Where is Nathu La located?
India, asia
54 km
4,310 m
hard
Year-round
Nathu La Pass sits way up high at 14,140 feet, right on the Indo-China border! This epic spot connects India's Sikkim state with Yadong County in Tibet.
Where can you find it? About 34 miles east of Gangtok (Sikkim's capital) and 270 miles from Lhasa, Tibet. It's one of the few spots where trade happens between China and India.
Heads up, getting here isn't a breeze. You'll need a special permit if you're Indian. Sadly, no cameras allowed, but there is a world’s highest ATM!
The drive itself, nicknamed Nathula, Natu La, or Natula, is completely paved. Think twisty roads, rugged mountains, and major cliff views as you cruise part of the old Silk Road.
Road conditions can be rough because of snow and crazy weather. The air is thin at this altitude, so hydrate and take it easy to avoid altitude sickness.
Speaking of weather, this high Himalayan pass is closed part of the year because of snow. Heavy snowfall makes it impassable for about 4-5 months. Even when the snow stops around May, landslides are common because of the heavy rain. If you're planning a trip, the border is only open Wednesday to Sunday, and is guarded by soldiers from both countries.
Road Details
- Country
- India
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 54 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,310 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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