Nathula pass is a mountain pass in the Sikkim. It is one of the highest motorable road and one of the most important Himalayan passes in India. It is between China and India, on the Indo China border. Nathula is located at altitude of 14,140 feet.
Nathula word is made of two words Nathu and La. Nathu means “listening ears” and la means “pass”. Nathula is famous for its weather and beauty because sightseeing experience is amazing there. Nathula Pass is opened for trading between India and China.
Most of the time temperatures are very low in this area. Many people who visit Sikkim they must visit this place. But permit is required for visiting because it is border area so you must need a permit otherwise you will be not allowed to go there.
If you unaware of Nathula pass or don’t know about the place, don’t worry this guide is for you. In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know before go to the Nathula Pass.
What and Where is Nathula Pass
Nathula pass is one of three open trading routes between India and China. It is 56km from the Gangtok. So if you are planning your Gangtok tour add this place in your itinerary.
You can also visit Nathula pass but you have to know about so you will not get into any trouble and make your trip easy and smooth.
Nathula pass is situated in the Sikkim, state of India, on the altitude of 14000+ feet above sea level. This makes it one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
You can enjoy beautiful views of snow covered mountains and also this place gives patriotic feel. Historically, it is part of an old trade route linking Sikkim with Tibet. So overall, this place gives you stunning views of mountains by adding some patriotic feel and also add some historic temper.
But if you are not an Indian citizen you cannot visit this place. Only Indians with permit can visit this place. So must add this place in your Gangtok Travel Package.
Gangtok Travel Package
Nathula Pass Permit
Entry to Nathula Pass requires a special Protected Area Permit (PAP) for Indian nationals. Foreign nationals, NRIs, OCIs are not allowed to visit Nathula Pass.
The permit must be obtained from the Sikkim Tourism Department (or Tourism & Civil Aviation Dept.) in Gangtok you can also get it via a registered travel agency or some hotels.
You need valid identity proof (passport or voter ID; Aadhaar is not accepted for PAP) plus two passport-size photos to get permit. Because of the bureaucracy, it’s advised to apply a day before your visit so that the permit is ready.
Nathula Pass Weather and Temperature
Because Nathula Pass is located at 14,140 ft, the weather here changes quickly and stays cold throughout the year. Each season has a different experience, so knowing what to expect helps you plan your trip better. Below is a detailed and easy explanation of weather and temperature by season:
Nathula Pass experiences extreme winter cold with –20°C nights and heavy snowfall, often causing road closures. Spring remains cold but clearer with melting snow and better visibility.
This is the quick temperature chart according to seasons:
| Season | Temperature | Travel Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | –25°C to 3°C | Heavy snow, very cold | Snow lovers |
| Spring | –5°C to 10°C | Cold but improving | Snow + views |
| Summer | 10°C to 17°C | Best and safest | Families |
| Monsoon | 5°C to 15°C | Rainy, risky | Avoid |
| Autumn | –2°C to 14°C | Clear and scenic | Photography |
Best Time to Visit Nathula Pass
When planning a trip to Nathula Pass, choosing the right season is very important because the weather and road conditions change frequently. Nathula Pass is open only on specific days and remains closed during harsh weather, especially in winter and monsoon.
The best time to visit Nathula Pass is from April to June and October to November. In these months, you will see clear skies, safer roads, and the best views of the snow-covered Himalayas.
In winter, you can face heavy snowfall and extreme temperatures, while the monsoon season brings landslides and roadblocks, making travel risky.
But the final choice depends on whether you prefer snow, clear views, or pleasant weather.
Summer (April–June)
Summer is the most comfortable and best time to visit Nathula Pass. The temperature remains cold but manageable. In summers, roads are usually clear and open.
The sky is bright, offering stunning views of the snow peaks. You can explore the border area, take photos, and enjoy the scenic drive without weather interruptions.
Snow at higher altitudes may still be visible in early summer, giving you a winter feel without the harsh conditions. This is the best season, especially for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who wants a smooth and scenic trip.
Monsoon (July–September)
Monsoon is not recommended for visiting Nathula Pass. Because in this season, heavy rainfall creates frequent landslides. Roads may remain closed for days due to safety concerns.
Also visibility drops significantly, leaving no clear mountain views. Travel becomes slow, risky, and unpredictable in this season. Permits are often restricted or cancelled for Nathula Pass because of bad weather.
Although hotels and cabs are cheaper during monsoon, the experience is not worth the risk. You cannot enjoy the journey or the views due to rain and fog.
Winter (October–February)
In winters Nathula Pass covered into snow, but it comes with challenges. Temperatures drop extremely low, sometimes below –25°C. Heavy snowfall often blocks the road.
The pass may remain closed for many days during peak winter. Breathing becomes difficult due to high altitude, and the cold is intense.
But October and early November are best with clear skies, refreshing cold, and breathtaking mountain views. After December, conditions become harsh, and access is highly unreliable.
Gangtok Tour Package
How to Reach Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is one of the most exciting and beautiful place to visit near Gangtok. It is located on the historic Indo–China border at 14,140 feet, it offers breathtaking mountain views, snow, and a rare chance to see a high-altitude border point.
Many travelers, especially first-timers, get confused about how to reach Nathula Pass or what’s the best option but don’t worry, it’s very simple. You just need a permit and the right vehicle.
Here are all the ways you can reach Nathula Pass:
By Road
Reaching Nathula Pass by road is the only and most convenient option. The pass is located about 56 km from Gangtok, and the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on weather and traffic.
Private vehicles are not allowed because Nathula is a restricted border zone. You must hire a vehicle through a registered travel agency, Your hotel or a government-authorized operator
They will also arrange the Nathula Pass Permit, which is mandatory. The roads are winding, scenic, and surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes. On the way, you’ll usually cross Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir, which are also popular tourist stops.
By Flight
If you’re coming from outside Sikkim, the nearest airport is:
Pakyong Airport – approx. 35 km from Gangtok
Bagdogra Airport – approx. 125 km from Gangtok
After landing take a taxi or shared cab to Gangtok. After reaching to Gangtok, Spend at least one night in Gangtok if your permit is not processed. Next morning, take an authorized taxi/jeep to Nathula Pass. From Gangtok, the ride to Nathula is easy as long as the roads are open and the weather is stable.
Tour Package
If you want a comfortable and hassle-free trip, taking a tour package is the easiest option. Your permits are arranged with your travel package.
Your complete trip and sightseeing is planned in a travel package. You don’t have to worry about anything if you get travel package from a trusted travel agency.
By Bike
You cannot ride directly to Nathula Pass on your own bike. Because private bikes are not allowed in this high-security border region.
If you want a riding experience, you can rent a bike in Gangtok and explore nearby places but not Nathula.
The mountain weather and clean roads still offer a beautiful riding experience around the city.
By Train
There are no railway lines inside Sikkim, so you cannot reach Nathula Pass directly by train. The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri.
After you reach to station you can hire a cab or take a shared taxi to Gangtok than, take an authorized vehicle to Nathula Pass.
Once you start the Gangtok–Nathula drive, you’ll be surrounded by snow-clad mountains, army camps, monasteries, and scenic Himalayan roads.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
These are nearby places to visit in Gangtok and Nathula Pass.
