1Option
Private vehicle
The usual way: a registered SUV with driver from Gangtok, with permit and homestay arranged by the agency. The second day covers Thambi, Nathang and Kupup before returning to Gangtok via Tsomgo or Rongli.
Route · Sikkim
Gangtok to Zuluk
Gangtok to Zuluk follows roads east via Rongli to the old Silk Route, then climbs through Lingtam and Padamchen to the village. About 90 km and 4–5 hours. Only Indian nationals with permits may go, in a registered vehicle arranged by an agency.
Photo: Tsen2006 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsEvery way to go
Options compared
| How | Time | Cost, indicative 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Private vehicle | 4–5 h | ₹9,000–15,000 per vehicle for 2 days |
| Shared jeep to Rongli | 2.5–3 h | ₹150–250 a seat |
| From Siliguri or NJP | 5–6 h | ₹6,000–9,000 one way per vehicle |
2Option
Shared jeep to Rongli
Shared jeeps run from Gangtok to Rongli. From there, you need a permitted vehicle and permit for the Silk Route, which some local agencies arrange.
3Option
From Siliguri or NJP
Some travellers go directly from Siliguri via Rhenock and Rongli. You still need the permit arranged in advance.
At each end
The two places
Photo: IamBumba · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
1,650 m · City · Sikkim
Gangtok
Sikkim's ridge-top capital and base for the north and east
Best Mar – May · Oct – Nov2–3 nights
Photo: Tsen2006 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
3,000 m · Village · Sikkim
Zuluk
Hairpin loops on the old mule road from Kalimpong to Lhasa
Best Mar – Apr · Oct – Dec1–2 nights
Questions
Asked about this road
How far is Zuluk from Gangtok?
About 90 km via Rongli, 4–5 hours by road.
Can foreigners go to Zuluk?
Zuluk has been open only to Indian nationals. Check current status before you travel.
What does a Silk Route tour from Gangtok cost?
A private vehicle for 2 days costs about ₹9,000–15,000, with homestays about ₹1,500–2,500 per person extra.
Can I combine Zuluk with Tsomgo?
Yes, some tours return from Zuluk via Kupup and Tsomgo, depending on permits and road conditions.
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