Nathula Pass : Nathula Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass in the Himalayas, located in the East Sikkim district, connecting the Indian state of Sikkim with China's Tibet Autonomous Region . It is situated at an elevation of 4,310 meters (14,140 feet) above mean sea level and is considered one of the highest motorable roads in the world . The pass forms part of an offshoot of the ancient Silk Road .
The name "Nathu La" is derived from Tibetan words, where "Nathu" means "listening ears" and "La" means "pass" . On the Indian side, it is approximately 54 km (34 miles) east of Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim .
Nathula Pass is one of three open trading border posts between India and China, the others being Shipkila in Himachal Pradesh and Lipulekh (or Lipulech) at the trisection point of Uttarakhand, India, Nepal, and China . It was sealed by India after the 1962 Sino-Indian War and was re-opened in 2006 following numerous bilateral trade agreements . The re-opening was expected to shorten travel distances to important Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites and boost the regional economy through increased Sino-Indian trade, although trade is restricted to specific goods and days .
The pass offers stunning 360-degree views of the Indo-China border, the majestic Himalayas, and the surrounding landscape . It is a popular tourist destination in Sikkim, especially during the summer months (May to October), when the weather is pleasant and offers clear views of Tsomgo Lake and the mountains . During winters, the pass experiences heavy snowfall, and temperatures can drop to -25° Celsius .
Only Indian citizens are permitted to visit Nathula Pass, and they must obtain a permit in Gangtok . The pass is generally open to visitors on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays . Things to see and do at Nathula Pass include the Indo-China border, the Watershed War Memorial, an Army Exhibition center and canteen, and the nearby Tsomgo Lake . Photography and videography are strictly prohibited due to security reasons .
