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Nathula Pass at 14,140 ft is one of the few points on the Indo-China border open to Indian tourists. Here's everything you need to know about getting your PAP.
Nathula Pass (14,140 ft) sits on the historic Silk Route on the India-China border in East Sikkim, approximately 55 km from Gangtok. Once a major trade route between India and Tibet, Nathula was reopened for trade in 2006 and for Indian tourists thereafter.
Because of its strategic location, Nathula is governed by the Indian Army and requires a Protected Area Permit (PAP) — a stricter category than the basic ILP required for Tsomgo Lake. The Army controls daily visitor numbers and the days on which civilians may visit.
PAPs for Nathula are most efficiently obtained through registered Gangtok tour operators. Submit ID proofs and photos at least 24 hours before your visit. Wizzride handles this for all sightseeing tour passengers.
Apply with two passport photos and government ID. Processing takes a few hours — apply the afternoon before your planned visit day.
The Army caps Nathula at ~1,200 visitors per day. During peak season (October–November), permits sell out. Book early to avoid disappointment.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Permit Type | Protected Area Permit (PAP) |
| Fee | ~₹200 per person (subject to revision) |
| Validity | Single day — date and destination specific |
| Same permit covers | Baba Mandir + Kupup Lake (same road) |
| Children under 12 | No permit required |
Wizzride's Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir & Nathula Pass sightseeing tour includes your PAP — arranged before you travel, at no extra hassle. Shared tour from ₹1,713 per person.