Nathu La Pass

Nathu La, a mountain pass in the Himalayan ranges that connects China with Sikkim, is one of the highest motorable highways in the world. One of the most significant Himalayan crossings in the nation, Nathu La, is located at an elevation of 14,450 feet above sea level on the Indo-Tibetan border. La means “pass,” while Nathu means “listening ears.” One of the three open trade border checkpoints separating China and India is Nathu La, which is renowned for its stunning scenery and natural beauty. For the most part, the temperature is still low here. Nathu La Pass, which links Sikkim with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, is situated along the Old Silk Route. Following the People’s Republic of China’s suppression of a Tibetan rebellion in 1959, it was shut for nearly 40 years. However, negotiations to open the strategic route were reopened when Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the former prime minister of India, visited China in 2003. Since its reopening in 2006, the Nathu La Pass has functioned as an authorized Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) Point. Nathu La Pass has been extremely important to Sino-Indian trade because it is one of the three open trading border checkpoints between China and India. Additionally, it has made the main pilgrimage sites for Buddhists and Hindus closer together, bolstering the economy and enhancing border relations with China.

Attraction

Anyone looking to get away from the grind of city life and be somewhere with a calm and peaceful atmosphere can definitely visit Sikkim’s Nathula Pass.

Considered one of the most important routes at the intersection of the India-China border, the rough beauty of this pass draws a lot of tourists each year. If you want to have an amazing time seeing Sikkim, visiting the well-known Nathula Pass ought to be at the top of your list of things to do there.

History

Nathula Pass, which links Sikkim and China and is situated on the Old Silk Route, was closed for over forty years following the People’s Republic of China’s suppression of a Tibetan uprising in 1959.

Following the 2003 visit of India’s former prime minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, to China, the route was reopened. Since its reopening in 2006, the Nathula Pass has functioned as an official border personnel meeting location.

Inside/Outside Views

You’ll find steep terrain, twisting roads, and frequently some snow inside the pass. The view outside widens to show off majestic peaks, valleys, and occasionally, clouds drifting below. It’s a breathtaking experience that perfectly captures the splendor of the natural world.

Opening Hours

Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM

Monday – Closed

Tuesday – Closed

Wednesday – 8 AM to 6 PM

Thursday – 8 AM to 6 PM

Friday – 8 AM to 6 PM

Saturday – 8 AM to 6 PM

How to Reach

By Air: Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport if you decide to travel by air. It has connections to Kolkata, Bangalore, Delhi, and other cities. This airport serves almost all major airlines. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to get to Gangtok.

By Rail: Jalpaiguri, 98 miles from Gangtok, is the closest train station. From here, you can take a taxi to Gangtok.

By Road: Sikkim has excellent access to other regions because of its well-maintained roadways. There are regular bus services from Kolkata, Darjeeling, Bagdogra, and Kalimpong.

Tips for Travellers

Make sure to carry multiple copies of your permit, identification, and passport-sized photographs.
The best months to visit NathuLa are April through mid-June and October and November, with the exception of Mondays and Tuesdays when Nathula Pass is closed.
Nathula Pass is at a high altitude, so it is easy to acclimatize and drink plenty of water.
Carry a basic first aid kit with medicines for altitude sickness, headaches, and common ailments.
Even in summer, temperatures can be quite low. Dress in layers, wear warm clothing and carry a good quality waterproof and windproof jacket.
Travel light and carry only essential items.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside the place?

Ans: photography is restricted in certain areas near Nathula Pass, especially around military installations and border areas.

Que-03: Why is Nathula Pass famous?

Ans: It was a major corridor of passage between India and Tibet before it was closed in 1962 during the Sino-Indian War. In 2006, it was reopened for limited trade and pilgrimage, becoming one of the key trading border posts between India and China.

Que-04: What is the historical significance of Nathula Pass?

Ans: Nathula Pass holds immense historical significance as it was part of the ancient Silk Route, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between India and Tibet. It was also the route used by famous pilgrims like Guru Nanak and the Dalai Lama.

Que-05: Do I need a permit to visit Nathula Pass?

Ans: The Nathula Pass can only be visited by the Indian nationals who hold a valid permit. Indian nationals can apply for the permit to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. You could also apply through your travel agency while booking the Sikkim holiday packages. The pass permit costs INR 200 per person.

Que-07: Is Nathula Pass open throughout the year?

Ans: The Nathula Pass is generally open for tourists from April to November, depending on the weather conditions. Tourists can usually access Nathula Pass five days a week, often from Wednesday to Sunday, with a two-day closure on Monday and Tuesday.

Que-08: Can I visit Nathula Pass without a guided tour?

Ans: Visiting Nathula Pass usually requires being part of an organiszd guided tour, especially for Indian tourists. The tour operators arrange the necessary permits and transportation to ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit.