The Ultimate Guide to Zuluk: All You Need to Know

•Located at a height of 9,400 feet in East Sikkim, India, Zuluk is a charming village.

•Although it is still a relatively unknown location, it is gradually becoming a top choice for tourists looking for unique and unusual experiences.

•Zuluk is renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful landscape, which includes its high mountains, dense forests, and clear lakes.

•Additionally, it is the location of a number of historical and cultural landmarks, including the Old Baba Mandir and the Nathula Pass.

How to reach Zuluk

•The nearest airport to Zuluk is Pakyong in Sikkim and Bagdogra Airport (IXB), in West Bengal which is located about 70 km and 140 kilometres away The journey takes about 2.5-3 and 5-6 hours respectively.

•The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), which is located about 120 kilometres away. From either the airport or railway station, you can hire a private taxi or take a shared jeep to Zuluk. 

The best time to visit Zuluk

•Zuluk can be visited any time of year, although spring (March through May) and autumn (September through November, December) are the ideal times to go.

•The skies are clear and the weather is good during these times, providing breathtaking vistas of the nearby mountains and valleys.

Where to stay in Zuluk

•There are a number of homestays and guesthouses in Zuluk, offering a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets.

•Some of the popular homestays include the Dil Maya Homestay, the Zuluk Village Homestay, and the Hidden Paradise Resort.

What is the cost of the Zuluk Silk Route Tour Package?

•Depending on how you go and where you stay, package tours start at Rs. 4,000 and accommodations with meals and loading start at Rs. 850 (Standard room) to Rs. 1500 (Deluxe).

• However, it is generally a relatively inexpensive destination.  Try below!

Things to do in Zuluk

Visit the Thambi View Point: The Thambi View Point is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Zuluk. It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Kanchenjunga.

Visit the Shiva Sunrise point: Lungthung, an 18 km drive from Zuluk village, offers a breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and sunrise. Early risers can capture Lord Shiva’s shadow on the mountain, a mesmerizing sight. According to folklore, Lord Buddha sent monks to spread Buddhism, depicting this iconic of Lord Shiva’s shadow on Kanchenjunga.

Explore the Bhul Bhulaiyaa: “Embark on a mesmerizing 2-kilometer voyage from Thambi viewpoint, high above Lungthung, where the enchanting Bhul Bhulaiyaa road unfolds, offering breathtaking vistas of winding roads and the majestic Kanchenjunga. This thrilling route marks the final leg of the zig-zag journey to Gnathang Valley.”

Explore the Nathang Valley: The Nathang Valley is a beautiful valley located about 22 kilometres from Zuluk. It is known for its snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes.

Visit the Tukula Valley: Tukula Valley, at 12,500 feet, was the British-Tibetan war battleground in 1888. It unveils the stone parapet built by Nepalese ruler Jung Bahadur Rana during Tibet’s invasion. This historic site boasts Mt. Kanchenjunga’s majesty and seasonal flower displays amidst snow-covered winters.

Visit the Kupup Lake: The Kupup Lake is a high-altitude lake located about 32 kilometres from Zuluk. It is a popular known as Elephant Lake.

Visit the Zuluk bird’s eye viewpoint: This location, 1.5 kilometres from zuluk village, provides an expansive aerial view of the Zuluk hamlet, which appears beyond the horizon of a hill.

Visit the Menmechu Lake: Nestled at 12,500 feet, Sikkim’s Menmechu, translating to “medicine water,” is a sacred lake surrounded by lush forests and flowing streams. It’s a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting diverse flora and fauna, and captivating landscapes. This revered lake is steeped in local legends and is home to a trout fish cultivation centre. Accessible via a scenic 4-kilometre motorable road from the new Baba Mandir, it’s a must-visit for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.

Visit the Old Baba Mandir: The Old Baba Mandir is a shrine dedicated to Captain Harbhajan Singh, who was martyred in the Sino-Indian War of 1962. It is a popular pilgrimage site for both Indian and Chinese nationals.

Visit the Nathula Pass: The Nathula Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located about 50 kilometres from Zuluk. It is a popular tourist destination for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Visit the Tsomgo Lake: Located 64 km from Zuluk at 12,400 ft, Tsomgo Lake is a sacred site for both Buddhists and Hindus. It freezes in winter and blooms with colourful flowers in late spring, whereas monks once predicted the future based on its water’s colour.

Other things to do in Zuluk:

Visit the local villages:

•Come to Sivalaya Baba Mandir: Perched on a ridge, just a 20-minute walk from Zuluk, the Sivalaya Baba Mandir was built by Mr Gopal Pradhan in 2005, later renovated in 2015, offering a serene spot to enjoy Zuluk’s beauty and sunset views.

•Visit the hidden gem of zuluk “Trout fish cultivation at Dil Maya homestay of Gopal Pradhan ” The healthiest and most delicious cold-water fish. It has an abundant amount of high-quality protein with well-balanced essential fatty acids (Omega 3) and minerals.

•Visit the Indian Army Cafe “Cloud Warrior Cafe” an inspiring experience. Surrounded by valour and history, it offers a taste of patriotism with every sip. Enjoy delicious cuisine in the shadow of heroes.

•A Walk of 300m stroll leads to the Indian Army’s convey ground. There, are peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga that offer a mesmerizing sunset. Each step offers a unique panorama, showcasing hill stations like Aritar, Phadamchen, Sillary Goan, Pedong, Pakyoung Airport, and Rangpo. This place is a biodiversity haven, home to rare and stunningly colourful birds and butterflies.

•The villages around Zuluk are home to several ethnic groups, such as the Nepalis, the Buddhists, and the Tibetans. Visiting these villages gives you a chance to learn about their unique cultures and traditions.

A Haven for Bird Enthusiasts

Zuluk is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, This picturesque village is also home to a diverse range of birdlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers from all over the world.

From the majestic Himalayan Monal to the elusive Snow Leopard, Zuluk is home to over 400 species of birds. Visitors can spot Himalayan Griffons soaring overhead, Red-billed Choughs perched on rocky outcrops, and flocks of Tibetan Snowcocks foraging in the alpine meadows. Other notable species include the Blood Pheasant, Himalayan Cuckoo, and Rufous-breasted Accentor.

Zuluk’s birdwatching season typically runs from March to November, with the best time to visit being during the spring and autumn months. During this time, the weather is mild and the birds are most active. Visitors can explore the many birdwatching trails in and around Zuluk, or simply sit back and relax and enjoy the sight and sound of birdsong.

For those who are serious about birdwatching, there are a number of experienced guides who can be hired to lead tours. These guides can help visitors locate the best birding spots and identify the different species of birds they see.

Zuluk is a truly unique destination for birdwatchers. Its stunning scenery, diverse birdlife, and friendly people make it a must-visit for anyone who loves birds.

Targeting “Zuluk birdwatching”

Visitors who are interested in birdwatching in Zuluk can contact a tour operator offers birding packages that include accommodation, transportation, and the services of an experienced guide.

Visitors should also pack appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather conditions. The weather in Zuluk can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for all types of weather. Visitors should also bring binoculars, a camera, and a bird field guide.

Here are some additional tips for birdwatching in Zuluk:

• Be patient and quiet. Birds are easily spooked, so it is important to be patient and quiet when observing them.
• Use binoculars to get a closer look at the birds.
• Take note of the bird’s size, shape, color, and markings. This will help you identify the species.
• If you are unsure about the identity of a bird, consult a bird field guide or ask your guide for help.
• Enjoy the experience! Birdwatching is a great way to learn about and appreciate the natural world.

 

•Enjoy the local cuisine Zuluk offers a variety of local dishes, such as the momos, and the thukpa. Be sure to try some of these dishes during your visit.

Tips for Visiting Zuluk

 Get a permit: Zuluk is located in a restricted area, so you will need to obtain a permit from the Sikkim Tourism Department before visiting. You can apply for the permit online through a registered tour operator.

 Pack warm clothes: The weather in Zuluk can change quickly and can get quite cold, even during the summer months. Be sure to check the list of required accessories we have planned for travelling the silk route and pack warm clothes, such as jackets, sweaters, and hats.

 Acclimatize to the altitude: Zuluk is located at a high altitude, so it is important to acclimatize to the altitude before embarking on any strenuous activities.

Be prepared for bad roads: The roads to Zuluk can be in poor condition, especially during the monsoon season. Be prepared for a bumpy ride.

Accommodation: There are a few homestays and guesthouses in Zuluk. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are travelling during peak season.

There is limited mobile phone connectivity (Jio, Airtel, Bsnl) in Zuluk, so it is a good idea to inform your family and friends about your travel plans in advance.

Carry some cash with you, as there are no ATMs in Zuluk.

Enjoy the natural beauty: Zuluk is a beautiful place with a lot to offer visitors. Take your time to explore the natural beauty and enjoy the unique culture and traditions of the local people.