Monday, Aug 03, 2026 00:00 [IST]
Last Update: Sunday, Aug 02, 2026 18:33 [IST]
GANGTOK,: Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba expressed that the resumption of Nathu La border trade and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra reinforces Sikkim as a “Corridor of Friendship” between India and China.
The Nathu La border trade between Sikkim in India and Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) in China resumed on August 1 after a gap of six years following Covid-19 outbreak.
“I warmly welcome the resumption of the historic Nathu La border trade between India and China on 1st August 2026 after a gap of six years. This is a proud and significant moment not only for the people of Sikkim but also for the entire nation. The reopening of this ancient trade route revives a centuries-old tradition of commerce, cultural exchange and friendship across the Himalayas,” said the Lok Sabha MP in a media statement on Sunday.
Both Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and the border trade with China transits through Sikkim’s Nathu La international border, located about 52 km away from Gangtok at an altitude of 14,400 ft. While the Nathu La border trade resumed from August 1, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Indian pilgrims through Sikkim corridor for this year commenced from June.
“Together, border trade and the pilgrimage route through Nathu La reinforce Sikkim's position as an important border State and a vital corridor of friendship connecting the two great neighbours, India and China. They also showcase Sikkim as a gateway for trade, tourism, spiritual travel and cultural exchange,” said Indra Hang.
The Lok Sabha MP expressed his sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for their continued support and commitment in facilitating the resumption of border trade through Nathu La. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay whose proactive efforts and consistent advocacy played an important role in ensuring the revival of this historic trade route, he said.
According to the Lok Sabha MP, the reopening of Nathu La is much more than the resumption of trade.
“It opens new economic opportunities for the people of Sikkim by supporting traders, transporters, entrepreneurs, local businesses and tourism-related sectors. It will strengthen livelihoods, generate employment and contribute to the overall growth of our State while encouraging the promotion of local products.”
Indra Hang pointed out that beyond Sikkim, the revival of border trade also carries great diplomatic significance.
“Trade and people-to-people exchanges have always played an important role in building trust and understanding between neighbouring countries. I believe that the reopening of Nathu La will further strengthen bilateral ties between India and China through peaceful engagement, economic cooperation and cultural interaction.”
Indra Hang added that the simultaneous revival of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this year through Nathu La further enhances Sikkim's strategic and cultural importance.
Around 500 pilgrims from across India, in ten groups, are scheduled to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the Nathu La route this year. The sixth batch of Yatris completed their pilgrimage and returned to Gangtok on July 30.
“As we celebrate this important milestone, let us work together to ensure that the benefits of border trade reach our local communities, especially the people living in our border areas. At the same time, we must protect the fragile Himalayan environment and pursue sustainable development. I am confident that the resumption of Nathu La border trade will usher in a new era of prosperity, cooperation and progress for Sikkim and the nation,” said the Lok Sabha MP.
