04 Feb, 2023

Nathula Pass, Sikkim - 5 Things to do & Best Time to Visit

 

Nathula Pass is a high mountain pass located in the eastern Himalayas, in the Indian state of Sikkim. It lies on the Indo-China border and is one of the most picturesque and strategically important passes in the region. Nathula Pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and is a popular tourist destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. However, access to Nathula Pass is restricted due to its sensitive location and requires special permits from the Indian government.

 

How To Reach Nathula Pass

 

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 You can follow the following steps:

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  1. Fly to Bagdogra Airport: The nearest airport to Nathula Pass is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is well connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Gangtok.

  2. Reach Gangtok: Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and is located about 56 km from Nathula Pass. From Bagdogra, it takes about 4-5 hours to reach Gangtok by road.

  3. Obtain Permits: To visit Nathula Pass, you need to obtain special permits from the Indian government, which can be obtained from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department in Gangtok.

  4. Reach Nathula Pass: From Gangtok, it takes about 4-5 hours to reach Nathula Pass by road. The road to Nathula Pass is steep and winding, but the journey is scenic and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

 

Note: Nathula Pass is open for tourists only on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and the number of visitors is restricted due to its sensitive location.

 

Best Time to Visit

 

The best time to visit This Pass is between May and June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and clear, making it easier to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

 

May to June is the best time to visit this Pass if you are interested in trekking as the snow has melted and the trails are accessible. From September to November, the skies are clear, and the views of the surrounding peaks are unobstructed.

 

It is important to note that Nathula Pass is located at a high altitude and can be very cold even during the summer months. During the winter months, from December to February, the pass is closed due to heavy snowfall and inclement weather conditions.

 

Overall, the best time to visit Nathula Pass is during the shoulder season (May to June and September to November) when the weather is clear and pleasant, and the views of the surrounding peaks are at their best.

 

Things to Do

 

  1. Trekking: Nathula Pass offers challenging and scenic trekking routes for adventure enthusiasts. The trek to Nathula Pass takes you through breathtaking landscapes and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

  2. Sightseeing: Nathula Pass is a popular tourist destination for its stunning natural beauty and strategic location. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Kanchenjunga, and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

  3. Photography: Nathula Pass is a photographer's paradise, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, landscapes, and natural beauty. Visitors can capture the stunning views and take back memories of their trip to Nathula Pass.

  4. Visit the Indo-China Border: Nathula Pass is located on the Indo-China border and visitors can visit the border to see the armed personnel and the divide between the two countries.

  5. Cultural Experiences: Nathula Pass is located in the state of Sikkim, which is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse communities. Visitors can experience the local culture and traditions by visiting the nearby villages and interacting with the local people.

Note: Visitors to Nathula Pass are required to obtain special permits from the Indian government due to its sensitive location, and access to Nathula Pass is restricted. Visitors should also be aware of the high altitude and cold weather conditions and come prepared accordingly.

 

Distance Between Nathula Pass from Gantok

 

The distance between Nathula Pass and Gangtok is approximately 56 kilometers. The estimated travel time by road is 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Nathula Pass from Gangtok. The road to Nathula Pass is steep and winding, but the journey is scenic and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

 

Which month Nathula's pass is open?

 

Nathula Pass is open for tourists from May to November. The pass is closed during the winter months from December to April due to heavy snowfall and inclement weather conditions. Access to Nathula Pass is restricted and visitors are required to obtain special permits from the Indian government to visit the pass. The pass is open for tourists only on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and the number of visitors is restricted due to its sensitive location.

 

Is Nathula Pass worth visiting?

 

Whether Nathula Pass is worth visiting or not depends on individual interests and preferences. However, Nathula Pass is a popular tourist destination for its stunning natural beauty and strategic location. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Kanchenjunga, and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. The pass also offers challenging and scenic trekking routes for adventure enthusiasts and is a photographer's paradise, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, landscapes, and natural beauty.

 

Additionally, Nathula Pass is located on the Indo-China border, which makes it a historically and strategically important site. Visitors can visit the border and see the armed personnel and the divide between the two countries.

 

Overall, if you enjoy breathtaking views, scenic treks, and natural beauty, Nathula Pass is definitely worth visiting

 

Can I take my car to Nathula Pass?

 

Private cars are not allowed to reach Nathula Pass. Visitors to Nathula Pass are required to hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Gangtok, which is the nearest city. The road to Nathula Pass is steep and winding and is not suitable for private vehicles. Visitors should also be aware of the high altitude and cold weather conditions and come prepared accordingly. Access to Nathula Pass is restricted, and visitors are required to obtain special permits from the Indian government to visit the pass.

 

Is there an oxygen problem in Nathula Pass?

 

Nathula Pass is located at a high altitude of 4,310 meters above sea level, which can lead to altitude sickness for some visitors. Altitude sickness is caused by the decrease in atmospheric pressure and the reduced availability of oxygen at high altitudes. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.

 

Nathula Pass visitors need to acclimate themselves to the high altitude before attempting the trek. Visitors should take it slow and rest frequently during the trek and should not attempt to trek if they experience symptoms of altitude sickness. It is also recommended to consult a doctor before visiting Nathula Pass, especially if you have a history of heart or lung problems.

 

In an emergency, oxygen cylinders are available at Nathula Pass, but visitors should be prepared for the high altitude and take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.