Table of Contents
About the Silk Route Tour in Sikkim
The Old Silk Route in East Sikkim is a historic Himalayan trade corridor that connected Tibet to India, famous for Zuluk's hairpin loops, high-altitude meadows, and frontier villages. Bhromonpedia offers carefully curated Silk Route packages covering Zuluk, Gnathang Valley, Kupup Lake, Nathang Valley, and Aritar with comfortable homestays and experienced drivers familiar with Himalayan terrain.
The Silk Route tour takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in East Sikkim, following ancient paths once traveled by traders. Today, this route offers adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers an unforgettable journey through remote Himalayan villages, pristine valleys, and viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the world's third highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga.
- ✓Zuluk Hairpin Bends — Navigate 32 legendary hairpin turns with breathtaking Himalayan views
- ✓Kanchenjunga Sunrise Views — Thambi View Point, Lungthung & other vantage points
- ✓High-altitude lakes — Kupup Lake, Tsomgo Lake (subject to permit availability)
- ✓Historic Sites — Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Gnathang Valley war memorials
Note: Monsoon (July–September) is not recommended due to landslide risks; winter may have snow and occasional road closures. Permits are mandatory for certain areas.
Why Choose Bhromonpedia's Silk Route Tour Package?
When you book your Silk Route tour with Bhromonpedia, you're choosing expertise, safety, and authentic experiences:
- 🏆Local Expertise — Our team has extensive knowledge of East Sikkim's routes, weather conditions, and hidden gems
- 🛡️Safety First — Experienced drivers, well-maintained vehicles, and careful altitude acclimatization planning
- 🏡Authentic Stays — Comfortable homestays and hotels that offer genuine Himalayan hospitality
- 🛂Hassle-free Permits — We handle all permit arrangements for restricted areas along the Silk Route
- 🌿Sustainable Tourism — We follow eco-friendly practices and support local communities
Silk Route Tour Highlights: Unforgettable Experiences
Zuluk Hairpin Bends
Iconic 32 hairpin turns on the Old Silk Route with panoramic Himalayan views of Kanchenjunga range.
Thambi View Point
Spectacular sunrise viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of Mount Kanchenjunga and Eastern Himalayas.
Nathang Valley
High-altitude meadows at 13,500 ft, winter snow-scapes, and rich World War history.
Kupup Lake & Tsomgo Lake
Pristine high-altitude lakes surrounded by mountains (subject to permit availability).
Baba Harbhajan Temple
A unique frontier shrine dedicated to a Indian Army soldier with local legends and panoramic views.
Aritar & Lampokhari Lake
Serene lakeside stays, ancient monasteries, and the first telegraph office of Sikkim.
Detailed Silk Route Experience: What to Expect
Zuluk: The Gateway to Silk Route
Zuluk is a small village located at an altitude of 9,400 feet, serving as the base for exploring the Silk Route. The famous hairpin bends of Zuluk offer a thrilling drive with 32 sharp turns, each presenting a new perspective of the stunning valley below. From Zuluk, you can see the ancient trade route winding through the mountains, a sight that is particularly spectacular at sunrise when the first light hits the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga.
Thambi View Point: Sunrise Paradise
Located at an altitude of 11,200 feet, Thambi View Point offers one of the most spectacular sunrise views in East Sikkim. On clear days, you can witness the golden rays of the sun gradually illuminating the mighty Kanchenjunga range, creating a magical play of light and shadow across the Himalayas. This experience is often described as the highlight of the Silk Route tour.
Nathang Valley: The Highland Meadow
Often called the "Shangri-La of Sikkim," Nathang Valley sits at an elevation of 13,500 feet. This vast meadow transforms into a white wonderland during winter and blooms with wildflowers in spring. The valley has historical significance too, with remnants of World War II and the old Silk Route evident throughout the landscape.
Kupup: The Elephant Lake
Kupup is famous for its heart-shaped lake, also known as Elephant Lake due to its distinctive shape. Located at an altitude of 13,600 feet near the India-China border, this area offers breathtaking views and a sense of being at the edge of the world. The cold desert landscape here is unlike any other part of Sikkim.
Detailed Silk Route Tour Package Itinerary (5 Nights / 6 Days)
Day 1 – Arrival at NJP/Bagdogra → Transfer to Sillery Gaon or Rongli (5,200 ft)
Arrive at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport (IXB). Meet our representative and begin your scenic drive to Sillery Gaon or Rongli. Check into your homestay, enjoy a warm welcome drink, and acclimatize to the mountain environment. Evening leisure with panoramic views of Kanchenjunga range (weather permitting). Overnight stay.
