ALL SIKKIM ODYSSEY
Nature, Culture & High-Altitude Wonders
From Cloud Forests to Sacred Heights
13 Days / 12 Nights
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
Okhrey – Barsey – Kaluk – Rinchenpong – Pelling – Namchi – Ravangla – Gangtok – Lachen – Gurudongmar – Lachung – Yumthang – Zero Point – Tsomgo Lake – Nathula – Gnathang – Dzuluk – Aritar
This sweeping journey captures the full spectrum of Sikkim’s natural beauty and spiritual depth—from rhododendron-laced trails and skywalks to glacial lakes and mist-draped mountain passes—crafted for explorers drawn to altitude, awe, and adventure.
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Okhrey & Barsey Sanctuary: Gateway to blooming rhododendron trails and scenic alpine treks.
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Kaluk & Rinchenpong: Quaint hill towns with views of Kanchenjunga and timeless monasteries.
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Pelling & Yuksom: Home to ancient ruins, sacred lakes, skywalks, and Sikkim’s royal past.
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Namchi & Ravangla: Where colossal statues and tea gardens meet tranquil monasteries.
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Gangtok: Capital charm with a blend of vibrant markets, Buddhist sites, and cultural richness.
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Lachen & Gurudongmar Lake: Journey through remote valleys to reach one of the world’s highest sacred lakes at 17,800 ft.
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Lachung, Yumthang & Zero Point: Meadows of flowers, hot springs, and dramatic highland terrain near the Indo-China border.
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Tsomgo Lake & Nathula Pass: Glacier-fed lake and historic trade route at 14,000+ ft.
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Gnathang Valley & Dzuluk: Misty military hamlets and the serpentine Silk Route road with cinematic vistas.
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Aritar: A peaceful retreat by the emerald Lampokhari Lake, ideal for reflection and farewell.
From blooming sanctuaries to icy frontiers, this odyssey is for travelers who crave altitude, adventure, and Himalayan soul.
ITINERARY SNAPSHOT
Day 1
Arrival at NJP/IXB – Drive to Okhrey
(122 km / 5–6 hrs)
Arrive at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport (IXB), where you’ll be warmly received by a Pauhunri Holidays representative. From here, begin your scenic drive to Okhrey, a tranquil hamlet tucked in the hills of South-West Sikkim.
Watch the landscape transform into pine-covered ridges and misty valleys as you climb steadily toward the village.
Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel or homestay and spend the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the peaceful alpine surroundings.
Overnight Stay: Okhrey
Day 2
Okhrey – Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary – Kaluk (Trek + Drive)
After breakfast, set off for a nature-filled day exploring the vibrant Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, especially stunning during spring bloom.
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Drive to Hilley (1 hr) – The starting point of the sanctuary trek
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Trek to Barsey (Approx. 2 hrs) – A gentle forest trail through oak and rhododendron groves, leading to a small hamlet within the sanctuary
Spend some time in Barsey taking in the panoramic views and untouched charm of the wilderness. Post trek, enjoy lunch before continuing your drive to Kaluk or Rinchenpong, two serene towns overlooking the Kanchenjunga range.
Check-in to your hotel and enjoy the quietude of the hills in the evening.
Overnight Stay: Kaluk / Rinchenpong
Day 3
Kaluk – Rinchenpong – Singshore Bridge – Pelling
After breakfast, begin your journey to Pelling, with enriching stops that showcase the cultural and natural charm of West Sikkim.
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Kaluk – A peaceful retreat for nature lovers, offering some of the finest views of Mount Kanchenjunga
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British Bungalow – A vestige of colonial heritage, this hilltop structure provides a panoramic frame of the Himalayan peaks
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Rinchenpong Monastery – Known for housing a rare Adi Buddha statue, said to represent the primordial Buddha in meditation and serene setting amidst pine forests.
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Singshore Bridge – The highest suspension bridge in Sikkim and the second highest in Asia, towering above deep gorges and forested hills
Break for lunch en route. Continue your drive to Pelling, a quaint hill town known for its mountain views and quiet pace.
Check into your hotel and relax.
Evening: Free to explore Pelling at your own pace—perhaps a stroll or a peaceful sunset view from your room.
