Sikkim is one of the few Indian states where certain areas need special permits. Here is what you actually need, and how we handle it for you.
The two main permits
Inner Line Permit (ILP): Required for Indian tourists heading to North Sikkim towns like Lachung and Lachen.
Protected Area Permit (PAP): Needed for high-altitude and border zones such as Tsomgo Lake, Nathula, Yumthang, Gurudongmar and Zuluk. These are issued for group travel through a registered operator.
Where you do not need one
For Indian citizens, Gangtok and most of South and West Sikkim need no special permit – just carry a government photo ID.
What we need from you
- A government photo ID (Aadhaar or Voter ID).
- Passport-size photos.
- Your travel dates, shared a few days ahead.
We complete the paperwork and clear it at the check post, so you skip the queues. Foreign nationals have separate rules – ask us and we will guide you. Permit rules and closures change seasonally, so we always confirm the latest before your trip.