Silk Route Tour Packages Sikkim Plan

SIKKIM SILK ROUTE TOUR PACKAGES

Sikkim Silk Route Tour Packages

The Sikkim Silk Route, an ancient trade passage connecting India to Tibet via Jelep La Pass, is now one of the most scenic and historically rich circuits in the Eastern Himalayas. Once used by traders transporting silk, wool, and spices between Lhasa and India, the route reflects centuries of cultural exchange and exploration.

Today, this historic trail has evolved into a captivating tourist journey. It typically begins from Kalimpong, known for its colonial charm, monasteries, and views of the Kanchenjunga range. The route continues through Algarah and Pedong before entering Sikkim.

On the Sikkim side, the road climbs through winding mountain paths to Zuluk (approx. 10,000 ft), famous for its dramatic zigzag roads and panoramic valley views. Further ahead lies Nathang Valley, often called the “Ladakh of the East,” known for its stark beauty and changing seasonal landscapes.

The journey also includes landmarks like Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake) and culminates at Nathula Pass, a controlled Indo-China border point.

More than just a road trip, the Silk Route offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty—making it an unforgettable experience for modern travelers.

Activities & Places To Visit In Silk Route

Places to Visit on the Sikkim Silk Route Tour

The Sikkim Silk Route is dotted with numerous scenic and historically significant spots, each offering a unique experience.

✔️ Thambi View Point

Located north of Zuluk at an altitude of 11,600 ft, Thambi View Point is renowned for its spectacular sunrise views. From here, you can enjoy stunning vistas of the Kanchenjunga Range and the iconic zigzag road with its 99 hairpin bends. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid cloud cover. Locals often share fascinating tales of Yeti sightings, locally known as Banjhakri, adding an element of mystery to the visit.

✔️ Lungthung

Just a short distance from Thambi View Point, Lungthung (11,500 ft) offers equally breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, as well as mesmerizing sunrise and sunset scenes. The area falls within the Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rare species of rhododendrons, ferns, birds, and animals. Due to its proximity to the China border, the region also has a strong military presence.

✔️ Menmecho Lake & Elephant Lake (Kupup Lake)

Beyond Gnathang Valley lies Kupup, where two picturesque lakes can be found. Elephant Lake, shaped like an elephant, can be viewed from the main road viewpoint or by driving to its edge. Menmecho Lake, on the other side, requires a scenic trek through pristine surroundings to reach its serene waters.

✔️ Jelep La Pass

Once a historic trade route to Tibet, Jelep La lies close to the present-day Nathula Pass. The area still retains traces of its past significance as a key Himalayan crossing.

✔️ Kupup Yak Army Golf Course & Environmental Park

This site holds a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the highest golf course in the world, offering a surreal setting amidst snow-clad peaks.

✔️ Tukla Valley

Situated at 12,500 ft, Tukla Valley houses the Old Baba Mandir and a war memorial commemorating British soldiers who died in the 1888 military expedition to drive out Tibetan forces from Sikkim.

✔️ Lampokhari (Aritar Lake) & Aritar Monastery

Lampokhari, located at 4,600 ft, is one of Sikkim’s oldest natural lakes, now enhanced for tourism and offering boating facilities. Nearby, Aritar Monastery (Aritar Gumpa) is admired for its traditional architecture, murals, manuscripts, and artifacts.

✔️ Sillery Gaon, Pedong & Icche Gaon

These tranquil villages in West Bengal provide excellent views of Kanchenjunga and promote village tourism. Visitors can explore Damsang Fort Ruins, Sangchen Dorjee Monastery, and Cross Hill, a sunset point with distant views of Tibet and the Chinese border.

Best Time To Visit

Ideal months are March to June and October to December for the best weather and views.

