After reaching Gangtok, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of East Sikkim as part of your Sikkim Journey. On Day 2 of your Sikkim journey, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of East Sikkim. Begin your adventure by visiting the historic Nathula Pass at the Indo-China border, then travel along the scenic Zuluk route, explore the spiritual Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, and end your day by relaxing at the stunning Changu Lake.
Have a light breakfast and start your journey by 6:30-7:00 am at the latest. This ensures you have an early start, allowing plenty of time to enjoy all the destinations at a relaxed pace.
Planning your Sikkim trip? Don’t miss our detailed itinerary for Day 1 in Gangtok
You can read here: Day 1 in Sikkim: Exploring Gangtok – How to Reach, What to Do, and Where to Stay
1. Nathula Pass: Gateway to the Indo-China Border
- Distance from Gangtok: 56 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 4-5 hours (2-3 hours as per map, but due to road conditions and longer routes as new roads were not functioning due to floods)
Start early to visit Nathula Pass, a strategic pass along the Indo-China border located at an elevation of 14,140 ft. The drive is beautiful, with snow-capped peaks and curving mountain roads. The pass itself is a place of great historical and military importance. So, make sure to start with light breakfast or have motion sickness medicines.
Important Details:
- Nathula pass permit is compulsory, costing around INR 4,500 per vehicle. This must be arranged in advance.
- Nathula pass is closed on certain days, so confirm your travel date beforehand.
At Nathula, you’ll get a rare opportunity to witness the Indo-China border and observe the soldiers posted on both sides. Although, photography is restricted at the peak of the pass.
Weather in Nathula Pass:
The air at Nathula Pass is thin, and temperatures can drop drastically. Dress warmly and be prepared for the cold! In April, we experienced 0 degrees here.
Despite the weather, the views are awe-inspiring. Even if forgotten, on the way you’ll find many shops selling warm clothes, maggi and snacks.
2. Zuluk Sightseeing: Serene Views Along the Old Silk Route
- Distance from Nathula Pass: 50 km
- Travel Time: 2-3 hours
If time permits, extend your journey towards Zuluk. Which is a small hamlet located along the Old Silk Route. Zuluk offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is less crowded than other tourist spots. Its famous zig-zag roads are an adventure in themselves, winding dramatically through the mountains. The journey from Nathula to Zuluk can be a bit rough due to the terrain. So be ready as it’s worth it if you’re up for some offbeat exploration.
If weather is cloudy or rainy you’ll not be able to view the Zuluk roads. So travel accordingly.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Thambi View Point: One of the best spots for a 360-degree view of the Himalayas and the iconic loops of Zuluk’s roads.
- Zuluk Loop Roads: A photographer’s dream; these roads snake through the mountains and provide some amazing photo opportunities.
Although Zuluk is a bit off the beaten path, the mesmerizing views and peaceful surroundings make it worth the visit.
You can also read: Discovering Chikmagalur: A 2-Day Adventure Guide
3. Visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: The Soldier’s Shrine
- Distance from Zuluk: 50 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours
After exploring Zuluk, head to the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, situated at an altitude of 13,123 ft. This shrine honors Baba Harbhajan Singh, a soldier of the Indian Army who is believed to still protect the borders. Locals and soldiers visit the temple to pay their respects to this spiritual guardian. One needs to remove their footwear while climbing few steps to enter the temple even in cold climate, so come prepared.
Things to Know:
- The temple has a mystical ambiance, often covered in a veil of fog.
- It’s advisable to carry warm clothing, as the temperature drops significantly at this altitude
- There are nice Bhutan style structure around the temple to rest and enjoy
4. Changu Lake (Tsomgo Lake view): Sikkim’s Serene High-Altitude Gem
- Distance from Baba Mandir: 16 km
- Travel Time: 1 hour
Conclude your day at the serene Changu Lake, also known as Tsomgo Lake. Located at an altitude of 12,400 ft, the lake is surrounded by towering mountains and reflects a stunning azure blue during summer. In winter, it freezes over, adding to its mystical allure.
Things to Do:
- Take a yak ride around the lake and explore its surroundings.
- Cable Car Ride: A must-try experience here is the cable car, which offers breathtaking views of the entire valley. The cable car can accommodate 5-6 people, and per person costs INR 270 per person. It’s the only cable car available with individual seating.
The ride stops at the top, allowing passengers to disembark, take in the panoramic views, and enjoy some tea and snacks from nearby stalls. Afterwards, you can hop back on the same cable car for the return journey, all included in the ticket price. - Enjoy a hot cup of tea or local snacks from nearby stalls.
You can also read: Top 7 Places to Visit in Kasol
This serene lake is not just a visual treat but also holds religious significance for the locals. The lake is a peaceful spot to wind down after a day of adventure.
Return to Gangtok
After a full day of sightseeing and adventure, you’ll return to Gangtok by evening. The journey back takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel or explore the local food scene at MG Marg before settling in for the night.
Day 2 of your Sikkim itinerary offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and thrilling experiences. From the strategic Nathula Pass to the serene Changu Lake, this scenic route through East Sikkim is a must for any traveler
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