While in Gangtok, a trip to Nathula Pass is all needed to escape through the monotonous crowd of the big city life.
A memorable trip to Nathula Pass...
Nathula Pass is an outstanding pass on the crossroads of the Indo-China Border. It forms a famous part of the Old Silk Route. But like olden days even now nothing has changed. The pass continues to serve its tourists the same way as it did in olden days for the traders and merchants. So, a trip to Nathula Pass in Gangtok will let you immerse yourself in the beauty and the serenity of the pass.
Facts to know about the pass before you travel...
Before you plan your trip for this famous road in India here are some facts for you to have some information about the pass.
Historical journey of Nathula Pass:
Nathula Pass is located in the Old Silk Route which connects Sikkim to China's Tibet Autonomous Region. The pass was locked for almost four decades after China suppressed the Tibetans in 1959. When Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited China in 2003, he had talked about opening this pass but it was not put on work. However, it was reopened finally in 2006 and since then it is serving its tourists in a better way.
Did you know...
- It is significant to know that among the three borders trading points between India and China, Nathula is the most important route in the Sino-Indian trade.
- This pass has also shortened the distance of all the Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
- It has also strengthened the economy and improved the border relations with China.
Tips to prepare you for the Nathula Pass trip:
Just traveling at any time of the year will not be appropriate for a trip to Nathula Pass. So, here are a few tips to prepare you before planning for a beautiful Nathula Pass vacation.
Entry formalities:
We all know that Indians do not visa but they need a valid permit to enter Nathula Pass. However, you can obtain a permit by applying at the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department through a registered travel agency. The permit will cost you INR 200/- per person.
Best time to visit:
Weather of Nathula Pass: The temperature goes to the lowest of about -25° C during the winter season. During the summer season, the temperature raises to a minimum range of 10° C. The months of June-September are the off-season due to monsoon and the danger of frequent landslides.
Best Season to visit Nathula Pass:
- In summer from April to mid-June
- In autumn from October to November
How to reach:
By Flight: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport which is located at a distance of 178 kilometers from Nathula Pass. By Train: NJP is the nearest railway station which is connected to all other major cities in India. By Car: Nathula Pass is located 54 kilometers from Gangtok, Sikkim. The only way is to drive along the way from Gangtok to Nathula Pass. The road from Gangtok to Nathula Pass is very steep but it is very well-maintained in few places.
Where to stay while visiting Nathula Pass:
There are no such hotels in Nathula Pass so the only accommodations available are in Gangtok. You can get many budget hotels in Gangtok along with high-end resorts are also available with best accommodation facilities where you can catch the best views of Gangtok sightseeing.
Famous tourist attractions in Nathula Pass:
Besides visiting Nathula Pass, there are many other attractions which will be alluring to visit this pass all over again on your next trip.
1. Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir:
The temple was built in the memory of Baba Harbhajan Singh, was an Indian army who died near Nathula in 1968. The new temple is situated at the Kupup Gnathang Road is a famous sightseeing spot in Sikkim.
2. Mera Bharat Mahan Hill:
While traveling to the way of Harbhajan Singh Mandir, you can get the view of a hill with words written 'Mera Bharat Mahan' on it. It entirely will give you a feeling of patriotism once you pass away the hill.
3. Indo-China Border staircase:
The steep and high roads from Gangtok to Nathula Pass will lead you to a flight of staircase which will lead you to the Indo-China Border.
4. Tsomgo Lake:
It is also known as Changu Lake which offers a refreshing delight to the travelers. The lake reflects different colors and it remains frozen during the winter season with yak rides to enjoy the lake.
5. Mandakini Waterfalls:
It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls where you can halt to enjoy the view of the waterfalls and have some snack. You can also click photographs with your family, friends or loved ones.
Travel to the land of serenity in Sikkim
If you are planning for some severe escapade from the crowd then Nathula Pass is the ultimate destination for you to stay at some of the best Gangtok tourism hotels and to excite your driving skill through the clean and long roads of Sikkim.
Popular FAQs-
Q: When are the visiting days of Nathula Pass?
A: Wednesdays and Sundays are the visiting days to take a trip to Nathula Pass.
Q: Which are the best budget hotels in Gangtok?
A: The Nettle and Fern Hotel, Hotel Juniper Tree, Greendale Residency, and Chas Hotels Narayani Continental are some of the best budget hotels in Gangtok.
Q: Which are the best months to visit Nathula Pass?
A: The best months to visit Nathula Pass are October to March and March to June.