Silk Route Sojourn

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

The best time is April to June (for clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and pleasant weather) and October to early December (for stunning views of snow-capped peaks). For snow lovers, late December to March offers heavy snowfall, though roads may sometimes close due to weather.

Q: Do we need permits for Nathula Pass and Silk Route?

Yes, permits are mandatory for Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Zuluk, and Gnathang Valley since they fall under restricted border areas. Your travel operator (Escape Tag) will arrange all permits in advance. You only need to carry valid photo ID (Voter ID/Passport/Aadhar) and 2 passport-size photos.

Q: How high is the altitude, and will I face breathing issues?

The Silk Route covers altitudes ranging from 8,000 ft (Phadamchen) to 14,000+ ft (Nathula & Gnathang). While most travelers manage fine, some may feel mild altitude sickness (shortness of breath, headache, fatigue). Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and resting well helps. If needed, your guide will provide oxygen support.

Q: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect?

Stay will be in cozy homestays or guesthouses at Phadamchen, Zuluk, and Gnathang, offering a warm family-like atmosphere with basic amenities. In Gangtok, you’ll have comfortable hotels with modern facilities. Food will be simple, homely, and mostly vegetarian, with rice, dal, vegetables, local delicacies, and occasional non-veg options.

Q: Is this trip suitable for everyone?

The Silk Route trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy mountain drives, remote villages, and high-altitude landscapes. It is not recommended for people with severe breathing or heart problems due to altitude. Families, couples, photographers, and adventure seekers love this route for its raw beauty and offbeat charm.

Transportation
Car/Inova, ScorpioN, Wagnr, Swift & Bolero
Accomodation
Standard-Five Stars Hotels/Homestay's
Best season
Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sept, Oct & Nov
Tour type
Eco-Tour
Meals
Breakfast & Dinner
Language
English, Hindi & Nepali
Group Size
2-15
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65
Group Size
2

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

This journey takes you through the legendary Old Silk Route of Sikkim, a trail once traversed by traders connecting India to Tibet. From the quiet hamlets of Phadamchen and Zuluk to the snow-covered valleys of Gnathang, and from the historic Nathula Pass to the shimmering waters of Tsomgo Lake, this adventure is a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and high-altitude thrill. The trip ends with the vibrant energy of Gangtok, where culture and modern charm meet amidst the Himalayas.

Highlights

Trek to the world-famous Everest Base Camp
Enjoy the amazing view of the Himalayas from Kala Patthar
Travel through the Sherpa villages of Namche, Khumjung, Khunde, and Dingboche
Visit Tengboche the biggest and oldest monastery n the region.

Itinerary

Expand all

he Silk Route Sojourn (5N/6D) is a journey through time and nature’s finest artistry, beginning with the serene hamlet of Phadamchen, where misty forests and village charm welcome you into the Himalayas. Winding roads then lead to Zuluk, famous for its zig-zag loops and spellbinding sunrise views, before opening into the vast golden meadows of Gnathang Valley, often called the “Ladakh of the East.” The adventure ascends further to the historic Nathula Pass, standing tall at the Indo-China border, followed by the shimmering Tsomgo Lake, a wish-fulfilling gem nestled in snow-clad mountains, and the sacred Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir. Finally, the tour culminates in vibrant Gangtok, where monasteries, museums, ropeways, and the lively MG Marg add a cultural flourish to your Himalayan odyssey. This journey blends high-altitude thrill, untamed beauty, and soulful encounters into one unforgettable escape. 🌸✨🏔️

Day 1 :

Siliguri / NJP / Bagdogra → Gangtok (Approx. 125 km / 5–6 hrs)

Your journey begins from Siliguri/NJP/Bagdogra, driving along the Teesta River, with green valleys and winding roads leading you to the capital city, Gangtok (5,410 ft).

Evening stroll through MG Marg, the heart of Gangtok.
Taste local delicacies in cozy cafés and soak in the vibrant culture.

✨ Overnight Stay – Homestay in Gangtok

Day 2 :

Gangtok → Tsomgo Lake → Nathula Pass → Baba Mandir → Gnathang (Approx. 120 km / 6–7 hrs)

After breakfast, embark on a high-altitude adventure.

