Sikkim is one of those states that quietly pulls you in. The mountains here are not loud or dramatic in the way Ladakh can be. They are green, layered, and deeply peaceful. But with places like Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, and Nathula Pass drawing massive crowds every season, finding that peace has become harder. That is where Zuluk, in the quiet eastern corner of Sikkim, comes in.
Zuluk (also spelled Dzuluk) is a small village on the Old Silk Route in East Sikkim, sitting at an altitude of about 10,100 feet. It is one of those rare Himalayan destinations where the road itself is the main attraction. The 32 hairpin bends leading up to Thambi View Point, the views of Mt. Kanchenjunga at sunrise, the silence of Nathang Valley. If you are looking for an offbeat trip in Sikkim where you can actually slow down and breathe, Zuluk is the place. I visited Zuluk in early July 2016, right in the middle of the monsoon, and it remains one of the most memorable parts of my Sikkim travels. This guide covers permits, distances, an itinerary and the budget for 2026.
Last Updated: October 2026
| Zuluk at a Glance (2026) | |
|---|---|
| Altitude | About 10,100 ft (most local sources). Wikipedia lists 9,400 ft. |
| Distance from Gangtok | About 90 km, roughly 4 hours via Rongli |
| Distance from NJP / Bagdogra | About 150-160 km, 5.5-6 hours via Rangpo and Rongli |
| Permit | Protected Area Permit (PAP), checked at Lingtam. Indians only. |
| Permit cost | Around Rs 200-300 at Rongli, Rs 500-700 via an agency (as of March 2026) |
| Vehicle | Sikkim-registered vehicle with local driver. No self-drive rentals. |
| Best time | October-November for clear views, March-May for rhododendrons |
| Stay | Homestays only, Rs 800-3,500 per night |
| ATM / network | No ATM. BSNL patchy, other networks mostly dead. |
What Makes Zuluk Special on the Old Silk Route?
Quick answer: Zuluk was a halt on the old Kalimpong to Tibet trade route over Jelep La. The trade is gone, but the road above the village climbs 32 hairpin bends over about 14 km to Thambi View Point at 11,200 feet, and that zigzag view is the draw.
Zuluk is historically significant because it was a transit point on the trade route between India and Tibet. Mule caravans from Kalimpong came up through Pedong, Aritar and Zuluk, crossed Jelep La and dropped into Tibet’s Chumbi Valley. After the 1962 war the pass was shut and the trade stopped, but the road remains, and it is spectacular. When you stand at Thambi View Point and look down, you see a single road snaking through 32 hairpin turns over a distance of about 14 km. During winter, when snow covers the slopes, those loops glow white against the mountainside. In summer and monsoon, the entire valley turns a deep, lush green.
Keep in mind that Zuluk is located very close to the China border and has a large Indian Army presence, so much of the land around the village is fenced and military-controlled. This means several areas around it are restricted and require a Protected Area Permit. The village is also usually cut off during heavy winter snowfall (December to February), so plan accordingly.
How to Get the Zuluk Protected Area Permit in Sikkim in 2026?
Quick answer: Indians need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for the Zuluk to Kupup stretch, checked at Lingtam. Get it at the Rongli office or through your Gangtok hotel or Zuluk homestay, with ID and two passport photos. Foreigners are not allowed.
Since Zuluk lies in a restricted zone near the Indo-China border, a Protected Area Permit (PAP) is mandatory for all Indian visitors. As per the Sikkim Tourism permit rules, the check post for this axis is at Lingtam in Pakyong District, and the Rongli District Tourism Office is one of the official issuing points. Foreigners are currently not allowed to visit Zuluk. Here is everything you need to know about the permit process.
Permit for Indian Nationals
Indians do not need a special permit to enter Sikkim state, but they do need a PAP specifically for Zuluk, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Baba Mandir. Here is how to get it:
- Where to apply: The Rongli Bazaar SDPO / District Tourism office, tourism agencies on MG Marg (Mall Road) in Gangtok, or the 3rd Mile Police Check Post in Gangtok. Coming from the Rongli side, your homestay usually arranges it in advance.
- Documents needed: Two passport-size photos and a photocopy of your ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Passport). Carry the original. PAN cards are reportedly not accepted.
