Dzuluk Sikkim | Offbeat Himalayan Village with Scenic Views

DZULUK
The Serpentine Gateway to the East

Where roads dance with clouds and history echoes through the mountains.

Perched at around 10,000 feet above sea level in East Sikkim, Dzuluk (also spelled Zuluk) is a tiny hamlet on the historic Old Silk Route. It is best known for its mesmerizing loops — a serpentine stretch of hairpin bends that offer one of the most dramatic and photogenic road views in the entire Himalayan region. Once a transit point for trade between Tibet and India, today Dzuluk enchants travelers with its untouched beauty, mysterious mists, and raw, rugged landscapes. From this remote village, travelers can witness breathtaking sunrises over Mt. Kanchenjunga, spot rare Himalayan wildlife, and feel the thrill of journeying through ancient trails wrapped in prayer flags and legends. Due to its high altitude and remoteness, Dzuluk remains peaceful, authentic, and unspoiled — a true offbeat escape in Sikkim’s eastern frontiers. The area is under the jurisdiction of the Indian Army due to its proximity to the Indo-China border, and permits are mandatory for all visitors. But for those who make the journey, Dzuluk rewards with silence, views, and the feeling of being on top of the world.

Top Tourist Attractions

Zig-Zag Road Viewpoint: Perhaps the most iconic feature of Dzuluk — a winding stretch of over 30 sharp turns carved into the mountains. From the top, the road itself forms a mesmerizing snake-like pattern that seems to float in the clouds.
Sunrise Point (Ganek): A short drive from Dzuluk takes you to Ganek, one of the best sunrise points in East Sikkim. On clear mornings, the sun emerges from behind Mt. Kanchenjunga, painting the sky in fiery hues.
Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake): Located around 20 km from Dzuluk, this high-altitude glacial lake is shaped like an elephant and surrounded by rolling hills. It’s a peaceful, magical spot with occasional sightings of grazing yaks.
Thambi View Point: Situated about 14 km above Dzuluk, this point offers an unobstructed view of the famous loops as well as Mt. Kanchenjunga. A sunrise from here is unforgettable.
Tukla Valley & War Memorial: At roughly 12,000 feet, this area commemorates the bravery of Indian soldiers during the Indo-China conflict. With snow-covered ridges and colorful prayer flags, it feels both sacred and dramatic.

Places to Visit Nearby

Nathang Valley: Just 24 km (approx. 1 hour) from Dzuluk, this high-altitude valley turns golden in autumn and snowy white in winter. Often called the "Ladakh of East Sikkim," it’s an ideal place to experience vast alpine scenery and nomadic life.
Zema Viewpoint: Located around 6 km (20 minutes) away, this is a lesser-known viewpoint where you can enjoy solitude and unfiltered Himalayan views without the crowds.
Padamchen: About 10 km (30 minutes) downhill from Dzuluk, this charming village is nestled in forests of rhododendron and pine. It's known for birdwatching and gentle walks.
Old Baba Mandir: Located about 28 km (1.5 hours) from Dzuluk, this shrine is dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier revered as a saint. The site offers both spiritual solace and stunning mountain vistas.
Nathula Pass: Roughly 36 km (2 hours) away, this legendary Indo-China border pass sits at over 14,000 feet. With snow-capped peaks and fluttering flags, it’s one of the highest motorable roads in the world and a major attraction near Dzuluk.

Things to Do

Catch the sunrise from Thambi or Ganek and feel like you're watching it from the edge of the world.
Pose at the Zig-Zag road, one of the most dramatic driveable loops in India — a dream for photographers.
Watch clouds roll over the ridges, sitting quietly with a warm drink and nothing but mountain silence around.
Ride through the Old Silk Route, imagining the ancient caravans that once crossed this very path with goods and stories.
Chase yaks and butterflies near Kupup Lake or in the open pastures of Nathang.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to June): Rhododendrons bloom and the snow melts, making it perfect for sightseeing.
Autumn (September to November): Crisp weather with stunning visibility and golden hues.
Winter (December to February): Snowfall transforms Dzuluk into a wonderland, but expect freezing temperatures and road closures depending on weather.

Monsoon (July–August) is best avoided due to landslides and unpredictable road conditions.

How to Reach

By Road: Dzuluk is about 90 km (approx. 4 hours) from Gangtok via Pakyong and Rongli. Roads are steep and winding, so hiring an experienced local driver is essential.
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) — around 150 km away (approx. 6–7 hours by road).
Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport — about 80 km (approx. 3.5–4 hours). Bagdogra Airport is about 160 km away (around 7 hours).

Visitors must obtain a Protected Area Permit through a registered travel agency — Pauhunri Holidays, your trusted local partner, can arrange the permit, provide safe pre-booked cabs, and book warm, welcoming homestays for a smooth and memorable trip.

Travel Tips

Permits: Required for all Indian and foreign nationals. Carry valid ID and passport-size photos.
Altitude Caution: The air is thin. Acclimatize well and avoid alcohol or strenuous activity on the first day.
Weather: It can get cold even in summer. Always pack layers, gloves, and a windproof jacket.
Connectivity: Very limited or no mobile signal. BSNL works best if at all.
Cash Only: No ATMs or digital payments here. Withdraw cash at Rongli or Gangtok before heading up.
Drive Slow & Safe: Hill roads can be narrow, misty, or icy—especially near bends and high-altitude areas. Always go with experienced drivers who know the terrain. Pauhunri Holidays provides well-experienced professionals who put your safety and comfort first.
Respect Local Rules: Dzuluk is a sensitive border area. Obey signs, avoid restricted zones, and don’t fly drones.