Nathula
Nathula Pass was a major corridor of passage between India and Tibet before it
was closed in 1962. Located around 56 kms from Gangtok at an altitude of 14450
ft, the road to Nathula passes through the Tsomgo lake. It is one of the highest
motorable roads in the world and is richly surrounded by alpine flora. On a
clear day you can even see the road winding down the Chumbi valley. Tourists are
allowed to go close to the international border from where you can see Chinese
soldiers on the other side of the barbed wire.
Nathula is open for Indian nationals on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturday and
Sundays. The visitors have to get the permit to visit the place by applying to
the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department through a registered and recognised Travel Agency.
Foreign nationals are not allowed to visit Nathula. Photography is strictly
prohibited. One can find ATM facility here which is the worlds highest Automated
Teller Machine (ATM).
Nathula Permit issuing officer:
Mrs. Nima Choden
Asst. Director
Mobile: 9775423684