- Cost: Around Rs 200-300 at Rongli (reportedly per small group, not per person), or Rs 500-700 through a Gangtok agency (as of March 2026, verify locally).
- Office timings at Rongli: Reportedly until about 2 PM on weekdays and 11 AM on Saturdays, closed Sundays. Hence, never reach Rongli on a Sunday or late afternoon without a pre-arranged permit.
- Nathula is separate: Rongli issues Zuluk and Tsomgo permits, not Nathula. Arrange Nathula through a registered Gangtok operator a day ahead.
- Tip from experience: Ask your hotel staff in Gangtok to arrange the permit for you. They know the current policies and can often get it done faster than you walking around MG Marg yourself.
For the complete picture of PAP versus RAP versus ILP across the whole state, I have a separate Sikkim permits guide for 2026 that lists every check post and issuing office.
Can Foreigners Visit Zuluk?
Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Sikkim. However, even with a RAP, Zuluk and other Silk Route areas are off-limits for foreigners as of 2026. Citizens of Pakistan, China, Myanmar, and Bangladesh face additional restrictions and must apply through the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.
If you are planning your first trip to the state, do read this comprehensive guide on making a trip to North Sikkim. And if you plan to stretch the trip north, here is my Gurudongmar Lake guide with the Gangtok route.
How Far Is Zuluk from Gangtok, Pelling, NJP and Other Places in Sikkim?
Quick answer: Zuluk is about 90 km (4 hours) from Gangtok, 150-160 km (5.5-6 hours) from NJP or Bagdogra, about 87 km (3.5 hours) from Kalimpong, and about 150 km (around 7 hours) from Pelling. Thambi View Point is 14 km above the village. Every approach from the plains passes through Rongli.
Published figures do not always agree because there are two ways up: the lower road through Rangpo, Rongli and Lingtam, and the high road from Gangtok over Tsomgo Lake and Kupup. The table uses the most consistent figures across Wikipedia and local tourism sources.
| From | Distance to Zuluk | Drive Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gangtok | About 90 km | About 4 hours | Via Rongli (lower road) |
| Gangtok (via Tsomgo Lake) | Longer, varies | 5-6 hours | Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Kupup, Nathang, Thambi |
| NJP / Bagdogra / Siliguri | About 150-160 km | 5.5-6 hours | Rangpo, Rorathang, Rhenock, Rongli, Lingtam |
| Kalimpong | About 87 km | About 3.5 hours | Pedong, Aritar side, joins at Rongli |
| Darjeeling | About 140 km | About 5 hours | Via Teesta Bazaar, Rangpo, Rongli |
| Pelling | About 150 km | About 7 hours | Via Melli or Gangtok, then Rongli |
| Aritar | About 36 km | About 2.5 hours | Rongli, Padamchen, Lingtam |
| Rongli | Around 30 km (sources vary) | About 1.5 hours | Lingtam, Kuekhola Falls, Padamchen |
| Thambi View Point | 14 km | About 45 minutes | Up the 32 hairpin bends |
| Nathang Valley | Roughly 22-28 km | 1.5-3 hours with stops | Thambi, Lungthung, Nathang |
Pelling to Zuluk: Is It Worth Doing in One Day?
Pelling and Zuluk sit at opposite ends of Sikkim, west and east. Most published figures put the drive at about 150 km and around 7 hours, and Sikkim road times always stretch once you add a permit stop and a landslide or two. Hence, I suggest breaking the journey at Gangtok or Aritar, sorting out the permit, and climbing to Zuluk the next morning. Also keep in mind that a West Sikkim taxi will not take you beyond Rongli unless it is Sikkim-registered and the driver has the permit paperwork, so confirm this with your driver before you leave Pelling. If you have not yet planned the west side, my Pelling travel guide covers that leg.
Nathula and Tsomgo (Changu) Lake to Zuluk
Nathula is not on the Zuluk road itself. It is a detour off the Gangtok to Kupup road, needs its own permit, and is normally closed to tourists on Mondays and Tuesdays. Tsomgo (Changu) Lake is about 40 km from Gangtok, and Gangtok operators quote 5-6 hours for the full Gangtok, Tsomgo, Kupup, Zuluk drive. I could not find a reliable km figure for the Tsomgo to Zuluk stretch alone, so I will not invent one. This high road crosses Kupup at over 13,000 feet, making it the scenic way in but also the one most likely to be snowed shut between December and March. My Gangtok and Nathu La guide has the Nathula-side details.
