Nature · Padamchen
Silk Route forest drive to Zuluk view
A short drive up the forest road to the first Zuluk viewpoints and back, to see the sanctuary's changing forest and decide whether to stay higher.
Photo: Madhumita Das · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
The road from Padamchen climbs from about 2,200 m to Zuluk at about 2,800 m, passing oak, then rhododendron and conifer. Wikipedia gives the sanctuary's range as 1,760 to 4,390 m, and you travel through a good part of it.
Stop at designated pull-offs only. Army convoys use the road, so photograph only where permitted and avoid military installations. Keep your permit, ID and photocopies with you for checkpoints.
The drive takes about 45 minutes one way. Go early, when light is good, then return to Padamchen for breakfast or continue to Thambi View Point if you plan to. Check current status of road and permits before you travel.
Good for
Questions travellers ask
Before you book
Are photographs allowed along the road?
Scenery is fine, but not military installations, convoys or personnel. Follow signs and your driver's advice. Photography near check posts can be restricted. Ask if unsure.
Do we need our permit on this drive?
Yes. Carry the permit, original ID for every traveller and copies, and show them at check posts. The permit is for Indian nationals only. Check current status before you travel.
How long does the drive to Zuluk take?
About 45 minutes for 13 km, longer behind trucks or after rain. Landslides can slow or stop traffic. Add buffer time and check current status before you travel.
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