Sikkim’s War Frontiers to Open for Tourists: Explore Cho La and Doklam

In a landmark initiative set to redefine India's tourism landscape, starting September 2025, Sikkim will officially open the historic battle sites of Doklam and Cho La Pass to Indian tourists under the Centre’s Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan or battlefield tourism in India initiative. This pioneering move, aims to blend patriotic reverence with adventure. These high-altitude, strategically vital areas, which have witnessed pivotal moments in Indian military history, will soon offer an opportunity for citizens to connect with the valour and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces.

The project is a collaboration between the Sikkim government, the Indian Army, and the Union Ministry of Tourism, focusing on developing essential infrastructure while maintaining ecological and security protocols. This initiative promises to significantly boost Sikkim tourism, diversify its offerings beyond conventional attractions like Nathu La and Changu Lake, and foster a deeper sense of national pride.

Background & Strategic Importance

Doklam (Donglang Plateau)

Located at the India‑China‑Bhutan tri‑junction, Doklam was the site of a 73‑day standoff in 2017 when China attempted unauthorized road construction; India intervened to uphold Bhutan’s territorial integrity.
The region symbolizes strategic defence around the Siliguri Corridor, India’s vital link to its northeast.

Cho La Pass

Cho La was the scene of a fierce 1967 Indo‑China skirmish, where Indian troops pushed Chinese forces back by nearly three kilometres, significantly boosting morale and asserting India’s border claims
At over 4,700 m, the Cho La Pass Sikkim tourism site offers dramatic high‑altitude landscapes combined with military history.

Infrastructure & Permit System

Pre‑opening Development

Sikkim Tourism, in partnership with the Army, is constructing restrooms, parking, and waiting areas at both sites. Infrastructure is expected to complete by early September 2025.
Road improvements such as bridges and climate‑resilient upgrades are underway via the Border Roads Organisation.

Controlled Access Model

Vehicle limits: Initially capped at 25 vehicles and 10–15 motorbikes per day per site. May increase to 50 vehicles once logistics allow.
Permits required: Indian citizens must carry an Inner Line Permit (ILP), typically ₹500 per person; vehicle permits range from ₹2,000–₹4,000; only Sikkim‑registered taxis exempt from mandatory drop zones near Gangtok.

Visitor Experience & Highlights

Entry via Nathu La and Changu Lake, continuing to Kupup, Baba Mandir, and onward to Cho La and Doklam.
Designated vantage points afford views of the border area, direct access to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is restricted.
Safety support includes Army‑deployed medical teams at key checkpoints such as 17th Mile.
Curated 2‑day itinerary packages are being developed to include Kupup, Cho La, Doklam and nearby scenic attractions; packages promote Sikkim adventure history tour

Purpose & Larger Impact

Patriotism & awareness: Battlefield tourism aims to honour India’s defence history and educate visitors on the sacrifices of armed forces.
Regional development: Officials expect economic uplift through increased demand for guides, homestays, transport, and hospitality, mirroring past gains from border‑area tourism.
Tourism diversification: Adds depth to Sikkim’s well‑known circuits like Gurudongmar, Yumthang, Nathula, providing deeper content for military tourism India

Key Facts at a Glance

Battlefield Legacy: The 1967 skirmishes at Cho La further cemented its place in India's military annals, making it a powerful site for military tourism India.

Tourist Accessibility: Both Cho La and Doklam are located within a 30-kilometre radius of the popular Tsomgo (Changu) Lake and Nathu La Pass, making them accessible through existing tourist corridors.

National Scope: Approximately 30 battle sites across India have been identified for this unique tourism circuit.

Opening Timeline: The state government aims to open Cho La tourism opening September 2025, with preparations underway to be ready by the Dussehra season.

Primary Locations:

Doklam – Known for the 2017 India–China standoff.
Cho La Pass – Site of the 1967 Indo-China skirmish.

Daily Visitor Limits:

25–30 vehicles and 10–15 bikes per site, per day (initially).
May expand to 50 vehicles daily as infrastructure develops.

Permit Requirements:

Inner Line Permit (ILP): ₹500 per person.
Vehicle Permit: ₹2,000–₹4,000 depending on type.

Access Route:

Journey via Nathu La, Changu Lake, Kupup, and Baba Mandir.

Infrastructure Readiness:

Facilities like parking zones, restrooms, and waiting areas under construction.
Border Roads Organisation is enhancing routes and bridges.

Safety Measures:

Army units to provide on-ground support and medical teams, especially at checkpoints like 17th Mile.

Itinerary Highlights:

Curated 2-day battlefield tourism packages being developed.
Will combine military history, scenic views, and patriotic storytelling.

The decision to open Doklam and Cho La for battlefield tourism in India in September 2025, marks a significant and commendable step. It transforms regions once mainly known for their geopolitical tensions, into sites of national pride and historical reflection. This initiative, under the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan Cho La framework, will not only offer unique travel experiences amidst breathtaking Himalayan landscapes but also serve as a powerful educational platform. It’s an opportunity for every Indian to witness firsthand the strategic importance of these frontiers and honour the brave hearts who guard our nation. As Cho La tourist permits become available and infrastructure upgrades Cho La progress, Sikkim is set to become a beacon of patriotic tourism, captivating visitors with its blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and the enduring spirit of the Indian soldier.