🌿 Spring & Summer (March–June)

✔️Mild, comfortable temperatures perfect for sightseeing

✔️Blooming rhododendrons, orchids, and alpine flowers

✔️Lush greenery and vibrant landscapes

✔️Clear views of the Kanchenjunga range

✔️Ideal for nature lovers and photographers

🍁 Autumn & Early Winter (October–December)

Crystal-clear skies with stunning Himalayan views

Pleasantly cold weather, ideal for cozy stays

Golden-brown landscapes offering unique seasonal charm

Great for panoramic photography and mountain views

❄️ Winter (Late December–February)

Extremely cold; temperatures drop below freezing

Heavy snowfall in Zuluk and Nathang Valley

Frequent road closures; travel can be risky

Suitable only for snow lovers and adventure seekers

🌧️ Monsoon (July–September)

Heavy rainfall with landslides and roadblocks

Poor visibility and travel disruptions

Scenic beauty with misty hills and waterfalls

Not recommended for safe travel

✅ Conclusion

Plan your Silk Route trip during March–June or October–December for the most comfortable, scenic, and hassle-free experience.Mild, comfortable temperatures perfect for sightseeing

Permits Requirements to visit Silk Route

Permits to Visit the Silk Route

Traveling through the Sikkim Silk Route requires specific permissions due to the region's sensitive location near the Indo-China border. These permissions, known as Inner Line Permits (ILP), are mandatory for certain sections of the route beyond Rongli and towards high-altitude areas like Zuluk, Nathang Valley, Kupup, and Nathula Pass.

Who Can Obtain the Permit?

Only Indian citizens are eligible for Inner Line Permits in this region.

Foreign nationals are not permitted beyond Aritar or Gangtok due to security concerns. They can visit places like Kalimpong, Gangtok, and Aritar without special permission.

Where Are Permits Issued?

Permits can be procured from the Police Check Post in Gangtok or at the Rongli Police Check Post.

Tour operators and homestay owners often assist travelers in arranging these permits to ensure hassle-free entry into restricted zones.

Documents Required

Valid Indian Government-issued Photo ID (Voter ID, Passport, Aadhaar Card, or Driving License).

Two to four recent passport-sized photographs.

For minors, a birth certificate or school ID card is required along with parental consent.

Vehicle Regulations

Only Sikkim-registered vehicles are allowed to travel beyond the check-posts. This rule ensures regulated movement and security compliance within restricted areas. Private vehicles from outside Sikkim are not permitted; tourists need to hire locally registered cabs arranged by their hotels or tour operators.

Why Such Restrictions?

The Silk Route lies in close proximity to the Indo-China border, making it a highly sensitive zone. These regulations help maintain security and monitor movement while preserving the delicate ecology and cultural heritage of the region.

Booking Terms & Conditions

Booking & Confirmation

A minimum 50% advance payment is required at the time of booking to confirm the package.

The balance amount must be paid before the commencement of the tour or as per the agreed payment schedule.

Bookings are subject to availability of accommodation and vehicle at the time of confirmation.

Amendment Policy

Any changes in itinerary, accommodation, or vehicle are subject to availability and may attract additional charges.
Identification & Permits

Guests must carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Passport/Voter ID).
Foreign nationals must carry a valid Passport & Visa.
Inner Line Permits (ILP) will be arranged by the operator but require guests to submit ID proof and passport-sized photos in advance.

Responsibility & Liability

The operator is not responsible for delays, cancellations, or changes due to weather, roadblocks, strikes, or natural calamities.
Any expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances (extra accommodation, vehicle hire, etc.) shall be borne by the guest.

Health & Safety

Guests are advised to carry necessary medication for high-altitude travel.
Smoking, alcohol consumption, and littering are prohibited in restricted zones.

Payment Modes

Payments can be made via Bank Transfer, UPI, or other approved modes. We donot accepot cash payments.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Accommodation
Stay in homestays or hotels along the route (e.g., Sillery Gaon, Aritar, Zuluk, Gnathang Valley).
Room on twin / triple sharing basis.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks and dinner

Tea/coffee at homestays.

