Who needs a permit, and where
Sikkim Permit Guide
A plain-English guide to Sikkim travel permits — what Indian and foreign travellers need, which areas are restricted, and the documents to carry. Always verify current rules before you travel.
- Indians vs foreigners
- Restricted areas
- Documents list
- Verify before travel
Indian nationals — general Sikkim
For Gangtok, Pelling, Namchi, Ravangla and most of the popular circuit, Indian travellers need no permit. Carry an original government photo ID (Voter ID, Passport or Driving Licence work well; Aadhaar alone is sometimes not accepted as primary ID at check posts) and a few photocopies. You'll show ID at the Rangpo check post when entering the state.
Restricted areas that need a Protected Area Permit
- Tsomgo (Changu) Lake & Baba Mandir — day permit from Gangtok, usually arranged a day ahead.
- Nathula Pass — additional permit; open only on certain weekdays; restricted to Indian nationals; can be closed by the Army at short notice.
- North Sikkim — Lachen, Lachung, Yumthang Valley, Zero Point and Gurudongmar Lake all require a Protected Area Permit arranged through a registered operator. See our North Sikkim permit page.
Documents (Indian nationals)
- Original government photo ID + photocopies (carry physical copies; digital may not be accepted at check posts)
- Two recent passport-size photographs for restricted-area permits
- For children: birth certificate or school ID, plus a parent's ID
Foreign nationals
Foreign travellers need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Sikkim, typically arranged through a registered operator (and often issued for a set number of days, extendable). Some areas are restricted to Indian nationals — notably Nathula, Baba Mandir and Gurudongmar Lake. Foreigners can usually visit Tsomgo Lake with the right permits, and North Sikkim access for foreigners carries additional conditions (often travelling in a group of two or more with a registered operator and guide). Requirements change — confirm current eligibility before planning.
Practical tips
- Apply a few days ahead in peak season — last-minute restricted-area permits often fail.
- Carry multiple physical photocopies of your ID and spare passport photos.
- Nathula, Zero Point and Gurudongmar can close at short notice for weather or security — build flexibility into your plans.
- Rules differ for Indian and foreign travellers and change over time; treat this page as guidance, not a guarantee.
Related
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
Questions about a Sikkim permit?
Tell us where you want to go and we'll explain exactly what you need — and arrange it with your trip.