Nathula,the closest you can get to China from Indian border
The traditional path that marked the ancient connection between two great cultures, Nathu La is a part of the famed Silk Route that passed between India and China in the ancient times.
It was the bone of contention between the two countries during the Indo-China war, which explains the heavy presence of military here.
Tourists are not allowed to stay over in Nathu La for this reason.
However, this does not diminish in any way the awe-inspiring beauty of the snow-clad mountains here and its absolute wild nature.
Nathu La is the closest civilians can really get to the Chinese border and the sentiment is quite strongly felt.
Best time to visit:
It would be from April to September,when there is no snowing as the pass gets blocked in winters.
Reaching to /Traval to Nathula Mountain Pass,Sikkim:
By air
The Bagdogra airport in Siliguri, West Bengal is the closest airport (145 km).
By rail
New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station (140 km).
By road
Nathula is accessible by road from all parts of Sikkim
Map of Nathula as on Google:
Pictures,Photographs,Images,Photos,Slideshow/Video of Nathula ,Sikkim:
Road to Nathula Pass
Hotels & Resorts around Nathula ,Sikkim:
Accommodation is available only in Gangtok.
Hotel Mount Simvo
Hotel Golden Pagoda
The Hidden Forest Retreat
Tibet Hotel
The Royal Plaza
Mintokling Guesthouse
Hotel Tashi Tagay
The Himalayan Retreat cum Resort
Tashi Delek
Hotel Nor-Khill
The Chumbi Residency
Things to do/ Places to visit in Nathula, Sikkim:
The Nathula Pass in itself is the biggest attraction here. Interaction with the military personnel here is also a life-changing experience.
However, this may not always be possible.
A special permit is necessary to visit the border which can be obtained from travel agencies and also certain days are alloted to visitors .
Some intresting links:
Some more information on Nathula
Nathula on Wikipedia
admin
19 Jan, 2009 