped at Kupup, but due to heavy rain we couldn’t went out and clicked some pictures on mobile only and started proceeding further. On our way he showed us Memencho Lake. One need to walk down the road to reach the Memencho Lake. Our next stop was New Baba Mandir, which we already have been to. But Suparna wanted to visit it badly, but again due to the rain, we had to give it up. I tried arranging the permits to Nathulla by calling up various agents, but couldn’t manage it. As permits to Nathulla are needed to be submitted 1 day in advance and it’s issued from Gangtok only. It’s very rare to collate it with another driver who would be coming up from Gangtok towards Nathang (Gnathang). Also the permit includes the permit of vehicle too, so one have to use the same vehicle to take the detour to Nathulla, so one have to get down at the junction from their vehicle and go to Nathulla in the vehicle coming from Gangtok. So it needs to match the time in between the vehicles as well as loss of money, due to hiring two vehicles for same point of time.

Finally we crossed Tsongmo Lake (often referred to as Changu Lake) at around 12:40 and reached Gangtok within 12:40. Arpan dropped us at Vajra Stand (Tsongmo Lake taxi stand). Today was our last day with Arpan, from tomorrow onwards my old and trusted friend, Gopi, would be driving us throughout the remaining South & West Sikkim leg.

We were very upset about the day, as most of the things were planned for today and we had to give each and everyone of them a miss due to bad weather. As I finish writing and reviewing this log, 5th November 2:00 AM in the midnight, it’s still raining outside. It might be a co-incidence or am I still feeling the rains of Silk Route are still following me?

The next leg of the Trip Report is continued at Wandering Through Namchi – Ravangla – Yuksom

Few Points To Remember :

• The Key destinations along Silk Route i.e. Zuluk (Dzuluk) to Nathang (Gnathang) is a restricted area, so one needs Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for visiting these areas. The permits are issued from Rongli and/or Gangtok.
• The driver or the tour operator can arrange the permit. One can do on their own, if they have good relations with authorized tour operators in Sikkim, as to apply for the permit, one need the official letterhead of tour operator.
• Shared cabs are not available in this region. So hiring a exclusive vehicle is mandatory. A small group can join with another group to divide the cost.
• Throughout the Silk Route, there are only homestays, with basic infrastructure and amenities but clean with warm hospitality. So please keep your expectations limited. They will anyway go beyond to satisfy you. So as a guest you too should do co-operation from your end as well
• The rates for homestays are charged as per person, which includes fooding and lodging (twin or triple sharing).
• The meal is a set meal, for e.g. at Breakfast it’s Puri Sabji / Maggi / Wai Wai, at Lunch it’s Rice, Dal, Sabji and Egg Curry, in the Evening it’ll include Tea & some Snacks and at dinner it’ll be Rice / Roti, Dal, Sabji and Chicken Curry. It includes Bed Tea in the morning as well.
• Generally the meal timings are fixed. Sometimes they deviate a bit on request, but not much, due to their lifestyle. So please co-operate and don’t think you can have your dinner there are 10 PM or 11 PM.

Homestays :

Prakriti Eco Retreat, Reshikhola : We really enjoyed the clean and cozy atmosphere staying beside the river hearing the chirping sound of the Reshi River. Mr. Chumbey Bhutia, belongs from Pedong, is a very jovial person and being a traveler himself can just make your day!! I’d surely love to go on a bike trip with him sometime.

Heaven Valley Homestay, Mankhim : I think this one is the best out of 3 homestay’s in Mankhim. Mr. Robin Rai with his family runs this business. We were allotted the front most cottage belonging to his brother Mr. Bimal Rai. The whole family is very friendly and we loved being their guest enjoying the serene beauty of our mother nature.

Palzor Homestay, Zuluk : Mr. Sherpa Passang, the owner of this property, named after his son Palzor, is a very witty person. He’s always out there running after guests to fulfill their needs. One can expect a very warm hospitality staying here.

Drafter Bunglow, Gnathang : Miss Pema Sherpa and her sister Miss Nima Sherpa runs this property along with Pinasha Lodge. Both of them are always smiling and there always for your help. The rooms we got felt like we were in a 5* property. The washrooms though is not connected with water source always. Thus you find the cistern missing!! They will provide you enough bucket of water. But the washroom is equipped with taps, so once you run out of water, just inform them, they will connect it with the water source for you to fill up the buckets. Being situated at 13,500 ft. above sea level, some people may face issue due to thin layer of oxygen in the air, so carry camphor and pop-corn to cope up on such situations.

Sillery Gaon : Nirmala Homestay, Dilip Tamang : +91-96350-05318

Icche Gaon : Icchegaon Homestay : Dilip Kumar Khawas : +91-86702-42128, +91-79069-26652, +91-81167-60140, +91-89722-87740

Reshikhola : Prakriti Eco Retreat, Chumbey Bhutia : +91-99322-61029 Reshi Eco Tourism, Sebastian Pradhan : +91-99327-44407, +91-99326-80170 / Pranita Pradhan : +91-90027-74220 Reshi River Camp, Birbal Tamang : +91-86700-56992

Aritar : Lampokhari Village Resort, Poonam : +91-97348-43981, +91-95939-72711

Mankhim : Heaven Valley Homestay, Robin Rai : +91-96478-57292, +91-76025-70527, +91-97335-11349 Shanti Kunja, Santosh Gurung : +91-97330-31792, +91-97759-94734 Kanchanjungha Mirror, Lalit Rai : +91-97759-15047, +91-78649-01715

Nimachen : Silk Route Eco Hut Homestay : +91-99335-19398, +91-94762-93991, +91-83718-88778 Blue Sky : +91-98002-00685, +91-99329-68835

Phadamchen : Kenjola Homestay : +91-99324-34965, +91-76795-80310 Lama Khang : +91-99334-71202, +91-97754-97707, +91-89000-83678 Laden Homestay : +91-97759-26554, +91-70630-85391 Doma Residence : +91-98304-07707, +91-90518-77727

Zuluk : Palzor Homestay / Himalay Homestay, Sherpa Passang : +91-97341-50546, +91-97331-88456 Dil Maya Retreat, Gopal Pradhan : +91-96098-60266 Snowlion Homestay, Chundu Bhutia : +91-81018-27279 Denzong Homestay, Lobzang Bhutia : +91-74072-62795 Lali Guras Homestay, Mr. Mukhia : +91-95937-76585 Dew Drop Homestay, Pempa Tawang : +91-98002-54911 Yangchen Homestay, Chankey Pradhan : +91-90024-41173 New Lite Homestay, Norbu Tawang : +91-96478-88596 / +91-81599-49313 Ganga Sagar Homestay, Meena Sunuwar : +91-97758-47283 Mama Homestay, Nima Gyalpo Tamang : +91-95648-81734 Angel Homestay, Dawa Gyalpo Tamang : +91-96098-72995 Semi Rose Homestay, Som Bhadra Tamang : +91-96352-30768 Jennifer Homestay, Tshering Tamang : +91-95933-73804 Tibetian Villa, Namgyal Tamang : +91-98320-43666 Mukhia Homestay, Suk Bhadra Sunuwar : +91-95937-78166 Hidden Paradise, Durga Pradhan : +91-78728-83264 Sojourn Homestay, Palmu Tamang : +91-78728-93216 Niten Homestay, Parang Tamang : +91-95935-83838

