Sikkim & Nathula Pass Permits Guide
Sikkim is a sensitive border state. While Darjeeling and Gangtok town need no permit, high-altitude passes and frontier regions require official government and army clearances.
1. Nathula Pass (4,310 m / 14,140 ft)
The Indo-China border pass is open Wednesday to Sunday (closed Mondays & Tuesdays). It is strictly open to Indian nationals only.
- Required Documents: Original Voter ID Card or Indian Passport + 2 passport-size physical photos.
- Important: Aadhaar Card is NOT accepted at high-altitude army checkpoints.
- Advance Filing: Must be submitted 24 to 48 hours in advance via a registered operator.
2. Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
Requires a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for all Indian travelers. Foreign travelers may visit Tsomgo Lake in a minimum group of 2 persons accompanied by a local guide.
3. North Sikkim (Lachen, Lachung, Yumthang & Gurudongmar)
Requires PAP issued via Gangtok. Gurudongmar Lake (5,430 m) is open only to Indian citizens due to frontier defense regulations. Foreign nationals can travel up to Yumthang Valley with a valid permit.
4. Foreign Nationals (Non-Indian Passport Holders)
Foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP / Inner Line Permit) to enter Sikkim. Issued online via e-FRRO (indianfrro.gov.in) or free on-arrival at Rangpo and Melli checkposts.
Need Help With Sikkim Permits?
We process official government PAP documents directly through registered channels for our travelers.