Elevated at 13,999 feet above sea level, Jelep La is an international high mountain pass connecting India to Lhasa. This viewpoint is one of the unique sites to admire the natural beauty. A drive on this route is one of the most surreal experiences. The terrain is covered by forests of rhododendrons alongside India and the Chumbi Valley on the Tibetan Plateau. Paved between two countries, Jelep La Pass is a very steep route with many hairpin curves. From the Jelep La View Point, you will be able to see the convergence of the Teesta, Reang, and Relli rivers. So, if you want to have the unique experience of tour life, visit Jelep La Pass in Sikkim.
Location of Jelep La Pass
India (Sikkim) to China (Tibet Autonomous Region)
About Jelep La Pass
Located on an ancient trading route, traders have used Jelep Pass for centuries. A part of the Sikkim silk route, there are two Jelep La Pass routes in India – the Kalimpong route and the Gangtok route.
The Kalimpong route is an ancient one passing through the towns of Pedong in northern West Bengal, Rhenok, and Kupup. This route boosted the local economy due to the trading of wool and furs, but in 1962, it was closed after the Sino-Indian.
Gangtok route is scenic, with forests of rhododendrons blooming in spring. It passes through the towns of Sherathang, nearby Changu Lake, beside Nathu la, and through Kupup. On the Tibetan side, the pass leads to the Chumbi Valley of the Tibetan Plateau.
Type of Destination
Scenic, Adventure Duration
2 hours are sufficient for the Jelep La Pass tour.
Best time to visit Jelep La Pass
The best time to visit Jelep La is between March and May. You can also go between October and mid-December but remember that tourists are not allowed to go on the pass itself. Most of the year, civilians are not allowed to go on Jelep La Pass. It is open to traffic throughout the year but due to bad weather gets closed for short periods of time in the winter months.
How to Reach Jelep La
By Road – After reaching Gangtok, take a car ride through Sherathang town close to Changu Lake, Kulup Lake, and Nathula Pass.
Distance from Gangtok to Jelep La – 66.6 km
Travel Time – 2 hours 14 minutes approx.
By Train – The nearest railway station to Jelep La is New Jalpaiguri railway station in Siliguri. There are many car rentals here to complete your journey to Jelep La Pass.
Distance from New Jalpaiguri to Jelep La – 182.6 km
Travel Time – 6 hours 31 minutes approx. By Air – Fly down to Bagdogra airport, which is close to Siliguri. Take a car from Bagdogra airport to Gangtok to reach Jelep La View Point.
Distance from Bagdogra Airport to Jelep La – 190.8 km
Travel Time – 6 hours 42 minutes approx.
Tips:
Jelep La Pass (Indian side) is under the protection of the Indian Army. So, you will need a special permit to visit. Do check with the local authorities to find out how to get this permit. It is very cold up high in the mountains, so cover yourselves up with warm clothing.Places to Visit near Jelep La
- After visiting the Jelep La View Point, check out the places to visit nearby –
- The Menmecho Lake
- Baba Mandir, a few km away.
- Kupup Lake
- Nathula Pass.
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the place
- Changu/ Tsomgo Lake
- Zuluk
- Nag Temple
- Thambi Valley viewpoint
- Gnathang valley
- River Rangpo Chu
Places to Stay near Jelep La Pass
- As Jelep La Pass is located in East Sikkim, therefore, these are some of the best places to stay near Jelep La –
- Udaan, Woodberry Hotel and Spa
- Lemon Tree Hotel Gangtok
- Summit Namnang Courtyard & Spa
- The Fern Denzong Hotel & Spa Gangtok
- The Golden Crest
