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7N/8D – Silk Route Expedition: Zuluk, Nathang & Kupup – Tracing the Ancient Himalayan Highway

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Old Silk Route of East Sikkim, where snow-capped peaks, winding mountain roads, and Buddhist heritage intertwine beautifully.This 7 Nights / 8 Days Silk Route Expedition takes you through Aritar, Zuluk, Nathang Valley, Kupup, and Gangtok — revealing lesser-known gems, pristine lakes, ancient monasteries, and the warm hospitality of Sikkimese mountain villages.Once part of the ancient Indo-Tibet trade route, this trail offers panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga, dramatic landscapes that change with altitude, and the thrill of traversing one of India’s highest motorable passes.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival at Siliguri / NJP / Bagdogra → Aritar (East Sikkim)

Arrive at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Railway Station. Meet your driver and set off for Aritar (approx. 120 km / 5–6 hours), a quiet village in East Sikkim known for its emerald lake and heritage sites.As you ascend, lush forests and terraced farmlands surround you. En route, enjoy tea breaks at scenic viewpoints.Evening in Aritar:Visit Lampokhari Lake (Aritar Lake) — the oldest lake in Sikkim, where boating amidst pine trees and misty hills creates a surreal experience.Later, visit the Aritar Monastery, perched atop a hill offering sweeping views of the valley.

Overnight stay in Aritar.

Day 2 – Aritar → Padamchen (2,500 m)

After breakfast, start your drive towards Padamchen, a small, peaceful village that serves as a gateway to the higher Silk Route.The journey is filled with scenic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and rhododendron forests. You’ll pass through Lingtam, where you’ll need to process your Inner Line Permit (mandatory for all visitors to this route).Stop at Keukhola Waterfall, a hidden gem, for some great photographs.By afternoon, arrive in Padamchen — known for its mild weather, birdwatching, and panoramic sunrise views.Evening at leisure to explore the village and interact with local families.

Overnight stay in Padamchen.

Day 3 – Padamchen → Zuluk (10,000 ft)

After an early breakfast, head toward Zuluk, one of the most iconic spots on the Silk Route.The drive itself is thrilling — the famous 32 hairpin bends of Zuluk offer jaw-dropping views at every turn.Zuluk was once a halting point for traders and their caravans traveling to Tibet through Nathula. Today, it’s a serene Himalayan settlement with unmatched sunrise views.En route attractions:Thambi View Point: The most popular sunrise point offering a golden panorama of Mount Kanchenjunga.Lungthung Village: Tiny hamlet overlooking the vast mountain valleys.Check into a cozy homestay in Zuluk, enjoy a hot meal, and in the evening, walk through the misty trails or visit the nearby Army Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Overnight stay in Zuluk.

Day 4 – Zuluk → Nathang Valley (13,200 ft)

Wake up early to catch the magical sunrise at Thambi View Point. Watch as the first rays of the sun turn the snow peaks of Kanchenjunga golden — an unforgettable sight.

After breakfast, drive further up to Nathang Valley, also called the “Ladakh of East Sikkim.”This valley was once a winter settlement for Tibetan yak herders and is now one of the highest inhabited regions in the state.En route attractions:Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake): A heart-shaped lake resembling an elephant, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.Yak Golf Course: The world’s highest golf course (13,025 ft), maintained by the Indian Army.Old Baba Mandir: Dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, revered as the guardian of the mountains.By afternoon, reach Nathang Valley, a windswept plateau where you can experience snow in winter and vibrant meadows in summer.Spend the evening stargazing — at this altitude, the sky is breathtakingly clear.

Overnight stay in Nathang Valley.

Day 5 – Nathang Valley → Gangtok via Tsomgo Lake

After breakfast, begin your descent toward Gangtok, passing through the scenic Tukla Valley and Kupup Ridge.Stop at Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft) — a glacial lake revered by locals. Enjoy yak rides or sip hot tea at one of the lakeside stalls.Continue to Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a sacred site maintained by the Indian Army.Reach Gangtok by evening and check into your hotel. Explore MG Marg for shopping and dinner.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 6 – Gangtok Local Sightseeing

After breakfast, explore Gangtok’s spiritual and scenic gems.

Attractions Covered:

Rumtek Monastery: The largest and most significant monastery in Sikkim.Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: A rich museum of Buddhist scriptures and relics.Do Drul Chorten Stupa: Surrounded by prayer wheels symbolizing peace and compassion.Flower Exhibition Centre: A colorful display of orchids and Himalayan flora.Ropeway Ride (Optional): Enjoy sweeping aerial views of Gangtok city.Evening free to enjoy Sikkimese cuisine and music at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 7 – Gangtok → Rumtek → Ranka → Back

Spend the day exploring the outskirts of Gangtok for a relaxed experience.

Visit: Ranka Monastery: A peaceful site offering beautiful views and less touristy vibes.Ban Jhakri Falls: A landscaped park built around a natural waterfall.Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre: Seat of the Karmapa Lama and one of the most sacred monasteries in the region.Return to Gangtok in the evening for leisure and shopping.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 8 – Departure from Gangtok

After breakfast, depart for Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Railway Station with lifelong memories of the Old Silk Route — its curves, cold winds, and soulful serenity.

Tour Inclusions

  • Comfortable accommodation in homestays & hotels

  • Daily breakfast and dinner

  • All transfers and sightseeing by private cab

  • Inner Line Permits for East Sikkim

  • Services of local experienced driver

  • Oxygen cylinder (on request) for high-altitude zones

  • Taxes and service charges

    Travel Tips

  • Permits are required for all non-locals — carry valid photo IDs.

  • Nights are extremely cold above 10,000 ft; pack thermals and gloves.

  • Avoid plastic bottles and littering — the Silk Route is an eco-sensitive zone.

  • Carry motion-sickness medication; roads have sharp bends.

  • No ATMs beyond Rongli; carry sufficient cash.