{"id":872,"date":"2022-10-27T16:20:24","date_gmt":"2022-10-27T16:20:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/myoffbeatravelog.com\/?p=872"},"modified":"2024-10-27T11:19:25","modified_gmt":"2024-10-27T11:19:25","slug":"my-historic-old-silk-routesikkim-journey-part-ii","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/myoffbeatravelog.com\/?p=872","title":{"rendered":"My Historic Old Silk Route (Sikkim) Journey – Part II"},"content":{"rendered":"

Aritar – Rongli – Lingtum – Phadamchen – Zuluk<\/h1>\n

This second part of my historic old silk route journey has described the journey from Ramdhura in West Bengal to Zuluk in Sikkim. It was a very important part of the old silk route. The famous places are located at an altitude of about 5000 feet to 10,000 feet above sea level and these are rich in history and natural beauty. The overnight stay at Aritar and the next day, after collecting permits from Rongli Bazaar, the journey to Zuluk was the start of the real old Silk Route journey. Then Padamchen<\/strong>, via Lingtam<\/strong> to Zuluk, was a magnificent ride, never to be forgotten. But it is not possible to describe each place along this route in one post, so I have tried to give an idea. Each offbeat place has its own unique history, story, and natural beauty.<\/p>\n

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On March 8th, 2017, we woke up early in the morning to watch the Kanchenjunga sunrise from the balcony of Ramdhura homestay, but unfortunately, due to cloudy weather, we could not see it. Ramdhura’s overnight stay was good. After breakfast, we started for our next destination, Aritar. This is how we entered Sikkim from West Bengal, and our car first halted in front of the main gate of Arita Lake. Thus began the Sikkim chapter of our Silk Route itinerary. After seeing Aritar Gumpa, we started walking towards Mankhim Viewpoint. Although it was difficult to climb the stairs, seeing the natural beauty of the surroundings and the beautiful Rai temple, forgot all our troubles. Finally, we reached Sangay Homestay.\u00a0 After delicious lunch, the owner of the homestay offered to take me to some unknown places around the homestay, and I immediately accepted without any hesitation. Because locals are the best guides. We first went to a small gumpa located on a jungle trail. I was mesmerized by the serenity of the gumpa and the mystical atmosphere of that place. Buddhist monks choose these places to practice peace and meditation. Then, through the cardamom plantations, we reached the highest point of the hill, which is known only to the local people. From that place, one can see sunrise and sunset and a uniquely beautiful view of Aritar Lake. Mt. Kanchenjunga can be seen if luck is good. He told many unknown stories about Aritar.<\/p>\n

\"Aritar,<\/p>\n

Aritar – Where one of the oldest natural lakes in Sikkim is located<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Altitude & State<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Approximately at 5,100 ft above sea level. It\u2019s located in the eastern part of the Indian state Sikkim<\/strong>. It is in the Pakyong district under Rongli Subdivision.<\/p>\n

People, Language & Livelihood<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The diversity of various tribal communities like Lepcha, Rai, Sherpa, Newar, Bhutia, etc. can be lived here. Most people use Nepali language. Most depend on agriculture and animal husbandry. Tourism is currently the main source of income for the locals. Hence, eco-tourism is playing a significant role in the region.<\/p>\n

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Nearest Medical Facility of Aritar<\/strong><\/h4>\n