Nathu La
नाथू ला
A Sino-Indian border pass at 4,310 m. Combined with Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir, it makes Gangtok's classic high-altitude day trip.
Nathu La lies about 55 km east of Gangtok at an altitude of 4,310 m. It was an important pass on the ancient Silk Road and the Tea Horse Road, and today it is a trade route between India and China. On the Indian side, visitors can climb to a viewpoint and look out over the border fence and the Chinese border post opposite, with snowy peaks surrounding the area on clear days. Most travelers hire a car to visit Nathu La together with Tsomgo Lake and the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a full-day trip of about 8–9 hours. Note: the pass is open only to Indian citizens, and foreign visitors may not go there (they can visit Tsomgo Lake instead). Permits must be arranged a day in advance through a locally registered travel agency. The pass is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The altitude is high and the air is cold, so bring warm clothing, watch for altitude sickness, and carry your ID documents.
Opening hours
Open Wed–Sun (permit required; Indian citizens only)
Nearby sights
- Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
- Tsomgo Lake
- Hanuman Tok
- Himalayan Zoological Park
- Bakthang Falls
- Ganesh Tok
- Tashi View Point
- Enchey Monastery