What is there in Nathula Pass?
Emily Ross
Published Jan 17, 2026
Nathu La is a mountain pass in the Dongkya Range of the Himalayas between China's Yadong County in Tibet, and the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal in Bengal, South Asia. The pass, at 4,310 m, connects the towns of Kalimpong and Gangtok to the villages and towns of the lower Chumbi Valley.
What is special about Nathula Pass?
Since it is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China, Nathu La Pass has played a key role in the Sino-Indian Trade. It has also shortened the distance between the important Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage sites, thus strengthening the economy and improving border relations with China.
Is it worth to go to Nathula Pass?
Yes, it's a Border, but unlike Wagah border, it is an altogether a different feeling to stand there by the side of Chinese soldiers and looking at there area. There are basically, two conference-halls/ meeting point. - You need a permit to visit Nathula Pass.
Where is the famous Nathula Pass?
Located on the Old Silk Route, Nathula Pass which connects Sikkim to China was sealed for almost four decades after the People's Republic of China repressed a Tibetan rebellion in 1959. It was after India's former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's China visit in 2003 that the route was resumed.
Is there ice in Nathula Pass?
Always covered with ice. Oxygen level is thin. Travellers who visit Gangtok,must visit this place subject to getting permit. More than the border of two countries the approach way is really nice.
35 related questions foundDoes Sikkim have snowfall?
Ans: Sikkim receives snowfall in winters (October to March), while some places are snow-covered throughout the year.
Is Sikkim an Indian state?
Sikkim is a State in Northeast India. It is one of the fastest growing, multiethnic and multilingual Indian state. It borders Tibet in the north and northeast, Bhutan in the east, Nepal in the west and West Bengal in the south. SIkkim is also located close to India's Siliguri corridor near Bangladesh.
Are kids allowed in Nathu La pass?
For Nathula the government issues permits only to kids who are above 5 years of age. The altitude is 14400 fts and people prone to altitude sickness due to thin air level. Changu Lake which is 12500 fts does not have too much of breathing problems.
Do we need passport for Nathu La pass?
You can not take a city taxi or a self driven vehicle to Nathula... you won't be allowed. The permit is issued by the Sikkim Tourism Department in Gangtok / Police Check Post. You will need photo ID proof such as Passport / Voters Id Card (PAN card is not accepted) and two passport size photos each.
Is Aadhaar card valid in Sikkim?
Re: Is aadhar card valid to get permits in sikkim ? yes it is absolutely valid , we visited Gangtok and Lachung in May 2019 as a group of 4 adults and we provided 3 passports and one Aadhar card as proof of identities .
What is the height of Nathula Pass?
The mighty mountain pass of Nathu La is located at an astonishing height of approximately 4,310 meters above sea level and is considered to be one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world.
Which days Nathula Pass is open?
1 answer. Nathula is open from Wednesday to Sunday, closed on Monday and Tuesday. The permit need to be sought locally. Your local travel agent or tour partner may arrange the Nathula visit permit or ask your hotel if they can arrange.
Is Nathula pass and zero point same?
Nathula and Zero point can not be compared and both are must visit place.
Which pass connects India and Tibet?
Jelep Pass lies at an elevation of about 14,390 feet (4,386 metres), in the Dongkya Range of the eastern Himalayas. The pass (la), with its gentle gradient, was a crucial link in the main trade route from India to Tibet until the border was closed in 1962.
How do I get permission for Nathula pass?
A permit can be obtained by applying to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. You can apply through a registered travel agency. A photo ID proof and two passport size photographs are required for the same. The Nathula Pass permit cost is INR 200/- per person.
Is Nathula pass Silk Route?
Being an important pass on the intersection of the Indo-China border, historic Nathula Pass forms a part of an offshoot of the Old Silk Route. Nathula is a mountain pass located in Eastern Sikkim that serves as the trade link between India and China.
Is Aadhar card valid for Nathula Pass?
Hi Sri Harsha P, Yes AADHAAR is valid. However, Driving Licence, Passport,Voter ID, ID issued by Central or State Govt are also valid. Just remember the ID should contain your Photograph and Address.
Which month Nathula Pass is closed?
The best time to visit Nathula pass is summer (April-mid June) and autumn (October-November). The pass remains closed on Monday and Tuesday. Domestic tourists can visit the Nathula Pass in Sikkim on any other day of the week.
Can we visit Nathula Pass in December?
So basically, Nathula pass is open in december, but depends on permit on the given day. over a year ago. over a year ago. This is closed till 29th Dec 2021.
Is Pelling worth visiting?
Pelling is very beautiful and quaint place. Do visit Rabdentse ruins, Kanchenjunga falls, Khecheopalri lake (holy lake), Sangacholing Monastery, Pemayangste Gompa and others. Its expensive place but the weather and the outdoors are worth for every penny you spend!
Can I visit Nathula Pass in February?
Only Indian nationals can visit Nathula Pass It is open for 5 days a week including Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and closed for two days- Monday & Tuesday. The road to Nathula may get blocked due to snowfall in February and in such a case permit is not issued to visitors.
Can kids go to Sikkim?
You can travel to North Sikkim with 2 Year Old Kid but you have to make sure you visit in the month of March or April. North Sikkim is cold so please be very careful. But you will not be able to visit Gurudongmar Lake with your child because kids below 5 years old are not allowed there.
Is Bhutan a part of India?
The bilateral relations between the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan and the Republic of India have been traditionally close and both countries share a "special relationship", making Bhutan a protected state, but not a protectorate, of India.
Is Nepal a part of India?
No, Nepal was not part of India. Nepal has never been under the control of any other nation or colonial power.