For centuries, merchants and others journeyed to and from China and the Middle East on ancient routes through some of the most testing landscapes in the world. These ‘highways’ – stretching some 4,000 miles – collectively came to be called the ‘Silk Route’.

Recently, Govt. of India and Chinese Govt. have reopened Silk Route for trading of limited items and more items might be allowed in near future which will definitely benefit the entire North Bengal including Sikkim. The Route starts from Kalimpong and passes through Pedong, Aritar, Zuluk and Jelep La to Chumbi valley in Tibet.

Zuluk is a small peaceful village with about 600 Nepalese immigrants who migrated from Nepal for better future. This small terrain is very much suitable for the peace & calm loving tourists. The feature of this place being its extreme climatic condition, in winter the temperature is freezing with severe snowfall and summer is foggy & damp. In Zuluk tourists can enjoy the stay in the small cottages of local people with attached bathrooms as there is no hotel facility available there. Room heater or fire places locally called Bukhari are arranged by the locals to make the Bedrooms warm and comfortable. A glimpse of some very rare cultural and livelihood can be witnessed at Zuluk. The place offers breathtaking view of the sunrise. The Ganek is the Sunrise point situated at the height of 10600 feet is famous for its exquisite view of sunrise at dawn. The dark eastern horizon gradually turns into  reddish when sun rises behind the wide stretch of  mountains and due to fall of  sunrays, the  scintillating reflections on the snow studded Kanchendzenga ranges on the west makes its look golden and slowly it turns into milky white. View of sun-rise is memorable and awesome experience from Zuluk.

During  summer,  Zuluk and its  surrounding hills are covered with thousands of blooming Rhododendron s. Zuluk, during these months, is a demonstration of colours due to the variety of Rhododendron  that can be seen here. Zuluk derives its tourism importance due to its excellent view of the eastern Himalayan mountain range including the Kanchendzenga. Today Zuluk is fast emerging as a new tourist destination in East Sikkim. A trip to Zuluk requires special permits.

The tourists can visit Nag temple which is nearby where the local people offer there prayer to the deity of the King Cobra, worshiped as god in hindu mythology. The temple is a cave like structure where the image is formed through natural cracks in a giant sized rocks.

From the Thambi View Point at 11000ft. one can have unhindered view of the three level zigzag roads on the adjoining hills with unique geometrical curves.

At an height of 13000 feet Lungthung is renowned for sighting of the habitats of the rare species of  Khaleez Pheasant, Monal Pheasant, Monal Pheasant, Snow Pheasant, Red Panda etc. The chances of sighting of these habitats is very rare in occasion.

After Lungthung comes Luxmi Chowk which is full of dense forest of Rhododendron s, Lichens, mosses, ferns etc. The chirping of the birds and panoramic view of the majestic snow claded Khangchendzonga impresses the mind and the soul of the visitors.

The Kalpokhari Lake falls enroute to Adi Baba Mandir. Wild ducks swim in the transparent water of the Lake which freezes during the winter.
The Adi Baba Mandir is a war memorial built to pay tribute to  Sepoy Har Bhajan Singh who met an accident and died here. His Samadhi was constructed near Chhokhya Chho but was later shifted to the Watershed Memorial near LOG BR. Wreath lying ceremony is held at this site in the memory of Valliant soldiers who dedicated their lives defending their motherland.

The way to Gnathang Valley is very often covered with snow which is  being developed as a Ski point in Sikkim. From Gnathang valley the glimpses of valley of Bhutancan be seen. One can see Chinese Watch Towers at Jelep La with naked eyes.

The Tukla Valley situated at a height of 12500 ft. is also snowy and very cold. There is a war memorial built to commemorate the death of British soldiers who died at the battle of Tukla.

Kupup valley is 16 km. from Tukla. On the way from Tokla the tourists can see Elephant Lake or Memenchu Lake. On way falls the Yak golf course the highest altitude golf course in the world at 13025 ft. Kupup is a part of the historical Silk route An Environmental Park and Ice Hockey Field is being developed here. Lhasa is about 520 kms. from Kupup valley.