How to Reach Zuluk from Gangtok, NJP, and Bagdogra?
Quick answer: Fly into Bagdogra or take a train to NJP, then hire a Sikkim-registered taxi to Zuluk via Rongli (5.5-6 hours), or book a Silk Route taxi from Gangtok. There are no buses or shared cabs, and outside-state or self-drive vehicles are not allowed.
Only Sikkim-registered vehicles can take you to Zuluk. Here are the main approach routes.
From Gangtok (90 km, about 4 hours)
The standard routes are Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake to Kupup to Zuluk (the high road), or Gangtok to Rongli to Zuluk (the direct route via Padamchen). Most tourists take the Tsomgo route to cover more sightseeing on Day 1, which is what we did. Hire a private taxi or book a package, as there are no shared cabs or buses on this route.
From NJP/Siliguri or Bagdogra Airport
If you are flying into Bagdogra or arriving at NJP by train, you can either go to Gangtok first (about 125 km, 4-5 hours) and follow the route above, or head straight up the lower road through Rangpo, Rorathang, Rhenock and Rongli. The second option saves a day of backtracking. Keep in mind that a West Bengal taxi from NJP or Kalimpong cannot continue beyond Rongli, so book a Sikkim-registered vehicle or switch at Rongli. Pakyong Airport is closer, but it has had no regular scheduled flights since mid-2024 as far as I could verify.
What Are the Best Places to Visit Near Zuluk?
Quick answer: The must-sees are the 32 hairpin bends from Thambi View Point (11,200 ft), Lungthung, Nathang Valley (13,500 ft), Kupup Lake and the Yak Golf Course, Memenchu Lake, Old Baba Mandir, and the Ganek sunrise point. Two full days covers them.
The Zuluk Silk Route circuit has several viewpoints, lakes, and valleys that you can cover in a 2-3 day trip. Here are the main attractions, listed roughly in the order you will encounter them going up from Zuluk.
Zuluk Loop (The 32 Hairpin Bends)
Zuluk’s Old Silk Route climbs through 32 hairpin bends over roughly 14 km, from the village up to Thambi View Point at 11,200 feet. Seeing the full loop requires a Protected Area Permit, which costs around Rs 200-300 through the Rongli SDPO office or Rs 500-700 via a Gangtok travel agency as of March 2026.
This is the star attraction. The road from Zuluk climbs through 32 hairpin turns over 14 km, famously called the zigzag road. You can see the entire stretch from multiple vantage points on the mountain slopes above. The best views come from Thambi View Point. During monsoon season, the waterfalls along this stretch make it even more dramatic. When we drove it in July, cloud hung low over the bends, as the photos here show.
If you are into offbeat places in the North East, Lava and Aritar make another excellent offbeat trip that you can combine with this one.
Thambi View Point (11,200 Feet)
Located about 14 km above Zuluk village at 11,200 feet, at the top of the hairpin climb, Thambi View Point gives you an unobstructed view of the entire Silk Route zigzag road and the valley below. All 32 hairpin bends are visible from here. It is also one of the best sunrise spots in East Sikkim, with the Kanchenjunga range visible on clear mornings.
Lungthung (12,500 – 13,000 Feet)
Go slightly ahead of Thambi View Point and you reach Lungthung, also known as Dhupidhara. Sitting between 12,500 and 13,000 feet, this spot gives you a clearer, closer view of the Mt. Kanchenjunga range. The rhododendron forests around Lungthung bloom spectacularly between March and May, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. It is also a good alternative sunrise viewpoint.
Nathang Valley (13,500 Feet)
About 8 km ahead of Thambi View Point, Nathang Valley (also written as Gnathang) sits at 13,500 feet and is often called the “Ladakh of the East.” The valley is mostly covered in snow for a large part of the year. In summer, it transforms into a vast grassland where Tibetan yak herders once grazed their animals. You will find a small monastery here and several streams flowing through the valley. Keep in mind that sleeping here means sleeping at 13,500 feet.
