Nathula Pass Gangtok Entry Fee
- No Entry Fee
- 200 per person for permit
Nathula Pass Gangtok Phone
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Nathula Pass Gangtok Address: Yadong County, Shigatse, Sikkim, 737131, India
Nathula Pass (also Nathu La) is a well-known mountain pass in the Himalayas. It has been a part of the old Silk Route, facilitating local trade with the Tibet Autonomous Region. When you’re in Gangtok, a trip to Nathula Pass on the India-China border is almost customary. It’s situated at a lofty altitude of 14,000 feet.
Nathula is nothing less than paradise. Nathu means “listening ears” in Tibetan, and La means “pass.” So, Nathu La really means “whistling pass.”
Nathu La stands as a perfect blend of natural splendour, historical significance, and a dash of adrenaline. It’s one of the highest motorable roads in the world. And it has emerged as a popular tourist destination recently.
Whatever time you visit, you’re greeted with a chilly mountain breeze. Its beautiful terrain, pure nature and lovely people leave everyone in awe. On a clear day, you can even see the beauty of the Chumbi Valley of Tibet on the other side.
Tourists visit the border point, as well as other places near Nathula mountain pass, throughout the year. Hindu pilgrims also travel to Kailash Mansarovar via Nathula Pass.
Where is Nathula Pass in Gangtok?
Nathula Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass on the India-China border, 52 km away from Gangtok. The journey from Gangtok to Nathula Pass is a charming ride full of curved roads and scenic, snow-covered views. With an altitude of over 14,000 feet from the sea level, it’s one of the highest passes accessible to tourists via motorable roads.
History of Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass in Sikkim falls on the old silk trade route between India and Tibet (current Tibet Autonomous Region). Lines of mules used to carry silk and other fabrics from Tibet to India. In return, they carried daily essential items back to Tibet. The route facilitated the trade of spices, wood/metalwork, precious stones and many other items of value.
Nathula Pass Silk Route was active until 1962 when the India-China war broke out. While this area was relatively quiet, a firing across the border in 1965 heightened the tension.
In 1967, a major clash took place between the two countries in Nathu La. Many soldiers lost their lives in this battle. And the pass and the border were closed to people.
After around 40 years of closure, the trade route was reopened in 2006. But limited trade is allowed between the two countries, only near the border. Trading areas have been set up on both sides.
Items such as wool, raw silk and yak hair can be imported duty-free from Tibet. Tea, coffee, clothes and other essential items can be exported to China.
Things to do at Nathula Pass Gangtok
1. Walking up the hundred stairs – Nathula Pass border is a barbed wire, with armies of both nations guarding their side of the country. You need to get off near the border gate, walk a few paces up the slope and climb some stairs to reach the actual border. Climb those hundred or so stairs slowly, taking ample rest in between, and serene views of the mountain and the other side welcomes you. You may even get to click photos and shake hands with the Chinese soldiers.
2. Enjoy panoramic snowy views – From the border, you can get 360-degree views of the snow-capped mountains and a sparkling-white view of the sun. Apart from that, the valley on the other side and its winding roads may also be visible on a clear day. You can even get a glimpse of Bhutan’s Mt. Chomolhari (also called “Bride of Kangchenjunga”) from Nathula Pass.
3. Shopping for souvenirs – Apart from the border check post, Nathula Pass also has an army exhibition centre and a war memorial of the soldiers who died during the 1967 scuffle. In the complex, you can buy Chinese coins and other traditional Tibetan and Chinese products as souvenirs. You might even get a certificate for your visit to Nathu La.
4. Visiting Baba Mandir – Baba Mandir is the shrine of Major Harbhajan Singh, who drowned in a glacier. It’s a place of spiritual significance for the army, who believes that the major still takes care of them. While the original shrine is inaccessible to tourists, you can visit this new temple on the way back to Gangtok. It’s only a few kilometres away from Nathula Pass.
5. Stopping by Tsomgo Lake – Another tourist attraction that’s worth visiting near Nathula Pass Gangtok is the azure blue Tsomgo Lake (also called Chhangu Lake). The lake remains frozen during winter, and you can take a yak ride on and around the lake. It’s formed by the melting of the Himalayan glaciers, and it’s one of the most beautiful lakes in the region.
6. Exploring other places nearby – While the ride on the Gangtok to Nathula Pass Road is an adventure in itself, you can explore a buffet of offbeat tourist destinations nearby. Mandakini Waterfall, Kyongnosla Falls and Menmecho Lake are some of the natural attractions worth visiting. Hangu Lake is another. If you have time, you should also visit Gnathang Monastery, Gnathang War Memorial and the world’s second-highest golf course in Kupup. Apart from that, there’s the unmissable “Mera Bharat Mahan” Hill.
Nathula Pass Timings and Entry Fees
Nathula Pass opening time is from 8 AM to 6 PM. But you’re asked to leave it by 2-3 PM for your own safety from chilly winds and twisty mountain roads. Nathula Pass visiting days are from Wednesday to Sunday. It stays fully closed for tourists on Mondays and Tuesdays.
It’s open throughout the year, except for the time when heavy snow or rain blocks the road. So, in essence, the pass is mostly inaccessible during winter (November – February).