The tourists can  drive straight to Nathu La from Kupup. Nathu La is in Tibetian plateau at an altitude of 14200 ft. which is at present the gateway of India and China. It is open for Indian nationals only on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Tsongo Lake is about 16 kms. from Nathu La situated at an altitude of  12210 ft. The oval in shape Lake is 1km long, and 50 ft. deep. The Local people consider it a holy Lake. During May to August, tourist may see a large variety of flowers in bloom like the Rhododendron s, Primulas, Blue and Yellow Poppies etc. It is also the habitat of the Red Pandas. Foreign tourists are allowed only in groups of two or more.

Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim is only 40 kms  from Tsongo Lake. It is a well planned tourist destination on the hills with exquisite gardens, luxurious hotels, restaurants and sceneic view  of Kanchendzenga.

How to reach Zuluk

Zuluk can be reached directly from Bagdogra(IXB) airport or NJP railhead. The drive takes about 6 hours, depending on road condition. You can also visit Zuluk from Kalimpong (4 hours) or Gangtok (3 hours). Alternatively, one can stay overnight at Aritar and proceed to Zuluk the next day.

Recommended itineraries

Itinerary 1

Day 01   : NJP/Bagdogra – Rishi

Drive to Aritar in 3/3.5 hrs. Reach Rishi and stay at cottages on the banks of river Rishi Khola. Enjoy the lovely picnic spot on the bank of the Rishi Khola. Overnight at Rishi.

Day 02   : Rishi – Zuluk

After Breakfast, head for Zuluk. Stop at Rongli for Inner line permit. On the way see Kuekhola Falls, Lingtam, Padamchin to reach Zuluk, Enjoy the sunset at Zuluk from Balasur sunset point. Overnight at Zuluk.

Day 03   : Zuluk Sightseeings -Gangtok

Depart early at 5:00 a.m to view the spectacular sunrise from Sunrise Point. Follow the Silk Route Trail and enjoy the beauty of  Thambi View point, Laxmi Chowk, Nathang, Tukla Kalapokhari, Tukla Baba Mandir, Tukla valley, Jepepla Pass View and reach Kupup. Don’t miss the Hathi Pokhari. At Kupup, see the World’s highest Golf course, the Yak Golf Course at 13025 ft (Guinness Book Of World Records acclaimed), the Ice Hockey ground and proceed for Memenchuk Lake, New Baba Mandir. Cross Nathula pass Gate and have light lunch at Tsongmo Lake. Reach Gangtok for overnight stay at Gangtok.

Day 04   : Gangtok – Sightseeings

Visit Rumtek Monastery, Droul Chorthen, Research Institute of Tibetology, Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom and Flower Show. Overnight at Gangtok. Stay at Gangtok.

Day 05   : Aritar – NJP/Bagdogra.

Proceed for NJP station / Bagdogra (IXB) airport .

Itinerary 2

Day 01   : Bagdogra / NJP– Aritar

NJP/Bagdogra.Drive to Aritar – 3 to 3.5 hrs. Visit Aritar/ Lampokhari Lake and evening take time for local sightseeing and acclimatization. Overnight Stay in Aritar

Day 02   : Aritar Sightseeings & head to Zuluk

Watch the sunrise from the Mankhim Temple and after breakfast depart for a half-day sightseeing of places in and around Aritar like Aritar Gompha, Love Dara, Ari Dak Bungalow, Kalikhola Waterfall and the Relax point. After lunch, depart for Zuluk. Stop at Rongli for Inner line permit. On the way see Kuekhola Falls, Lingtam, Padamchin to reach Zuluk, Enjoy the sunset at Zuluk from Balasur sunset point. Overnight at Zuluk.

Day 03   : Zuluk – Bagdogra

Depart early at 5:00 a.m to view the spectacular sunrise from Sunrise Point. Follow the Silk Route Trail and enjoy the beauty of  Thambi View point, Laxmi Chowk, Nathang, Tukla Kalapokhari, Tukla Baba Mandir, Tukla valley, Jepepla Pass View and reach Kupup covering Hathi Pokhari lake. At Kupup, see the World’s highest Golf course, the Yak Golf Course at 13025 ft (Guinness Book Of World Records acclaimed), the Ice Hockey ground and proceed for Memenchuk Lake. Proceed for NJP/Bagdogra.

