About Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is a historic mountain pass located at an altitude of 14,140 feet (4,310 m) in East Sikkim. It connects India and Tibet (China) and was once a key segment of the ancient Silk Route. Today, it is one of Sikkim’s most popular high-altitude tourist destinations.
Nathula Pass Height & Altitude Facts
Altitude: 14,140 ft
Oxygen Level: ~50% lower than sea level
Temperature: Often below 0°C, even in summer
Due to high altitude, visitors should move slowly and stay hydrated to avoid Altitude Sickness (AMS).
Nathula Pass Permit Rules (Important)
A special permit is mandatory to visit Nathula Pass.
Who Can Get the Permit?
Indian citizens only
Foreign nationals ❌ not allowed
Documents Required
Valid Government ID (Aadhaar / Voter ID / Passport)
2 passport-size photographs
📌 Permits are issued through registered travel agencies in Gangtok. Independent travel is not allowed.
Best Time to Visit Nathula Pass
The ideal time depends on weather conditions:
✅ Best Months
April to June: Pleasant weather, clear views
October to November: Snow chances & crisp air
❌ Avoid
July to September: Landslides due to monsoon
Heavy snowfall days: Pass may remain closed
Nathula Pass Weather by Season
Summer (Apr–Jun): 5°C to 15°C
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Foggy, risky roads
Autumn (Oct–Nov): -5°C to 10°C
Winter (Dec–Mar): Heavy snow, often closed
How to Reach Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is around 56 km from Gangtok.
Route
Gangtok → Tsomgo Lake → Baba Mandir → Nathula Pass
You can hire a shared or private taxi from Gangtok with a valid permit.
Nathula Pass Timings
Open Days: Wednesday to Sunday
Closed: Monday & Tuesday
Timing: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
⏰ Early morning visits offer better visibility.
Nathula Pass Travel Tips (Must Read)
Wear heavy woollens & gloves
Avoid alcohol before the trip
Carry sunglasses & sunscreen
Spend limited time at the top
Follow army instructions strictly
Nearby Attractions
Tsomgo Lake – Stunning alpine lake
Baba Mandir – Sacred army shrine
Gangtok – Base city for permits
Nathula Pass FAQs
Is Nathula Pass open today?
Opening depends on weather and army clearance. Check locally in Gangtok.
Can senior citizens visit Nathula Pass?
Yes, but only if medically fit. AMS risk is high.
Is snowfall guaranteed?
Snowfall is common from November to March, not guaranteed daily.
Can children visit Nathula Pass?
Children above 5 years are generally allowed with caution.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Nathula Pass is a once-in-a-lifetime experience offering breathtaking Himalayan views and a glimpse into Indo-China border history. Proper planning, permits, and weather awareness are key to enjoying this high-altitude destination safely.
Last Updated: December 2025
Current Road Status
January 2026: Nathula Pass & Tsomgo Lake Road Status
🟢 Current Status: OPEN (Permit Required)
Main Route (Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake): Roads are fully trafficable and open for all vehicles.
High Altitude (Nathula Pass/Baba Mandir): Accessible for Indian tourists. Note that the pass remains CLOSED to tourists on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Weather Alert: Expect heavy frost and thin ice on the roads near the border (14,140 ft). Daytime temperatures are near 2°C to 5°C, dropping to -8°C after sunset.
Pro-Tip: Carry portable oxygen cylinders and heavy thermal wear. Snowfall is frequent in January; check for "Last Mile" clearance with our drivers before departure.
How
to Secure a Nathula Pass Permit (Step-by-Step)
Because Nathula Pass is a protected international border area, all Indian tourists require a Protected Area Permit (PAP). Follow these steps to ensure a hassle-free trip:
Key Stops & Landmarks Along the Way:
- Document Preparation:Gather a valid Voter ID Card or Passport. Note: PAN Cards are not accepted by the Tourism Department. Aadhaar is accepted, but Voter ID is preferred.
- Photo Requirements: Keep two passport-size photographs ready for each traveler (including children).
- Submission Timeline: Provide these documents to your registered Sikkim tour operator (Tour Adviser) at least 24 hours before your planned departure (ideally before 2:00 PM).
- Verification & Processing: We submit your documents to the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department and the Police Check Post in Gangtok.
- Permit Collection: Your driver will collect the physical permit on the morning of your trip. The permit includes access to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir.