Getting to Zuluk – Your Options

Zuluk, a remote Himalayan hamlet in East Sikkim, isn’t the easiest place to reach—but that’s part of its charm. Nestled along the historic Silk Route, this offbeat destination requires some planning. Here’s the best way to get there.

1. By Air – Fly to Bagdogra (Nearest Airport)

The closest airport is Bagdogra (IXB) in West Bengal, about 150 km (5-6 hours drive) from Zuluk. Flights connect from Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. From Bagdogra, hire a shared taxi to Gangtok (4 hours), then another to Zuluk (3-4 hours).

How to Reach Zuluk

Pro Tip: Book a private cab from Bagdogra directly to reach Zuluk for convenience. Roads get foggy after noon, so aim for an early arrival.

You should know: Best time to Visit Zuluk, Things to do in Zuluk, Complete Guide for Zuluk

2. By Train – New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Siliguri

The nearest major railheads are New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Siliguri Junction (SGUJ). Trains from Delhi, Kolkata, and other cities stop here. From NJP/Siliguri:

  • Take a shared jeep to Gangtok (₹250-300 per person).
  • From Gangtok, book a cab to Zuluk (₹2500-3500 for a full vehicle).

Alternative Route: Some jeeps go directly from Siliguri to Rongli (near Zuluk), but they’re rare.

3. By Road – Self-Drive or Taxi

If you love road trips, the drive to Zuluk is half the adventure.

From Gangtok (95 km, ~4-5 hours)

  • Follow NH10 to Rangpo, then take the Rongli-Zuluk route.
  • The road winds through 32 hairpin bends—go slow and enjoy the views.

From Siliguri (160 km, ~6-7 hours)

  • Take the Sevoke-Rorathang-Rongli route for fewer traffic jams.
  • Avoid monsoon (July-Sept) when landslides block roads.

Self-Drive? Only attempt if you’re experienced with mountain driving. Most visitors hire local drivers.

Permits You’ll Need

Zuluk falls under a protected area, so permits are mandatory:

  • Indians: ILP (Inner Line Permit) from Rangpo or Gangtok tourism office.
  • Foreigners: Restricted Area Permit (RAP), usually arranged via tour operators.

Tip: Homestays in Zuluk often help with permits if you book in advance.

Best Time to Visit

  • March-June: Clear skies, great for photography.
  • October-December: Crisp air, snow-capped views.
  • Avoid July-September (landslides) and January-February (heavy snow).

Final Tips for a Smooth Journey

✔ Pack light – Roads are steep, and luggage space in shared jeeps is tight.
✔ Carry cash – ATMs are scarce beyond Gangtok.
✔ Start early – Mountain roads get crowded by midday.
✔ Motion sickness? Take meds—those hairpin bends are no joke.

Ready for the Adventure?

Zuluk isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey through time. Whether you come by plane, train, or winding mountain roads, the effort pays off with untouched Himalayan beauty. Just don’t forget your camera—and your sense of adventure.

Need help planning? Ask me about the best pit stops (like Aritar Lake) along the way!

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