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Gangtok
Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and also one of the most visited tourist attractions ,where tourists from different parts of India visit to spend a majestic vacation and replenish themselves as they get exhausted from the daily chores of their bustling daily lives.
Nathula Pass
However, during the winter months, Nathula Pass is inaccessible due to harsh weather and extreme snowfall, which blocks the path to travel. The way to Nathula pass offers you a scenic drive filled with rhododendrons that offer a colorful hue to the scenery. Nathula Pass is situated 14140 feet above the sea level and the temperature there may drop down to -25 degree celsius.
How to Reach
If you are planning to travel to Nathula Pass from any parts of India, then you must first Siliguri, either via rail or flight. The nearest railway station to reach Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), which is situated at a distance of 9.5 km from Siliguri and that from Gangtok is 113 km, which takes a travel time around 3 hours and 45 minutes.
On the other hand, if you fly to Siliguri, then you need to land in Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) that is 122 km far from Gangtok and will take around 3 hours and 54 minutes to reach. After reaching Siliguri, you can book a private cab or a shareable jeep or bus to reach Gangtok. After reaching Gangtok, you need to hire a car to travel to Nathula Pass, which is located at a distance of 58.3 km and will take approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes to reach the destination.
Permit
Nathula being a border area is a disputed and sensitive region that can be visited by travellers with valid permits. You need to obtain Protected Area Permits (PAP) to travel to sensitive locations like Nathula Pass, as it is situated near the Indo-Chinese border. One also has to carry their voter ID, 2 passport size photo and kids below 18 years of age needs birth certificate.
Cost
Travelling from Gantok to Nathula Pass will cost you between 6000 to 8000 rupees, inclusive of all permits. The charges for Nathula pass permit is Rs. 200 per person.
Tips
The best time to visit Nathula pass is between the months of March and October, as rest of the months the pass is being covered with snow. If you have issues regarding high altitude then you must make the necessary arrangements such as carry necessary medications, portable oxygen and camphor’s, as the oxygen density is low at that high altitude. It is suggested to avoid travelling to Nathula Pass during winter as you will not be permitted to travel due to heavy snowfall.
Moreover, Nathula Pass remains close to visitors on Monday and Tuesday, so make sure to exclude plans on visiting the pass on these two days.
Things to Do
The panoramic views you will witness at the Nathula Pass viewpoint will leave you awestruck. In moderate climate, the temperature ranges between 10 to 15 degree celsius, which offers you a clear view of the surrounding scenery. You can visit the trade market at Sherathang as well as lay golf at Kupup that is located near to Sherathang and is the world’s second highest golf course. Moreover, there is also Gnathang Gompa and Gnathang War Memorial, which was built in memory of the British soldiers that lost their lives in a war wit Tibet, back in the 17th century.
Also Read: 7 Most Beautiful Sikkim View Points
Buy Sikkim Tour Packages From Here: Sikkim Tour Packages TripFactory
Frequently Asked Questions
What do we need to visit Nathula Pass?
Only Indian nationals get a valid permission to visit Nathu La Pass. To receive the permission, apply to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. This may be accomplished with the assistance of a certified travel agency.
How is the road from Gangtok to Nathula Pass?
The road conditions might be problematic owing to the steep terrain and the high altitude of Nathula Pass.
What ID proof is required for Nathula Pass?
You must be an Indian citizen, have two passport-sized pictures for each individual, and have any ID card, such as a voter ID, Aadhaar, or a driver’s license, as evidence of identification and residency.
Can we get ice in Nathula Pass?
Depending on the weather, how chilly it will be. However, snow may be found at Zero Point, Nathula Pass, Tsomgo (Changu) Lake, and other locations in north Sikkim.
Is there mobile network in Nathula Pass?
Nathula la does not have any operators that provide coverage. The most coverage you will receive is until the 15th mile.