Zuluk, Sikkim: A Hidden Gem on the Historic Silk Route
Tucked away in East Sikkim, Zuluk (or Dzuluk) is a small mountain hamlet that once served as a vital transit point along the ancient Silk Route connecting Tibet and India. Traders traveling between Lhasa and Kalimpong often stopped here as an overnight base before crossing Jelep La Pass into the Chumbi Valley of Tibet.
Today, Zuluk is an offbeat destination for travelers seeking winding mountain roads, untouched forests, vibrant birdlife, and a taste of authentic Sikkimese hospitality. Its location near the Indo-China border makes it a restricted area, adding to the mystique of visiting this high-altitude village.
Zuluk Zigzag roads during winter
Things to Do in Zuluk
1. Explore the Silk Route Walk through history by exploring stretches of the Old Silk Route that once connected Tibet with India.
2. Drive the Famous Zig-Zag Road Zuluk’s 32-hairpin bend Zig-Zag Road is one of the most photographed roads in India. The sharp curves and panoramic views make it a thrilling experience for travelers.
3. Birdwatching & Wildlife Zuluk is home to exotic Himalayan birds like the Blood Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, Kalij Pheasant, and Snow Pheasant. Deer, wild dogs, red pandas, Himalayan bears, and even occasional tigers have been spotted in nearby forests.
4. Experience Local Culture Stay at cozy homestays, interact with warm local families, learn about their traditions, and savor delicious Sikkimese cuisine.
5. Witness Rhododendron Bloom (Summer) During April–June, the hills burst into a riot of colors with thousands of blooming rhododendrons.
6. Doklam Battlefield Tourism (From Sept 2025) As part of Sikkim’s new Battlefield Tourism Initiative, travelers can soon visit Doklam and Cho La, sites of historic India–China conflicts. Just a short drive beyond Zuluk lies this high-altitude plateau, which was the scene of the 2017 Doklam standoff. Starting September 27, 2025, limited domestic tourists will be allowed (25 vehicles/day). It’s a rare chance to combine history, geopolitics, and Himalayan adventure in one journey.
Zuluk Travel Trips
Plan your trip in good weather (spring & autumn are ideal).
Carry essentials like warm clothing, medicines, and cash (ATMs are scarce).
Respect Sikkimese culture and fragile landscapes.
Always arrange permits in advance.
Keep documents handy at army check posts
Do not force the driver to drive long hours and long distances in the mountains as it can be quite taxing and chances of accidents increase. Driving in the hills is not the same as driving in the plains
Permit Requirements:
Since Zuluk is part of a restricted zone, travelers need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Inner Line Permit (ILP).
Documents required:
Passport or Voter ID (adults)
Passport/Birth Certificate + School ID/Aadhar (for children under 18)
4 passport-sized photos
4 photocopies of each ID
Permits can be arranged via tour operators like OurGuest who are local travel agencies in Sikkim.
For a customized Silk Route Sikkim Tour experience you can contact us at +91-7669503993 or email to contact@ourguest.in
Zuluk Facts
Zuluk is surrounded by wild forest, some of the forests are completely virgin. Sighting of Deer, Wild Dog, Himalayan Bear the red panda is not very uncommon. Some tigers have also reportedly been sighted in the area.
A variety of birds can also be seen such as Blood Pheasant, Himalayan monal, Kalij pheasant, Snow Pheasant and others.During the summer months, the area and its surrounding hills are covered with thousands of blooming rhododendron. Dzuluk during these months, is a riot of colors due to the variety of rhododendron that can be seen here.
How to Reach
By Air
Nearest airport is Bagdogra IXB, 150 km away
By Train
Nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri NJP, 140 km away
By Road
From Gangtok, Zuluk is 90 km 4–5 hrs drive via Rongli, where permits are checked.
