Nathang Valley Nathang Residency

GNATHANG VALLEY

Gnathang Valley, also known as Nathang Valley is a high-altitude plateau in East Sikkim. Located at an altitude of 13,500 feet above sea level and flanked by mountains on all sides, this is a remote valley with a meandering stream crisscrossing it. Gnathang is the highest location to stay in the Indian part of the Old Silk Route. It is one of the remotest Tibetan habitations in Himalayas. This lush valley was the home to traditional yak herders who came from Tibet. Gnathang Valley usually remains covered with thick snow from January to April. The long four-month of sub-zero temperature makes the valley a cold desert and one of the most beautiful parts of Himalayas. You would find a Hindu temple and a small Buddhist Monastery in the valley on the fringes of a small village. You would also find few streams snaking through the valley and makeshift bridges built on the stream. And there is nothing more except endless stretches of grassland, surrounded by high mountains. The valley is devoid of any trees and it seems out of this world. Just 5 kms away, you would find the famous Eagle’s Nest Bunker from where you can get a 360 degree view of the whole range of Mt. Kanchenjunga. The sunrise points of Lungthung and Gyamochen are just 5 kms from Nathang valley. You can take local sightseeing tours to Zuluk (24 kms away). The panoramic view of winding roads across Zuluk (also spelt as Dzuluk) with 32 turns is an interesting sight. Lungthung – Dhupidara also has a great view of Mt. Kanchenjungha and so does Thambi View Point and Tukla Valley. From Nathang, you can also move ahead following the GN Road and reach Kupup Lake (also known as Elephant Lake or Bitan Cho) at 15,600 feet above sea level. Some of the most sacred and scenic lakes like Jorepokri, Green lake, Changu lake and Menmecho Lake all fall within 25 kms of Nathang and can be covered in local sightseeing tours.