Overnight Stay: Pelling
Day 4
Pelling Local Sightseeing & Yuksom
After breakfast, head out to explore the cultural and natural gems of West Sikkim, combining Pelling’s scenic landmarks with the historical town of Yuksom:
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Rimbi Waterfalls & Orange Garden – A tranquil riverside spot known for seasonal oranges and a gushing cascade.
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Khecheopalri Lake – A revered wish-fulfilling lake, sacred to Buddhists and Hindus alike. It’s believed that not even a leaf is allowed to float on its surface.
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Kanchenjunga Waterfalls – A majestic multi-tiered fall, thundering down from glacial heights.
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Karthok Lake – A serene and lesser-known sacred lake surrounded by prayer flags.
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Norbugang Park (Yuksom) – The coronation site of Sikkim’s first Chogyal (king), steeped in history and spirituality.
Lunch will be arranged en route based on your sightseeing schedule.
You will be dropped back at your hotel by 6:00 pm.
The evening is free to explore Pelling at your own pace—perhaps a stroll, local market visit, or a relaxed café break.
Overnight Stay: Pelling
Day 5
Pelling to Namchi via Ravangla
After breakfast, check out and begin your journey to Namchi—Sikkim’s cultural capital, known as the ‘Top of the Sky.’
En route, stop at several notable sites:
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Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park – A peaceful forest sanctuary for bird lovers and nature seekers.
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Rabdentse Ruins – Moss-draped remnants of Sikkim’s second capital, offering sweeping valley views.
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Pemayangtse Monastery – One of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim, home to rare statues and traditional murals.
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Chenrezig Statue & Skywalk – India’s first glass skywalk offering thrilling views beneath your feet, crowned by a towering statue of the deity of compassion.
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Buddha Park (Ravangla) – A sprawling complex featuring a massive Buddha statue set against the backdrop of the Himalayas.
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Temi Tea Garden – The only tea estate in Sikkim, known for producing premium organic tea in a lush, rolling landscape.
Arrive at Namchi by late afternoon.
Check in to your hotel and relax.
The evening is yours to enjoy a quiet walk, sample local snacks, or just soak in the serene hill-town atmosphere.
Overnight Stay: Namchi
Day 6
Namchi Local Sightseeing & Transfer to Gangtok
Start the day with a local exploration of Namchi’s spiritual highlights:
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Samdruptse Hill – Visit the massive 135-ft statue of Guru Padmasambhava, seated atop a dormant hill said to grant wishes.
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Siddhesvara Dham (Char Dham) – A sprawling pilgrimage site with replicas of the four Dhams of India, a towering Shiva statue, and manicured gardens.
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Golden Sai Temple – A modern and peaceful temple dedicated to Sai Baba, offering calm and panoramic views.
After lunch, begin the drive to Gangtok, the lively capital of Sikkim, with scenic views along the way.
Check in to your hotel in Gangtok and unwind.
The evening is free to explore MG Marg, the town’s lively promenade known for cafés, shopping, and local culture.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Day 7
Gangtok to Lachen
(127 km / 5–6 hrs)
After an early breakfast, check out and begin your journey to Lachen (9,000 ft), a picturesque mountain village in North Sikkim known for its remoteness and pristine surroundings.
En route, enjoy scenic halts at:
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Seven Sisters Waterfalls – A multi-tiered waterfall cascading dramatically down the cliffs.
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Singhik View Point – Offers panoramic vistas of the Kanchenjunga range on a clear day.
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Naga Waterfalls – A stunning roadside waterfall, ideal for photo stops.
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Chungthang – A beautiful confluence town at the meeting point of the Lachen and Lachung rivers.
Arrive in Lachen by evening.
Check in to your hotel or homestay and relax.
The evening is at leisure to explore the peaceful village, interact with locals, or simply rest in preparation for the next day’s high-altitude adventure.
Overnight Stay: Lachen
Day 8
Lachen – Thangu – Gurudongmar Lake – Lachung
Today begins early with a drive to Gurudongmar Lake (17,800 ft), one of the highest and most sacred lakes in the world, revered by both Buddhists and Sikhs.