Do not forget to carry 2 Copies of Passport Photographs along with Photo Identity Proof (In Original)

Sikkim, a tiny state, resting in the lap of mighty Himalayas- guarded and protected by Mt. Kanchendzonga and other mountain ranges is blessed by unspoilt natural beauty. Earlier, a protectorate of  India with monarchial government, it metamorphosed as the twenty second state of the Indian union in 1975. Sandwitched between Nepal in the West, Bhutan in the east, plateau of Tibet in North and State of West Bengal in the South, it offers a pristine and enviable natural beauty which includes alpine landscapes, thick luxuriant tropical forests, rivers in torrents and peaceful lakes – a true Shangrila. In a rugged stretch of  7096 sq. km. are encompassed climates varying from the sultry tropical to the dry arctic, animals like marmots and the red panda, a  wide range of flora from primulas to the magnolia and diverse cultures.

Some general Informations :-

Total area                  : 7096 kms.

Total population        : 570077 (as per census)

Status                         : 22^nd State of India

Capital                       : Gangtok

Latitude                     : 27 – 28 degree North

Longitude                  : 88 – 89 degree East

No. of Districts          : 4 (East, West, North & South)

Altitude                     : 5500 ft. (Gangtok)

Temperature              : Summer – Max. / Min. 21/13 degree centrigrade

Winter   -  Max. / Min. 13/5.3 degree centrigrade

Annual rainfall          : 3894 mm

Best Seasons             : Summer & Winter

Clothings                   : Summer – light woolens

Winter – heavy woolens

Nearest Airport         : Bagdogra, 124 kms

Nearest Railway stn  : NJP 125 kms from Gangtok

Famous Cuisine & Drinks : Momo, Thukpa, Phagshapa, Sael roti,

Niguru with Churpi, Gundru Chang (Thomba).

Local Communities   : The Lepchas, The Bhutias, The Nepalies.

The state of Sikkim is embedded with four jewels i.e. East Dist., West Dist., North Dist., and South Dist. which all are heavens for the tourists. While all the natural beauties cannot be showcased in one shelves for the avid tourists, each jewel has its own beauty and glamour as can be seen in any of the beauty pageant. Here one who visits the state will certainly leave no opportunity to atleast see them and enjoy the rare unspoilt beauty.

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST

East Sikkim

The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is situated in the East district. As such it is the administrative hub of Sikkim. Besides, the usual shopping of mementoes and artifacts in Gangtok, it offers panoramic views of the hills. Other places of interest are :-

1. Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom – In Gangtok, promotes and keeps alive the state’s traditional art and craft. A storehouse of hand woven woolen carpets, motifs, blankets, shawls and other gift items.
2. Burtuk Waterfalls – 20 minute drive from Gangtok on 31A National Highway leading to North Sikkim. The source of the waterfalls is Ratey Chu – the main water source of Gangtok.
3. Hur-Huray Dara (Nam-Nang) – Opposite to Sikkim Legislative Assembly provides a breathtaking view of the dense forest and lush green valley.
4. Enchy Monastry – A 200 year old monastry built by Lama Druptok Karpa – a tantric master known for his power of flying. Also famous for ‘Chaam’ – a religious masked dance performed every year around January.
5. Flower Festival – Every year, the show is organized near the White Memorial Hall complex, Gangtok during the spring season showcasing the rare orchids and other flowers of Sikkim.
6. Gangtok Ropeway – The lower terminal station at Deorali Market, the intermediate terminus at Nam-Nang and the upper station below the Secretariate, Tashing covers a distance of 1 km. in 7 minutes. It provides a panoramic view of in and around Gangtok.
7. Do-Drul Chorten (Stupa) – This was built by the Venerable Trullshi Rimpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibet Buddhism in 1945. It has 108 prayer wheels and inside holy book, books on mantras and other religious objects.
8. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (NIT) – A renowned worldwide centre  for study of Buddhist philosophy and religion. It has a treasure of vast collection of rare Lepcha, Tibetan and Sanskrit manuscripts and statues etc.
9. Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgal Memorial Park – He had the courage of his conviction and was undoubtedly a  pioneer among his peers in advocating the modern system of governance in the Himalayan kingdom. This park was established as a tribute to the most illustrious Chogyal of Sikkim.
10. Saramsa Garden – About 14 km. off from Gangtok, the home of Sikkim’s many exotic orchids and other rare tropical and temperate plants.
11. Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre – A 45 minute drives from Gangtok and 24 km. away, the centre provides world’s most unique religious scriptures and rare religious objects.
12. Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden – Established in the year 1987 and located just half a kilometer before Rumtek Monastry, it comprises of virgin forest, temperate forest of oaks and almost 50 different kinds of tree species. It is adjoining Rumtek Monastery and Fambongla wildlife sanctuary.
13. Water Garden – Located at 16 km. South of Gangtok on 31A Natinal Highway. An ideal spot for picnic with a small swimming pool for children.
14. Pal Zurmang Kagyud Monastry – Located at Lingdum, East Sikkim is at a distance of 20 km. from Gangtok. A place worth visiting for its religious and exquisite architecture and serene atmosphere.
15. Tsongo Lake – The sacred lake located at about 30 km. from Gangtok is about 1 km. long, oval in shape, 15 mt. deep and situated at an altitude of 12400 ft. The placid lake remains frozen during the winter months upto mid May.
16. Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial – Built in the memory of Harbhajan Singh, a sepoy in the 23^rd Punjab Regiment. The memorial lies between the Nathu-La and the Jelep-La passeo.
17. Nathu-La – The border between India and China is 56 km. from Gangtok. It is one of the highest motorable road and is richly covered by varieties of alpine flora and fauna. The visitors have to get the permit to visit the place, It is open only on certain particular days of the week.
18. Tashi View Point – Along the north Sikkim Highway and 8 km away from Gangtok provides breathtaking view of Mt. Khangchen-Donga and Mt. Siniolchu – one of the most graceful peaks in the world.
19. Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok – Located on a ridge at a distance of 7 km and 11 km respectively offer a panoramic view of the sprawling Gangtok town and mountain range along the horizon.
20. Sangor-Chotsong Centre – It is a Tibetan refugee monastic institution established in 1961 – the only monastery of the Sankya order – located on a beautiful hill top just 5 km.from Gangtok.
21. Pastanga – Is in Assam Lingzey at an altitude of 1425 mts. And 2 hours journey from Gantok. Provides magnificent view of the mountain range and lush green mountain trails. The tourists are provided with home stay facilities with organized cultural programme.
22. Aritar – The Lake near Rhenock about 3 hrs journey from Gangtok, is an excellent location for spending peaceful night in trekkers’ huts, few lodges and private resorts. It provides peaceful environment and panoramic view of the hills.
23. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary – Located at a distance of 25 km. from Gangtok, comprises of an area of 51.76 km. The sanctuary is the home for various species of wild animals and birds and large number of wild orchids and rhododendrons. ( For permission – contact Chief Wild Life Warden Forest Department  Deorali Gantok).
24. Himalayan Zoological Park – 8 kms.from Gangtok also known as Bulbulay is located within a forest environment. One can spot Red Pandas, Barking Deers, Spotted Deers, Snow Leopards etc.
25. Angling in Sikkim – The Tista and Rangit provides ample opportunities for angling. For an advent angler – the Mahasheer, The Katley and the Trouts provides fond angling opportunities.

West Sikkim

If you are in search of adventure – the west is the district to visit. It goes with the proverbial name as being wild and free as it is the base from where all treks into wilds of the majestic Himalayas begins. Whether it is white water rafting down the frothing waters of Teesta and Rangit, or trekking through the beautiful and dense Rhododendron forest, the West Dist. has it all. Other places of interest in West Sikkim are –

