East Sikkim – Alpine Wonderland

Tsomgo Lake • Nathula Pass • Silk Route • Zuluk

Tour Overview

East Sikkim is a mesmerizing blend of high-altitude lakes, ancient monasteries, and the legendary Silk Route. Experience the pristine beauty of Tsomgo Lake at 12,400 feet, stand at the Indo-China border at Nathula Pass, and explore the offbeat charm of Zuluk and the historic Silk Route. With stunning Himalayan vistas, vibrant Buddhist culture, and adventure at every turn, East Sikkim offers an unforgettable journey through the Eastern Himalayas.

  • Tsomgo Lake at 12,400 ft altitude
  • Nathula Pass - Indo-China border at 14,140 ft
  • Zuluk - Silk Route viewpoint with zigzag roads
  • Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake) - pristine high-altitude lake
  • Rumtek Monastery - largest monastery in Sikkim
  • Gnathang Valley & Lungthung - offbeat destinations

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival & Gangtok Local Sightseeing

🌅 Morning:

  • Pickup from NJP Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport
  • Drive to Gangtok (approx. 4-5 hours)
  • Hotel check-in & freshen up

🌆 Evening Sightseeing:

  • MG Marg - Mall Road for shopping & cafes (pedestrian-only street)
  • Ropeway Ride (optional) - Aerial views of Gangtok city
  • Local Market exploration
  • Explore local cafes & restaurants

🍽️ Evening:

  • Dinner at hotel
  • Overnight stay in Gangtok

Day 2 – Tsomgo Lake + Baba Mandir + Nathula Pass

🌄 Early Morning Departure (6:00 AM):

  • Full day excursion to high-altitude destinations
  • Tsomgo (Changu) Lake - Sacred glacial lake at 12,400 ft
  • Enjoy pristine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains
  • Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir - War hero memorial temple

🏔️ Midday:

  • Nathula Pass* - Indo-China border at 14,140 ft (subject to permit & weather)
  • Experience the international border & Chinese army post view
  • Walk along the border fence and capture memories

*Nathula Pass requires advance permits (Indian nationals only), additional charges apply. Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays.

🎯 Optional Activities at Tsomgo Lake:

  • Yak Ride (additional charges)
  • Snow Play (seasonal - available in winter months)
  • Photography & local snacks

🌆 Evening:

  • Return to Gangtok (approx. 3-4 PM)
  • Free time at MG Marg
  • Dinner & overnight stay in Gangtok

Day 3 – East Sikkim Silk Route Day Trip

🌄 Early Morning Departure (6:00 AM):

  • Full day trip to the historic Silk Route
  • Packed breakfast from hotel

📍 Places Covered:

  • Zuluk - Famous for 32 hairpin bends & Silk Route viewpoint
  • Thambi View Point - Panoramic Himalayan views
  • Lungthung Valley - Serene valley with prayer flags
  • Gnathang Valley - Historical Silk Route village
  • Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake) - Pristine high-altitude lake

🎯 Highlights:

  • Perfect for photography enthusiasts
  • Stunning Himalayan mountain views
  • Experience the ancient Silk Route heritage
  • Witness zigzag roads & dramatic landscapes

🌆 Evening:

  • Return to Gangtok by night
  • Dinner & overnight stay in Gangtok

Day 4 – Gangtok Local Sightseeing + Departure

🌅 Morning Sightseeing:

  • Rumtek Monastery - Largest and most significant monastery in Sikkim
  • Banjhakri Waterfall - Picturesque waterfall with energy park
  • Tashi View Point - Stunning Kanchenjunga mountain views
  • Do Drul Chorten Stupa - Beautiful Buddhist stupa with 108 prayer wheels
  • Handicraft Center - Shop for local Sikkimese handicrafts & souvenirs

🍽️ Afternoon:

  • Lunch (own arrangement)
  • Checkout from hotel
  • Drop at NJP Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport

👋 Tour Ends:

Tour ends with beautiful memories of East Sikkim 🌸

✅ Package Inclusions

  • Hotel accommodation with Breakfast & Dinner
  • Private vehicle for all sightseeing
  • Permits for Nathula & Tsomgo Lake
  • Driver allowance & fuel charges
  • Toll taxes & parking charges
  • All applicable taxes

📋 Important Travel Tips

  • Nathula Pass needs advance permits (2-3 days)
  • Carry warm clothes - temperatures drop at high altitudes
  • Keep valid ID proof ready (Aadhaar/Passport)
  • Altitude sickness medicines recommended
  • Avoid plastic - Sikkim is eco-friendly
  • Book permits early during peak season
  • Start early for Silk Route - long day trip
  • Carry sunscreen & sunglasses for high altitude

🎯 Customize Your Package

Travels Mates Kolkata offers flexible customization options:

  • Extend to North Sikkim or West Sikkim
  • Add Darjeeling or Kalimpong to your itinerary
  • Customize hotel categories (Budget to Luxury)
  • Bengali / Hindi speaking guides available
  • Honeymoon packages with special arrangements
  • Group discounts for 6+ travelers