Lungthung / Dhupidhara : Lungthung Real Estate, Chindu Bhutia / Thandup Bhutia : +91-98004-12703 / +91-85091-23192 / 03592-290110 Lungthung Eco Retreat, Lakpa Bhutia : +91-96478-50075 Hilltop Homestay, Chuna Bhutia : +91-95933-79387

Gnathang : Drafter Bunglow / Phinasa Lodge : +91-94741-45958 / +91-94746-48767 Kazi Homestay, Kazi Sherpa : +91-94754-40763 Pem Diki Homestay, Pempa Sherpa : +91-94746-00660 Lhamu Homestay, Lhamu Sherpa : +91-94743-32385 Sonam Homestay, Chokpa Sherpa : +91-94746-63082 Phintsok Homestay, Thandup Bhutia : +91-94754-39292 Sunset Homestay, Kharka Pradhan : +91-94750-31455

NOTE : All the above contacts can book other homestay’s if their one is already full or even they can book any of the homestays throughout Silk Route as a package.

Arpan (Scorpio – SK 01J 0084) : +91-81454-23829. He drives a Scorpio, and a very good jolly person as well as good driver.

Mohan Ji (Arpan’s Agency) : +91-98325-66772 / +91-94749-08656. He can arrange car throughout Silk Route.

The whole package was booked from : Dipankar Da (North East Travels) : +91-89722-47306 / +91-94745-94446. Email : [email protected]

A Word of Caution : Anyone planning for Silk Route, please remember, that throughout the destinations along Silk Route, there are no hotels. All of them being homestays offers very basic infrastructure. The package generally includes fooding and lodging, where they generally provide Puri Saji / Maggi / Wai Wai in Breakfast, Rice, Dal, Sabji & Egg Curry in Lunch, Tea and Pakoda as Snacks in the evening and Rice / Roti, Dal, Sabji and Chicken Curry in Dinner. Most of the meals are served in time and dinner time is around 8:30 – 9:00. They go to sleep by 9:30 – 10:00, as they have to wake up at 4:30 – 5:00 PM. So there’s no point in requesting for late dinner. So please make sure to adjust as necessary. All the destinations are within the lap of our mother nature, so while being there, please maintain the tranquility of hill life.

I thought of posting the above in bold, as throughout my journey, I experienced such scenarios where hosts have to face a lot of problem because of few such guests.

Cost : Porter Charges at Reshikhola : Rs. 400/- Lampokhari Lake Entry & Parking : 60/- (Rs. 10/- per head) + 20-/- = 80/- Lampokhari Boating : Rs. 200/- for 30 minutes Permit at Rongli : Rs. 200/- Wildlife Entry + Camera Fee : Rs 560/-

I have removed the personal cost like buying souvenirs, liquors or any other cost of personal nature etc. for your easy reference.

Fooding & Lodging : Rs 850/- per head per day x 6 (persons) x 4 (days) = 20,400/- Car : 3500/- per day x 5 (days) = 17500/-

Even though we couldn’t go for the Sunrise, but as discussed, it’d have cost extra Rs. 1000/- from Gnathang and Rs. 1500/- from Zuluk.

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Krishnandu Sarkar

Hi, I'm born and bought up in Kolkata in the midst of what bongs are best known for - Eating, Sleeping and Travelling. A developer by profession and a traveller by passion. As I was facing a lack of budget-friendly information on the internet while planning my travel, I started drafting my travel experiences here to help you all having a pocket-friendly smooth travel experience.

Further Reading...

Experience From My Sikkim Trip

A Night At Jhallong River Camp

Weekend Gateway to Gopalpur

125 comments.

Dear Mr. Sarkar thank you for sharing your amazing experiences. These core information is highly helpful for upcoming all India tourists. One humble request for you please add Rolep , this is an undoutebly amazing place for family tourists. This particular place is holding the biggest waterfalls in EAST SIKKIM or OLD SILK ROUTE.

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Wandering through namchi - ravangla - yuksom, travel.with.krish.

A Journey to the Old Silk Route - Gnathan, Zuluk ; Sikkim, India

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52 Useful Tips for Travelling the Silk Road (Backpacker’s Guide)

January 19, 2020.

Thinking about travelling the Silk Road? You’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. This in-depth post will tell you everything you need to know to plan your trip.

From the windswept steppe of Kazakhstan to the mighty Pamir Mountains and to the oasis towns of Uzbekistan, the Silk Road has it all. For thousands of years, travellers and traders made the treacherous journey along the Silk Road, across vast deserts and over high mountain passes.

Nowadays, it’s rather easy to see the countries of the Silk Road for yourself. Visa issues have basically disappeared and there is now plenty of infrastructure to accommodate tourists.

I’ve spent over 6 months travelling around the Central Asian Silk Road countries, and have learned a ton about the region.

• 1 What is the Silk Road?
• 2.2 Kyrgyzstan
• 2.3 Kazakhstan
• 2.4 Uzbekistan
• 2.5 Tajikistan
• 2.6 Turkmenistan
• 2.7 Afghanistan (Wakhan Corridor)
• 3 Silk Road Travel Routes
• 4 Food along the Silk Road
• 5 People & Culture of the Silk Road
• 6 Visas for travelling the Silk Road
• 7 Safety along the Silk Road
• 8 Transportation while travelling the Silk Road
• 9 Accommodation while travelling the Silk Road
• 10 Silk Road Travel Costs
• 11 When to travel the Silk Road
• 12 Communication along the Silk Road
• 13 Internet & SIM Cards for the Silk Road
• 14 Travelling the Silk Road Wrap-up

What is the Silk Road?

1 – The Silk Road wasn’t just one route: The Silk Road was a vast network of trade routes that connected Europe to Asia. The most well-known route is the one from China to Turkey, via Central Asia and Iran. Other routes travelled to Arabia, India, and Southeast Asia.

2 – This post will focus on the Central Asian Silk Road : Most travellers who plan a trip to the Silk Road visit the Central Asian ‘stans and China. While places such as Iran and Turkey are also technically on the Silk Road, that’s not usually the first thing that comes to mind when people visit them.

3 – Where does it start? Where does it end?: People typically consider Xi’an in China to be the starting point, and Istanbul in Turkey to be the endpoint of the Silk Road.

Where to visit along the Silk Road

4 – There are 7 different countries that make up the Central Asian Silk Road: China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and northern Afghanistan are the countries that most consider being part of the Central Asian Silk Road.

Let’s go over the highlights of each of them below:

5 – History, nature, and delicious food: China has an incredibly long history, and it’s Silk Road corridor from Xi’an to Kashgar is no exception. Travelling along the Chinese Silk Road is an incredible experience. You’ll get to visit the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, taste some delicious noodles in Lanzhou, visit the famous Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, and check out the famous flaming cliffs of Turpan.

6 – Kashgar, China’s westernmost city: Closer to Baghdad than Beijing, Kashgar is an oasis city far from the rest of China. It’s inhabited by ethnic Uyghur people, and has always been an extremely important location on the Silk Road. When you visit Kashgar, you’ll be able to roam around its old city, visit animal markets, and take a road trip down the Karakorum Highway to the Pakistani border.

7 – Kyrgyzstan is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers: Kyrgyzstan is without a doubt the most naturally beautiful Central Asian country. While small in area, it boasts a number of different landscapes. One of my personal favourites is the Alay Valley in the southern part of the country.

There are countless different treks that you can do while in Kyrgyzstan, and there is pretty good information floating around online about the best ones. The Ala-Kul trek is one of the most popular ones, although if you want to get really off the beaten path, treks such as the Heights of Alay will be right up your alley.

8 – Mountaineers will be right at home: Some of the most accessible 7,000-meter peaks in the world are located in Kyrgyzstan, and there are a number of agencies that assist experienced climbers in making attempts on these giant mountains.

I personally attempted to climb Lenin Peak when I was in Kyrgyzstan, it was one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done but was incredibly beautiful.

9 – There are nice beaches in Kyrgyzstan: You probably wouldn’t expect to have a nice beach day with a mountain backdrop while you’re in Central Asia, but the massive Issy-Kul in Kyrgystan gives you this opportunity! There are a bunch of towns along the shores of Issy-Kul with great little beach resorts.

This lake is actually a popular summer destination among tourists from Russia and other parts of Central Asia!

Check out my backpacker’s guide to Kyrgyzstan for more info on this amazing country!

10 – Vast steppes and gorgeous mountains: While most of Kazakhstan is an empty steppe, there are some large mountains located in the Almaty and Altai regions of the country. The mountains in the Almaty region are super accessible (just a short bus ride from the city), and there are plenty of hiking and camping opportunities here.

11 – Almaty is the most European-like city in Central Asia: When you arrive in Almaty, you’ll notice immediately how European it feels. Everything from the architecture, cuisines, and way that people dress is quite a bit different than most of Central Asia. It’s a wonderful city to spend some relaxation time in after being in rural areas for a while. I ended up loving it so much I stayed in the city for almost two months!

12 – If you like history, Uzbekistan is for you: Out of all the Central Asian ‘stans, Uzbekistan has by far the best-preserved historical sights. The old cities of Bukhara and Khiva feel like living museums – you can wander around their endless alleys all day. Samarkand has the famous Registan and Gur-e-Amir (Mausoleum of Timur) which are two incredible sights that you can’t miss while travelling the Silk Road.

13 – The Aral Sea, one of man’s greatest mistakes: The Aral Sea was once a thriving sea in Uzbekistan, surrounded by fishing towns supporting tens of thousands of people. The Soviet Union decided to redirect the waters of the Aral Sea to use it as irrigation for cotton fields. Over time, this has lead to the Aral Sea almost completely drying up. Nowadays, one can visit the depressing former fishing town of Moynak to gain more insight into how the disaster affected people on the ground.

14 – Tashkent, the Soviet capital of Central Asia: Tashkent was the Soviet capital of Central Asia, and definitely still gives off those kinda vibes. The city is made up of giant 8-lane roads, large European looking buildings, and has plenty of monuments to look at if you’re bored.

For more info on travel in Uzbekistan, be sure to check out my detailed 2-week Uzbekistan itienerary !

Ceilings in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

15 – World’s greatest road trip: Tajikistan is home to the Pamir Highway, arguably the world’s greatest road trip. The Pamir Highway travels through Tajikistan’s mountainous Pamir Region near the border with Afghanistan. When travelling on the highway, you’ll drive over epic 4,500 meter passes, descend into gorgeous valleys, and meet some of the most hospitable people on Earth.

16 – Undiscovered, yet ready to explore: Tajikistan often gets overshadowed by neighbouring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, but it’s so unique and beautiful it’d be a shame to miss it. There are plenty of regions of Tajikistan that see almost no tourists (the Bartang Valley, parts of the Fann Mountains, the Eastern Pamir). Tajiks are very friendly and the Persian influence on their culture is very unique from the rest of Central Asia.

Turkmenistan

17 – The North Korea of the Silk Road: Turkmenistan is a very closed off country, and is often touted as the North Korea of Central Asia. Tourist visas are impossible to get without visiting on a guided tour, making the country pretty off-limits for most backpackers.

Afghanistan (Wakhan Corridor)

18 – Marco Polo’s route to China: During his travels along the Silk Road, Marco Polo passed through the Wakhan Corridor and Little Pamir to enter China via the Wakhjir Pass (4,923 m). This is one of the most remote and treacherous trade routes around, but locals have no choice but to use it.

19 – One of the most untouched places on the planet: Visiting Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor is like a trip back in time. Much of the region still doesn’t have any electricity and internet access is-non existent. This place isn’t for everyone, but experienced travellers will remember it for the rest of their lives.

For more info on visiting, check out my detailed guide to Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor .

Silk Road Travel Routes

So now that you know a little bit about the countries that lie along the Silk Road, what is the best way to travel through them?

Let’s go over a few classic Silk Road travel itineraries.

20 – China to Central Asia – the classic Silk Road route: If you want to follow the classic route that traders would’ve taken towards Europe, begin your journey in Xi’an and start heading west. You should stop in Lanzhou, Dunhuang, Zhangye, Turpan, Urumqi, and Kashgar before crossing the Irkeshtam Pass into Kyrgyzstan.

When you’re in Kyrgyzstan, you’ve got a few options. You could head south to Tajikistan along the Pamir Highway, or go north to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan’s Capital) before crossing to Almaty for a little taste of Europe in Central Asia. From either Tajikistan or Kazakhstan, cross the border into Uzbekistan and check out the famous oasis cities of Bukhara and Khiva.

You can end your trip after Uzbekistan, or consider applying for a Turkmenistan transit visa to continue onto Iran if you’ve got even more time.

21 – The Central Asia Loop itinerary: If you want to focus on the heart of Central Asia, you need to visit Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

I’d recommend flying into Almaty, then heading down to Bishkek for some time exploring Kyrgyzstan (Karakol and Osh are must-sees). After that, head south to Dushanbe, Tajikistan via the Pamir Highway and Wakhan Valley (and hop into Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor if you’re up for it!).