1. Pemayangtse Monastery – On of the oldest monastries in the state, originally established by Lhatsun Chembo, who have performed coronation ceremony of the first Chogyal of Sikkim. Inside, there is a wooden structure depicting the Maha Guru’s heavenly place (Song-tok-Palri) which is considered as a master piece. At an altitude of 6840 ft., it commands a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills and country side.
2. Rabdentse Ruins – The second capital of the erstwhile Kingdom after Yuksum till the year 1814 AD from where the kings of Sikkim ruled the country.
3. Pelling – An urban settlement dotted with hotels, lodges and resorts is at an altitude of 6800 ft. facing the entire mountain range. It provide an eye-catching view of Mt. Khang-Chen-Dzonga.
4. Yuksom – The first capital of Sikkim. The evidence of the capital in the form of stone seat is still intact. The trekking route to Dzongri and to the base camp of the famous Mt. Khan-Chen-Dzonga begins here.
5. Khechaopalri Lake – It is considered to be one of the sacred lakes of this state both by Buddhists and the Hindus. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface.
6. Khang-Chen-Dzonga water falls – An hour’s drive from Pelling. A must for every tourist during or after the monsoon.
7. Singshore Bridge / Uttarey – The highest  bridge in Sikkim about 25 km. fro Pemayangtse and at about 20 minute drive is Uttarey, a base camp of adventure tourism for Singalila range trail. A place worth visiting.
8. Sanga-Choling-Monastery – Built in 1697 AD – it is considered as one of the oldest monastery. The road leads through rich forest covers.
9. Dubdi Monastery – An ideal place for lamas seeking meditation recluse, located on a hill top above Yuksum surrounded by verdant forest. This was the first monastery established soon after the coronation ceremony of the first Chogyal.
10. Rangit Water world – Provides facilities for a serene white water rafting, located within a short drive to the Shiva Mandir and to Tashiding Monastery.
11. Tashiding Monastery – Built in the 18^th century on the top of a heart shaped hill with the backdrop of the sacred Mt. Khang-Chen- Dzonga by Guru Padma Sambhava. It is a holy place and provides information on sacred religious traditions.
12. Varseep – At 10000 ft. with motorable road, it provides a trekking route to Barsey Rhododendron sanctuary.
13. Soreng – A picturesque village with beautiful landscape which is 13 hrs. drive from Pelling. A trek to Jhandi Daura from Soreng is a must to see various species of flowers and birds.
14. Dentam – An hour’s drive from Pelling, famous for the Alpine Cheese, a product of Indo-Swiss collaboration.
15. Sirijinga Fookuand Wadhan (Cave) – A 2 kms ride from Sirijonga Yuma Manghkeem, provides a scenic view of a waterfall besides which lies a cave.

North Sikkim

Perhaps the most beautiful of the districts, the North offers an exquisite experience for the lover of nature and alpine scenery. Yumthang  alone is enough to satiate the most demanding with its panoramic Valley of  Flowers. During spring time, the lush meadows abound with delicate wild flowers that carpet the valley floor in a rich riot of colours. Other places of interests are :-

1. Kabi Lungchok – 17 km from Gantok on the North Sikkim highway is the spot marked by memorial stone pillar where the historical treaty of blood brotherhood between the Lepcha Chief and Bhutia Chief was signed.
2. Seven Sister falls – 32 km. away from Gangtok on the National Highway to North Sikkim.
3. Phodong Monastery – One of the six major monasteries, located 38 km. away from Gangtok.
4. Singhik – Provides the most spectacular and closest views of Mt. Khang-Chen-Dzonga and its range.
5. Chungthang – On the confluence of Lachen and Lachung Chu and the starting point of river Tista, is 95 km. away from Gangtok. Famous for large variety of Orchids, plants and wild life apart from breathtaking scenic grandeur.
6. Lachung and Lachen – Both are villages with unique scenic grandeur are 23 km. and 29 km. respectively from Chungthang. Both are famous for its close proximity to Yumthang valley and Gurudongmar Lake respectively.
7. Yumthang – At an elevation of 11800 ft. and 140 km. from Gangtok, is a paradise for nature lovers, with a fascinating blend of flora and fauna.
8. Gurudongmar Lake (17800 ft.) – The lake is considered as one of the sacred lakes of the State. The lake remains milky in colour throughout the year due to ice. Necessary permits are to be obtained from the appropriate authority and normally this is arranged by travel agents.

South Sikkim

Some of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim are located here and a 135 ft. high image of Guru Padmashambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim, is located near the district headquarters at Namchi. Adventure trekking is being promoted in a big way here with a base camp being set up at Ravangla. One can also indulge in mountain biking and natural trails here.

1. Samdruptse – Located at a distance of 72 km. from Gantok and near Namchi is Samdruptse which in Bhutia language means “The wish fulfilling Hill”.
2. Namchi – Namchi, meaning “Sky High”, nestled among the hills at an elevation of 5500 ft. commands Panoramic view of the snow capped mountains and vast stretch of valley.
3. Rabongla – Reminiscent of a town from the wild west. A sleepy hamlet at a height of 7000 ft. it is an Upcoming tourist spot and transit point for the trekkers to Maenam hills and Borang.
4. Temi Tea Garden – it is the only tea estate existing in the state and produces top quality tea.
5. Tadong Hill And Maenam Hill – Situated at altitudes of 8530 ft. and 10300 ft. respectively they offer unmatched scenic views from those heights perhaps unmatched in this part of the world.
6. Singchu – Thang – 45 km. fromGangtok at an altitude of 3500 ft. on the bank of river Teesta, is ideal for Water sports and picnic.

Sikkim is also known as Trekkers Paradise. Dzongri – Goechala – Samiti Lake route is being fantasized by trekkers since decades. A very popular yet semi difficult route, which attracts thousands of trekkers from different parts of the Globe.

Goecha La (4940 m.) is a high mountain pass in Sikkim in the Himalaya range. The pass gives a view of the southeast face of Kanchenjunga, its the base camp for all those aspiring to scale the Kanchenjunga.
The trek to Goecha La starts from the town of Yuksom, where the motorable road ends at an altitude of 1770 meters. Khangchendzonga National Park and Sanctuary, Yuksom in western Sikkim is the gateway to the trek to Goechala pass, one of the eight toughest treks in India. The main halting points in the way are Bakkhim, Tshoka, Phedang, Dzongri, Kokchurong and Lambi. The trek in the initial days is through dense forest cover, followed by Bugyals and finally totally rocky terrain. The route offers glorious sights of verdant flower covered valleys, glaciers, high passes and beautiful views of mountain peaks in ethereal atmosphere. It is a veritable feast to the eyes of the onlooker to come acrossmany varieties of Orchids, Rhododendrons, Magnolia, Lilly andother flowers, which are in full bloom in spring.

