INNER LINE PERMISSION: India is a vast landscape of exploration, with a rich cultural diversity and heritage. When it comes to travelling in the subcontinent, the list is endless for travel enthusiasts. It is not the same as visiting all 29 states and 7 union territories. Due to security concerns, a few places in India require special permission even for Indians. So, if you intend to visit these locations, make sure you have all of your documents in order and obtain the Inner Lone Permission (ILP).
WHAT EXACTLY IS INNER LINE PERMISSION?
INNER LINE PERMISSION: Don’t worry, this is not a new regulation, but rather an age-old travel requirement written in many people’s travel logs. When travelling to sensitive areas that share borders with other countries, this permit is required. This also helps to protect tourists, manage people movement, and is beneficial to the tribal community.
Here are six places where even Indians require a permit to visit.
Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is an unusual and relatively unexplored archipelago that is one of India’s hidden treasures. To enter the union territory, which is known for its beaches, azure water, and delicious food, a police clearance certificate and a special permit are required.
Ladakh
One of the serene places Ladakh needs no introduction. It is a mandatory name on every traveller’s bucket list, one needs an inner line permit would be required to go to places like Nubra Valley, Khardung La Pass, Tso Moriri Lake, Pangong Tso Lake, Dah, Hanu Village, Nyoma, Turtuk, Digar La, and Tangyar.
Arunachal Pradesh
It is a culturally rich north eastern state that shares borders with China, Bhutan, and Myanmar. Travellers must obtain a permit from the Government of Arunachal Pradesh’s resident commissioner in one of the following cities: Kolkata, Shillong, Guwahati, or Delhi. ILP is for some protected areas in the beautiful state and costs around Rs 100 per person with a validity period of nearly 30 days.
Nagaland
Nagaland is home to many tribes and shares an international border with Myanmar, making it a risky area for carefree travel. Deputy commissioners in Delhi, Kolkata, Kohima, Dimapur, Shillong, and Mokokchung can provide ILP.
Mizoram
Mizoram, another enthralling state brimming with natural wonders, shares a border with Myanmar and Bangladesh and is home to several indigenous tribes. ILP can be obtained from the Mizoram government’s liaison officer in Silchar, Kolkata, Shillong, Delhi, or Guwahati. If you are flying, you can obtain a special pass from a security officer upon arrival at Lengpui Airport in Aizwal.
Sikkim
Sikkim, a gateway to the Himalayas, is a land of beautiful meadows, delectable cuisine, numerous monasteries, crystal lakes, and breathtaking views. It is one of the smallest states in India, nestled in the northeastern region, and it is endowed with never-before-seen beauty. People visiting Sikkim frequently traverse the trails of some of the highest points that require special permits, such as the Tsomgo Baba Mandir trip, the Singalila trek, the NathLa Pass, the Dzongri Trek, the Thangu-Chopta Valley trip, the Yumesamdong, Yumthang, and Zero Point trips, and the Gurudogmar Lake trip.
The Tourism and Civil Aviation Department issues the permit, which can be obtained at Bagdogra Airport and Rangpocheckpoint.