Old Baba Mandir
This is the original shrine built in memory of Sepoy Harbhajan Singh of the Indian Army. You have to climb a few stairs to reach the bunker where he was stationed. Do not confuse this with the more popular “Baba Mandir” which is located about 10 km away and sees heavy tourist traffic. The Old Baba Mandir is quieter and more atmospheric.
Memenchu Lake
About 4 km from Old Baba Mandir, Memenchu Lake is one of the most striking lakes in Sikkim. Surrounded by deep slopes and pine forests, locals say the lake changes color every few minutes depending on the light. The lake stays frozen from January through May, so plan your visit after that if you want to see the water. It comes on the way to Zuluk from the Nathula side.
Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake, 13,066 Feet) and the Yak Golf Course
Kupup is one of the highest points of the circuit and home to the Yak Golf Course (about 13,025 feet), often listed among the highest golf courses in the world. Kupup Lake, shaped like an elephant (hence the name Elephant Lake), is a sacred lake of Sikkim, surrounded by high mountains. The whole zone is heavily restricted due to its proximity to the border, so your movements here depend entirely on your permit and the army’s clearance on that day. When we crossed it around 3 PM, the basin was wrapped in fog.
Ganek Sunrise Point (10,600 Feet)
If you are a sunrise person, wake up at 4 AM and head to Ganek. From here, you can watch the sun rise behind Mt. Kanchenjunga, casting golden light across the entire Bhutan Valley and parts of China. On a clear morning, this is easily one of the most rewarding sunrise views in the entire North East. If Bhutan itself is on your list next, check my road trip guide to Bhutan from India.
On the Way Up from Rongli: Kuekhola Falls, Lingtam and Padamchen
On the lower road, Lingtam is where your permit is checked. A little ahead, Kuekhola Falls, a roughly 100-foot waterfall by the road, is the standard tea-and-photo stop. Padamchen (around 7,000-7,500 feet) is the last settlement before the final climb and has homestays, which makes it a sensible fallback halt with a gentler altitude if you are running late from NJP.
What Is the Best Itinerary for Zuluk Silk Route?
Quick answer: From Gangtok, 2 nights and 3 days is enough: permits on Day 0, Zuluk via Tsomgo Lake and Kupup on Day 1, sunrise and Thambi on Day 2. From NJP, a 4-night loop via Aritar, Zuluk and Nathang that exits through Gangtok avoids backtracking and suits the altitude better.
Here is a practical 3-day itinerary that covers the main highlights. This is close to the route I followed during my trip, and it worked well. Below it, I have added a longer version for people starting from NJP.
Day 0: Arrive in Gangtok and Arrange Permits
Travel to Gangtok and get your permit arranged. Submit photocopies of your ID at a tourism agency on MG Marg or ask your hotel to handle it. Also hire your taxi or book your package on this day, since outside and self-drive vehicles are not allowed on the Silk Route. If Nathula is on your list, check the day of the week now, because tourists are normally not allowed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Day 1: Gangtok to Zuluk via Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Kupup
Leave Gangtok by 8 AM. Stop at Tsomgo Lake first, then continue to Nathula Pass (if your permit covers it). On the way, visit Baba Mandir and Old Baba Mandir. Stop at Memenchu Lake and Kupup, then come down past Nathang and Thambi to Zuluk by evening and settle into your homestay. On our trip we were at Tsomgo by noon, at Kupup by about 3 PM, on the hairpin bends by 4 PM and watching the sunset from our Zuluk homestay by 6:30 PM.
Day 2: Sunrise at Ganek, Explore Thambi View Point, Nathang Valley, and Return
Ganek sunrise at 4 AM. After breakfast, drive up to Thambi View Point and Lungthung for views of the zigzag road and Kanchenjunga. Continue to Nathang Valley if time and permit allow. Head back to Zuluk and then drive down the lower road via Padamchen and Rongli to Gangtok. You should reach Gangtok by evening.
Longer Option: 4 Nights from NJP via Aritar, Zuluk and Nathang
Flying into Bagdogra? This order climbs gradually and finishes at Gangtok.
- Day 1: NJP or Bagdogra to Aritar (about 110 km, 5 hours). Send permit documents to your Zuluk homestay in advance.
- Day 2: Aritar to Zuluk (about 36 km, 2.5 hours) via Rongli, Lingtam check post, Kuekhola Falls and Padamchen. Rest in the afternoon.