Visit early in the morning and during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
Nathula Pass entry fee is zero, but you need the Protected Area Permit (PAP) for your Nathula Pass trip from Gangtok. Only Indian nationals can get the permit; foreign tourists aren’t allowed at Nathula Pass.
The cost of the Nathula Pass permit is ₹200. Children below five years old don’t require the permit, but it’s suggested that you don’t take small kids there. Nathula Pass’s oxygen level is really low.
Sikkim Nathula Pass Permit Details
Gangtok Nathula Pass permit (called Protected Area Permit) is given only to Indian nationals. You can get it from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department office near the Tadong area. This Nathula Pass entry permit costs ₹200.
You need a tourist permit as well as a permit for the vehicle taking you there. Tha vehicle permit is issued at the police check post, a few kilometres on the way to Nathu La.
Nathula Pass permit requirements:
- Each passenger’s ID proof (voter ID or passport).
- Two passport-size photos of each passenger.
- Vehicle registration, insurance and pollution certificate.
- Driver’s driving license.
You need to submit your documents one day before the trip. And you get the permit on the day of your trip (if Nathu La is open for tourists).
Keep your original documents with you during the trip.
It’s best to request a registered cab operator or your travel agency to get a permit. Self-driven cars aren’t allowed in Nathula Pass. They are allowed only to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. Your hotel might also arrange a vehicle and a permit for you.
Other facts about Nathula Pass Sikkim:
- Nathula Pass temperature: -20°C to 0°C (in winter) to 0°C to 20°C (in summer)
- Nathula Pass snow time: Winter (November – February)
- Nathula Pass altitude: around 14,000 feet above sea level
- Nathula Pass oxygen level: around 60% of oxygen at sea level
- Nathula pass distance from Gangtok: 52 km from the city centre
- Gangtok to Nathula Pass travel time: about 2 hours
Best time to visit Nathula Pass
The best time to see Nathula Pass Gangtok is summer (from March to June). It’s when the temperature in Nathula Pass is the most comfortable. You also get clear views during these days. If you want to enjoy snowfall, winter is the best time. But chances are Nathula Pass is closed for tourists on most days.
Early winter (around October/November) or late winter months (around February/March) are also good. During these months, Nathula Pass viewpoint has snow, and it’s open for tourists.
Time to explore Nathula Pass Gangtok
Although you can explore this place in an hour, a trip to Nathula Pass takes a full day from Gangtok. It includes the visit to Baba Mandir and Tsomgo Lake near Nathula Pass. Leave early in the morning to make the most of your trip.
You can visit many other places near Nathula Pass China border and those that fall on the way. Plan accordingly if you want to see them all.
Things to keep in mind when visiting Nathula Pass
- Nathula Pass open days are from Wednesday to Sunday.
- It might be closed due to unforeseen weather/road issues.
- Traffic might be held up for hours due to unforeseen issues.
- Only Indian nationals are allowed at Nathula Pass.
- Kids below 5 years of age should avoid Nathula Pass.
- People with chronic health issues should avoid Nathula Pass.
- Apply for the necessary permits a day before.
- Carry original copies of identification documents with you.
- A limited number of permits are issued in a day.
- Leave early to get your trip permit approved.
- Only registered local tourist vehicles are allowed.
- Be cautious of high-altitude sickness.
- Keep essential medications and a first aid kit.
- Carry an oxygen cylinder for breathing problems.
- Pack bottled water and snacks.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Respect military guidelines at the border.
- Refrain from taking photos without army permission.
- Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
- Avoid littering the places you visit.
Nathula Pass Dress Requirements
- Thermals, woollen sweaters and a heavy jacket.
- A woollen or fleece cap.
- Scarf or muffler.
- Woollen or insulated gloves.
- Woollen or thermal socks.
- Cold weather face masks.
- Good quality UV, tinted sunglasses.
- Waterproof and sturdy shoes or boots.
- A waterproof jacket or poncho (in case it rains).
- Extra set of clothes (in case you get wet).
How to reach Nathula Pass from Gangtok?
The location of Nathula Pass is 52 km from Gangtok, on Jawaharlal Nehru Road. The distance between Nathula Pass and Gangtok Deorali bus stand is about 60 km. The nearest railway station to Nathula Pass is New Jalpaiguri Junction, 168 km away, and the nearest airport is at Bagdogra, 173 km away.
Now, the following are the different ways for visiting Nathula Pass Gangtok –
By bike – You can take your bike or rent one in Gangtok for the day. Remember to get the Nathula Pass bike ride permit before your trip.
By cab/taxi – Getting a shared taxi or full-day cab is the most comfortable way to go to Nathu La. SUVs are available from the top car rental companies in Gangtok. They take care of the permit. So, you can visit the border and explore other places on the way at your convenience.
FAQs about Nathula Pass
The documents required to visit Nathula Pass are as follows:
- Passengers’ ID proofs (voter ID or passport).
- Driving license and ID proof of driver
- Two passport-size photos of each passenger.
- Vehicle registration, insurance and pollution certificate.
Rider’s ID proof (voter ID or passport) and driving license.
- Co-rider’s ID proof.
- Two passport-size photos of both people.
- Bike registration, insurance and pollution certificate.
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