Day 01: Kolkata/Delhi- Pelling
Reach Bagdorga Airport, the nearest one for this area. If you have opted for Train, the nearest Rail head is New Jalpaiguri. You have to take a car/Jeep from either airport or Rly Stn to reach Pelling the same day. It will take around 6-7 hours. So, prefer morning flights to avoid stay at Siliguri.
Day 02: Yuksom
Early morning hike to Sanga Choling Monastery situated at the top of a ridge, after breakfast visit Pemayangste Monastery and Rubdantse ruins. Afternoon drive to Yuksom, if possible cover Khechopari Lake during your journey. A beautiful lake within the mountains, locals says that birds do not allow to let the fallen leafs stay in the lake and picks the leafs up.
Day 03: Yuksom
Visit the Oldest Monastery of Sikkim, the Dubdi Monastery and the Coronation Stone. In the afternoon enjoy the beauty of this small village while acclimatizing for the trek.
Day 04: Yuksom-Bakhim (2743meters or 9000ft.)
The trail now runs through rice wood hills abounding in flora and fauna going, as it does, through moss-laden forests of oak, spruce, chestnut, fir, pines, giant magnolias and rhododendron- botanist’ paradise. Not to be outdone, the naturalist’s cab views hundreds of varieties of exotic of birds, butterflies and orchids. Among the animals are the Himalayan brown beer, black beers, barking deer. Samber, marble cats, Blue sheep, Tibetan antelope, wild ass, Himalayan wild goats, red pandas and musk deer at various altitudes. It takes six hours before the Bakhim forest Bungalow. Enroute Tshoka, you will have to stop more than once to take close looks at the flowers especially Cobra Lilly. The distance to cover during this climb is 14 kms. Many trekkers prefer to stay at Saachen for the first day and then proceed to Tshoka directly avoiding stay at Bakhim. This is to acclimatize yourself with the local weather as the trek to Saachen is fairly easy, trekkers often prefer to start doing the easiest one at the beginning and then picking momentum. It all depends on your physical and mental ability but make one thing ensured that you must not strain or drain yourself at the beginning. Judge how much you can take and then decide your stays.
Day 05: Bakhim-Dzongri (4030meters or 13,221ft.)
Today you have to cover eight kilometers which will expectedly take around six hours, each steps to Dzongri leads to the world of the gamed Khanchenjunga massive. The steady climb passes through gullies laid by grazing yaks and mountain sheep through Tsokha, a Tibetan resettlement centre, and the last village passed on the way. Now, one begins to get the initial views of the Sikkim snows. It is time for lunch and one has reached a picturesque spot and meadow, Phithang after which the trail leads up right amidst an exclusive and bewitching forest of rhododendron to Deorali Dara’ – literally meaning ‘man meets mountain. If you visit the route in spring, rest assured, you will receive warm welcome by the Rhododendrons, orchids and cobra-lilies throughout the entire route. If necessary, spend another day to aclimatize here at Dzongri. Many feel high altitude sickness at this stupendous height, so before your tour gets ruined, its better to keep pace with your ability and not get overrunned with enthusiasm only.
Day 06: Dzongri-Thangsing (3800 meters or 12,467ft)
Seven kilometers from Dzongri, the four hours’ trek leads through meadows and valleys down the burrow leads into the most beautiful valley of all situated at the base of Joponu peak. Surrounded on all sides by massive mountains here, the beautiful stream pierces the forest and presents an enchanting scene. To reach the camping grounds dwarfed in the giant valley, one has to cross a wooden bridge over the stream under the watchful eye of majestic Mt.Pandim. The enduring beauties of the Himalayas would fascinate you.
Day 07: Thangsing- Lake Samiti (4800meter or 15,748ft.)
Situated at the base of mighty Mt.Pandim, Samiti Lake, A glacial lake in the Onglathang valley which is a holy lake for the local people and even for far wandering pilgrims from the plains. . Prayer flags adorn the place as the Buddhists considers this a holy place and offers their prayer therat. It will take about three to four hours uphill walk to reach this beautiful lake. The trek upto Lake Samiti is flat and surrounded as it is by the mighty mountains inspires the trekker onward. The Sikkimese name for it is Sungmoteng. The inlet stream into the lake comes directly from Mt. Pandim which is right by its side. The outlet stream goes on the join the Prek Chu, which further joins the Rathong Chu to form the mighty Rangit river. When it’s cold, the surface of the lake freezes over
Day 08: Lake Samiti – Chemathang-Goechala – Lake Samiti (5000m or 16208ft.)
This day start early in the morning and trek towards Goecha-La. Chemathang is eight kilometers from Lake Samiti and takes 6 hours to trek. Walking towards the legendary Khanchenjunga, right through the giant Onglathang Valley the mystic awe of the surrounding mountains fills the trekker with wonder going past splendid glacial lakes and numerous glaciers as he walks amidst the legendary mountains of Sikkim… Still higher and more steps, the Goecha – La pass about 5 km away but taking a good three hours to cover. This is the northernmost and highest point of the trek. The climb will cover splendid views and the closest too, of the legendary God of Sikkim interlaced with glaciers, swift rivers flowing down from sacred lap. From Goechala record the splendid views of Goecha, Kabru, Pandim, Jupano, Lama and Lami.Ensure that you are very much ready physically today as its going to be a tough test throughout.
Day 09: Lake Samiti – Kokchu
In this return journey, you can catch glimpses of Blue sheeps and some rare birds, quite handy and comfortable trek down today aftre the strenous yesterday. Take your time and enjoy the route
Day 10: Kokchu– Tsokha
Today it is a full day walk towards Tsokha village. The route is mostly straight but few ups and downs all along the way. Take your lunch at Phithang enroute your trek back to the beautiful village of Tsokha. Note that if your body permits, you can cover the Lake Samiti to Tsokha distance in a single day itself.
Day 11: Tsokha- Yuksom
It will take around four to five hours to get back to Yuksom, so start accordingly. If you wish to get back to Pelling the same day, you will have to start early and it would be better to get your vehicle prearranged.

From this day onwards you can arrange your schedule depending upon the places you desire to visit, many prefers a side visit to Gangtok – Tshango Lake – Lachung Yumthang or Darjeeling – Kurseong.