After Dushanbe, visit Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains (if you’re not yet tired of mountains) before crossing the border into Uzbekistan. While in Uzbekistan, check out Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent before taking an overnight train back to Almaty.

Food along the Silk Road

22 – Food along the Silk Road is very diverse: Plov, Lagman, Shashlik, Samsas and Beshbarmark are just some of the unique foods that you’ll encounter while travelling around this part of the world. Central Asian food tends to be meat and dairy heavy, whereas Chinese food focuses much more on spices to add flavour.

23 – Plov and Lagman are the most common dishes: In all of the Central Asian countries, you’ll be able to find plov and lagman. Plov is a rice dish with meat and veggies (usually beef and carrots). Lagman is a noodle dish that originates from Uyghur parts of Central Asia. It’s typically made with pulled noodles, meat and vegetables. Spice levels with lagman vary, I only ever found it spicy enough in Xinjiang (China).

24 – Kumis is an alcoholic dairy drink: Made from fermented horse milk, you’ll often find kumis in rural areas of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. It’s got a slight alcohol percentage and a sour taste that takes some getting used to!

People & Culture of the Silk Road

25 – The Silk Road is incredibly diverse: There are so many different ethnic groups in Central Asia, it’d be impossible to list them all. The most common ones that you’ll encounter are Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, Uzbeks, Tajiks, and Dungans. As a result of the Soviet Union and China, there are also plenty of Han Chinese, Russians, and Koreans scattered around Central Asia.

26 – Islam is the most common religion: All Central Asian ‘stans are Muslim, and much of the Xinjiang region of China is as well (at least.. for now). Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan are the most liberal areas, with plenty of people drinking alcohol and not fasting during Ramadan.

Uzbekistan and Tajikistan are more conservative, especially the southern regions of both countries. However, they are still much more liberal than places like Pakistan or Saudi Arabia .

27 – People are extremely hospitable: One thing that all of the people living in Central Asia have in common is their hospitality. No matter where I went, I was always welcomed with open arms and a cup of chai. People don’t see very many tourists around here and want to treat their guests as well as they can. You don’t have to worry about people being unfriendly here – just keep a smile on your face and you’ll have a wonderful time.

28 – Dress code varies from country to country: In liberal Almaty, girls can wear whatever they want and nobody will bat an eye. Try to do that in southern Tajikistan and you’ll get a different reaction.

In more religious areas, you should dress modestly. For the dudes, pants and a t-shirt is fine everywhere in Central Asia. For females, nothing revealing and you’ll be ok.

Visas for travelling the Silk Road

29 – Visas issues in Central Asia are disappearing: Central Asia used to be one of the most difficult regions to travel around. Travellers would need a visa for every country, and they wouldn’t be easy to get.

Nowadays, things are a lot easier. Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan offer 30-day visa-free access for a number of nationalities. Kyrgyzstan gives 60-days for most people. Tajikistan still requires an e-visa, but it is easy to apply for online and can be gotten within a week or so and is valid for 45-days.

China still requires a visa, but it should be fairly straightforward to apply for before you leave home.

Turkmenistan is still locked down. You can’t get a tourist visa without a guided tour, although travellers are sometimes able to visit independently on a short 5-day transit visa.

30 – Border crossings aren’t too bad: Unless you fly everywhere, you’ll end up having to cross some borders while travelling the Silk Road.

Most border crossings in Central Asia are fairly straightforward now, and you don’t need to worry about a strict bag inspection or anything.

Exceptions are borders into and out of China. Expect a full bag inspection, as well as a search of all the photos on your electronic devices.

Safety along the Silk Road

31 – Central Asia is reasonably safe: I’ve spent a long time in Central Asia, and never once had any safety issues. While this is simply anecdotal, governments usually just advise travellers to proceed with caution while in Central Asia.

There are areas that are more dangerous than others. Parts of the Uzbek/Kyrgyz border infrequently have small violent clashes (you wouldn’t visit here anyway), and southern Tajikistan sometimes has issues.

The areas that tourists usually visit are very safe, in my opinion.

32 – Be careful with nature: I’d guess that most issues that arise when travelling in Central Asia are due to altitude sickness and twisted ankles. If you’re planning a trip along the Pamir Highway, you need to be sure to properly acclimatize or you could get altitude sickness. When hiking, always be careful and go with a guide if you’re unsure of your abilities.

33 – Driving can be dangerous:  Like everywhere in the world, Central Asia has some crazy drivers. Combine this with windy mountain roads, and you’re asking for disaster.

All you can do here is get out of a vehicle if you feel unsafe. If the driver smells like alcohol, that’s a bad sign.

In many places, you can take a train rather than drive, but driving is required to travel around Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

34 – Don’t forget your travel insurance: No matter where you go, you should always have travel insurance – Central Asia is no exception. Even though Central Asia is safe, accidents can still happen.

I personally use and recommend World Nomads. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of  adventure sports and activities (important if you plan on doing any hiking or other outdoor activities while in Central Asia).

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE FROM WORLD NOMADS HERE

Transportation while travelling the Silk Road

35 – Travelling the Silk Road involves long journey times: Distances are massive along the Silk Road, and the roads and railways are usually not the most modern.

For example, a train from Xi’an to Kashgar takes a solid 40 hours, and a minivan from Bishkek to Osh takes about 14 hours.

Patience is key here, but at least you’ll be able to look out the window and enjoy views of the epic scenery of Central Asia.

36 – When you can, take the train: Trains aren’t always an option, but in China, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan they have pretty good networks. Trains are much more comfortable for long distances than buses, and they often run overnight so you can just sleep in a bed the entire journey.

37 – Get ready for a lot of marshrutka rides:  Marshrutkas (minivans) are the backbone of Central Asia. They run throughout all of the former Soviet Union countries and are pretty affordable.

Try to avoid sitting in the very back – it’s uncomfortable and you can’t see anything. Bring plenty of water, as these things don’t usually have air conditioning and the Central Asian summer gets bloody hot.

38 – Consider flying if you’re short on time: While I prefer overland travel, I understand that not everybody has 6 months to spend screwing around in Central Asia.

If you need to get from Osh to Bishkek (and you’ve already seen that epic drive at least once), then just take the $30 flight and skip the 14-hour long drive.

Accommodation while travelling the Silk Road

39 – Most forms of accommodation are available: In most places that you’ll visit while travelling the Silk Road, there are both budget and mid-range accommodation types available.

Hostels are common in Central Asia and are very affordable. Hotels are also found in all cities and large towns.

In rural areas, I recommend staying at a homestay to experience true Central Asian hospitality.

