Nathula Pass in Sikkim
The most popular tourist destination in Sikkim is the high altitude pass known as Nathu la, which is located on the former silk road at the Indo-China border. Several travellers come here each year to take in the picturesque valley hike and the lyrical waterfalls that can be heard as they go from Gangtok to Nathu la. Also, it provides a spectacular picture of the snow-covered mountains against the backdrop of a clear blue sky and winding, long roads. The stunning view of the mountain-protected Chumbi Valley in Tibet is provided by Nathu La.
Tibetan words "Nathu" and "la" mean "Listening ears" and "pass," respectively. One of the highest motorable roads in the world, it is located at an elevation of 4302 m and is surrounded by stunning scenery and a cool mountain breeze. The majority of the year is spent with chilly weather, and the summer months see a huge influx of tourists. The fact that this mountain pass is one of three trading border checkpoints between China and India—the other two are in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand—is another noteworthy feature about it.
Things to do:
The view of the international boundary between China and India, which was concealed by massive gates, barbed wire, and military bunkers. Indian tourists can pay a visit to the Watershed War Monument to honour the soldiers' sacrifices during the course of the war. Moreover, a canteen and Army Exhibition Center are close by. And from Nathula Pass, a meandering route that is about 16 km long takes you to the stunning Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by high mountain peaks and flower-filled meadows. The Yak ride, which is this location's most well-liked attraction, cannot be missed.Enjoy the 4 km scenic hike from Baba Mandir, also known as the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple, which is near to Tsomgo Lake, to Menmecho Lake as part of your visit to this location. The mountains covered in snow that surround the Jelep La pass feed the Menmecho Lake. The nearby Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary and Zuluk Wildlife Sanctuary are home to a variety of rich and uncommon plant and animal species. A journey to Nathu la is made more worthwhile by the numerous additional visits to the stunning places around.
How to reach:
The journey from Gangtok to Nathula Pass is charming and adventurous, with tricky roads and strong winds at high altitudes. From the tour companies authorised by the government of Sikkim, one can choose from shared jeeps and other reserved vehicles accessible in Gangtok.But, before beginning your journey to Nathula, one (only Indian) must obtain the Protected Area Permit (PAP) issued by Tourism and Civil Aviation at Gangtok, or through licenced travel agencies and a small number of hotels. The Nathula Pass Permit costs Rs. 200, and it is not necessary for children under the age of 4 years.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit is in the summer, which runs from May through October. The Tsomgo Lake and the bold mountains can be seen well due to the pleasant weather. Only Indian citizens are permitted access to Nathula Pass on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Winters see it completely blanketed in snow, and the temperature lowers to -25 o Celsius. If you adore snow, it is advised to carry thick wool clothing to withstand the chilly climate. Nevertheless, due to the snow-covered roads and bitterly cold weather, this is not the season that is recommended for visiting Nathula Pass. Even so, the breathtaking scene of snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes will astound you with its beauty and allure.The situation is essentially the same with rain.
