Nathula Pass Tourism

Nathula is a pass on the Indo Chinese border (La meaning Pass in Tibetan). The place is 56 kilometers from Gangtok and passes through Tsongmo Lake. The place is covered with snow for the most part of the year. The pass was traditionally used by merchants of India and Tibet for trading. It was part of the famous Silk route connecting plains of Bengal with Tibet that ran through the Zuluk - Memenchu - Jelepla route.

After the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1950, there was major migration of Tibetans to India through the Pass. Today Tibetan migrants constitute a substantial part of the population of the Sikkim and Darjeeling hills. During the 1962 Indo-Chinese war, the Nathula Pass witnessed heavy fighting between the two countries. Since then the border remained closed until recently.

The border was opened for trade on July 6th, 2006 after prolonged negotiation between the two countries. Dignitaries from both countries met at Nathula on this historic occasion and trade between the two countries resumed on a limited number of items. The future of the pass seems to be bright as state and the Central government plans big for the Pass. Tourism may also get a major boost as the border is planned to be opened for tourists in the future.

At present, the tourists are allowed to get close to the international border and the Chinese soldiers can be seen protecting their side of the border. On specific days the Chinese authorities also allow tourists to visit the area and on those days the tourists of the two countries can see one another.

Things To Do And See :
The sight of the international border of India and China, restrained by huge gates, barbed wires and military bunkers behind them. The Indian tourists can visit the Watershed War Memorial to salute the soldiers effort in the achievement of war. There is also an Army Exhibition centre and canteen near to it. And around 16 km long winding road from Nathula Pass leads to the beautiful Tsomgo Lake; a glacial lake encircled with high mountain peaks and flowery meadows. One can not afford to miss the Yak ride, which is the popular attraction for the visitors here. Along with this place, cherish the combine visit to Menmecho Lake enjoying the 4 km idyllic trek from Baba Mandir; popularly known as the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple, which is very close to Tsomgo Lake. The Menmecho Lake is fed by the snow covered mountains surrounding the Jelep La pass. Near to this lake is Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary and Zuluk Wildlife Sanctuary, well-stocked with rich and rare species of flora and fauna. A visit to Nathu la is bestowed with several other visits to the beautiful attractions around it, that truly makes it worthful.

Best Time To Visit :
Summer, between the months of May to October is the appropriate season to visit here. The weather is pleasing and offers the clear view of the Tsomgo Lake and the daring mountains. Nathula Pass is open only for Indian nationals on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. It remains fully covered under snow during winters and the temperature drops down to -25 º Celsius. If you have doting for snow, you are advisable to bear heavy woolen clothes to cope up with such cold weather. Otherwise, this is not the season considered as best time to visit Nathula Pass, because of the snow-blocked roads and extremely cold temperature. Though the amazing view of snow-showered mountains and frozen lakes can blow your mind with its beauty and charm. The same is the case during rains more or less.