India’s northeastern Himalayan gem, Sikkim, is known for its beautiful Buddhist monasteries, organic farming, delicious Tibetan food, and unique cultural mix. It is known as India’s first 100% organic state and is also a top eco-tourism spot. But visiting Sikkim needs some mandatory permits. Indians do not need any permits to enter the state, but visiting some places in North and East Sikkim requires important and mandatory permits. Here’s everything you must know about permits needed for exploring Sikkim.
Do Indians need permits for Sikkim 2026?
Indian tourists do not require any permit to enter the country, but specific permits apply for protected zones. Unlike states like Arunachal Pradesh or Nagaland, Sikkim does not require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indians to enter the state.
Indians can drive, fly, or train to Gangtok freely with basic ID proof like Aadhaar or Voter ID. This comes from Sikkim’s integration into India post-1975. This prioritizes tourism while safeguarding border sensitivities near China, Nepal, and Bhutan.
However, general confusion arises with Protected Area Permits (PAP). This permit is often mistaken for ILP. ILP is a permit that Indians must secure for the restricted North Sikkim areas. This includes Lachen, Lachung, Yumthang Valley, and Gurudongmar Lake. This permit is also important for East Sikkim’s Tsomgo Lake or Nathula Pass.
Why Permits Are Needed In Sikkim?
The strategic location of Sikkim demands regulated access through permits to prevent unregulated border tourism. The state shares its borders with China, Bhutan, and Nepal.
PAP ensures security, environmental protection, and guided travel in fragile high-altitude ecosystems. Indians need PAP for any spot beyond Chungthang in North Sikkim or above 3,000 meters near passes.
According to the recent 2025 updates via Sikkim Tourism, the digital approvals are valid, but core rules remain. No PAP means no entry at checkpoints. Foreigners coming to Sikkim face stricter rules as they have to provide Restricted Area Permits (RAP/ILP) for the entire state along with PAP.
What is Inner Permit Line (IPL) for Sikkim?
The Inner Line Permit (ILP), which is also referred to as the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in Sikkim’s context, is a mandatory travel document. It is required mainly for foreigners to enter the state. The reason behind it is its sensitive border location near China, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Unlike states like Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, or Manipur, where Indians need an ILP for entry, Sikkim does not mandate an ILP for Indian citizens to visit the state itself. They can enter freely with a basic ID like Aadhaar.
For foreigners, ILP/RAP allows 30-day stays and is obtained on arrival at checkpoints like Rangpo or Melli. It can also be obtained at Sikkim Tourism offices in Siliguri or Kolkata, or Delhi. This permit requires you to produce a passport, a visa, photos, and an itinerary.
How to get Sikkim permits online 2026
- Visit sikkimtourism.gov.in
- Go to Traveller Essentials, then select the PAP/RAP section or eservices.sikkim.gov.in.
- Register/login
- Now select PAP (Indians) or RAP/ILP (foreigners)
- Fill the form with name, ID details, itinerary, and upload 2 passport photos.
- Pay a nominal fee and submit
- You will receive an approval in 1–24 hours via email/SMS with a QR code.
- Print/download; validate at checkpoints with originals.
FAQs
1. Is the Aadhaar card valid for Sikkim permits?
No, Aadhaar is not accepted for Protected Area Permits (PAP) in Sikkim. One must use a Voter ID, a Passport, or a Driving License.
2. Do I need a travel agent for Sikkim permits?
No for Indians, self-application is possible at offices/portals. But a travel agent is recommended for PAP to ensure quick approval and avoid delays.
3. What is the Nathula Pass permit for Indians 2026?
Indians need to collect PAP via registered tour operators from Gangtok
4. What is the Permit for Lachen and Lachung for Indians?
PAP is required for Indians. It can be easily obtained from the Mangan DC office, Gangtok Tourism, or operators.
5. What is the Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir permit?
PAP is mandatory for Indians. It is issued on the same day by Gangtok tour operators or the Tourism office.
