Traveling to North East India often requires special permits due to its sensitive geopolitical location and to preserve its unique culture and environment. Here are the permits required for different states in North East India:
Inner Line Permit (ILP):
The ILP is an official travel document issued by the Government of India to allow inward travel of an Indian citizen into a protected area for a limited period. It’s mandatory for Indian citizens visiting certain states in North East India.
Arunachal Pradesh:
How to Apply: Can be obtained online through the Arunachal Pradesh government website or in person at various state government offices.
Nagaland:
How to Apply: Available online or at Nagaland House in Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and other places.
Mizoram:
How to Apply: Obtainable online or from Mizoram House in Delhi, Kolkata, Silchar, Shillong, and Guwahati.
Manipur:
How to Apply: Available online or at designated counters in Imphal and other cities.
Protected Area Permit (PAP):
Required for both Indian and foreign tourists for specific areas in certain states. Generally valid for 10 days and can be extended.
Arunachal Pradesh:
How to Apply: Can be obtained through tour operators or at offices like the Deputy Resident Commissioner in Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati.
Sikkim (Certain regions like Tsomgo/Baba Mandir, North Sikkim):
How to Apply: Available at Sikkim Tourism offices in Delhi, Kolkata, Siliguri, and Gangtok.
Parts of Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland:
How to Apply: Through designated authorities and sometimes facilitated by travel agents.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
Required for foreign tourists wishing to visit certain restricted areas.
Sikkim (Parts like Gangtok, Yuksom, and the entire north district):
How to Apply: RAP can be obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs or the offices of Sikkim Tourism.
Other Considerations:
Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura:
No special permits are required for Indian citizens. Foreign tourists do not need any special permits either.
Foreign Nationals:
Often need to register with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) within 24 hours of arrival in many of the North Eastern states.
General Tips:
Plan Ahead: Permits can take time to process, so apply well in advance of your travel dates.
Carry Documents: Always carry multiple copies of your permits and valid ID proofs while traveling.
Check Updates: Regulations can change, so check the latest requirements from official state tourism websites or government portals before traveling.
By ensuring you have the necessary permits, you can enjoy a hassle-free and memorable journey through the beautiful and culturally rich regions of North East India.
Traveling to North East India often requires special permits due to its sensitive border areas and protected regions. The specific permits needed can vary depending on the state and the area you plan to visit. Here’s a general guide:
1. Inner Line Permit (ILP)
Required For: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram
Description: The Inner Line Permit is a travel document required by Indian citizens to enter certain protected areas in the northeastern states. It’s issued to control and monitor the movement of visitors in these regions.
How to Obtain:
Arunachal Pradesh: Apply online through the Arunachal Pradesh Tourism website or through the Arunachal Pradesh government’s online portal. Permits can also be obtained from Indian missions abroad, state governments in Delhi, and at the entry points in Arunachal Pradesh.
Nagaland: Apply through the Nagaland State Government website or through the Nagaland House in Delhi. Permits are also available from the state’s entry points.
Mizoram: Apply through the Mizoram Tourism Department or Mizoram House in Delhi. Permits can also be obtained from the Mizoram government’s website.
Duration: Typically valid for 15 to 30 days, but this can vary.
2. Protected Area Permit (PAP)
Required For: Sikkim, parts of Arunachal Pradesh
Description: The Protected Area Permit is needed for foreign nationals visiting certain regions. It’s used to regulate the entry of foreigners into sensitive areas.
How to Obtain:
Sikkim: Apply through the Sikkim Tourism Department or Indian missions abroad. Permits can also be arranged through travel agencies in Sikkim.
Arunachal Pradesh: Foreign tourists need a PAP to visit areas beyond Tawang and Bumla Pass. Apply through the Ministry of Home Affairs or Indian missions abroad.
Duration: Varies based on the location and type of permit issued.
3. Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Required For: Some border areas of Arunachal Pradesh
Description: Similar to the PAP but specifically for areas that are even more sensitive.
How to Obtain: Apply through the Ministry of Home Affairs or Indian missions abroad.
Duration: Varies based on the specific area and requirements.
General Tips:
Check State-Specific Requirements: Always verify the latest requirements for the specific state you plan to visit, as regulations can change.
Apply in Advance: Permits can take time to process, so apply well in advance of your travel date.
Travel Agencies: Many travel agencies in North East India can assist with obtaining permits, especially for foreign tourists.
Carry Copies: Always carry copies of your permits and travel documents while traveling in these regions.
By ensuring you have the correct permits, you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free visit to the beautiful and culturally rich regions of North East India.