Budget homestay village · Thambi View Point
Lungthung homestays
A few high homestays at Lungthung, around 3,800 m, a short drive above Thambi View Point on the road to Nathang. Sunrise over the Kangchenjunga range from the doorstep, for acclimatised travellers who want to skip the dark pre-dawn drive from Zuluk.
Photo: Mousourik · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
A few high homestays at Lungthung, around 3,800 m, a short drive above Thambi View Point on the road to Nathang. Sunrise over the Kangchenjunga range from the doorstep, for acclimatised travellers who want to skip the dark pre-dawn drive from Zuluk.
Lungthung is a scatter of houses and army posts on the open ridge between Thambi View Point and Nathang. A small number of families host guests here in basic rooms warmed by a kitchen stove, and the reason to stay is simple: on a clear morning the Kangchenjunga range lights up in front of you without leaving the house.
This is high and cold, so treat it like Nathang: sleep lower at Zuluk or Padamchen first. Facilities are basic, water may freeze overnight, and snow can close the road from December to March. Indian nationals only, with the Silk Route permit arranged via Rongli. Check current status before you travel.
Why we book it
What it does well
- Sunrise on the Kangchenjunga range from the doorstep
- No pre-dawn drive up the Zuluk loops
- One of the highest family stays on the Silk Route
Questions travellers ask
Questions about Lungthung homestays
Lungthung or Zuluk: which is better for sunrise?
Lungthung, if you are acclimatised. You see the sunrise on the Kangchenjunga range from your door instead of driving up the loops in the dark. Zuluk is lower, warmer and easier on the body, and Thambi View Point is 30–40 minutes above it. For families and first-timers we still suggest Zuluk.
How cold is Lungthung at night?
Very cold. Even in October and April night temperatures fall below freezing, and in winter they can drop well below minus 10 °C. Bring a down jacket, thermals, gloves, a warm cap and good socks, and expect a stove in the kitchen rather than heaters in rooms. Pipes can freeze, so water may come in buckets.
Can children stay at Lungthung?
We do not recommend it for babies and young children, who cannot tell you when they feel the altitude. Older children who did well at Zuluk are usually fine for one night. If anyone in your group has a heart or lung condition, sleep at Zuluk and visit Lungthung by day. Ask your doctor before travel if unsure.
Also in Pakyong and the Silk Route
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