Day 2 – Sillery Gaon/Rongli → Aritar → Zuluk/Padamchen (9,400 ft)
After breakfast, depart for Aritar. Visit Lampokhari Lake, Aritar Gumpa (monastery), and the historic British-era bungalow. After lunch, ascend towards Zuluk through lush forests and gradually changing vegetation. Experience the first set of hairpin bends. Check into your homestay at Zuluk or Padamchen. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay.
Day 3 – Zuluk → Thambi View Point → Gnathang Valley → Nathang Valley (13,500 ft)
Early morning drive to Thambi View Point for spectacular sunrise over Kanchenjunga (weather dependent). Return for breakfast. Then proceed to higher altitudes through Lungthung Valley. Visit Gnathang Valley with its war memorial and panoramic landscapes. Continue to Nathang Valley - the "Shangri-La of Sikkim." Check into your accommodation. Overnight at Nathang.
Day 4 – Nathang Valley → Kupup Lake → Baba Mandir → Changey Lake → Zuluk
After breakfast, visit Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake) and the famous Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir. Subject to permit availability and conditions, visit Changey Lake (Tsomgo Lake). Begin descent back to lower altitudes. Stop at various viewpoints for photography. Return to Zuluk/Padamchen for overnight stay.
Day 5 – Zuluk → Lingtam → Rongli → Gangtok (5,410 ft)
After breakfast, begin your journey towards Gangtok. En route, visit Lingtam and other scenic spots. Stop at Rongli for lunch. Continue to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Check into your hotel. Evening free for leisure or explore MG Marg. Overnight at Gangtok.
Day 6 – Gangtok → NJP/Bagdogra – Departure
After breakfast, depart for New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport (IXB) for your onward journey with unforgettable memories of the Silk Route tour.
Best Time to Visit Silk Route Sikkim
Spring (March to May)
Spring is arguably the best time to visit the Silk Route. The weather is pleasant with clear skies, offering excellent visibility of the Himalayan ranges. Rhododendrons and other wildflowers are in full bloom, painting the landscapes in vibrant colors. Day temperatures range between 10°C to 20°C, while nights can be cooler.
Autumn (October to December)
Autumn offers crystal-clear views of the mountains after the monsoon season. The air is fresh, and the visibility is at its best. This is an ideal time for photography enthusiasts. However, temperatures start dropping from November, especially at higher altitudes.
Winter (December to February)
Winter transforms the Silk Route into a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes. While this offers a unique experience, road conditions can be challenging, and some areas might be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. This season is recommended only for experienced winter travelers.
Monsoon (June to September)
Monsoon is not recommended for the Silk Route tour due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and poor visibility. Many areas become inaccessible, and the risk of roadblocks is high.
What's Included in Our Silk Route Tour Package
- 🏡Accommodation in carefully selected homestays/hotels (twin/triple sharing as per package)
- 🍽️All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as specified in the itinerary
- 🚙Private vehicle for all transfers & sightseeing with experienced Himalayan drivers
- 🛂All permit arrangements (ILP and local permits where required)
- ⛽Fuel, tolls, parking charges, and driver allowances included
- 👨💼Tour coordinator assistance throughout the journey
Not Included
- ✕Airfare/Train tickets to and from NJP/Bagdogra
- ✕Personal expenses, tips, and insurance
- ✕Additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- ✕Any cost arising from natural calamities or road blocks
Packing Guide for Silk Route Tour
Proper packing is essential for a comfortable Silk Route experience due to varying altitudes and weather conditions:
Clothing
- 🧥Layered clothing (thermal inners, fleece jackets, down jacket)
- 🧣Woolen caps, gloves, scarves, and socks
- 🥾Sturdy waterproof trekking shoes with good grip
- 🌧️Raincoat or poncho (especially during spring and autumn)
Essentials
- 💊Personal medications and basic first aid kit
- 😎Sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+), and lip balm
- 🔦Power bank, flashlight, and extra batteries
- 📷Camera with extra memory cards and batteries
Documents
- 🆔Government-issued photo ID (Aadhar, Passport, Voter ID)
- 📋Passport-sized photographs for permit processing
- 🧾Copy of booking confirmation and emergency contacts
Frequently Asked Questions About Silk Route Tour
What is the maximum altitude reached on the Silk Route tour?
How difficult is the Silk Route journey? Is it safe for seniors?
What type of accommodation can we expect on the Silk Route?
Are there ATM facilities along the Silk Route?
What happens if there are roadblocks or bad weather during our tour?
Book Your Silk Route Tour Package