Visit the sacred Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft), a glacial lake with changing colours.
Drive to the historic Nathula Pass (14,140 ft) on the Indo-China border.
Stop at either Old Baba Mandir or New Baba Mandir, dedicated to the legendary Baba Harbhajan Singh.
By evening, reach Gnathang Valley (12,000 ft), also called the “Ladakh of the East,” where rolling meadows and rugged mountains surround you.

✨ Overnight Stay – Homestay in Gnathang Valley

Day 3 :

Gnathang → Doklam → Zuluk → Thambi Viewpoint → Phadamchen (Approx. 80 km / 6 hrs with sightseeing)

Wake up in the mystical valley and start your Silk Route exploration.

Scenic drive to Doklam Plateau, a place of strategic and natural importance.
Descend through the legendary Zuluk loops (32 hairpin bends) – one of the most photographed roads in the Himalayas.
Stop at Thambi Viewpoint (11,200 ft) for breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
By evening, arrive at Phadamchen (8,000 ft), a peaceful village surrounded by forests and orchids.

✨ Overnight Stay – Homestay in Phadamchen

Day 4 :

Phadamchen → Laxmi Chowk Sunrise Experience → Return to Phadamchen

Start early today for a magical experience.

Drive to Laxmi Chowk Viewpoint, a hidden gem known for its mesmerizing sunrise over Kanchenjunga. The golden hues on the snow-clad peaks are unforgettable.
Return to Phadamchen for breakfast.
Rest of the day at leisure – village walk, interact with locals, or enjoy the tranquil beauty of your homestay surroundings.

✨ Overnight Stay – Homestay in Phadamchen

Day 5 :

Phadamchen → Aritar Lake Excursion → Back to Phadamchen (Approx. 50 km / 2 hrs one way)

After breakfast, head for a short excursion.

Visit Lampokhari (Aritar Lake), the oldest natural lake in Sikkim, where you can enjoy boating and nature walks.
Explore Mankhim Viewpoint for a bird’s-eye view of the emerald lake with Himalayan backdrops.
Return to Phadamchen for the evening.

✨ Overnight Stay – Homestay in Phadamchen

Day 6 :

Phadamchen → Siliguri / NJP / Bagdogra (Approx. 140 km / 6–7 hrs)

Bid farewell to the mountains as you drive back. The journey down takes you through winding valleys and along the Teesta River, carrying with you memories of glacial lakes, snow valleys, and Himalayan sunrises.

FAQs

Expand all

What is the best time to visit the Silk Route?

The best time is April to June (for clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and pleasant weather) and October to early December (for stunning views of snow-capped peaks). For snow lovers, late December to March offers heavy snowfall, though roads may sometimes close due to weather.

Do we need permits for Nathula Pass and Silk Route?

Yes, permits are mandatory for Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Zuluk, and Gnathang Valley since they fall under restricted border areas. Your travel operator (Escape Tag) will arrange all permits in advance. You only need to carry valid photo ID (Voter ID/Passport/Aadhar) and 2 passport-size photos.

How high is the altitude, and will I face breathing issues?

The Silk Route covers altitudes ranging from 8,000 ft (Phadamchen) to 14,000+ ft (Nathula & Gnathang). While most travelers manage fine, some may feel mild altitude sickness (shortness of breath, headache, fatigue). Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and resting well helps. If needed, your guide will provide oxygen support.

What kind of accommodation and food can I expect?

Stay will be in cozy homestays or guesthouses at Phadamchen, Zuluk, and Gnathang, offering a warm family-like atmosphere with basic amenities. In Gangtok, you’ll have comfortable hotels with modern facilities. Food will be simple, homely, and mostly vegetarian, with rice, dal, vegetables, local delicacies, and occasional non-veg options.

Is this trip suitable for everyone?

The Silk Route trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy mountain drives, remote villages, and high-altitude landscapes. It is not recommended for people with severe breathing or heart problems due to altitude. Families, couples, photographers, and adventure seekers love this route for its raw beauty and offbeat charm.

Silk Route Sojourn

trip info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

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FAQs

Map

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