What makes Nathula Pass so well-known?

Nathula Pass is famous for its strategic and historical importance, as it lies on the Indo-China border and was a part of the ancient Silk Route. It serves as a trade link between India and China and is also significant for its stunning natural beauty, offering breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas. The pass is also notable for being a high-altitude military post, giving visitors a rare glimpse into life at the border.

Is it safe for children to visit Nathula Pass?

Nathula Pass is generally safe for children, but the high altitude (14,140 feet) can pose challenges, particularly due to lower oxygen levels. It’s important to ensure that kids are acclimatized before the visit and are well-hydrated. If a child has any respiratory or altitude-related health issues, it’s best to consult a doctor before planning the trip.

Which is a better experience: Nathula Pass or Zero Point?

Both Nathula Pass and Zero Point (in North Sikkim) offer distinct experiences. Nathula Pass is renowned for its historical significance and its position along the India-China border, while Zero Point is famous for its pristine snow-clad landscape, being the last civilian point in North Sikkim. If you're more interested in a mix of history and scenic beauty, Nathula Pass is a better choice. For those seeking raw natural beauty and snow, Zero Point is likely more appealing.

Are mobile phones allowed at Nathula Pass?

Yes, mobile phones are allowed at Nathula Pass, but network connectivity is quite limited due to the high altitude and remote location. Only a few networks like BSNL may have some coverage, but even that can be unreliable. Additionally, due to security concerns, you may be restricted from using your phone to take photos or videos near military areas.

Is photography allowed at Nathula Pass?

Photography is partially allowed at Nathula Pass, but with strict limitations. While you can take photos in some areas, photography is prohibited near sensitive zones, particularly around military installations and the actual Indo-China border. It's important to follow all signs and instructions from security personnel to avoid any issues, as the area is a high-security zone. Always ask for permission if you're unsure about where you can take pictures.

Gangtok to Nathula Pass | Permit, Cost, Tips, Things to Do

There are a few things one should be aware of while going from Gangtok to Nathula Pass. Perched at an altitude of 14,140 feet and 56 kilometers ahead of Gangtok, this pass lies along the ancient path of the 'Old Silk Road,' which was once an essential connecting artery of the main Silk Route. India was connected to Lhasa, Tibet, via the Silk Route. As Nathula Pass lies near the border of India and China, one can see the soldiers' posts in both countries.

Tourist Season and Accessibility to Nathula Pass

Nathula Pass is generally open to tourists from May to October, offering milder weather conditions. During winter months, from November to April, the pass experiences heavy snowfall and harsh weather, leading to its closure for tourism. Additionally, the pass remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the year.

Permit to Nathula Pass

Being a politically sensitive and disputed region, Nathula Pass is a protected area and can only be visited with a valid permit. Permits are issued in Gangtok by various tour operators. One can get it beforehand if you do not wish to wait for a day. While one can issue a permit for their own private vehicle, a vehicle provided by a tour operator is advisable. Permit are also issued by Tourism Department and vehicle permit is issued by Police Check Post for domestic tourist issued through a registered Travel Agency.

For Indian Nationals: Permits can be obtained through registered travel agencies in Gangtok. To apply, you'll need to provide a photo ID proof (excluding PAN cards) and two passport-sized photographs. The permit fee is ₹200 per person.

For Foreign Nationals: Access to Nathula Pass is restricted for foreign tourists due to security concerns. However, they can visit nearby attractions like Tsomgo Lake and Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir.

Documents required for Nathula

Category	Requirements
Indians	Voter ID / Driving License/ Passport
Foreign Nationals	Not Permitted
Documents Accepted	2 Passport Photos
Documents Not Accepted	Aadhar Card
Additional Requirements (for Kids)	Birth Certificate / Father’s Voter ID / Passport

Documents required for Two-Wheelers/Motor Bike Permit

Registration certificate of the Bike
Driving License
Pollution certificate
Insurance certificate
Passport size Photo (2 nos)
Identity proof of rider and co-rider

How to Reach Nathula Pass

Nathula is located on the Jawaharlal Nehru Road, 56 kilometers from Gangtok. It takes nearly three to four hours to reach Nathula Pass from Gangtok. Only vehicles authorized by the Sikkim government are permitted to ply this route.

Shared Vehicles: During peak tourist seasons, shared vehicles charge around ₹900 to ₹1,000 per person, including the permit fee.
Private Vehicles: Hiring a private SUV like a Scorpio or Innova costs about ₹8,000, which also includes the permit fee. You can go for a round trip that will take you to beautiful places on the way like Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir.

Sightseeing in Nathula Pass

You can visit the border trade market at Sherathang. Another place quite near Sherathang is Kupup. Kupup is actually a golf course and the second highest golf course in the world. You can also visit a local gompa by the name Gnathang Monastery and the Gnathang War Memorial built in the memory of all the British soldiers who laid their lives in a war with Tibet in the seventeenth century.

Safety Precautions to Take While Visiting Nathula Pass

Being situated at a high altitude, children or even inadequately fit adults can face breathing difficulties at Nathula Pass. To cope with the high altitude sickness, it would be recommended to visit only after your doctor advises you to go and carry a small first aid kit with you. You can also carry a portable oxygen cylinder. You can choose the apt size keeping in mind the duration you want to spend up there. You can get one from medical shops in Gangtok.

While Nathula Pass may be the prize, the journey from Gangtok to Nathula Pass is nothing short of a wondrous experience in itself. Let us know about your experience down in the comments below of your visit to Nathula Pass.

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