Silk Route Escape | Curves, Clouds & Hidden Trails in Sikkim’s Eastern Himalayas

SILK ROUTE ESCAPE
Curves, Clouds & Hidden Trails
Winding roads. Hidden hamlets. Cloud-kissed curves.
4 Days / 3 Nights

ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS

Gangtok – Tsomgo Lake – Nathula Pass – Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir (New Baba Mandir) – Kupup Lake – Old Baba Mandir – Gnathang – Dzuluk – Aritar

Trace the Historic Old Silk Route Through East Sikkim’s High Passes and Hidden Valleys:

Gangtok: A vibrant blend of Buddhist heritage and modern charm. Wander through bustling markets, colorful monasteries, and cozy hilltop cafés—with the mighty Kanchenjunga always watching from afar.
Tsomgo Lake: A sacred glacial lake at 12,313 feet, known for its shifting hues and mystical reflections. Yaks and migratory birds complete this surreal alpine setting.
Nathula Pass: Once part of the ancient Silk Route, this Indo-China border post at 14,140 feet now invites travelers with sweeping views and echoes of historic trade and patriotism.
New Baba Mandir (Kupup–Gnathang Junction): A shrine to the spirit of Sepoy Harbhajan Singh, believed to still guard the border. This accessible memorial near Memencho Lake is both solemn and deeply spiritual.
Kupup Lake: Shaped like an elephant and nestled among snowy ridges, this peaceful lake is accompanied by the Yak Golf Course—one of the world’s highest.
Old Baba Mandir: The original samadhi of Baba Harbhajan Singh, reached by a quiet stair climb to a bunker-turned-shrine. Visitors leave water bottles here, returning later to collect them—blessed and spiritually charged.
Gnathang Valley: At 13,500 feet, this wind-swept valley offers solitude, golden light, and prayer flags dancing among old army bunkers. A space for introspection and stillness.
Dzuluk: A hidden hamlet with dramatic, ribbon-like switchbacks—especially stunning from Thambi View Point at sunrise. One of the Silk Route’s most iconic vistas.
Aritar: Where the mountains ease into forested calm. Lampokhari Lake, historic monasteries, and a rustic vibe offer a gentle close to the high-altitude adventure.

Whether you're drawn by mountain mystique or ancient legends, this journey through East Sikkim weaves them all into one unforgettable route.

ITINERARY SNAPSHOT

Day 1

Arrival at Gangtok

(120 km / 4–5 hrs from NJP/IXB)

Upon your arrival at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport (IXB), you'll be greeted and transferred to Gangtok.

Check in to your hotel and unwind after your journey.

If time permits, you are free to explore MG Marg, the lively shopping hub of Gangtok, or indulge in some delicious Tibetan cuisine, such as:

Thukpa: A warming noodle soup, perfect for mountain evenings
Momos: Steamed dumplings served with spicy dips

Overnight Stay: Gangtok

Day 2

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:

Tsomgo Lake: A sacred, oval-shaped lake cradled by snow-capped ridges, shimmering with reflections and alpine mystique.
Nathula Pass: Indo-China border and a historic part of the ancient Silk Route
New Baba Mandir: A more accessible memorial dedicated to Sepoy Harbhajan Singh, believed to still guard the border
Kupup Lake: Elephant-shaped lake often shrouded in mist, with a surreal charm and views of the Yak Golf Course
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:

Yak Ride at Tsomgo Lake
Ropeway Ride at Tsomgo for panoramic views

Overnight Stay: Gnathang Valley

Day 3

Gnathang to Aritar via Dzuluk

After breakfast, start your day with a scenic ride through:

Gnathang Valley: Wind-blown meadows at 13,500 ft
Dzuluk: Known for its legendary Zig Zag roads and Thambi View Point
Aritar Lampokhari Lake: Ideal for a peaceful walk or paddleboat ride

Overnight Stay: Aritar

Day 4

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

Valid Photo ID: Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License (Aadhar is not accepted for permits in protected areas).
Passport-sized Photographs: Keep at least 4 copies handy for permit processing.

Permit Note

Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake require special permits issued by Sikkim Tourism.
Ensure you carry the required documents at the time of travel to avoid last-minute issues.

Hotel Check-in Requirements

Hotels in Sikkim require valid ID proof from all travelers at check-in, as per local regulations.

TRAVEL TIPS

Weather & Clothing

Layer up: Layering is recommended since temperatures vary greatly between day and night at higher altitudes.
Summer (Mar–Jun): Light woolens for chilly evenings, comfortable clothing for daytime
Winter (Nov–Feb): Bring thermals, gloves, woolen socks, scarves and heavy jackets.
Rainy Season (Jun–Sep): Carry a light raincoat or umbrella. Roads may be slippery, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Mobile Networks

In remote areas like Tsomgo Lake, Kupup, Dzuluk and Gnathang, Mobile connectivity drops significantly, only BSNL might offer limited signal, so be prepared for periods of no service.
Networks like Jio, Airtel, and Vi usually stop working once you move beyond Gangtok.

Health & Altitude

Gnathang Valley and Dzuluk are located at high altitudes (13,500 feet and above).
To avoid altitude sickness, drink plenty of water and avoid exertion during the first 24 hours.
Carry necessary medicines for headaches, nausea, or dizziness due to altitude. It's also good to have a basic first-aid kit with you.

Cash & Payments

Cash is King: Carry sufficient cash as many places, especially Dzuluk and Gnathang, don’t accept digital payments.
ATMs are available in Gangtok, but they may not work in remote regions.

Photography

Tsomgo Lake and Dzuluk are known for their photo opportunities. The Zig Zag roads and Kupup Lake are particularly iconic and provide great photography opportunities
Photography is prohibited at army check-posts and sensitive border zones—always follow local rules.