Route: NJP – Sillery Gaon – Aritar – Zuluk – Phadamchen – NJP
Silk Route in Sikkim, where every turn reveals breathtaking Himalayan vistas, quaint mountain villages, and a tapestry of cultures that echo centuries of trade and adventure. Over 4 nights and 5 days, this offbeat trail promises an enchanting escape through lush valleys, high-altitude lakes, and historic monasteries, immersing you in an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, history, and local hospitality. Perfect for explorers and culture enthusiasts, the Sikkim Silk Route is a once-in-a-lifetime experience awaiting your discovery.
Day 1: NJP to Sillery Gaon
Altitude: 6,000 ft
Distance: Approx. 95 km | 4–5 hrs drive
Your journey through the historic Old Silk Route begins as you’re received at NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport. A scenic drive brings you to Sillery Gaon, a quiet Himalayan village often dubbed as the “New Darjeeling” for its panoramic views of Kanchenjunga.
Sightseeing & Significance
Silent Valley:
A lush green forest trail with whispering winds, mossy trunks, and untouched serenity. Locals believe the place has healing energy and was once used by monks for meditation.
Historical Note
The name “Sillery” comes from the Cinchona plantation (used to make quinine) started during British times.
Overnight Stay: Sillery Gaon
Day 2: Sillery Gaon to Aritar
Altitude: 4,800 ft
Distance: Approx. 45 km | 2 hrs drive
Drive through pine-laced roads to reach Aritar, a heritage village that marks one of the early settlements in Eastern Sikkim. The Lepcha and Bhutia communities still preserve the rich tapestry of their ancestors.
Sightseeing & Significance
Vinayak Temple:
A peaceful roadside shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Locals believe praying here ensures safe passage through the hills.
Aritar Lake (Lampokhari):
One of the oldest natural lakes in Sikkim, shaped like a boot. It was once part of an ancient trade halt for Silk Route traders to rest and water their animals.
Aritar Monastery (Phushrey Monastery):
Built in the early 18th century under the Karma Kagyu sect, this is one of the oldest monasteries in East Sikkim. Colorful murals and relics reflect deep Buddhist traditions.
Mankhim View Point:
A sacred place for the Rai community, especially followers of the indigenous Kirat Mundhum religion. Offers a bird’s-eye view of Lampokhari and Kanchenjunga.
Overnight Stay: Aritar
Day 3: Aritar to Zuluk via Rongli
Altitude: Zuluk – 10,000 ft
Distance: Approx. 60 km | 4 hrs drive
On Day 3, the true Silk Route charm unfolds as you cross Rongli, the gateway to restricted Eastern Sikkim. After permit checks, the road ascends dramatically into misty highlands.
Sightseeing & Significance:
Rongli Bazaar:
A historic trade junction, Rongli was once a bustling rest stop for traders coming from Tibet and Bhutan.
Qkhola Falls:
This gushing waterfall, known locally as Kali Khola, is revered by locals who offer prayers here for safe travels.
Phadamchen Pine Forest:
A surreal landscape covered in conifers and shrouded in fog. Legend says monks used these forests to train in isolation.
Zuluk, once a transit camp for traders and later a military outpost, is now a hidden gem known for raw Himalayan beauty and a strong army presence due to proximity to the Indo-China border.
Overnight Stay: Zuluk
Day 4: Zuluk to Phadamchen via Silk Route Highlights
Altitude: Up to 13,500 ft
Distance: Approx. 60 km round trip
Rise early for the most breathtaking Himalayan road trip on the historic Silk Route. Experience spiritual landscapes, high-altitude lakes, and war-time relics.
Sightseeing & Significance:
Zig Zag Road & Thambi View Point (11,200 ft):
Known for its iconic 32 hairpin bends, this engineering marvel was built by the BRO (Border Roads Organisation). From the top, you can witness the entire Zuluk valley.
Lungthung:
A wind-swept plateau offering a view of the Kanchenjunga range on one side and Tibetan hills on the other.
Nathang Valley (13,000 ft):
Once home to yak herders from Tibet, this valley is steeped in Buddhist culture. In winter, it turns into a white desert.
Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake):
Shaped like an elephant from above, it holds religious importance for Buddhists and is often frozen in winter.
Golf Course near Kupup:
At 13,025 ft, it’s one of the highest in the world, maintained by the Indian Army.
Old Baba Mandir:
Built in memory of Harbhajan Singh, a soldier of the Indian Army who is believed to still protect the region. His story is a mix of fact and folklore, and soldiers offer him daily prayers.
Return to Phadamchen for a peaceful night.
Overnight Stay: Phadamchen
Day 5: Phadamchen to NJP – Departure
Distance: Approx. 120 km | 5–6 hrs drive
After breakfast, descend through scenic pine-clad roads as you journey back to NJP or Bagdogra. Carry back more than photos—carry a piece of Himalayan history and local legend in your heart.
Package Highlights
All private transportation with experienced drivers
Handpicked accommodations with warm local hospitality
AP Plan (Breakfast, Lunch, Evening snacks & Dinner)
Sightseeing as per the itinerary
All required Silk Route permits
A Route Through Time
This journey doesn’t just connect places—it connects ancient trade routes, Buddhist spirituality, and untold Himalayan legends. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a curious wanderer, the Silk Route with QuickTrails is a chapter you’ll never forget.
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