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Old Silk Route in 3 days: Zuluk, Nathang Valley and Kupup
The Old Silk Route through East Sikkim is famous for the zig-zag road above Zuluk and sunrise over Kanchenjunga from Thambi View Point. Homestays are simple and the air is thin — this is an adventure trip more than a comfort trip.
2 nights / 3 daysBest for: Road-trippers, photographers, bikers
Want this trip with permits, vehicle and stays sorted? Get quotes from government-registered operators.
Get this trip quotedDay-by-day plan
Day 1
NJP to Zuluk via Aritar and Rongli
NJP / Bagdogra → Rongli → Zuluk ~140 km · 6 h Stay: Zuluk- Stop at Aritar Lake on the way.
- Collect the permit at Rongli, then climb to Zuluk.
Day 2
Thambi View Point, Nathang Valley and Kupup
Zuluk → Nathang → Kupup → Gangtok ~90 km · full day Stay: Gangtok- Sunrise over Kanchenjunga and the zig-zag road from Thambi View Point.
- Nathang Valley and Kupup, returning to Gangtok past Tsomgo Lake.
Day 3
Depart
Gangtok → NJP / Bagdogra ~120 km · 4–5 h Stay: —- Morning in Gangtok before the drive down.
Distances and drive times are approximate — mountain roads are slow and conditions change with weather.
Permits
- Zuluk and the Old Silk Route need a Protected Area Permit, issued at Rongli — usually arranged by your homestay or operator.
- Zuluk is widely reported as not open to foreign nationals; confirm before booking.
- Carry a Voter ID, passport or driving licence (not Aadhaar) and passport photos.
Tips
- Stays at Zuluk are about 10,000 ft — rest on arrival and keep the first evening easy.
- Bikers: carry RC, licence, insurance and PUC; see verified bike rental operators if you are hiring.
- Snow can block the route between Zuluk and Kupup in winter.
Get this 3-day trip quoted — free
Government-registered Sikkim tour operators send you quotes with permits, vehicle and stays included.
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