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The Old Silk Route circuit through East Sikkim — Zuluk, Nathang Valley, Lungthung, Thambi View Point — requires a Protected Area Permit arranged through a registered operator via the Rongli SDM office.
The Old Silk Route is the ancient trade path connecting India and Tibet, winding through the high-altitude terrain of East Sikkim — from Rongli through Zuluk (11,200 ft), Nathang Valley (13,700 ft), Lungthung and Thambi View Point. The circuit is restricted due to its proximity to the Tibet border.
A single Protected Area Permit (PAP) covers the entire circuit. It must be arranged through a registered operator, who applies to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) office in Rongli — not through the standard Gangtok DC office used for East Sikkim tours.
Submit IDs and accommodation bookings 2–3 days before travel. Your operator applies to the Rongli SDM office — not the standard Gangtok DC office.
The Rongli checkpoint is the main entry to the Old Silk Route. Your permit is checked here on departure day. Carry originals throughout.
Most visitors overnight at Zuluk (Night 1) and Nathang (Night 2) before exiting via Kupup to rejoin the Gangtok–Nathula road. The one-day version misses Nathang's sunrise views.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| PAP (Old Silk Route / Zuluk) | ~₹200 per person |
| Validity | 2–3 days (circuit duration) |
| Entry point | Rongli |
| Destinations covered | Zuluk, Nathang Valley, Lungthung, Thambi View Point, Kupup |