Nathula located at the Indo China border at an altitude of 14,100 feet asl is a favorite hotspot place of visit for visitors coming to Sikkim. It is 56 km East of Gangtok and connects the Indian state of Sikkim to Tibet Autonomous Region in China. Nathu means "listening ears" and La means "pass" in Tibetan.  It is one of the highest     motorable roads and is covered with rich alpine flora and fauna.  Special permits are required to visit this site and excursions are organized by registered tour operators only.  The Nathula Pass was re-opened for border trade after a gap of 44 years in 2006.  The road to this pass is breathtaking and the landscape is dotted with army settlements. This pass has historical importance and in 1904, Major Francis Younghusband, serving as the British Commissioner to Tibet, led a successful mission through Nathu La to capture Lhasa. It is guarded on both sides by the Chinese and Indian soldiers.

At present domestic tourists are given permit to visit Nathula 4 days a week (Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday) and the number of vehicles are restricted to visit Nathula each day. Visitors need special permits to visit this high altitude pass.

The following 10 Do’s can make your trip to Nathula Pass enjoyable…
1. Get yourself physically examined before starting to Nathula.
2. It is high altitude pass be aware of the reduced oxygen as you go higher – if not well descend immediately.
3. Wear thick woolens, gloves and dark glasses to protect yourself.
4. Check that your local driver is acclimatized to the roads and the weather conditions.
5. Carry enough cash with you to buy necessary essentials.
6. It’s not advisable if children are accompanying you.
7. In case of any emergency, handover your contact addresses or number to someone when you are away as mobile services isn’t available at this site
8. Go in a group, it’s always helpful.