Nathu La

The Nathu La pass was an important corridor between India and Tibet before it was closed in 1962. Situated at an altitude of 14,450 feet, it was part of the historic Silk Route that was used for trade between China and India. Located around 56 kilometres from Gangtok, the road to Nathu La passes through the Tsomgo Lake. It is one of the highest motorable roads in the world and offers spectacular views of the Chumbi valley. Now a part of the international border between India and China, it was reopened in 2006, after a gap of 44 years.
Tourists are allowed to go close to the Indo-China border from where you can see Chinese soldiers on the other side of the barbed wire. It also has the world’s highest ATM. Nathu La is only open for Indian nationals on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays. Visitors need to get the permit by applying to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department through a registered travel agency. Since this is a restricted area, photography is strictly prohibited.