40 – When you’re in Kyrgyzstan, you need to sleep in a yurt :  The yurt is the traditional home of nomadic Kyrgyz, Kazakh, and Mongolian people. A yurt is a round, single-room building that is usually white on the outside. They’re warm and comfortable even when high in the mountains.

Tourist yurts are common in Kyrgyzstan, and the perfect place to spent a night while trekking.

41 – Research your Xinjiang accommodation in advance: The far west Chinese province of Xinjiang has a lot of restrictions on which hotels foreigners are allowed to stay at. The list is always changing, so you need to do a bit of research to find where you’ll be allowed to stay during your trip.

If you’re travelling with a tour, this would be arranged for you.

Silk Road Travel Costs

42 – Central Asia is a pretty cheap place: While not as cheap as India or Vietnam, travelling in Central Asia is still very affordable. If you stick to hostels, local food, and public transport, you can easily keep your budget around $35 per day.

If you want a bit more luxury, push that budget to $50 and you’ll be able to have amazing meals and stay in pretty nice places.

43 – China can be a bit more pricey: With China’s economic boom, prices have been increasing. While travelling in China is affordable for the most part, certain things like entrance fees and train tickets can add up over time.

44 – Money-saving tips: To save some money while travelling in Central Asia, I’d recommend using Couchsurfing and hitchhiking when possible.

Couchsurfing is a great way to meet locals, and you’ll save a bit of cash. Hitchhiking in Central Asia is fairly easy, although you sometimes have to pay a small amount (even locals do this).

When to travel the Silk Road

45 – Summers are super hot: The Central Asian summer is extremely hot. Summer temperatures can reach 50°C in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, and cities like Tashkent and Dushanbe get pretty unbearable. Central Asia is quite dry, so you don’t need to worry about humidity, at least.

However, summer is the perfect time if you want to get into the mountains of Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan. The trekking season is short here, usually running from June to mid-September. If you’re at all interested in outdoor adventures, summer is a great time. You’ll just need to bear the city heat while you pass through them.

46 – Spring and Autumn are perfect: For the most comfortable experience, travel the Silk Road during spring or autumn. These seasons bring comfortable temperatures, especially in places like Uzbekistan. In the mountains of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, things will be a bit chilly but it’s still possible to do some short hikes.

47 – Winters are harsh: Central Asia is a land of extremes. Winter brings freezing temperatures to much of the region. While travel is doable at this time of year, bring warm clothes and understand that certain summer activities just won’t be possible.

Snow-covered landscapes are beautiful, and the Silk Road landscapes look unique while covered in a blanket of fresh white snow.

If you’re a skier, you’ll be happy to know that Almaty, Bishkek, and Karakol have some great hills! Rental prices are pretty reasonable.

Communication along the Silk Road

48 – Russian is the most useful language: The five Central Asian ‘stans spent quite a while in the Soviet Union, and the Russian language spread throughout them during this time.

In Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, almost everybody knows Russian, especially in the cities. It’s much more common to hear Russian being spoken in Bishkek than Kyrgyz.

Uzbekistan still has quite a lot of Russian speakers as well, especially in Tashkent. In Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, Russin is less common but it’s still possible to find some speakers of it.

While you obviously don’t need to learn Russian to travel in Central Asia, it sure does help to learn the Cyrillic alphabet and some basic phrases.

I recommend picking up a Russian phrasebook before leaving home.

49 – People love if you learn a word or two in their local language: Just learning how to say “thank you” in Kyrgyz ( rahmat )  makes Kyrgyz people super happy. I always try to do this when travelling, and in Central Asia, it’s a really great thing to do.

50 – Plenty of people know English: With tourism increasing along the Silk Road, more and more people are learning some English to work in the tourism industry. At hotels and hostels, you’ll usually be able to find an employee who knows English.

In cities like Bishkek and Almaty, so many young people know English and are eager to practice with foreigners. I’ve had people start friendly conversations with me just because they heard me speaking English.

Don’t stress if you don’t know any Russian or local languages. I always manage to get by with English, Google Translate, and some patience.

Internet & SIM Cards for the Silk Road

51 – Internet quality varies along the Silk Road: In Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, there is cheap and fast internet almost everywhere. I was able to get 3G signal at Lenin Peak base camp at 3,600 meters in Kyrgyzstan. In Kazakhstan, I paid about $5 for 9GB of data with unlimited social media use (including YouTube and Instagram). In Kyrgyzstan, I paid $4 for 40GB of data.

On the other side of the spectrum are Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The internet there is somewhat expensive, and coverage is pretty bad outside of the main cities. It’s still worth picking up a local SIM card, but you need to be a bit mindful of your data usage. WiFi is also less common here, although decent hostels will have it.

52 – You need to get around China’s Great Firewall: In China, the internet is restricted and most foreign websites are blocked. All Google and Facebook services are inaccessible, as well as sites such as Reddit and Wikipedia.

To access these sites, you need to use a VPN. The best VPN for travelling in China right now is NordVPN .

I’ve used a bunch of different VPNs while travelling and had by far the best experience with NordVPN . They offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 customer support, and high-speed servers that are reliable and consistent.

Travelling the Silk Road Wrap-up

I hope this post has helped you learn a bit more about travelling the Silk Road! I love Central Asia so much, and I’m sure you’ll love it too. It’s such an undiscovered and beautiful place to travel around.

If you have any questions, ask in the comments below!

Otherwise, check out some of my other epic guides:

• Guide to travelling in Kyrgyzstan
• Guide to travelling in Mongolia
• Guide to travelling in China
• Guide to travelling in Pakistan
• Guide to travelling in Saudi Arabia
• Guide to Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor

21-year old Canadian dude who loves to visit off-the-beaten-path places, climb tall mountains, and try delicious foods.

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5 thoughts on “ 52 Useful Tips for Travelling the Silk Road (Backpacker’s Guide) ”

Wow looks so beautiful😍, I want to visit Silk road and Pamir Highway. How is temperature in Central Asia (May – Sept). Did you visit with a tour or autostop? I want take a tour because its more cheaper, we’re 4 people. I wanna book tour with Pegas Adventure. Anyone used this tour company?

You’ll love Central Asia 🙂

Temperatures depend on where you are in Central Asia – summertime peaks in July & August, so you should try to be in the mountains during those months where temperatures will be pretty comfortable. In the lowlands of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, summer temperatures can soar to above 40 degrees.

I don’t know much about tour agencies in Central Asia – If you have four people you could even consider renting a car and driving it on a big loop. Public transport is also very easy to take, but with four people it might end up costing the same just to rent your own car. You can even take it between countries, as long as the rental company allows it.

Let me know if you have any other questions! Hope this helps 🙂

Do you think it would be ok for two women traveling alone, say a mother-duaghter duo?

I’d say so, although some previous travel experience in a less developed country would be good to have.

