The 1967 Nathu La war memorial
In September 1967 a dispute over fencing at the pass turned into heavy firing between Indian and Chinese troops, and fighting spread to Cho La a few weeks later. Both sides suffered casualties. The clashes are remembered in India as a time when the border line in Sikkim was firmly held.
The memorial near the pass lists names and tells the story through plaques and photographs. Visit it after the viewing area, while your vehicle waits. Speak quietly, follow any instructions from soldiers, and remove hats if asked. It is a short stop but one that many visitors remember.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
What happened at Nathu La in 1967?
In September 1967, tension over a fence being laid at the pass led to an exchange of fire between Indian and Chinese troops, followed by days of shelling. In October there was a further clash at Cho La. Both sides lost soldiers. The events are known as the Nathu La and Cho La clashes.
Is the war memorial always open to visitors?
It is usually accessible as part of the Nathu La visit when the pass is open to tourists. Access depends on the army's arrangements on the day, and some areas may be closed. Your driver will know the current pattern. Check current status before you travel.
Is there a museum about the Nathu La clashes?
There is no large museum at the pass, but the memorial has plaques, photographs and lists of names. For more depth, books and articles on the 1967 clashes and the Indian Army's histories of the Sikkim frontier cover the events in detail. Wikipedia's article is a reasonable starting point.
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