Starting September 2025, Indian tourists will be able to visit Doklam and Cho La in East Sikkim as part of the Centre’s “Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan” (Battlefield Tourism) initiative. This marks a strategic shift where once‑sensitive border regions – sites of past military significance – are being transformed into curated destinations to blend history, patriotism, and scenic adventure.
The Ranbhoomi Tourism Initiative
- Launched by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Tourism, the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan programme aims to open about 30–40 historically significant sites, including locations like Siachen, Kargil, Galwan, and now Doklam, Nathula, and Cho La in Sikkim.
- The goal is to foster patriotism, educate citizens on India’s military history, and integrate these sites into tourism circuits that support local economies.
Historical & Strategic Significance
Doklam
- The Doklam plateau made international headlines during the 73-day India–China standoff in 2017. Positioned at the India–China–Bhutan tri‑junction, it represents a key strategic chokepoint and a dramatic example of recent geopolitical tensions.
Cho La
- Cho La pass is historically known for the 1967 military clashes between India and China, and earlier was a vital trade route between Sikkim and Tibet. It now serves as a battlefield tourism destination under military tourism initiatives.
Infrastructure & Preparatory Work
- The Sikkim Tourism Department, in partnership with the Indian Army, has begun building essential visitor infrastructure – parking, restrooms, waiting rooms – to be ready by the Dussehra season in September 2025.
- Travel routes will run from the established gateway destinations like Changu Lake and Nathu La, with Doklam about 23 km from Changu and Cho La accessible via Kupup and Baba Mandir.
- Entry permits will be strictly regulated, initially admitting only 25–30 vehicles per day (potentially rising to 50 depending on approvals and road conditions).
Visitor Experience & Safety Protocols
- Tourists will not be allowed to approach the India–China border directly; only aerial views of the border zone may be permitted. Security and protocol remain top priorities.
- A feasibility motorbike expedition was conducted by the tourism department and local agencies, yielding encouraging logistical feedback.
- Basic health and emergency response measures will be supported by army medical teams at locations including 17th Mile and further up the mountain routes.
Tourism Linkages & Broader Benefits
- Curated 2‑day packages are being developed to include visits to Kupup, Cho La, Doklam, and surrounding scenic spots – encouraging longer stays and deeper experiences beyond the typical single‑day visit from Gangtok.
- Kupup, though under‑commercialised, is highlighted as a hidden gem: “If one visits Cho La and doesn’t go to Kupup, they’re missing out on 40 % of the experience”.
- Enhancing road connectivity remains a focus for the Border Roads Organisation, with improvements planned within six months, including bridges and climate‑resilient structures.
- The initiative is expected to diversify Sikkim’s tourism beyond established destinations like Gurudongmar, Yumthang, Lachung, Nathula, and attract repeat visitors.
Strategic Outlook & Local Impact
- The Raj Bhavan press release (Gangtok, 16 Jan 2025) confirmed that Doklam, Nathula, and Cho La have been shortlisted under Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan. The programme is intended to inspire patriotism and showcase the sacrifices of the armed forces while boosting tourism in remote regions.
- Sikkim has seen a reported 30 % rise in tourist arrivals over four years in border areas like Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh – attributed in part to better infrastructure and heightened interest in border tourism.
- As battlefield tourism develops, local economies are expected to benefit from increased demand in guiding, homestays, transport, and hospitality.
Nearest Airports
Pakyong Airport (PYG)
- Location: Approximately 31 km (1–1.5 hours) south of Gangtok, situated at an altitude of around 4,500 ft.
- Connectivity: Direct domestic flights from Delhi, Kolkata, and other major cities via carriers like Air India, SpiceJet, IndiGo, and Vistara.
Bagdogra Airport (IXB)
- Located in West Bengal, about 124 km from Gangtok (4–5 hours by road).
- Well-connected with major Indian metros. Ideal alternative if Pakyong flights are unavailable.
- Helicopter service to Gangtok is available (20–30 minutes), subject to weather.
Nearest Railway Stations
- New Jalpaiguri (NJP) – around 125 km from Gangtok.
- Siliguri Junction – around 114 km from Gangtok.
From either station:
- Shared or private taxis are available to reach Gangtok.
- Prefer Sikkim-registered taxis to avoid mandatory drop-off at Deorali Stand outside Gangtok.
Roadways and Route to Battlefield Zones
Gangtok as the Base
- All routes to Doklam and Cho La originate from Gangtok.
- Key highways include NH10 (Siliguri–Gangtok) and NH717A (Pakyong–Rhenock–Kupup).
To Doklam
- Route: Gangtok → Changu Lake → Kupup → Gnathang → Doklam.
- Approximate distance: 23 km from Changu Lake.
To Cho La Pass
- Route: Gangtok → Changu Lake/Kupup → Baba Mandir → Cho La.
- Cho La is located about 4 miles northwest of Nathu La and lies on a fair-weather road.
Permits Required
For Indian Citizens
- Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for areas like Changu, Nathu La, Doklam, Cho La, Kupup.
- Permit cost: ₹500 for individuals; vehicle permit between ₹2,000–₹4,000.
- Permits can be obtained at Bagdogra Airport, Pakyong Airport, Rangpo/Melli checkposts, and Sikkim Tourism offices in Gangtok, Siliguri, Delhi, or Kolkata.
For Foreign Nationals
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP) required.
- Must travel with a registered guide or agency; solo travel is not permitted in these zones.
Inland Transport and Travel Tips
- From Airport to Gangtok:
- Taxis from Bagdogra take 4–5 hours (~₹2500–₹3000 for private, ~₹1000 shared).
- From Pakyong, prepaid taxis or NE Taxi services are available.
- Within Sikkim:
- Hire Sikkim-registered cabs for full access and fewer restrictions.
- Shared cabs operate from Gangtok to Kupup, Baba Mandir, and Changu; book in advance.
- Road Conditions:
- Roads beyond Kupup to Doklam and Cho La are fair-weather mountain routes.
- Daily vehicle limits apply (~25 vehicles and 10–15 bikes per site initially).
Key Travel Reminders
- Carry valid ID and permit documents at all times.
- Book permits and transport at least a day in advance.
- Use Sikkim-registered taxis to reach destinations directly.
- Monitor weather forecasts, especially during monsoon and winter.
- Acclimatize in Gangtok or Kupup before visiting high-altitude areas (Doklam and Cho La are over 4,000 m).
- Curated bike or SUV expeditions may offer guided access and logistical ease.
Summing Up
The opening of Doklam and Cho La for Indian tourists in September 2025 represents a landmark moment in Sikkim’s tourism evolution. By integrating high-altitude natural beauty with historical narrative and strategic significance, the Ranbhoomi Tourism initiative offers visitors a unique and immersive experience. Backed by the Centre and Indian Army and supported by improved infrastructure and safety protocols, these new destinations align patriotism with experiential travel – positioning Sikkim at the forefront of India’s burgeoning battlefield tourism landscape.