Locals might be a bit surprised, as this isn’t something they’d typically encounter, although there shouldn’t be any hostility about it.

People in Central Asia are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners! Feel free to email me if you have more questions.

Thank you for this lovely guide. You’ve done the hard footwork and then share such useful information with us! I hope that you’ll get to travel all the places in the world you desire, and are always at the right place, at the right time. ☀️🌈🌳🌸🌟☃️

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The big trip: how to plan the ultimate Silk Road adventure through Central Asia

The old trade routes of the silk road give travellers endless options to explore central Asia, from lake-scattered mountain plateaus to ornate mausoleum complexes and lively cities packed with soviet architecture.

The name ‘Silk Road’ evokes images of Marco Polo and endless camel caravans stretching from Beijing to Baghdad and on to the Venetian Lagoon. But the fact is there was no single, definitive trail. Rather, the Silk Road was an umbrella term for a web of trade routes between China and Europe formed over a period of around 1,600 years, from the second century BC to 1450. While these routes wound as far south as India and Southeast Asia, most of their traffic moved overland through the heart of Central Asia, over snowy passes and through scorching deserts. Routes changed over time as new warlords demanded higher taxes from caravans wanting to travel through their territory. Other times, it was because of dangers caused by brutal brigands capturing riches such as silk, tea, ivory and precious metals, and enslaving travellers. Relics of the era can be found across the region today — particularly in the Central Asian segments of the Silk Road.  

Few merchants and travellers made the full journey from Europe to China, as most goods and gold changed hands many times at various points along the Silk Road. Similarly, today, travellers tend to approach the region in bite-sized chunks — travelling the full length would take longer even than Marco Polo’s famous 24-year, 13th-century journey.

History buffs and architecture lovers often focus on Uzbekistan, where preserved mosques and madrasas hide behind fortress walls, and Soviet-era architectural oddities can be found. Trekkers and mountaineers turn towards Kyrgyzstan, a country of snowy peaks and a proud nomadic heritage. Kazakhstan blends the two, with a few attractive Silk Road ruins and impressive landscapes that make it an easy choice to add to any itinerary. The legendary, mountain-backed Pamir Highway — one of the world’s most epic road trips and the northern segment of the ancient Silk Road, described by Marco Polo in the 13th century — lies mostly within Tajikistan’s borders, but travellers intent on seeing it will have to contend with access restrictions and safety concerns.  

Itinerary 1: S ilk Road Cities

Once major hubs for global trade and centres of cultural exchange, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan’s cities are now welcoming oases for history lovers, complete with ornate Islamic architecture and crumbling ruins.

Arriving in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, board a train (13-17h) to Turkistan to explore the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Dating to the late 14th century, it’s believed to be the earliest example of the Timurid architectural style — intricate tilework, multiple minarets and domes — that came to define the Silk Road. Set aside half a day to visit the partially excavated ruins of 10th-century desert fortress Sauran, 25 miles north west of Turkistan.

Cross the border to Uzbek capital Tashkent, a pleasant city of parks and fountains that, with nearly three million inhabitants, is the biggest in Central Asia. The 18th-century Kukeldash Madrasah, built as an Islamic school, is one of the largest in Central Asia. Inside the nearby 16th-century Hazrati Imam complex is the world’s oldest surviving Quran , brought to Taskkent by Turco-Mongol conqueror Timur.From Tashkent, travel to Urgench by plane, bus or train (3h/14h/15h) and continue by shared taxi to Khiva (30min), the best preserved fortress city along the Central Asian Silk Road. The 2,400-year-old Itchan Kala (old town) is packed with ancient architecture; it would be easy to spend two days here, wandering the winding streets and climbing lofty minarets for views of the city.

Days 8-12  

Go by train to Bukhara (6h) for three nights, then onward by train to Samarkand (1.5h). Both cities are UNESCO listed; Samarkand is the more famous, but Bukhara is the more appealing as it blends ancient and modern so well. Sixteenth-century trading domes are still in use, standing beside all-but-abandoned synagogues, family homes and bakers’ kiosks. In Samarkand, don’t miss the Gur-e-Amir, a mausoleum complex that contains the tomb of tyrant Timur, whose empire stretched from Aleppo to Delhi, and the imposing Registan — a plaza at the heart of the city that contains three ornately mosaiced madrasas. On the edge of the historic centre, the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleum complex, with its colourful, tiled facades, is also worth a visit.  

From Samarkand, add a trip to Shakhrisabz, Timur’s birthplace. Once envisioned as the capital of the Timurid Empire and eventual resting place of the conqueror, plans stalled when Timur unexpectedly died during a military campaign in 1405. Today, it’s a small, traditional town; just past a modern statue of Timur, the restored Chubin Madrasah has been converted into a museum dedicated to the tyrant and his empire.  

Itinerary 2: Soviet Legacy

The Soviet Union ruled over much of Central Asia for more than half the 20th century, leaving an enduring physical and ideological legacy that can still be observed in the Silk Road nations of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

Start in Almaty, exploring the history of Kazakhstan’s Soviet-era capital through the architecture and art of the era. A guided walk with the company Walking Almaty can be one of the best ways to uncover Modernist mosaics and Imperial-era buildings across the historic centre. In the mountains above the city is the modernist Medeu Highland Skating Rink, which opened in 1951. Soviet skaters broke more than 200 world records here before the USSR collapsed. It remains a popular venue, as well as an active competition venue.

Travel west by car to Bishkek, across the border in Kyrgyzstan, where Soviet architecture surrounds a Lenin statue in the city centre. Just over an hour east of the city lies Issyk-Ata Sanatoria — a throwback to the Soviet-era hospital-spa-summer-camps, where tourists can stay overnight in dilapidated, pastel-blue dormitories. Guests can hike up the valley to a small waterfall (a three-mile round trip), returning for a dip in the sanatoria’s hot springs. Before returning to Bishkek, detour to Ata Beyit Memorial Complex, an hour west of Issyk-Ata. A secret mass grave of Soviet Kyrgyzstan’s intelligentsia was revealed here by a deathbed confession from one of the guards on duty the night of the massacre.

It’s a nine-hour overland journey by bus or shared taxi via Kazakhstan — or a one-hour, 20-minute flight — from Bishkek to Tashkent in Uzbekistan. Rebuilt after a devastating 1966 earthquake, Tashkent today is still a showcase of Soviet modernism. Wander from the stone Monument to Courage Earthquake Memorial to the Islamic Modernist dome of Chorsu Bazaar and the brutalist facade of Hotel Uzbekistan. Then descend beneath the streets to ride the Soviet-era train carriages of the Tashkent Metro, where each of the 43 stations has its own distinct architectural style and artistic elements. Don’t miss a trip to see Physics of the Sun, a giant industrial solar furnace complex built by the Soviets in 1981 on a hilltop outside Parkent, 31 miles east of Tashkent. Brutalist in design and still operational today, it uses thousands of mirrored panels to channel heat from the sun.

