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Zuluk: The Hidden Gem of Sikkim’s Historic Silk Route

  • Writer: sunny roy
    sunny roy
  • 3 days ago
  • 2 min read

Offbeat. Untouched. Unforgettable.

Tucked away in the rugged embrace of East Sikkim’s lower Himalayas lies Zuluk (or Dzuluk) — a tiny hamlet perched at 10,100 ft, where history, nature, and serenity converge on the trail of the ancient Silk Route. Once a bustling transit point connecting Lhasa (Tibet) to Kalimpong (India), today Zuluk is an emerging destination for explorers seeking the road less traveled.


Why Zuluk Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List

Imagine waking up to the sweeping views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, winding through 32 hairpin bends, or witnessing rhododendrons set the hills ablaze in color during summer. Zuluk is not just a place — it’s a journey through time and untouched terrain.


Retracing the Ancient Silk Route

Zuluk served as a strategic stop on the historic Indo-Tibetan trade route, and remnants of that rich legacy are still felt in the aura of the place. Today, it houses an Indian Army base, acting as a gateway to Jelep-la Pass and the Chumbi Valley of Tibet.


Top Places to Visit in and Around Zuluk


  • Thambi Viewpoint (14 km):

    Capture a surreal panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the iconic loops of the old Silk Route.

  • Kupup Lake:

    Also known as the Elephant Lake, it’s shaped like an elephant and sits amidst pristine silence.

  • Nathang Valley:

    Just beyond Zuluk, this picturesque valley is wrapped in clouds and snow.


Nature’s Untamed Side

Zuluk is surrounded by virgin forests—home to rare wildlife like red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and blood pheasants. In spring, it bursts into life with thousands of blooming rhododendrons, making it a photographer’s dream.

Travel Essentials & Tips

Best Time to Visit:

  • March to May: Rhododendrons in full bloom 🌸

  • October to February: Snowfall & winter landscapes ❄️

  • June to September: Monsoons (travel with caution)

What to Pack:

  • Warm woollens year-round, heavy jackets in winter

  • Essential medicines – no pharmacies in Zuluk

  • Dry snacks and bottled water

  • Carry cash – no ATMs or card payments

  • Two mobile networks for better connectivity

How to Get to Zuluk & Entry Permit Info

Since Zuluk is located in a restricted zone of East Sikkim, Indian nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP).

You’ll need:

  • Voter ID or Passport (for adults)

  • Birth certificate + school ID/Aadhaar (for children)

  • 4 passport-size photos

  • 4 photocopies of the above documents

Pro Tip: Book your trip with CarForSure, and we’ll handle the entire permit process hassle-free!


Stay Options

Zuluk doesn’t offer luxury stays — homestays are the heartbeat of hospitality here. Stay with welcoming locals, enjoy simple meals, and experience Sikkim’s rural charm up close.


💬 Dos & Don’ts in Zuluk

DO:

  • Pack light but warm

  • Respect the environment and local culture

  • Stay hydrated and acclimatize to high altitude

DON’T:

  • Expect modern amenities (TVs, Wi-Fi, geysers are rare)

  • Depend on mobile networks or online payments

  • Venture without a permit


Why Travel to Zuluk with CarForSure?

✅ Permit assistance from start to finish

✅ Experienced hill drivers with route expertise

✅ Curated stopovers for scenic views & local experiences

✅ Comfortable vehicles tailored for high-altitude drives


 
 
 

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