Hidden Gems of the Silk Route: Offbeat Places in East Sikkim You Must Visit
- tapas419
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
The Old Silk Route in East Sikkim is one of the most scenic mountain circuits in the Indian Himalayas. Once an ancient trade route connecting India to Tibet, this road now takes travelers through remote Himalayan villages, high-altitude valleys, and breathtaking viewpoints.
While most travelers know about Zuluk and Nathang Valley, the Silk Route hides several lesser-known destinations that offer untouched natural beauty and authentic Himalayan culture.
Here are some hidden gems of the Silk Route you should not miss.
1. Lingtam – A Peaceful Himalayan Village
Located between Rongli and Padamchen, Lingtam is a small mountain village surrounded by lush forests and misty hills.
This village is perfect for travelers who want to experience the quiet Himalayan lifestyle away from crowded tourist spots.
Highlights
Beautiful sunrise views
Peaceful village atmosphere
Traditional Sikkimese homestays
2. Padamchen – The Hidden Gateway to Zuluk
Padamchen is a picturesque village surrounded by pine forests and mountain views. Many travelers prefer staying here because of its pleasant climate and scenic surroundings.
Padamchen is also a great place for birdwatching and nature walks.
3. Lungthung – The Most Scenic Viewpoint
Situated above Zuluk, Lungthung View Point offers breathtaking views of the zig-zag Silk Route road.
On clear days, visitors can also see the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range from here.
4. Tukla Valley – A Hidden High-Altitude Landscape
Tukla Valley lies close to Nathang Valley and is often overlooked by travelers.
The area is known for its wide alpine meadows, strong mountain winds, and dramatic Himalayan scenery.
5. Menmecho Lake – The Secret Lake of the Silk Route
Hidden deep in the mountains, Menmecho Lake is one of the least visited lakes in East Sikkim.
Surrounded by forests and mountains, the lake is ideal for photography and peaceful nature experiences.
Why These Hidden Gems Are Worth Visiting
Less crowded than popular destinations
Unique Himalayan landscapes
Authentic local culture
Perfect for photographers and nature lovers
Exploring these hidden gems allows travelers to experience the true beauty of the Silk Route.
Complete Silk Route Itinerary (4N/5D & 5N/6D) – Best Travel Plan for East Sikkim
Planning a trip to the Old Silk Route in Sikkim can be confusing because the route includes many remote villages and viewpoints.
This guide provides the best Silk Route itinerary for travelers starting from NJP or Bagdogra.
Silk Route Itinerary – 4 Nights / 5 Days
Day 1 – NJP / Bagdogra to Aritar
Distance: 110 kmTravel Time: 4–5 hours
Arrive at NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport and drive towards Aritar.
Places to visit
Lampokhari Lake
Aritar Monastery
Mankhim View Point
Overnight stay in Aritar.
Day 2 – Aritar to Zuluk
Distance: 45 kmTravel Time: 3 hours
Drive via Rongli where permits are issued.
Route:Aritar → Rongli → Lingtam → Padamchen → Zuluk
Overnight stay in Zuluk.
Day 3 – Zuluk to Nathang Valley
Distance: 25 km
Early morning drive to Thambi View Point for sunrise.
Visit:
Thambi View Point
Lungthung View Point
Nathang Valley
Overnight stay in Nathang Valley.
Day 4 – Nathang Valley to Reshikhola / Aritar
Visit:
Kupup Lake
Baba Mandir
Tukla Valley
Return to lower altitude and stay overnight.
Day 5 – Return to NJP / Bagdogra
Drive back through scenic mountain roads.
Silk Route Itinerary – 5 Nights / 6 Days
Day 1 – NJP → AritarDay 2 – Aritar → PadamchenDay 3 – Padamchen → ZulukDay 4 – Zuluk → Nathang ValleyDay 5 – Nathang Valley → ReshikholaDay 6 – Return to NJP
This itinerary allows travelers to explore the Silk Route at a relaxed pace.
20 Best Places to Visit on the Silk Route in Sikkim
The Silk Route circuit in East Sikkim is packed with stunning landscapes and scenic villages.
Here are the top places to visit on the Silk Route.
Major Attractions
Aritar
Lampokhari Lake
Mankhim View Point
Rongli
Lingtam
Padamchen
Zuluk
Thambi View Point
Lungthung View Point
Nathang Valley
High Altitude Attractions
Tukla Valley
Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake)
Yak Golf Course
Old Baba Mandir
Hidden Gems
Menmecho Lake
Reshikhola
Gnathang Monastery
Kyongnosla Waterfall
Lungthung Valley
Himalayan Sunrise Points
Why the Silk Route Is One of the Best Himalayan Road Trips
The Silk Route combines:
Scenic mountain drives
Historic trade route history
High-altitude lakes
Remote Himalayan villages
Spectacular views of Kanchenjunga
This makes it one of the most unique travel circuits in Northeast India.
Plan Your Silk Route Tour
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of East Sikkim with our customized Silk Route tour packages.
7 Sisters Holidays Pvt. Ltd. Offices: Kolkata & Pattaya
📞 +91 98916 23007 📞 +91 87772 53007
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