raman
Amit Khanna Staff answered 5 months ago
For visiting Leh and nearby areas, particularly for first-time visitors, it’s important to be aware of the required permits and the process to obtain them. Here are the details:
Inner Line Permits (ILP)
Who Needs It?
Indian Nationals
Areas Requiring ILP:
Nubra Valley
Pangong Lake
Tso Moriri
Dah-Hanu Villages
Khardung La Pass
Turtuk
Nyoma
Man-Merak
Chushul
Hanle
Loma Bend
How to Obtain:
Online Application:
The permits can be applied for online through the Leh-Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council website LAHDC Leh.
Offline Application:
Permits can be obtained from the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Leh, located on the Main Bazaar Road.
Required Documents:
Valid Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport)
Passport-sized photographs
Fees:
Environmental Fee: INR 300 per person
Red Cross Society Fee: INR 100 per person
Wildlife Fee: INR 20 per person per day (only for Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri)
Protected Area Permits (PAP)
Who Needs It?
Foreign Nationals
Areas Requiring PAP:
All the areas that require ILP for Indian nationals
Additionally, some remote areas near the border may have stricter restrictions.
How to Obtain:
Through Registered Travel Agencies:
Foreign nationals must apply for PAP through a registered travel agency in Leh. The agency handles the application process.
Group Requirement:
A minimum group of two foreign tourists is required to apply for PAP.
Validity:
Typically valid for 7 days, but can be extended.
Required Documents:
Passport and Visa copies
Passport-sized photographs
Fees:
The cost varies based on the agency fee and the area of visit.
Additional Tips for First-Time Visitors:
Plan Ahead:
Make sure to apply for permits a few days in advance to avoid any delays in your travel plans.
Check Validity:
Permits are usually valid for a specific duration and area. Ensure you travel within the validity period and the specified areas.
Carry Multiple Copies:
Always carry multiple photocopies of the permits, as you will need to submit them at various checkpoints.
Respect Local Regulations:
Follow the guidelines provided by the authorities, respect local customs, and be mindful of the environmental regulations in these sensitive areas.
Stay Informed:
Keep yourself updated with any changes in permit requirements or travel advisories for Leh and surrounding areas.