Nathu La is a mountain pass in the Dongkya Range of the Himalayas. It is situated at 14,000ft and tourists who visit this pass have the opportunity to see the gate which proves as a border between China and India. This route played an important role in history as it used to be a part of the silk route and helped with trade between both India & China.

From my experience, it was very cold as the attitude is very high. So wear your warmest clothes as it can also be really windy. You are advised to walk slowly and not run up the stairs as the oxygen levels are very low. You will need to get a special permit in advance to go up the stairways and no photography is permitted of the gates.

The neighbouring sites from Nathu La pass that tourist also have the chance to visit on the way back to Gangtok is

- The Tsongmo lake which is mesmerizing but has a ropeway to experience the view of the mountain range and even YAKs that people have an opportunity to ride around and take pictures with,
- The Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple which was built in memory of an Indian army soldier &
- This location also has the highest located Shiva idol in the world that was built by the army where people can visit and leave their prayers.

This trip was definitely a surreal experience as the views just can’t be talked out but need to truly be experienced in a lifetime. Just the journey makes you feel like you have gotten a small taste of what India and nature has to offer for travelers who believe in adventure & wanderlust.

Do add it to your list & tell me your thoughts below!