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Thangu Village – Stop here for breakfast and permit verification. Surrounded by alpine meadows and snowy peaks, it’s a peaceful hamlet en route to the lake.
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Chopta Valley – A high-altitude valley with raw Himalayan beauty and untouched forests.
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Gurudongmar Lake – Nestled near the Indo-Tibetan border, this turquoise lake is known for its crystalline waters and spiritual significance. Some portions remain unfrozen even in peak winter.
After visiting the lake, return to Lachen for lunch.
Post lunch, continue your journey to Lachung, another scenic village nestled in North Sikkim.
Check in upon arrival and relax. The evening is free for a short village walk or just soaking in the serene mountain air.
Optional Detour: You may visit Kalapatthar, a remote, snow-covered ridge near Thangu for panoramic views. This requires an extra fee payable directly to the driver.
Overnight Stay: Lachung
Day 9
Lachung – Yumthang Valley – Yumasamdong (Zero Point) – Gangtok
After an early breakfast, drive to the Yumthang Valley, known as the Valley of Flowers, especially vibrant during spring.
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Hot Spring Hike – A short walk through the rhododendron sanctuary takes you to a natural hot spring believed to have healing properties.
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Yumasamdong (Zero Point) – Located at an altitude of 15,300 ft, this is the final motorable point close to the Chinese border. Expect snow even in spring, along with dramatic high-altitude terrain.
After returning to Lachung for lunch, begin the descent back to Gangtok by late afternoon.
Arrive in Gangtok by evening and check in to your hotel.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Day 10
Gangtok Local Sightseeing
After breakfast, set out for a full day of immersive local sightseeing across Gangtok, blending spirituality, culture, and scenic viewpoints:
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Tashi View Point – Offers breathtaking sunrise views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
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Hanuman Tok & Ganesh Tok – Peaceful hilltop temples with panoramic views over the valley.
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Enchey Monastery – A 200-year-old monastery tucked in a forested nook, known for its tranquil vibe and prayer flags.
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Do Drul Chorten – A prominent stupa surrounded by spinning prayer wheels and monastic chants.
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Namgyal Institute of Tibetology – Houses an impressive collection of Tibetan artifacts, manuscripts, and Buddhist iconography.
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Gangtok Ropeway – Glide over the city in a cable car and enjoy sweeping aerial views.
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Flower Exhibition Centre – A charming display of seasonal blooms, orchids, and exotic flora.
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Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom – Explore traditional Sikkimese art, weaving, and woodwork.
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Ban Jhakri Waterfall Energy Park – A beautifully landscaped park with a waterfall, sculptures, and folklore-themed gardens.
Lunch will be arranged according to the sightseeing flow.
You’ll be dropped back at your hotel by 6:00 pm.
The evening is yours to explore MG Marg, grab souvenirs, or relax at a cozy café.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Day 11
Gangtok to Gnathang Valley via Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, New Baba Mandir, Kupup Lake, and Old Baba Mandir
After an early breakfast, embark on a thrilling full-day excursion. Your stops include:
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Tsomgo Lake: Sacred, oval-shaped, and surrounded by snow-capped ridges
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Nathula Pass: Indo-China border and a historic part of the ancient Silk Route
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New Baba Mandir: A more accessible memorial dedicated to Sepoy Harbhajan Singh, believed to still guard the border
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Kupup Lake: Elephant-shaped lake often shrouded in mist, with a surreal charm and views of the Yak Golf Course
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Old Baba Mandir: A quieter and more serene Samadhi located near Kupup, honoring the spirit of Baba Harbhajan Singh
End your day at Gnathang Valley—a high-altitude village wrapped in mist.
Note: Nathula Pass requires an additional permit and incurs extra costs.
Optional Activities:
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Yak Ride at Tsomgo Lake
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Ropeway Ride at Tsomgo for panoramic views
Overnight Stay: Gnathang Valley
Day 12
Gnathang to Aritar via Dzuluk
After breakfast, start your day with a scenic ride through:
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Gnathang Valley: Wind-blown meadows at 13,500 ft
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Dzuluk: Known for its legendary Zig Zag roads and Thambi View Point
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Aritar Lampokhari Lake: Ideal for a peaceful walk or paddleboat ride
Overnight Stay: Aritar
Day 13
Aritar to NJP / IXB
(116 km / 4–5 hrs)
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and proceed to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) for your onward journey.