Transportation
Pickup and drop from NJP/Bagdogra.
All transfers and sightseeing in a private vehicle (usually a Bolero/Sumo).

Sightseeing
Visits to major spots: Aritar Lake, Zuluk Zig-Zag Road, Thambi View Point, Gnathang Valley, Kupup Lake, Baba Mandir, Nathang Valley, etc.

Permits
Inner Line Permits for visiting restricted areas (e.g., Zuluk, Nathang Valley).

Driver and Guide Charges
Driver’s allowance, fuel charges, parking fees, and guide services (if included).

Exclusions

Airfare / Train Fare to NJP/Bagdogra. Lunch & Snacks (if not mentioned in package).

Personal Expenses like laundry, shopping, phone calls, tips.

Adventure Activities like trekking, river rafting, paragliding (unless added separately).

Entry Fees to certain parks or monasteries (if not specified).

Extra Transport for sightseeing not mentioned in itinerary.

Travel Insurance and emergency expenses.

GST or Taxes (if not included in final price).

Do's And Donts

Do's

Carry all necessary prescribed emergency medications.

Do carry adequate cash for shopping as there is no ATMs.

Silk Route falls under restricted zones, so keep multiple photocopies of government ID cards (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID).
Pack warm clothes, Even in summer, nights can be chilly. In winter, carry thermals, gloves, mufflers, and heavy jackets.
Stay hydrated & eat light, the altitude is high, so drink water often and avoid overeating.
Carry power banks, electricity can be intermittent in homestays.

Dont's

The Silk Route is ecologically fragile. Carry waste back with you. Single use plastic bottles not allowed here.
Don’t overpack, travel light, as you may need to shift between shared jeeps and homestays.
Don’t carry drones they are not allowed in border regions without prior permission.

Accommodation & Places TO Stay

Accommodation in Homestays along the Sikkim Silk Route

In the Sikkim Silk Route circuit, tourism development has been closely linked with the promotion of local villages as unique stay options. Both the governments of Sikkim and West Bengal, along with local communities, have encouraged the establishment of homestays to provide travelers with an authentic experience while exploring this historic trail.

Villages such as Sillery Gaon, Icche Gaon, Pedong, Rishi Khola, Rangpo Khola, Aritar, Mankhim, Padamchen, Zuluk, Lingtham, and Nathang Valley have emerged as popular stopovers.

Initially, homestays followed a simple concept—guests stayed within the same premises as the host family, sharing meals and gaining firsthand exposure to local culture, cuisine, and traditions.

Over the years, as tourist numbers have grown significantly, these homestays have evolved into well-equipped accommodations that resemble small hotels, yet continue to retain their traditional charm and personal touch. Most offer all-meal-inclusive packages, ensuring guests enjoy homemade food prepared with local ingredients, often reflecting authentic Sikkimese flavors.

Despite their growth, homestays remain family-run, providing a warm and personalized experience. Standards of service are monitored, with basic amenities maintained to ensure comfort while preserving the rustic, homely atmosphere. Safety is a priority—solo women travelers and groups are known to find these places especially welcoming and secure.

While the service may not be as prompt or luxurious as a commercial hotel, the trade-off comes in the form of spectacular mountain views, cozy interiors, and the heartfelt hospitality of the hosts. Staying in these homestays allows travelers to immerse themselves in the lifestyle of East Sikkim while enjoying a peaceful and memorable holiday in the Himalayas.

Explore Our Homestays

Rishikhola Homestay .

Rishikhola in West Bengal & Sikkim border is located on a river side and provides lot of activities activities like bird watching jungle trekking etc. Also due to its proximity to Siliguri, Kalimpong & Darjeeling sees lot of tourists throughout the year.

Rishikhola River Resorrt

Sillerygaon Homestay .

Sillery Gaon is a village in the Kalimpong district in the state of West Bengal, India. Sillery Gaon is situated at an altitude of 6000 ft. The area offers views of the Mt. Kangchenjunga and its is allied peaks and the Teesta River from Ramitey View point.

