Sikkim · North-east India

Zuluk & the Silk Route travel guide

The zigzag road of the old Silk Route

Best time
Mar–May, Oct–Dec
How long
2–3 days
Stay a night
₹1,000–4,000
Food a day
₹300–1,000
Nearest railhead
160 km away
Nearest airport
165 km away

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About Zuluk & the Silk Route

An offbeat high-altitude hamlet on the ancient trade route to Tibet — 32 hairpin bends, sunrise over Kanchenjunga and lakes near Nathu La.

Things to do in Zuluk & the Silk Route

  1. Thambi Viewpoint

    1 h · Free

    Thambi Viewprint is a scenic vantage point in Zuluk along the historic Silk Route in Sikkim. It offers a clear view down the famous zigzag road with its multiple hairpin bends.

    Tip: Carry warm layers as the wind at this high altitude can feel quite chilly

  2. Lungthung Sunrise

    1 h · Free

    Lungthung Sunrise is a high-altitude viewpoint situated along the historic Silk Route in Sikkim. It offers an expansive vantage point to witness the sun illuminating the massive peaks of Kanchenjunga.

    Tip: Wear heavy woollen layers and windproof jackets as temperatures at this altitude remain very cold during early morning hours.

  3. Nathang Valley

    2 h · Free

    Nathang Valley is a high grazing valley located along the historic Silk Route in Sikkim. It offers sweeping views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape and a glimpse into local high-altitude village life.

    Tip: Carry warm layers as the high altitude can bring chilly winds

  4. Kupup (Elephant) Lake

    45 min · Free

    Kupup Lake, also known as Elephant Lake, is located near the Nathu La road in Sikkim along the old Silk Route. It is a high-altitude water body shaped like an elephant.

    Tip: Wear warm layers as the high-altitude weather near Nathu La can get very cold

  5. Aritar Lake

    1 h · ₹100 entry

    Aritar Lake is a boot-shaped natural lake tucked away in the Himalayas. Surrounded by thick pine forests, it offers a peaceful spot for boating and walking around the water.

    Tip: Carry a light jacket as the weather near the water can get cool

Where to stay in Zuluk & the Silk Route

  • Zuluk homestays

    ₹1,200–2,500 incl. meals

    Simple rooms with meals.

  • Aritar

    ₹2,000–4,000

    Lower-altitude stays by a lake.

What to eat

  • Homestay meals

    local dish

    Rice, dal, eggs and thukpa.

Good to know

  • A protected-area permit (via a registered operator, from Rongli) is required — carry ID and photos.
  • Altitudes pass 4,000 m near Kupup; sleep at Zuluk first.

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Zuluk & the Silk Route travel guide: best time, things to do, how to reach · JrnyLoop Blog