Here is another jewel you can embed in your Old Silk Route-Zuluk itinerary crown. It is called the Thambi View Point. Standing at an altitude of 11,200 feet, this view point offers a clear view of Mount Kanchenjunga in all its serenity. It is located 14 kilometres north of Zuluk and can be reached through the famous three-level Zig-Zag road, popularly known as ‘Bhulbhulaiya.’ As you traverse through the foggy 30 hairpin loops, Thambi View Point will appear suddenly as a roadside junction and surprise you. The view point has been named after the civil engineer who was assigned during the construction of the road. It is also frequented by tourists who come here to view lovely sunrises and the Zig-Zag route in its totality. There is a Yeti point near this place, where the locals have reportedly spotted a Bonzhakri (Yeti). Thambi View Point is only a little above Lungthung Valley and remains snow-covered during winters. You will observe Rhododendrons overly growing in this place.
Your journey will begin from Siliguri. You can reach here directly by a car or halt in Gangtok for a night and then continue. The Thambi View Point is only a stoppage and no accommodation facilities are available here. You can arrange for your stay in Zuluk or proceed to Gnathang Valley for the same. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the view point from Zuluk by car.
October to February, it is wintertime here and the road remains mostly snow-covered. The weather is cold and chilly and you might have to carry a lot of woollens. Do not attempt a journey if the snow is too thick as the road will be closed. March to May is a pleasant time here. The cold is bearable and flowers are blooming everywhere. Monsoons are equally beautiful during June to September. However, as the road is winding, it can be risky for a drive. You should ask a local guide to take you to the view point. Because this is a roadside spot, jot in on your Zuluk itinerary according to the weather that’s best for the latter. Also, don’t forget to carry your camera to click some wonderful snaps of Mount Kanchenjunga and the twisting and turning ZigZag road.