[We visited Sikkim in early November when the autumn chill had already set in. On our last day there, we visited Nathula Pass. Strong bitter currents were already blowing amidst the peaks although we were told it was nothing compared to what is considered bad weather thereabouts. Just a week ago (almost two months after we visited) several tourists were stranded at Nathula with no way to get back home because of snow storms. Once again it was the brave soldiers who came to the rescue of these people that included children]
We have been advised against visiting Lachung and Lachen as post floods we are told that there would be some difficulty in accessing these places. As the better-half points out – we must leave something for a future visit. We are on schedule to visit Nathula Pass that morning and plan to leave early in order to beat traffic. Enroute we make a pit stop at a small eatery-cum-shop that sells some local as well as Chinese products. From there we proceed towards Nathula Pass, going past Tsomgo Lake. Despite the curves and bends, the roads that are maintained by the Armed forces are good and sign boards along the path have snippets of motivation and most of all, several reminders to slow down and drive safely. Two hours later, we are there.
One needs a permit to visit Nathula Pass. Moreover for a few short hours every day, the gate is opened to facilitate trade between India and neighbouring China here. Despite the noisy tourists that abound, there is a sense of seriousness and solemnity that hits you. Inclement weather conditions are commonplace is these areas. And although we are told that we are lucky and the weather is particularly good that morning, we can’t help but zip up our jackets, pull caps and hoodies on and quickly slip our hands into the warmth of pockets as a harsh wind threatens to blow us away.
Photography being prohibited in general, we refrain from clicking pictures.
We stop next at Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a shrine dedicated to the ‘Hero of Nathula’ whose spirit, the soldiers believe, protects and guides them amidst treacherous conditions. There are several stories surrounding his life and times, his death and what followed after that which one can find on the internet. A room with his belongings is still maintained in the shrine the way he used to keep it himself. It is believed that Baba still looks out for the soldiers and can heal people who are sick.
Thereafter we begin our descent back to Gangtok stopping once for some light refreshments, tumblers of tea and cups of instant noodles. By the time we are back, we are all quite tired. We consider skipping lunch and having an early dinner instead but good sense prevails. We head to M.G.Marg for lunch at Taste of Tibet which is suggested by the receptionist at our hotel.
M.G.Road in daylight… 
And by night
In the evening the better-half and I take a stroll through the mall at M.G.Marg. I am actually looking for a bookshop, Rachna Books, recommended by a friend for its unique and exclusive collection. After a few wrong turns, we arrive a little too late as the shop is closed although it’s still early evening.
Thus ends a very enjoyable holiday with the family, and I know with the boys growing older and having their own whims and dislikes, it is becoming increasingly difficult to travel together. So I enjoy these breaks as they happen and when we are together.
twilightmusingsbymini
Twilight Musings by Mini 