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Jelep La Pass
Jelep La Pass is an ancient mountain pass that was once an important trade route. It is strategically located and a sensitive area because of its proximity to and connection with Tibet in China. This can be the ideal trip for someone who wants to embark on a cultural journey filled with breathtaking views. Even though the pass is not accessible to anyone, there is no harm in knowing about this location, right? You can check out the position of the area on the Jelep La Pass map, and you will find it alluring. It is undoubtedly a hidden gem that remains unexplored even today.
Furthermore, if you are wondering which state Jelep La Pass is in, there can be exciting answers. Keep on reading this article, as I will mention it all here. This historical pass connects two countries and offers a rich history of the days gone long back. It would certainly be exciting to learn about this awe-inspiring beauty. Keep reading this article; you will feel enriched after knowing about this spot. It will be helpful if you want to know everything about a location that bridges the gap between past and present.
Which state is Jelep La Pass located in?
In India, the Jelep La Pass is in Sikkim, and the other portion is in the Tibet Autonomous Region in China.
How to reach Jelep La Pass
- By air
The closest airport to Jelep La is the Bagdogra Airport, which is 190.8 km away. It would take around 6 and a half hours to reach Jelep La from the airport. You can take a shared ride or hire a car from the Bagdogra Airport.
- By train
The nearest airport to Jelep La is the New Jalpaiguri Station (NJP). The New Jalpaiguri railway station is approximately 182 km away. You will find cars outside the station, and you can either hire a car or even take a shared ride to the pass.
- By road
If you are travelling by road, the most convenient way is to travel through Gangtok. It would be a fulfilling ride via Sherathang Town, which is close to Changu Lake, and then via Kupup Lake and Nathula Pass. The distance from Gangtok to the pass is around 66 km, and you can reach there in about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Overview of Jelep La Pass
Located at 13,999 feet above sea level, the Jelep La Pass is an international mountain pass. The Jelep La Pass connects India to Lhasa and is one of the prettiest locations you can find in India. The word Jelep La originated from the Tibet word and means “the lovely level pass”. And it truly justifies that term, too. This area offers a beautiful viewpoint and the unfiltered beauty of nature. You can enjoy one of the most exciting journeys if you are driving on this route. The breathtaking scenery, ambience, and beautiful topography make this site one of a kind to explore. The rhododendrons surround this beautiful terrain until the Chumbi Valley on the Tibetan Plateau.
The route here is quite steep with hairpin curves. This is a beautiful viewpoint, and you can witness the convergence of rivers like Teesta, Relli, and Reang. Below the Jelep La, the beautiful Menmecho Lake flows by. These sights will be enchanting, and people will love visiting them, too. If you are staying here, visit the New Baba Mandir and the Kupup Lake. This location also houses some small military settlements as well. Throughout the trail from Jelep La Pass, you can spot Kupup Lake.
There are two routes on the Indian side of the pass. The first route runs through Kalimpong, and the other goes through Gangtok. The route through Kalimpong is the older one. While going on that route, you will pass through the beautiful town of Pedong, located in the northern part of West Bengal. Further, you will move through Rhenock and Kupup. The Kalimpong route played a vital role in uplifting the local economic condition of the area. Till the last century, this was an important trading route for the trading of fur and wool. However, after the 1962 Sino-Indian War, this route was closed down.
The second route is the one that goes through Gangtok. It crosses Sherathang town, located quite close to Changu Lake. Along with that, it goes through Jelep La Pass Nathula and Kupup. This particular route is most alluring as it enjoys an entire blooming season during the spring. With beautiful rhododendrons, the way looks pristine. Also, the route further stretches towards the Chumbi Valley in the Tibetan Valley.
History of Jelep La Pass
From ancient times, the Jelep La Pass has always been an important part of establishing trade relations between India and Tibet. During British rule, the location first came into view, and they also built roads in Sikkim in 1884. Later, in 1886, a small armed force forcefully captured the area near this pass. In 1888, the same force attacked the British, but the British reoccupied this area later in the same year.
After India’s independence in 1947, Sikkim became a monarchy with a special protectorate status. From then, India had the power to manage its foreign affairs and defence. After the Chinese invasion of Tibet, these passes were the major ways for refugees to commute from Tibet. However, after the war of 1962, the Jelep La Pass was closed completely.
Based on a referendum in 1975, Sikkim became a part of India. With the recent relations between India and China, there are chances of opening the pass. Especially after the opening of the Nathula Pass, there is even more possibility. If everything happens on that line, then the opening of the pass will be fruitful. This would ensure a sure-shot economic boom in the region. Trading and the relationship between the two countries will also be enhanced.
The best time to visit Jelep La Pass
The ideal time to visit this region is from March to May. According to the weather, this is the time when the temperature here remains most comfortable. It would be comfortable for you to travel during this time. Also, you will be able to explore the whole region well if you are visiting during this time. The other time when it is ideal for a visit is from October to December. However, keep in mind that this pass is currently inaccessible to tourists.
Nearby places to visit from Jelep La Pass
- Menmecho Lake
- Kupup Lake
- New Baba Mandir
- Nathula Pass
- Changu Lake/ Tsomgo Lake
- Thambi Valley Viewpoint
- Nag Temple
- Gnathang Valley
- River Rangpo Chu
- Eagle’s Nest Bunker
- Four Lake Point
- Lampokhari Lake
- Tukla Valley
- Laxman Chowk
- Yak Golf Course
Wrapping Up!
Now that you have all the information about the Jelep La Pass, tell me you found this spot spectacular. The history attached to it makes this spot even more enjoyable. If the location is any day, you must do so. However, keep in mind that the location and some of the nearby places are susceptible areas. You might need an Inner Line Permit to visit some of these locations. So, take a reasonable amount of time to research that and bring all the necessary documents with you. Let me know if this article is helpful for you in learning about this gorgeous location. also, if there is something you still want to know about this particular pass, comment below.
