Sikkim is filled with a bounty of scenic adventure and untouched beauty - nature. Being close to the international borders (China, Nepal, Bhutan), the state has certain restricted areas which need permission to enter. Hence you will need a prior Permit.
Permits to Visit Sikkim
There are two types of permits namely δΈ
- Protected Area Permit (Indian and Foreign Nationals)
- Restricted Area Permit (Foreign Nationals)
Below are the details of the Permits to visit this magnificent place-
Protected Area Permit (PAP)
There are certain areas in Sikkim defined as Protected Areas like - Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Zero Point, Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake, Zuluk etc.
To visit such areas Foreign Nationals as well as Indians require a separate permit known as “Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit such areas.
(Foreign Nationals are not allowed to visit a few areas like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Gurudongmar Lake, Zuluk etc. due to the close proximity of the International border.)
Requirement for PAP :
Validity : Up to 7 days (Permit Extension - Not Allowed)
PAP Cost : ₹150/- to ₹200/-pp, plus ₹20/-fee by the permit issuing authority.
Apply PAP Through : Registered Tour Operator, Travel Agency –Sikkim, Hotels (Booked In), Shared Tour Taxi (PAP is included in the fare)
Photo ID Proof : Voters Id, Driving Licence, Valid Passport, Two Passport Size Photos.
*AADHAR CARD and PAN CARD are not eligible as an ID proof
You can ask your travel agent or booked hotel to arrange the permit or apply from the Tourism Department at MG Road in Gangtok. Permit form submission takes place in the morning and permit is issued by afternoon (same day) or next day.
You can pre-send the documents to your travel agent or booked hotel and they can get the permit ready before your arrival.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Foreign Nationals are required to obtain Restricted Area Permit (RAP) previously known as InnerLine Permit from Sikkim Tourism Officers on the strength of valid Indian Visa. This permit is free of cost. Indians do not require RAP.
Requirement for RAP :
Validity : 30 days
(validity can be extended but should not exceed the total stay of 60 days)
Document : Valid Passport and Indian visa
Other details -
Photocopy of the document with passport size photo.
While filling the online form you are also required to select the tour operator from the assorted list. along with date of arrival, email id, passport & visa details.
The permit need to be stamped and signed at Sikkim Check Post
Nationalities of Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Maymmar and Nigeria can acquire permits only with the prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi.)
List of places in Sikkim where permits are issued
Follow Me