- Day 3: Ganek sunrise, then Thambi View Point, Lungthung and on to Nathang Valley for the night. Only sleep at Nathang if everyone in the group is feeling fine.
- Day 4: Nathang to Kupup, Memenchu Lake, Old Baba Mandir, Baba Mandir, Tsomgo Lake and down to Gangtok.
- Day 5: Gangtok to NJP or Bagdogra, or continue to North Sikkim.
These Rongli-side distances come from operator itineraries, so treat them as approximate. My Old Silk Route in East Sikkim guide covers every stop on this circuit.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Zuluk?
Quick answer: October and November are best for clear Kanchenjunga views. March to May is second-best, with rhododendrons in bloom. Avoid July and August for landslides, and treat December to February as a gamble because snow can close the road.
Zuluk looks different in every season, and honestly, each has its own charm. Here is a month-by-month breakdown to help you decide.
- March to May (Spring): Rhododendrons bloom across the slopes. Weather is pleasant (10-20°C). Snow may still be present at higher points like Nathang and Kupup until late March. Roads are mostly open. This is the best time for photography of flowers.
- June to August (Monsoon): Heavy rainfall, landslides possible, waterfalls at their best. The valley turns a deep lush green. Permits may be restricted if roads are blocked. Not ideal for first-timers due to road conditions.
- September to November (Autumn): My personal pick. The monsoon recedes, skies clear up, and you get the best views of Kanchenjunga. Weather is cool and comfortable. October and November offer the clearest visibility.
- December to February (Winter): The entire stretch is covered in snow. The hairpin bends look stunning in white, but roads are often blocked from January and permits may not be issued. Only attempt this if you have confirmed the route is open.
Why autumn, when I went in July? The greens and waterfalls were wonderful, but fog sat over Kupup and the loops all afternoon, and that is exactly the view you came for. Hence, if this is your one shot at Zuluk, go in October.
Dzongu is another interesting yet offbeat place in the North East that you can consider if you have extra days.
How Much Does a Zuluk Trip Cost in 2026?
Quick answer: A 2-night, 3-day Zuluk trip from Gangtok costs about Rs 4,100-6,800 per person on a budget and Rs 8,500-13,800 mid-range, with 4 people sharing a taxi. Carry it all in cash.
Zuluk is budget-friendly compared to North Sikkim. Here is a rough per-person breakdown for 2 nights and 3 days from Gangtok, assuming 4 people share one vehicle. These are indicative 2026 ranges, so verify locally.
| Expense | Budget (Per Person) | Mid-Range (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi from Gangtok (shared 4-pax) | Rs 1,500-2,000 | Rs 2,500-3,500 |
| Homestay, 2 nights (with meals) | Rs 1,600-3,000 (Rs 800-1,500/night) | Rs 4,000-7,000 (Rs 2,000-3,500/night) |
| Permit fee | Rs 200-300 | Rs 500-700 (agency) |
| Meals outside homestay, 3 days | Rs 600-1,200 (Rs 200-400/day) | Rs 1,200-2,100 (Rs 400-700/day) |
| Miscellaneous | Rs 200-300 | Rs 300-500 |
| Total for 2 nights/3 days | Rs 4,100-6,800 | Rs 8,500-13,800 |
A full Silk Route package (4 nights/5 days from Gangtok) costs around Rs 9,500-14,000 per person depending on the season and group size. Hence, if you are traveling in a group of 4, the per-person cost drops significantly. Solo travellers pay the most, since there is no shared transport. For a whole-state budget that includes North Sikkim, see my Sikkim budget and route planner.
Where to Stay in Zuluk? Homestays and Accommodation
Quick answer: Zuluk has no hotels, only around 36 homestays. Budget rooms cost Rs 800-1,500 per night and better rooms Rs 2,000-3,500, usually with dinner and breakfast. Book ahead for October and November.
There are no hotels in Zuluk. The village has around 36 homestays, and that is your only option. The good news is that these homestays are well-maintained, clean, and the hosts are genuinely warm. Most homestays include meals (dinner and breakfast) in the price, which keeps things simple.
Expect to pay Rs 800-1,500 per night for budget homestays and Rs 2,000-3,500 per night for better rooms with attached bathrooms. You can book in advance through your tour operator or find a room on arrival. During peak season (October-November), it is better to book ahead. In Nathang Valley, homestay prices are slightly higher (Rs 1,800-2,500 per person) due to the altitude and supply costs.
What About ATMs, Mobile Network, Altitude and Other Practical Details?
Quick answer: There is no ATM on the Silk Route, so carry cash from Gangtok or Siliguri. Only BSNL works, patchily. Outside vehicles are not allowed. Nights drop to 5-10°C even in summer, and Nathang at 13,500 feet can cause altitude sickness.
These details will save you trouble on the ground.
ATM and Cash
There are no ATMs in Zuluk or anywhere on the Silk Route. Withdraw enough cash in Gangtok or Siliguri before you leave. UPI and card payments do not work reliably here, so carry enough cash for your entire trip, including the taxi fare.
Mobile Network
Mobile connectivity in Zuluk is very limited. BSNL has the widest (but still intermittent) coverage. Airtel may work in patches. Jio and Vi are essentially useless here. If you absolutely need some connectivity, carry a BSNL postpaid SIM. But honestly, treat this as a digital detox. You are in one of the quietest corners of the Indian Himalayas, so enjoy the silence.
Private and Self-Drive Vehicles Not Allowed
This is important. Only Sikkim-registered vehicles are permitted on this route due to the restricted border zone, and self-drive rentals are not allowed in Sikkim’s protected areas. If you are planning a road trip, you will need to park your vehicle in Gangtok or Rongli and hire a local taxi or join a tour package. This applies to both cars and motorcycles.
If you are traveling from Darjeeling, Pelling, or NJP/Bagdogra, you need to first reach Rongli (the Sikkim entry point for this route) to get your permit, and then take a Sikkim taxi from there.
Altitude Sickness on the Silk Route
Sikkim feels green and gentle, so people underestimate this. On the Gangtok high road you go from about 5,500 feet to over 13,000 feet at Kupup in a few hours. Headaches and nausea at Kupup or Nathang are common. In case anyone in your group feels unwell, go down to Zuluk or Padamchen rather than pushing on. Do not sleep at Nathang on the same day you leave the plains. My guide on preventing AMS and acclimatising properly applies here just as much as in Ladakh.
What to Pack for Zuluk
Even in summer, temperatures at Zuluk (10,100 ft) and above can drop to 5-10°C at night. At Nathang Valley (13,500 ft) and Lungthung (12,500+ ft), it gets even colder. Pack warm layers, a windproof jacket, thermal innerwear, and good trekking shoes. Carry a torch/headlamp for the early morning sunrise drive. Sunscreen, sunglasses and, in monsoon, a proper rain jacket are essential.
Is Zuluk Good for Birdwatching? Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary
Quick answer: Yes. Zuluk borders Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, home to red pandas and blood pheasants. The Lungthung to Dhupidhara stretch is best for birds, especially March to May.
One thing most travel guides miss about Zuluk is the Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary that surrounds the area. If you are a birdwatcher or nature enthusiast, this is a major draw. The sanctuary is home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, blood pheasants, and several rare rhododendron species. The trail from Lungthung to Dhupidhara passes through rich biodiversity, with rhododendron forests blooming between March and May. Based on research, over 250 species of birds have been recorded in this area, making it one of the best birdwatching destinations in the Eastern Himalayas. You can read more about the protected area on the Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary page.
Related Reading: More Offbeat Destinations in Sikkim and the North East
Other guides that pair well with a Zuluk trip:
- Pelling Travel Guide – West Sikkim
- East Sikkim and the Old Silk Route – the full circuit
- Sikkim Permits Guide – PAP, RAP and ILP
- North Sikkim Travel Guide – Lachen and Lachung
- Yumthang Valley Travel Guide
- Gangtok Weekend Trip Guide
- Sillery Gaon and Icchey Gaon – near the Rongli side
- Dzongu, the Hidden Paradise of the Lepchas
- Lava and Aritar Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zuluk open for foreigners?
No. As of 2026, Zuluk and the Old Silk Route in East Sikkim are not open for foreign nationals. The area is a restricted border zone, and only Indian citizens with a valid Protected Area Permit (PAP) can visit.
How many days are needed for a Zuluk trip?
