Explore the clear and gorgeous views of the mountains, zig-zag roads, and quaint villages while touring the East Sikkim Silk Route
If you are considering visiting Sikkim this season then the Silk Route in East Sikkim should be a part of your itinerary. It’s a journey through time and culture, where ancient trade routes come alive amidst breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
The Indian part of the Sikkim Silk Route is open for tourists from the Rongli check post to the Nathula Pass. As you travel, you’ll witness snow-covered Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.
Travel Guide for the modern-day silk route tour
To embark on this adventurous tour, tourist may begin their journey from NJP (New Jalpaiguri (Siliguri in West Bengal) as the place is well connected by train and air. It will take around 4 hours to enter Sikkim via the Rangpo (Rongli) Checkpost at Sikkim border from where you have to get your mandatory travel permit.
Aritar – Before you enter Sikkim (Gangtok), spend your night in the beautiful village of Aritar- a beautiful hamlet of Sikkim just located before the Rangpo check post. Lampokhri Lake, an artificial lake surrounded by hills covered with pine trees, a small monastery and The Que Khola Falls are a major place of attraction there.
Zuluk- From Aritar reach the Rangpo check post to collect your permit and then head to Zuluk(also spelt as Dzuluk). The travel distance is 42km and may take 2 hours. Situated at 10,000 ft of sea level, you will get to experience the famous hairpin bends and zig-zag roads that the Silk Route in Sikkim is so renowned for. The view of the sunrise from Zuluk is also quite breathtaking.
Nathang valley: Often called the “Ladakh of the East”, Nathang valley will take your breath away. The valley changes colour according to season. It is situated at a height of 13500 ft and is only 24 km from Zuluk.
Nathula– Though it is only 17km from Nathang, taking this as a separate one-day trip from Gangtok is advisable.
The historic mountain passes on the India-China border. You require a special permit to visit this border post. The Mountain pass offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s strategic significance. A serene glacial lake is nestled at an altitude of 12,400 feet- Tsomgo Lake, on the way to Nathula.