Trip Ends with Wonderful Memories!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Documents Required
Please carry original government-issued photo identification (Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License).
These are essential for:
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Hotel check-ins
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Permit applications and processing
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Verification at military and check posts
Restricted Area Permits
Access to certain regions in Sikkim is restricted and special permits are mandatory. These include:
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East Sikkim: Tsomgo Lake, Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, Nathula Pass
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North Sikkim: Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumesamdong (Zero Point)
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Old Silk Route: Kupup, Gnathang Valley, Dzuluk
To process permits, please ensure you carry:
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2 recent passport-sized photographs
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A valid government photo ID (original and photocopies)
Please note:
Permit approvals are subject to weather conditions and military clearance. Changes in the itinerary may occur in case of road closures or restricted access.
Leave the Paperwork to Us
All permit arrangements are seamlessly handled by Pauhunri Holidays—your trusted local expert. We take care of the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Relax, and let us make your Sikkim experience smooth and stress-free.
TRAVEL TIPS
Weather & Clothing
Sikkim’s weather varies dramatically with altitude—so layering is key to staying comfortable:
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Spring/Summer (Mar–Jun): Light woolens or cottons for the day, a jacket for early mornings and evenings
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Autumn (Oct–Nov): Layered clothing—light fleece or sweaters by day, thermals at night
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Winter (Dec–Feb): Heavy woolens, thermals, insulated jackets, caps, and gloves are a must, especially in North Sikkim and Gnathang
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Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Quick-dry outfits, waterproof shoes, raincoats, and a sturdy umbrella
Tip: Weather in places like Gurudongmar, Yumthang, and Gnathang can shift quickly—pack for sudden cold snaps even in shoulder seasons.
Mobile Connectivity
Network coverage becomes patchy at higher altitudes. Here's what to expect:
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Gangtok, Namchi, Pelling:
Best Coverage: Jio and Airtel
Inconsistent: BSNL and Vi
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North Sikkim & Gnathang Region:
Most Reliable: BSNL (calls + basic data)
Limited Reach: Jio and Airtel (may work sporadically)
No Signal: Vi usually doesn't work beyond Gangtok
Tip: Download offline maps, hotel confirmations, and permits before heading to remote areas.
Health & Safety Essentials
High-altitude zones and curvy roads mean it's best to travel prepared:
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Personal medications + basic first-aid kit
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Motion sickness or altitude sickness tablets
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Lip balm, moisturizer, sunscreen
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Energy snacks and refillable water bottles
Pro Tip: Hydration is crucial at altitude. Sip water regularly and avoid overeating before long drives.
Cash & Payments
Digital payments are widely used but can’t be relied on in remote zones:
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Available: UPI, cards in Gangtok, Pelling, Namchi
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Essential: Carry sufficient cash while heading to Lachen, Lachung, Gnathang, Aritar
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Limited ATM Access: Machines are sparse and may not always be operational in high-altitude areas
Tip: Keep change handy for entry tickets, local snacks, or monastery donations.
Photography Tips & Etiquette
With majestic peaks and prayer flag-lined paths, Sikkim is a photographer’s dream:
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Best Light: Early morning and golden hour
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Carry Along: Spare batteries, extra memory cards, and a power bank
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Be Respectful: Ask permission before photographing locals or inside monasteries
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Restricted Zones: Avoid clicking pictures near army camps or border posts
Road Travel & Transport
Expect some of the most scenic drives in the Himalayas—along with winding roads and high passes:
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Mountain routes can be steep and bumpy—especially in North and East Sikkim
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Vehicles are driven by experienced local chauffeurs trained for these terrains
With Pauhunri Holidays, your comfort and safety come first:
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Courteous, professional drivers
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Clean, well-maintained vehicles
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Reliable support even in remote and snowy zones
Tip: Don’t nap through the drive—the road to Dzuluk or Gurudongmar might just give you your favorite travel memory!
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
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