Finish your trip in the far west of Uzbekistan, with a long journey from Tashkent to the town of Nukus on the former shores of the Aral Sea — around 15 hours by car. This remote location is home to the Nukus Museum of Art, which displays collector Igor Savitsky’s world-class Soviet avant-garde art haul. Poor water management by the Soviets turned the Aral Sea (once the world’s fourth-largest lake) into a dust bowl, which can now be toured in a 4WD vehicle to see the carcasses of marooned ships. The barren scrublands are a devastating ecological warning as well as starkly beautiful. Independent visitors can arrange a bed for the night at Mayak Yurt Camp, which can also provide a driver for an unforgettable trip into the desert on the edge of the town of Moynaq, near the former shore.

Itinerary 3: Mountains & outdoor adventure

Lace up your hiking boots and head into the Tien Shan. The ‘heavenly mountains’ — a range that defines the border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan — live up to their name, offering divine views of snow-capped peaks. There’s adventure here for every level of ability.  

From mountain-flanked Almaty in Kazakhstan, it’s a three-hour drive to 93-mile-long Charyn Canyon for hikes among red-rock towers and through labyrinthine gorges. The alpine village of Sati makes an ideal base for visiting the Kolsai Lakes. From the nearest lake, it’s an easy five-mile hike to the next, then a challenging two-and-a-half miles to the final one. Two valleys east, you’ll find Lake Kaindy; created by an earthquake in 1911, it contains a partially submerged forest of spruce trees, whose exposed tips make for a surreal sight.

Cross the border into Kyrgyzstan and make for Karakol, founded in 1869 as a military outpost. Its wooden cottages are now interspersed with hostels catering to armies of hikers. The three-day trek to Ala-Kul lake is Kyrgyzstan’s most popular, climbing to an altitude of 3,900 metres for epic views over the lake from the Ala-Kul Pass. At the end of the trek, visitors can hire a Soviet-era military truck for a day trip to the Altyn-Arashan springs to sooth sore muscles.

Days 9-11  

Hike around Issyk Kol lake, staying at lakeside yurt camps such as Feel Nomad or Bel-Tam . Support conservation initiatives on a guided hike of   Baiboosun Nature Reserve or make the easy, one-mile hike to the Shatyly Panorama for views over Issyk Kol and the snowy Tien Shan peaks.  

Continue to Song-Kol lake at a breathtaking 3,015 metres. Drive up in around four hours from Kochkor on Issyk Kol’s western side, or take one to two days hiking and horse-trekking there from Kyzart, 45 miles west of Kochkor. Spend a full day at the lake, horse-riding through the grasslands in solitude. Afterwards, drive to Bishkek for day hikes up the forested slopes of nearby Ala Archa National Park or to explore the Soviet architecture of the capital.

How to travel: a practical guide

What visas will I need for Central Asia?

Visa policies have loosened considerably over the last decade, with travellers on UK passports currently allowed visa-free entry to Kazakhstan (30-day stay), Uzbekistan (30 days) and Kyrgyzstan (60 days). Longer stays will still require a visa, which must be issued at an embassy or through each country’s e-visa platform . You still need a visa to enter Tajikistan, which can be applied for online before arrival (avoid the on-arrival service, which is a frustrating, time-consuming process).  

Am I likely to need any travel permits?

Trips to some remote border regions of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan do require special permits. If your itinerary includes the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan, for example, you’ll need a permit from the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, and it’s best to apply for it with your initial country visa application to save time. Applying for permits can involve Soviet-style bureaucracy; if travelling independently, it’s worth paying a local tour company to do it on your behalf. Fees are usually £25 to £40 per permit.  

How should I manage money while travelling?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Central Asia’s cities but rarely outside of them, and even in cities you’ll still need cash for small purchases. ATMs are widespread in the big cities, but they can unexpectedly run out of cash — particularly on weekends — so it’s worth also carrying some foreign currency. British pounds and Euros can reliably be changed in cities, but in towns and rural areas US dollars are the easiest to exchange.

What languages are spoken across the Central Asian Silk Road?

Russia is the common language in this region. Tourism businesses in popular destinations will usually have English-speaking staff; it’s harder to find English speakers in rural areas.  

How should I dress while travelling here?

Locals across the region typically dress more conservatively than in the West. While visitors aren’t usually expected to adhere to local norms, you may be the target of unwanted attention if you don’t cover your shoulders and knees, especially in rural areas; the capital cities across Central Asia tend to be more liberal.  

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• RELIGIOUS TRAVEL

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Tourism & Trade for 2000 years

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There is something about high altitude lakes – you climb up the mountains, struggle through the hairpin bends and at the end you will greeted by a gleam of water body, a brilliant spectacle indeed. The Silk Route tour has several such high altitude beautiful lakes and one of...

If you do not like Nathang Valley, you would not like paradise. Located at an altitude of 13,500 feet, this lush valley was the home to traditional yak herders who came from Tibet. Few streams crisscross the valley, and prayer flags flutter on the mountain edges on this vast...

Nathula Pass is a mountain pass in Eastern Sikkim, on the Indo-Chinese border that serves as the trade link between India and China. Nathula Pass nestles at an elevation of 14,140 feet and ranks amongst the highest passes accessible by tourists via motorable road. The Old Silk...

Perched on a hill slope at 8000 ft and covered in dense forests, Padamchen is a small village on the Silk Route circuit just 14 kms from Rongli and 4 kms from Zuluk. Padamchen experiences a very pleasant weather throughout the year and this is one of the main reasons for its...

Located at a height of around 10,100 feet on the rugged terrain of the lower Himalayas in East Sikkim, Zuluk or Dzuluk is a small village beside a winding road. It was once a transit point to the historic Silk Route from Tibet to India. It is relatively an emerging and offbeat...

The Four Lake Point located at an altitude of 13600 feet on the way to Menmecho from Gangtok gives a panoramic view of the endless stretches of the barren Tibetan plateau with four emerald lakes dotted within the horizon. The nearest two lakes are called Jorpokahri (twin...

Eagle’s Nest Bunker

Located few kilometers from Nathang Valley at an altitude of 13700 feet, this abandoned Army Bunker perched on a strategic point gives a complete 360 degree unhindered view of the Eastern Himalayas. The whole range of Mt. Kanchenjungha and the distant peaks of the Tibetan...

The true beauty of the Tibetan Highlands can be experienced at Tukla Valley. Located at an altitude of around 12500 feet above sea level, Tukla Valley in Sikkim offers a majestic panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjungha and its allied peaks. You would also find a war memorial built...

"Visit the Old Silk Route and watch Himalayas differently with us."

