Explore Gangtok Nathula Pass
AN ELGIN EXCLUSIVE FEATURE By Chayanika Dubey
Image by Sourabh Kathoria, Facebook
Located at a two-hour picturesque drive from The Elgin Nor-Khill is one of the highest motorable, international pass in India, the Nathula Pass. As one of the major tourist destinations in northeast India, the Nathula Pass is historically significant for being located on the old silk route. The trade market which now functions as the Indo-Chinese trade market operates Monday to Thursday starting from June through September. The mesmerizing drive to Nathula with the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas would captivate an entire day of your itinerary as you come across the various attractions en route.
The Tsomgo Lake is an unmissable beauty located 16 km before Nathula. Enveloped in mist and the mountains, the high altitude lake is an alluring delight for the tourists. The surge in tourism was followed by the establishment of thrilling experiences of Yak rides and Ropeways along with the eye-pleasing, beautiful view of the lake. The lake freezes in winters, bidding farewell to the migratory birds that house it in the summer.
The arrival of summer at the Tsomgo Lake is accompanied by a cornucopia of blossoming flowers.
Further ahead is the Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple which instils the visitors with a profound feeling of patriotism. It is a fascinating shrine as well as a popular sightseeing spot in Sikkim. A beautiful pit stop in Nathula pass tour, the Mandakini waterfall is a paradise for those who enjoy scenic photography and swimming. The heavenly view enthrals visitors with the silvery drizzle of water upon lush green rocks. One can also discover India’s highest altitude ATM and quickly collect a slip as a memento while making way to the ‘Indians only’ restricted area of Nathula Pass.
Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it; it flies with the last breath of each soldier who dies protecting it.
Image by indians_on_wheels, Flickr
Withdrawing cash at the Second highest ATM in the world will be a striking experience.
The climbing of the steep stairway which leads to the Indo-China border will leave you speechless and breathtaking as you find yourself engulfed in the tranquillity of the charming hills. The panoramic view is a heart capturing as its surreal natural beauty is unparalleled. Interestingly, the no man’s land does not exist here which engages the myriad of tourists that annually visit this politically as well as historically noteworthy place as a getaway from the squalor of the cities.
Image by Sukanya Sampath, Facebook
A quote written on the War memorial “When you go home tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave up our today.”
The Nathula pass is the perfect escapade to serenity. The meandering roads marking a trail through the alpine forest with the view of the snow-clad mountains is a blissful sight for explorers and travellers. It’s the kind of place you never strike off your bucket list.