Tips:

• Porters for the treks can be found at Yuksom which is cheaper at the rate of Rs 250/- to 350/- per day or at Gangtok through many travel agencies who tend to overprice it up to $35 per day. Before settling with Guide, Porter and Yak, confirm no. of days he will charge for.
• Prefer middle aged guides as experience counts in this route.
• Ensure you have enough Ration for the whle trip, Do not overburden yourself, but check your ration regularly so that you do not get drained out.
• For stay at Huts, ensure you have proper permissions. You guide may help you out in this matter.
• Often I have seen trekkers who overstrains themselves by putting in more than what they can. And the fact of the matter is that most of the trekkers don’t prepare themselves physically before proceeding into this kind of a trek or rather any kind of trek. So, I once again repeat what I said many times before. Take only that much what your physique permits. Headeaches, vomitting, high altitude sickness are very very common in this kind of trekking, so, just try to aclimatize yourself, don’t just get into your sleeping bags immediately after you reach any place. Try to spend more time outside to get yourself aclimatized. I would appreciate if somebody comes up with the headache problem, as I use to have this regularly.

Helicopter services are also available from Guwahati, Dibrugarh and Itanagar to Tawang, Ziro, Along, Daporijo, Pasighat, Roing, Anni, Tezu and Khonsa.

Rail – The nearest rail stations to Itanagar are Harmuty, Assam [33 kms] and North Lakhimpur, Assam [60 kms]. Both are connected to Guwahati by the Arunachal Express and onward buses can be found to Itanagar.

Road – Itanagar is 429 kms from Guwahati, traveling on MH 52. Direct buses are available along this route, and from Shillong [482 kms], Tezpur, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Tinsukhia and Nogaon.

2. Nagaland - Getting there – By Air – Flights arrive daily in Dimapur from Kolkata and Delhi. There are also connections to Guwahati.

Rail – Daily trains from Kolkata, Delhi, and other major cities. The Rajdhani Express and Brahmaputra mail run daily from Delhi to Dimapur via Guwahati.

Road – National Highways No. 36 and 39 connect Dimapur to Guwahati. All towns within the state are connected by Nagaland State Transport Services.

3. Tripura - Getting there – By Air – Agartala airport is connected by flights from Kolkata, Guwahati and Silchar.

Rail – The nearest station is Manughat [120 km from Agartala]. The Brahmaputra Mail, Kamrup Express, Barak Valley Express and Cachar Express run to Lumding, Assam. Passenger trains to Manughat then take 10 hours.

Road – Bus services are available from Guwahati, 597 km away, and Shillong, 497 km away.

4. Mizoram - Getting there – By Air – Lengpui, Aizawal is connected by air with Kolkata, the other option is to fly to Silchar from Kolkata and then go by road to Aizwal. This road journey takes about 5-6 hous/ or longer to cover 184 km.

Rail – Silchar is the railhead.

Road – Bus service are available from Guwahati to Shillong. The Barak Valley Express travels from Guwahati.

NH 54 connects Aizawl with Silchar. It is also accessible from Shillong and Guwahati.

5. Manipur – Getting there – Air – Flights from Delhi, KOlkata, Guwahati, Aizawl, Jorhat and Silchar land to Imphal airport which is 7 kms from the town.

Rail – The nearest station is Dimapur, Nagaland, on the North-East Frontier Railway. Regular bus services make the journey to Imphal [215 km]. Jiribam station on the Manipur-Assam border is 225 km from Imphal.

Road – Well-connected by road with the cities of the North-East states.

Silchar, Assam [NH 53]

Dimapur, Nagaland [NH 39]

Guwahati, Assam [NH 39]

6. Meghalaya – Getting there – Air – The nearest airport is Guwahati. From there a helicopter service operates to Shillong.

Rail – The nearest station is Guwahati. From there bus services leave for Shillong which is 103 kms away.

Road – NH 40 connects Guwahati to Shillong.

7. Assam - Getting there – Air – Guwahati airport has daily flights to Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. There are also plane or helicopter connections to towns in the North-East.

Rail – Guwahati has daily connections to Delhi and Kolkata. The fastest are the Rajdhani Express, Kanchenjunga Express, Kamrup Express and Saraighat Express.

8. Sikkim - Getting there –Siliguri is the start point and is reached by train, bus and air. Siliguri to Gangtok is by road or by the helicopter services available at Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri.