About Sikkim Old Silk Route

Sikkim Old Silk Route

The Old Silk Route is one of Sikkim's most iconic travel circuits, known for its historic significance, breathtaking mountain roads, and spectacular Himalayan views. Once used as an ancient trade route between India and Tibet, the route now attracts travelers looking for scenic drives, sunrise viewpoints, high-altitude valleys, and peaceful village stays.

The journey passes through destinations such as Rongli, Lingtam, Padamchen, Zuluk, Nathang Valley, Mankhim, Aritar, Rolep, and Rishikhola. Each destination offers a unique experience, ranging from winding mountain roads and lakes to forest villages and panoramic viewpoints.

One of the highlights of the route is the famous Zuluk Loops, a series of hairpin bends that create one of the most photographed road sections in the Himalayas. Combined with destinations like Nathang Valley and Lampokhari Lake, the Silk Route offers a complete mountain experience filled with natural beauty and cultural heritage.

How to Reach Sikkim Old Silk Route

By Road

The Silk Route circuit starts from Rongli, which serves as the entry point for most travellers.

Distance from Siliguri to Rongli: Approximately 105 km

Travel is generally done through reserved vehicles due to permit requirements.

By Train

Nearest Railway Station:

New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

Popular trains from Kolkata:

Darjeeling Mail
Padatik Express
Kanchan Kanya Express

By Air

Nearest Airport:

Bagdogra Airport

Distance to Rongli: Approximately 110 km

Zuluk – The most famous destination on the Old Silk Route known for its winding mountain roads and panoramic Himalayan views.
The village offers spectacular sunrise views and changing landscapes throughout the year.
Thambi View Point – Iconic viewpoint overlooking the famous zig-zag loops of the Silk Route.
On clear days, visitors can enjoy stunning views of Kanchenjunga.
Lungthung (4 km from Zuluk) – High-altitude viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas.
The area is often covered with clouds, creating a dramatic mountain landscape.
Gnathang Valley (23 km from Zuluk) – Beautiful high-altitude valley surrounded by rolling hills and Himalayan peaks.
Often referred to as the "Ladakh of East Sikkim" because of its unique landscape.
Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake) – Scenic high-altitude lake shaped like an elephant when viewed from above.
The lake remains one of the most photographed attractions on the Silk Route.
Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir – Revered shrine dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier.
The temple is an important pilgrimage and tourist attraction in East Sikkim.
Nathang Monastery – Small Buddhist monastery located amidst the scenic Nathang Valley.
The peaceful surroundings make it a pleasant stop for visitors.
Tukla Valley – Historic valley associated with the British expedition to Tibet.
The area is known for its war memorials and beautiful mountain scenery.
Tukla Baba Mandir – Small temple located on the route towards higher reaches of the Silk Route.
Visitors often stop here while travelling between Nathang and Kupup.
Menmecho Lake – Pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains and alpine meadows.
The lake is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
Padamchen – Scenic village located at the lower end of the Silk Route.
Dense forests, waterfalls and peaceful surroundings make it a popular overnight stop.
Aritar Lake (Lampokhari Lake) – One of the oldest natural lakes in Sikkim known for boating and scenic surroundings.
The lake is often included in Old Silk Route itineraries.
Mankhim View Point – Popular hilltop viewpoint overlooking Aritar Lake and surrounding valleys.
It offers beautiful sunrise and sunset views.
Que Khola Falls – Picturesque roadside waterfall located near Padamchen.
The cascading waters and forest backdrop make it a popular photo stop.
Zig-Zag Road Loops of Zuluk – A series of dramatic hairpin bends that have become the symbol of the Old Silk Route.
The loops are best viewed from Thambi View Point during sunrise.

Best Time to Visit

How to Reach

Weather

Month-wise Temperature (Average)

January: -5°C – 10°C (Very cold in higher regions)
February: -3°C – 12°C (Cold and clear)
March: 2°C – 16°C (Pleasant spring weather)
April: 5°C – 18°C (Comfortable and scenic)
May: 8°C – 20°C (Ideal travel conditions)
June: 10°C – 22°C (Mild weather)
July: 12°C – 20°C (Heavy rainfall and mist)
August: 12°C – 20°C (Wet and cloudy)
September: 10°C – 18°C (Rain gradually reduces)
October: 5°C – 16°C (Crystal-clear mountain views)
November: 0°C – 14°C (Cold and scenic)
December: -3°C – 12°C (Winter conditions begin)

Weather & Best Time to Visit

The Old Silk Route is one of the most scenic road journeys in the Eastern Himalayas, following a historic trade route that once connected India with Tibet. Stretching through East Sikkim, the route passes through beautiful mountain villages, forests, valleys, and high-altitude landscapes.

The best time to visit is from March to June and October to December. Spring brings pleasant temperatures and greenery, while autumn offers the clearest views of the Himalayan ranges. Winter often brings frost and occasional snowfall in higher-altitude destinations like Nathang Valley and Zuluk. Monsoon transforms the region into a lush green paradise but can affect visibility and road conditions.

Transport Options

suv

Best For

couples, family, bachelors

Available Views

Mountain View, Kanchenjungha View, Himalayan View

Adults (10+ years)	- +
Kids (5-10 years)	- +
Infants (0-5 years)	- +

Sikkim Old Silk Route

About Sikkim Old Silk Route

Sikkim Old Silk Route

How to Reach Sikkim Old Silk Route

By Road

By Train

By Air