Most of the overland travelers travel to Tibet via Sikkim. There are needed permit to cross the border as well to visit two most exciting places in Sikkim; Tsomgo also known as Changu or Tsangu Lake. To get a permit, sign up for a tour by afternoon and most of the agents can arrange a permit for next day departure.

Tsomgo or Changu Lake

Tsomgo lake, pronounced as Changu lake is located 20km from Nathula Pass and 400km from Lhasa. The environment is cool and serene and this picturesque lake is surrounded by lush green valley. The lake is a holy one for Sikkimese people. There is small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva also built on the lakeside. There are plenty of flora around the lake, mainly Primula flowers and alpine plantation embellished the surrounding region. Between May and August it is possible to see a variety of flowers in bloom including rhododendrons, various species of primulus, blue and yellow poppies, irises and many others. It is also home to red panda and various bird species.

The lake gains all its water from the surrounding mountains. One of the unique feature of the lake is multicolored texture. During ancient times monks are used to forcast about the future after studying the color of the water. The lake has an average depth of 50ft and during winter month it transform into a frozen land. The lake is placed at far above the sensitive area of Indo Chinese border and because of its location a permit is required to enter the region. There are plenty of Yak wallahs who jogged around the lake with their decorated yaks for clients. At the lake side their are food stalls sell hot tea, chowmein and momos. There is nearby hill top from amazing view of lake and surrounding area can be viewed.

Nathu La

Nathula Pass is on the border of India and China and serves as a trading link between the two countries. Set on an elevation of 14,450ft, the Pass is about 55km from Gangtok and reach via Tsomgo Lake. The Pass throughout the year covered with snow.

Kamakhya Mandir
There were large amount of Tibetan migrated to Sikkim and Darjeeling hill through Nathula Pass after Chinese forcefully occupied Tibet. Today most of the part of Sikkim and nearby regions are dominated by Tibetan population. During the first Indo-Sino war, the Pass witnessed heavy fighting and closed. Recently it is again opened after long time for trading between two countries. Nathula is renowned for diverse flora and fauna. From India tourist are only allowed to visit the border where one can see the Chinese territory. On some special occasions Chinese government allows people to visit their terrain. The state government, central government as well government of West Bengal plan to increase tourism in this region. The region is specially inspiring as indefatigable soldiers of two nations facing each other and guarding their territory without the fear of snow, rain or sun.