Silk Route Tour

Trip Overview

The Silk Route tour in India offers a mesmerizing journey through ancient trade routes, showcasing a blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. This expedition retraces the paths of ancient traders who traversed the rugged Himalayas, connecting the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia and beyond. Here's a concise overview of this remarkable adventure: The Silk Route, also known as the Silk Road of the Himalayas, spans through several states in India, including Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh. This route was historically significant for the trade of silk, spices, precious metals, and other commodities between India, Tibet, China, and Central Asia. The journey commences in the bustling town of Gangtok, Sikkim, where travelers immerse themselves in the unique blend of cultures, enjoy traditional cuisine, and explore local markets. The route then meanders through breathtaking landscapes, featuring lush forests, meandering rivers, and imposing Himalayan peaks. In Sikkim, travelers have the opportunity to visit the ancient Silk Route Baba Mandir, Nathula Pass, and Tsomgo Lake, providing a glimpse into the region's historical and natural marvels. The journey then proceeds to the beautiful Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, where the stark desert-like terrain and ancient monasteries captivate travelers.

Enchanting Trails: Exploring Uttarakhand and Ladakh on the Himalayan Silk Route

Uttarakhand offers a serene experience with its picturesque villages, verdant hills, and historical trade posts. Travelers can explore charming towns like Munsiyari and Chaukori, which were key stops on the ancient Silk Route. The scenic beauty and the chance to interact with the locals make this leg of the journey truly enriching. Ladakh, often also considered the crown jewel of the Silk Route expedition, unfolds a majestic panorama of high-altitude desert landscapes, monasteries, and ancient trade routes. The Leh-Manali Highway, passing through high mountain passes like Taglang La and Tanglang La, is a highlight, showcasing the region's awe-inspiring scenery. Throughout the expedition, travelers also have the opportunity to interact with local communities, learn about their customs, and witness traditional art forms. The Silk Route tour provides not only an adventurous journey but also a glimpse into the historical trade that shaped cultures and civilizations over centuries.

Conclusion and Summary

In conclusion, embarking on the Silk Route tour in India is a voyage through time, presenting a kaleidoscope of nature, culture, and history, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories of an ancient trade route that once bridged nations and enriched lives.

Trip Highlights

Satiate the adventureur in you as you go exploring the historic silk route in East Sikkim and travel on some of the most dangerous routes in the world
Walk around the Lampokhari Lake in Aritar which is one of the oldest natural lakes in Sikkim amidst the beautiful pine forest
Get a chance to witness the impressive historic legacy of Sikkim at Zuluk that once served as a pit stop to the traders of silk route years ago
Pass through the breathtaking zigzag route of 32 hairpin bends to reach Nathang Valley famous for being covered with a sheet of snow in winters
Spend some time in the lap of nature along the gurguling River Reshi enclosed with a forest rich in flora and fauna

Itinerary

Day 01: NJP/IXB to Gangtok transfer

Welcome on arrival at IXB/NJP meet our representative and transfer to Gangtok (110kms/4hrs), at an altitude of 5500ft Gangtok is the Capital of Sikkim. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Gangtok Local Sightseeing - Full Day

After breakfast visit Hanuman Tak,Ganesh Tak,Tashi view Point(These three points are famous for watching beautiful early morning view on Mt Kanchenjunga).Best point sightseeing tour in and around the capital city of Sikkim, covering Dro-Dul Chortan, Stupa, Institute of Tibetology Institute of Handicrafts and handlooms along with cottage Industry, Flower show, Ropeway, Bakthang Waterfall & Banjhakri Falls . Evening free at Gangtok for shopping and individual activity. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Gangtok to Nathang transfer

After morning breakfast start for Nathang. Reach Changu Lake (Tsomgo Lake), New Baba Mandir, Nathula (optional with extra costs), Four Lake Point, Menmecho Lake, Tukla, Old Baba Mandir, Kupup Lake, Jelep la, Yak Golf Course, Ice Hockey Field and reach Nathang by afternoon. Overnight stay at Nathang Valley.

Day 04: Nathang to Zuluk / Padamchen transfer

Early morning Sunrise from Eagle’s Nest Bunker Point or Lungthung and back for breakfast to Nathang. Have breakfast and leave for Zuluk via Lungthung, Thambi View Point and Zuluk. Overnight stay at Padamchen/ Zuluk.

Day 05: Zuluk / Padamchen to Mankhim transfer

Early morning Sunrise from Thambi View Point and back for breakfast to Padamchen. Have breakfast and leave for Mankhim. On the way sightseeing at Kuikhola Waterfalls, Lingtum, Lampokhari (Aritar Lake), British Bungalow, Rai Temple. Overnight at Mankhim.

Day 06: Malbazaar to Kalimpong transfer with half day local ss

After morning breakfast transfer to Kalimpong via Damdim ,another quiete hill station in eastern Himalaya. Kalimpong is famous for its Orchids & Nurseries and some of the some of the rarest cacti & Orchids can be seen. Oak, Maple and chestnut stretch up the ridge as far as the eye can reach. After check in at hotel go for half day sight seeing covering Mangal Dham, Dr. Graham’s Home, Budha Statue, Deolo Hills. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 07: Kalimpong Sightseeing - Full day

After breakfast visit Mangal Dham, Dr. Graham’s Home, Budha Statue, Deolo Hills, Durpin Dara Hill, Golf Garden, Zelepla View Point, Pine View Nursery & Kali Temple. Back to hotel. Overnight stay at Kalimpong.

Day 08: Kalimpong to NJP/IXB transfer

Morning transfer to IXB/NJP ( 75kms / 3hrs). Tour End.

Price Includes

Accommodation on twin sharing basis as per package selected.
Meal Plan MAP (Breakfast and Dinner) as per tour plan.
To & Fro Ex Leh Airport Transfers (For Ex Leh Packages only)
All transfer/sightseeing as per itinerary (point to point) using Non AC Innova / Xylo .
12 Seater Force Tempo Traveler for 6 / 8 / 10 / 12 person as per above selected tour package (Point to Point)
01 Oxygen Cylinder in each vehicle for visit to Nubra, Pangong Lake, Hanle & Tsomoriri Lake visits only.
Daily 01 mineral water bottle, juice and snacks during the sightseeing
Inner line permit / Environmental permit, Ladakh Entry Fees, Wild Life Fees & Red Cross society fee.
5% Goods and Services Tax.

Price Excludes

Any airfare.
Any Kind of Personal Expenses or Optional Tours / Extra Meals Ordered
Monument / Museum Entrances, Rafting & Camel ride.
Services of local tour guide.
Anything not specifically mentioned under the head “Prices included”.
Tips, Insurance, Laundry, Phone Calls.
Any Kind of Drinks (Alcoholic, Mineral, Aerated)
Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/ stay on account of flight cancellation due to bad weather, ill health, roadblocks and/or any factors beyond our control.