Viewpoints · Nathu La
At the fence on the India–China border
A short, slow climb of steps from the parking area at Nathu La leads to a viewing area beside the border fence at 4,310 m. Chinese soldiers and buildings stand only metres away. It is cold, windy and short, and you follow the soldiers' rules.
Cars stop at a parking area just below the pass, and from there a flight of steps climbs to the viewing area. At 4,310 m those steps are harder than they look: climb slowly, stop often and do not race children to the top. At the fence, barbed wire and a low barrier mark the border, with Chinese soldiers and their buildings only metres away. There is no no-man's-land here, which is what makes the place so striking.
Indian soldiers manage the visitors and explain what you may and may not do. Photography is restricted, and the rules change with the situation, so ask before raising a camera and put it away if told. Shouting, waving at the other side, flying drones and crossing any marked line are forbidden. In the past tourists shook hands across the fence; do not expect it now.
Twenty to thirty minutes at the top is plenty. The wind cuts through most jackets, and the thin air makes some people dizzy or breathless. If anyone feels unwell, go down to the car at once. On the way back, look out across the bare ridges towards Jelep La and Kupup, and stop at Baba Mandir and Tsomgo Lake as you descend.
Cost: Included in your car and permit
Questions people ask
Good to know
Can we take photos at Nathu La?
Only where and when the soldiers allow. Photography rules at Nathu La are set by the army and change with the situation; some days you may photograph the fence area, other days not. Ask first, never photograph military installations or personnel without permission, and put your camera away if told. Drones are banned.
Can we see Chinese soldiers at Nathu La?
Usually yes. Chinese soldiers and buildings stand only metres away across the fence. Do not wave, shout, signal or try to talk across the border. In earlier years visitors shook hands across the fence, but rules have tightened since 2020. Follow the Indian soldiers' instructions at all times.
How long can we stay at Nathu La?
Most visitors spend about 20–30 minutes at the viewing area. Vehicles must head down by a set time, usually early afternoon, and longer stays at 4,310 m raise the risk of altitude sickness. Climb the steps slowly and go down at once if anyone feels dizzy or sick.
Also in Nathu La
More things to do
Culture and history · 30–45 minutesThe shrine of Baba Harbhajan SinghNathu La · Free · offerings optional
Culture and history · Woven through the day tripThe trade road and the 1967 clashesNathu La · Free
Adventure · 8–9 hours from GangtokA full day to Tsomgo, Baba Mandir and Nathu LaNathu La · ₹5,500–7,500 a reserved car