Zuluk in Winter: Snow, Permits, Road and What to Expect (2026-27)
Zuluk's switchbacks under snow are one of Sikkim's great winter sights. Here is when it snows, how the permit and road work in winter, and what to pack.
Zuluk is a small village at about 2,850 m in East Sikkim, on the old trade route that once ran from Tibet through Nathang to Kalimpong. The road above it climbs in dozens of hairpin bends, and in winter those bends turn white. It's one of the most photographed sights in Sikkim.
For the history and a full Old Silk Route plan, see exploring the Old Silk Route.
Does it snow in Zuluk?
Yes, most winters. Snow usually falls on the higher parts of the route from December to February:
| Place | Altitude | In winter |
|---|---|---|
| Zuluk | About 2,850 m | Cold, snow some days |
| Thambi viewpoint | About 3,400 m | Snow likely, views over the switchbacks |
| Nathang Valley | About 4,100 m | Often snow-covered from December |
| Kupup and the Elephant Lake | About 4,000 m | Snow and ice, and the first to close |
Fresh snow on a particular date is never guaranteed. Mid-December to February gives the best chance.
The permit in winter
Zuluk is in a restricted area. Indian travellers need a permit, arranged through a registered Sikkim operator, with photo ID and photos sent a day or two ahead. Permits are usually processed through Rongli on the way.
In winter, permits can be stopped when heavy snow is forecast or the road is blocked. Keep a spare day in your plan, and don't book non-refundable stays on the exact night.
Zuluk is currently closed to foreign nationals.
The road in winter
- Black ice forms on shaded bends in the mornings. Drivers slow right down and sometimes fit chains.
- Snow can close the road above Zuluk for a day or more after a heavy fall, cutting off Nathang and Kupup.
- Only Sikkim-registered vehicles can drive the route on the permit. A car from Siliguri or Darjeeling can't. See can a Siliguri taxi go everywhere in Sikkim.
Where to stay
Zuluk and Nathang have simple homestays, with shared bathrooms, thick quilts and home-cooked food. There are no hotels in the usual sense. In winter, electricity and water can be unreliable, and nights fall well below freezing at Nathang.
What to pack
- Thermal innerwear, a fleece and a down jacket.
- Warm gloves, a woollen cap and thick socks.
- Waterproof shoes with grip for snow.
- Sunglasses, because sun on snow is bright.
- A power bank and enough cash. There are no ATMs, and card payments are rare.
Altitude
Nathang and Kupup are around 4,000 m. Spend your first night at Zuluk, not higher, drink water and go slowly. Come down if anyone develops a bad headache, vomiting or breathlessness at rest.
Getting to Zuluk
Zuluk is about 90 km from Gangtok, roughly four hours. Some plans start from Siliguri via Rongli instead. See our Gangtok car rental page for Sikkim vehicles with drivers.
Helpful Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zuluk open in winter?
Usually yes, but permits can be paused after heavy snow. Keep a spare day.
Does it snow in Zuluk in December?
Often from mid-December, especially at Thambi, Nathang and Kupup.
Can I visit Zuluk in January?
Yes, if the road is open. January is cold and snowy, with the best chance of white switchbacks.
Can foreigners visit Zuluk?
Not at present. Zuluk is closed to foreign nationals.
How far is Zuluk from Gangtok?
About 90 km, roughly four hours by road.
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