Sillerygaon Village Stay

Aritar Homestay .

Aritar is a serene village on the Silk Route, known for lush forests, rivers, Lampokhari Lake, and stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Offers peaceful stays with all modern amenities and features attractions like monasteries, historic sites, temples, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.

Aritar Deluxe Stay

Padamchen Village Homestay

Padamchen is a settlement on the ancient Old Silk Route circuit adjoining the Pangalokha Wildlife Sanctuary. The pleasant weather throughout the year, views & bird sightings are the main reasons for its popularity among tourist visiting East Sikkim.

Padanchen Wilderness Stay

Zuluk Homestay .

Zuluk is famous for Snowfall, excellent view of Mt. Kanchenjunga on the horizon, Skiing during winters. Its truly give some of the great experience of staying in high altitude and the chilly atmosphere. Zuluk is very popular destination and can be explored in overnight tour.

Rishikhola

Sikkim Tour Packages- Other Popular Itineraries

3 Nights 4 Days Short Gangtok Tour

Short Gangtok Tour

5 Nights 6 Days Gangtok Pelling

Gangtok & Pelling Tour

6 Nights 7 Days Gangtok North Sikkim

Gangtok & North Sikkim

5 Nights 6 Days Gangtok & Darjeeling

Gangtok With Darjeeling

7 Nights 8 Days Extended Sikkim Tour

North Sikkim Gangtok & Pelling

7 Nights 8 Days Darjeeling With Sikkim

Darjeeling Pelling & Gangtok

5 Days Short North Sikkim Tour

Short North Sikkim

Kalimpong & Offbeat Tour

Kalimpong Offbeat Tours

East Sikkim Silk Route Tour

Silk Route Tours

Frequently Asked Questions- Silk Route Tour Package

Q: What is the best time to visit Silk Route?

A: Best Time To Visit Silk Route Sikkim are the months of March to June which is the peak season with huge tourist inflow. However the months of October to February is also preferred due to availability of Snow. July to September is avoidable due to monsoon rainfall and landslides.

Q: How do I get to silk route from NJP?

A: The route can be approached via Kalimpong or Gangtok which is well connected with NJP and can be reached by shared or reserved taxi. After that you need to take a reserved car(ILP is issued based on Vehicle} for the number of days you want to visit the route.

Q: Where should I stay on the Silk Route?

A: The Sikkim Silk Route offers a range of charming villages for overnight stays, each featuring cozy homestays with inclusive meal options. Among the most popular are Sillery Gaon, Rishikhola, Aritar, Padamchen, Zuluk, and Gnathang Valley, known for their scenic beauty and warm hospitality. These villages provide travelers with an opportunity to experience local culture while enjoying breathtaking Himalayan views. Other serene hamlets like Icchegaon, Ramdhura, Lingtham, and Mankhim are also emerging as preferred stopovers for those seeking peaceful surroundings. Each location offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and rustic charm, making the journey along this historic route truly memorable.

Q: How much time does it take to visit Silk Route?

A: Silk Route can be best covered in minimum in 3 Nights 4 Days Tour. However if you want a more relaxed tour you can opt for 4 Nights 5 days or more.

Q: How to get permits for Silk route tour?

A: It's very simple to collect the permit for Silk route. Just carry your voter ID card and two passport size photos. With these documents and you can collect the permit from Sikkim Tourism at Gangtok or Rongli Check post.

Silk Route Tour Package From Kolkata | NJP | Siliguri | Cost

Cost & Price Of Different Duration Trips

Different Duration Sikkim Silk Route Trip Itinerary

3 Nights 4 Days Trip

3 Nights 4 Days Trip

3 Nights 4 Days Trip

4 Nights 5 Days Trip

3 Nights 4 Days Trip

3 Nights 4 Days Trip

5 Nights 6 Days Trip

3 Nights 4 Days Trip

5 Nights 6 Days Trip

SIKKIM SILK ROUTE TOUR PACKAGES