A minimum of 2 nights and 3 days is recommended. Day 0 for reaching Gangtok and arranging permits, Day 1 for traveling to Zuluk via Tsomgo Lake and Kupup, and Day 2 for exploring the sunrise points and returning to Gangtok. If you have more time, a 4 night/5 day Silk Route trip from NJP via Aritar covers more ground.
How far is Zuluk from Gangtok?
Zuluk is about 90 km from Gangtok, which takes roughly 4 hours on the lower road via Rongli. The scenic high road via Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Kupup takes 5-6 hours with stops.
How far is Zuluk from Pelling?
Zuluk is about 150 km from Pelling, roughly 7 hours by road, because the two sit at opposite ends of Sikkim. I suggest breaking the journey at Gangtok or Aritar instead of doing it in one day, and confirming your taxi is Sikkim-registered.
Can I drive my own car or bike to Zuluk?
No. Outside-state and self-drive rental vehicles are not allowed on the Zuluk route. Only Sikkim-registered vehicles can enter the restricted zone. You must hire a local taxi or book a tour package from Gangtok or Siliguri.
Is Zuluk safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Zuluk is safe for solo travelers. However, since you need a permit and a Sikkim-registered vehicle, you will likely join a small group or hire a taxi. The homestay hosts are very friendly, and the area has an army presence which adds to safety. Carry enough cash since there are no ATMs.
What is the altitude of Zuluk and does AMS happen here?
Zuluk village is at about 10,100 feet. Thambi View Point is at 11,200 feet, Lungthung at 12,500-13,000 feet, Nathang Valley at 13,500 feet, and Kupup at 13,066 feet. Mild altitude sickness symptoms (headache, nausea) can occur at the higher points, especially if you drive up quickly from Gangtok. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and do not exert yourself too much on the first day.
Is there snowfall in Zuluk?
Yes. Zuluk and especially the higher points like Nathang Valley and Kupup receive heavy snowfall from December to February. The 32 hairpin bends look stunning covered in snow, but the road may be closed during this period and permits may not be issued. November and early December offer the best chance to see some snow while the road is still open.
What is the best time to visit Zuluk for the Silk Route?
September to November is the best time, with October and November the clearest. The monsoon rains stop, skies are clear, and you get the best views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding valleys. March to May is also excellent, with rhododendrons in bloom. Avoid the peak monsoon months of July and August due to landslide risks.
How many hairpin bends are there in Zuluk?
There are 32 hairpin bends on the Zuluk stretch of the Old Silk Route, climbing over roughly 14 km from the village up toward Thambi View Point. Locals call it the zigzag road, and it is the single most photographed feature of the entire Silk Route circuit.
Where can I see all 32 Zuluk loops at once?
Thambi View Point, at the top of the 14 km climb from Zuluk village at 11,200 feet, is the spot where you can see all 32 hairpin bends together in a single frame. Lungthung, a little further ahead between 12,500 and 13,000 feet, gives a slightly different angle on the same loops.
Do I need a permit to see the Zuluk loops?
Yes. The Zuluk loops sit inside a restricted border zone, so Indian visitors need a Protected Area Permit. As of March 2026, it costs around Rs 200-300 when arranged directly at the Rongli SDPO office or the 3rd Mile Police Check Post in Gangtok, or Rs 500-700 if a travel agency handles the paperwork for you.
In the end, Zuluk is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave. The silence, the scale of those hairpin bends seen from above, the gold light on Kanchenjunga at sunrise. It is Sikkim at its most raw and untouched. If you have questions about planning your trip, feel free to leave a comment below. You can also join the Discover With Dheeraj community on Facebook or our DwD Travel Circle, where fellow travelers are always happy to help with the latest permit and road updates 🙂
Last Updated: October 2026
2 Comments
Comments section gets closed in 90 days. To ask your travel questions, you can follow my YouTube Channel for a faster reply or for a much slower reply follow me on Instagram. :)
I want to travel shilari gaon, zuluk, nathan, nathula and Gangtok with my family in the middle of April of this year for 5 nights 6 days. Please guide me whether we will start our trip from njp to zuluk and from zuluk to gangtok or we will start our trip from njp to Gangtok and after Gangtok to muluk.
After going through the article,I fell great interests in the said route;I would like to know about some good accommodations about Lungthung Dhupidara…Would u plz…