Bum La Pass: 🇮🇳 India 🇨🇳 China LAC

Bumla Pass was easily one of the most powerful places we visited during the trip. Standing at this high-altitude border between India and China, the Indian Army briefed us about the historic battle fought here during the 1962 Indo-China war. Hearing the story right at the actual location made it incredibly moving.

The soldiers told us about the heroic stand led by Subedar Joginder Singh of the 1st Sikh Regiment, who defended this post with a small platoon against a much larger Chinese force. Despite being heavily outnumbered and attacked in multiple waves, the Indian soldiers fought fiercely and refused to retreat. Many of them were killed while defending the post, and even after being wounded, Joginder Singh continued leading his men in battle until he was captured. He was later awarded India’s highest wartime gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra, for his extraordinary bravery. (Wikipedia)

While standing at the border, we could clearly see the Chinese side as well. At one point, we noticed a short-heighted Chinese soldier constantly watching and monitoring our side, almost as if he was keeping a close eye on visitors near the border.

Visitors are also allowed to take photos right at the border for a small fee, which makes for a memorable moment from such a historic place.

What impressed us the most was the discipline, professionalism, and pride of the Indian Army personnel stationed here. Despite the extreme altitude, cold winds, and isolation, they patiently brief visitors, manage the border area, and proudly share the history of the place. Being there made us realize the sacrifices made by soldiers and left us with immense respect for the men guarding the nation at these remote frontiers.Leggi altro