Gangtok to Zuluk
Your options
Ways to make the trip
4–5 hours
₹5,000–7,000 per car one way · Most travellers hire an SUV with a driver who knows the Silk Route. The car climbs from Rongli through Lingtam and Padamchen to Zuluk. Many itineraries return to Gangtok over the top via Thambi, Nathang, Kupup and Tsomgo, which needs a permit for that sector too.
5–6 hours with a change
₹150–250 a seat to Rongli, then a local car · Shared jeeps run from Gangtok to Rongli on some days, but there is no regular shared service on to Zuluk. From Rongli you need a local car arranged by your homestay. This is cheaper for one or two people but slower and harder to organise with the permit.
Worth a stop
- Rorathang on the Rangpo river
- Rongli permit check
- Lingtam village
- Padamchen
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Do I need a permit for Zuluk?
Yes. Indian nationals need a Protected Area Permit for Zuluk and the Silk Route, issued at Rongli through a registered agent or homestay host, with photo ID and passport photos. Foreign nationals are not allowed. Rules and fees are indicative. Check current status before you travel.
Is the road from Gangtok to Zuluk safe?
The road is narrow and steep with many hairpin bends, but it is maintained by the Border Roads Organisation and used by army trucks daily. It is safe with an experienced local driver in good weather. In snow or heavy monsoon rain, wait for local advice rather than driving yourself.
Can I return from Zuluk to Gangtok by a different road?
Yes. Many trips go up via Rongli and return over the high road through Thambi viewpoint, Nathang, Kupup, Baba Mandir and Tsomgo Lake, reaching Gangtok in about 5–6 hours. This crosses roughly 4,000 m, needs the right permits, and can close after snow.
How cold is Zuluk?
Zuluk sits at about 3,000 m. From November to March nights fall below freezing and snow is common from December to February. Even in April and October, mornings are near zero. Pack thermals, a down jacket, gloves and a warm hat for any season.