Nathula, Menmecho, Kupup, Nathang, Lunthung, Zuluk, Padamchen, Mankhim, Sillery, Reshikhola

We are travellers, and we cherish travelling to untouched destinations just like you. We have explored every corner of the Silk Route of Sikkim and our local contacts in the remotest areas help our guests to take some of the activities which others cannot arrange. We can take our guests for a Yak ride along the Nathang Valley, arrange for a horse ride along the mountain creeks or trek to the Eagle’s Nest Bunker for a 360 degree view of the Himalayas. 

Our representatives are Authorised Agents of Sikkim Tourism and we have in our team some of the best Sikkim Tourism registered tourist guides to assist our guests in sightseeing trips and treks around the Silk Route Circuit . Our dedicated travel desk in Sikkim arranges for all permits for the guests to this route and we have the most modern homestays with facilities like 24-hour power supply for the guests at 12000 feet.

Silk Route of Sikkim

The Old Silk Route or Silk Road which passes through East Sikkim is a part of the ancient network of trade routes which connected China to India. This route passed through Lhasa and Nathu La and Jelep La Pass and finally reached the port of Tamralipta (present Tamluk in West Bengal) from where it took to the sea and reached far east. This Ancient Silk Route is expected to have been discovered by traders as early as First Century AD.

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Jelep La is a high altitude mountain pass at 13,999 feet linking Lhasa to India. It...

Menmecho Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes of Sikkim at an altitude of 12,500...

Lampokhari lake is located at an altitude of 4600 feet, also known as Aritar Lake is...

Thambi View Point offers a panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjungha. Located at a distance of...

Baba Mandir is a distinguished sightseeing place of Sikkim. Old baba Mandir (Bunker) and...

There is something about high altitude lakes – you climb up the mountains, struggle...

Nathula Pass is a mountain pass in Eastern Sikkim, on the Indo-Chinese border that...

Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake is perched within mountains at an altitude of 12,400 ft....

The Four Lake Point located at an altitude of 13600 feet on the way to Menmecho from...

Located few kilometers from Nathang Valley at an altitude of 13700 feet, this abandoned...

The true beauty of the Tibetan Highlands can be experienced at Tukla Valley. Located at...

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Navigating the Pathways of History: How Do People Travel on the Silk Road? Minzifa Travel’s Insights

1. Traveling Through Time: Understanding the Diverse Ways People Explore the Silk Road

A historical tapestry.

The Silk Road isn’t just a route; it’s a historical tapestry woven by centuries of travelers. Minzifa Travel delves into the ways people have journeyed along this ancient path, offering a glimpse into the diverse modes of transportation and experiences that have shaped the route’s legacy.

Modes of the Past

Exploring the Silk Road in ancient times involved modes of transportation that mirrored the era’s advancements. Minzifa Travel highlights the use of caravans, camels, horses, and even on foot, providing insight into the challenges and triumphs of the traders and explorers who forged the path.

Navigating Today’s Options

In the modern age, people travel on the Silk Road through a plethora of options. Minzifa Travel sheds light on the contemporary modes of transportation, from trains and buses to private tours, enabling you to choose an experience that aligns with your comfort, interests, and desire for adventure.

2. The Minzifa Travel Approach: Crafting Unforgettable Silk Road Experiences

Immersive train journeys.

One of the iconic ways people travel on the Silk Road today is through immersive train journeys. Minzifa Travel offers curated train routes that provide a unique vantage point, allowing you to witness ever-changing landscapes while relishing the comfort and convenience of modern travel.

Private Guided Tours

For those seeking personalized experiences, private guided tours are a preferred option. Minzifa Travel’s expert guides lead you through the Silk Road’s historic sites, cultural enclaves, and natural wonders, ensuring that your journey is not only informative but also tailored to your interests.

Self-Driven Adventures

Adventurous souls can opt for self-driven journeys, exploring the Silk Road at their own pace. Minzifa Travel equips you with the necessary insights, maps, and resources to navigate the route with confidence, offering a unique sense of freedom and discovery.

3. Crafting Your Silk Road Experience: Tips and Insights from Minzifa Travel

Historical significance.

Understanding the historical significance of the Silk Road is key to crafting a meaningful experience. Minzifa Travel’s resources and guides delve into the route’s cultural exchange, trade networks, and impact on civilizations, enhancing your appreciation of the journey’s importance.

Cultural Encounters

People travel on the Silk Road not only for its historical value but also for the cultural encounters it offers. Minzifa Travel directs you to local markets, artisan workshops, and communities that allow you to immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions that continue to thrive along the route.

Packing for the Path

When considering how to travel on the Silk Road, packing right is essential. Minzifa Travel provides packing tips that account for varying climates and activities along the route, ensuring that you’re prepared for everything from desert sands to mountainous terrains.

4. Begin Your Silk Road Adventure: Embark with Minzifa Travel

Your pathway to history.

Embarking on a Silk Road adventure with Minzifa Travel is your pathway to history, culture, and exploration. Our expertise and dedication to authenticity ensure that your journey captures the essence of the route while providing modern comforts and guidance.

Design Your Journey

Ready to explore the diverse ways people travel on the Silk Road? Minzifa Travel invites you to design your journey. Choose the mode of transportation that resonates with you, and let us help you curate an unforgettable experience that aligns with your travel aspirations.

Uncover the Possibilities

As you consider how people travel on the Silk Road, uncover the possibilities that await. Minzifa Travel is here to guide you through the diverse modes, experiences, and insights that make your exploration of this historic route a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

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Sikkim Old Silk Route Tour package

• Sikkim Old Silk Route Tour

Standard Inclusions

• Sight Seeing

Package Overview

The Old Silk Route is a high-altitude road trip in the East Sikkim district of Sikkim. The 3-days and 2-night long road trip follows the ancient trade routes and offers spectacular views of the snow-covered Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. The route passes several beautiful high-altitude glacial lakes, high passes opening into Tibet, China and a couple of temples dedicated to a fallen Indian soldier.

Day-wise Itinerary Details

DAY 1 :Gangtok to Nathang Valley Start from Gangtok early morning. Reach Changu Lake (Tsomgo Lake), New Baba Mandir, Nathula Pass, Tukla, Old Baba Mandir, Kupup Lake, Yak Golf Course, Ice Hockey Field and reach Nathang by afternoon. Overnight stay at Nathang Valley.

DAY 2 : Nathang Valley to Mankhim Have breakfast and leave for Mankhim via Lungthung, Thambi View Point, Zuluk Kuikhola Waterfalls, Lingtum, Lampokhari (Aritar Lake), British Bungalow, Rai Temple. Overnight at Mankhim.

DAY 3 : Departure After breakfast transfer to Siliguri / New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) / Bagdogra Airport (IXB) - Nearly 115 kilometres 4½ - 5 hours drive – Forwarding 

Other packages by East highlands tours