Four nights on the old trade route between India and Tibet: the Zuluk hairpin loops, sunrise over Kanchenjunga from Thambi viewpoint, the high Nathang valley and Aritar lake. Stays are in village homestays, and the permit and a Sikkim-registered car are included.
Day-wise itinerary
- 1
Day 1: Bagdogra to Aritar
Pickup at the airport or NJP and a 4.5-hour drive by Rhenock to Aritar. Evening walk around Lampokhari lake.
- 2
Day 2: Aritar to Zuluk
Permit check at Rongli, then the climb to Zuluk at about 2,900 m. Homestay with dinner.
- 3
Day 3: Thambi viewpoint, Nathang and Kupup
An early start for sunrise on the 32 hairpin bends, then Nathang valley, Old Baba Mandir and Kupup lake when the road is open.
- 4
Day 4: Zuluk to Rongli or Rhenock
A slow drive down with stops at Lingtam and the Rongli river. Night in a lower village.
- 5
Day 5: Back to Bagdogra
Drive back to Bagdogra Airport or NJP.
Included
- Private car with driver for the whole trip, from Bagdogra Airport or NJP and back
- Hotel stay with breakfast and dinner, two sharing a room
- Fuel, tolls, parking and driver allowance
- All taxes (GST)
- WhatsApp support from our Bagdogra office every day of the trip
- Silk Route protected area permit
- Sikkim-registered car for Zuluk and Nathang
- All meals in Zuluk
Not included
- Flights and train tickets
- Lunch, entry tickets, camera fees and joy rides
- Anything not listed under included
Read more about the places on this trip: Silk Route and Zuluk.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Old Silk Route: Zuluk, Nathang and Aritar tour cost?
From ₹13,500 per person, two sharing, homestays with all meals, for 4 nights and 5 days starting and ending at Bagdogra Airport or NJP. The price depends on season, hotel category and group size.
Do foreigners get a permit for the Silk Route?
No. Zuluk and Nathang are open to Indian citizens only. Foreign travellers can stay in Aritar and Rinchenpong instead.
When does it snow on the Silk Route?
Snow is likely in Nathang and Kupup from late December to March. Roads can close for a day or two after heavy snow, so keep a spare day.
How do I confirm the package?
Pay 20% of the package price as an advance to hold hotels and the car. You get a written itinerary and invoice on WhatsApp and email. The balance is paid to your driver at the end of the tour, in cash or by UPI.
