Must-visit borders in India in your lifetime
Hill stations and historic monuments are the most traveled-to places since we were kids. Why don’t try something adventurous and at the same time patriotic? If you are looking forward to an experience that can plunge your other regular trips, you must-visit borders in India. We all are aware that Wagah has an India-Pakistan border. But what some of us may not be aware of is, India also shares a border with 7 countries in 18 states. There is a point in the Himalayas called Indira Col, where the boundaries of five countries meet (India, China, Afghanistan, Pakistan & Tajikistan). The point to keep in mind is, not all the borders in India are open to public visits, but a few are. You should carry your ID proof when you head to them to avoid unnecessary trouble. These accessible borders not only give you patriotic vibes but also some beautiful moments to cherish.
Dawki; India-Bangladesh
Famous as one of Asia’s cleanest villages, Dawki connects India with Bangladesh. If you are thinking of visiting a least-explored place where you can make merry peacefully, Dawki is among the must-visit borders in India. You can appreciate the beauty of Ungmot River which is notorious for its jade-colored water. People enjoy boat rides in the river and visiting Living Root Bridge nearby.
How to get there
- By flight: Book a round-trip from New Delhi to Guwahati at least three weeks prior to your journey to get the best fare. Check for cheap flights to India from the US here.
- By train: The nearest railway station is at Guwahati. From here, you should take the road to get to Dawki.
- Cost per day: INR 1500 per person including stay, meals, and transfer.
Rann of Kutch; India-Pakistan
This seasonal marshy salt desert in Kutch is open for tourism from October to February. You can attend Rann Utsav during this period and spend your time admiring the beautiful white sand of the desert.
How to get there
- By Air: The City of Bhuj is the nearest airport and 80 km from the Rann desert. Bhuj airport is smoothly connected to cities all over India; Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.
- By Train: Kutch railway station has connectivity with all the cities of India. Get a cab from there to reach Rann of Kutch.
- By Road: Rann of Kutch can be reached by road from Rajkot or Ahmedabad as per your comfort.
- Cost per day: INR 5000 Per person inclusive of stay, food, and transfer.
Nathu La Pass; India-China
Located at 14140 ft, Nathu La Pass is a mountain pass that acts as the border between Sikkim and Tibet autonomous Region of China. It is also among the open trading borders between India and China. The fencing border is now open for Manas Sarovar Yatra for pilgrims. Indians get a permit by applying to border tourism; Sikkim Tourism and Aviation department.
How to get there
- By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport. From there, one can get a taxi or auto to reach Nathu La.
- By Train: Jalpaiguri is the nearest rail and well-connected to major cities of India.
- By Road: By road, Nathu La can be reached from other cities in Sikkim.
- Cost: Nathu La permit pass costs INR 200 per person. A shared vehicle to the Pass costs INR 700-800 per person. Stay, food, and intra-city transfer may cost approximately 5000.
Nelong Valley
Well-known as the Ladakh of Uttarakhand, Nelong valley offers a wanderlust panoramic view of the Tibetan Plateau and a dreamlike landscape unique to itself. Some tourists are lucky to see endangered wildlife like snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan blue sheep. One should get the permit from the Subdivisional magistrate and produce a fitness certificate for the trip.
How to get there
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport which is 315 km far. One can get buses or taxis from the airport.
- By Train: The closest railway stations are Rishikesh and Haridwar. From either of these railheads, one can get a taxi to Bhairava Ghati, and then Nelong Valley.
- By Road: Nelong Valley has smooth connectivity with Haridwar, Dehradun, and Rishikesh by road.
- Cost: INR 7000 approximately.
Chitkul; India-Tibet
Known as India’s last village, this small beautiful village located at 11000 ft allures travelers with its picturesque location and rustic vibe. September is the best time to visit Chitkul as the blossoms appear all over the place and it feels like heaven on the Earth. This makes the village a must-visit Indian border. Baspa river banks make the village more attractive. December to February, the village will be frozen and roads will not be suitable for travel.
How to get there
- By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport. Bhuntar is the second closest airport. One can get buses or taxis from the airport.
- By Train: The closest is the Shimla railway station. Chandigarh railway station can also be your choice to get trains from various cities in India.
- By Road: You must reach Chandigarh to reach Chitkul. From there you need to follow these directions; Chandigarh-Shimla-Narkanda-Satluj River-Karcham Village-dam-Sangla.
- Cost: INR 6000 including stay, food, and intra-city transfer
