Difference Between Inner Line Permit & Protected Area Permit in Himalayan Treks

An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is a travel document required by Indian citizens to enter certain protected areas in India. It is issued by the state government.

You will need ILP if you’re travelling to:

• Arunachal Pradesh

• Nagaland

• Mizoram

• Some parts of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Ladakh, and Manipur

This permit is mainly for security and to protect the rights and culture of tribal communities. The validity of ILP is usually 15 days and can be extended on request.

For example, if you are planning the Adi Kailash Yatra, you must get an ILP from SDM Office Dharchula. In my previous blog Kinnaur Kailash vs Adi Kailash, I have discussed how ILP is mandatory for Adi Kailash route.

Another example is Darma Valley in Kumaon, a hidden gem where ILP is needed. I’ve already written a full guide on this amazing valley. You can read it here: Darma Valley – The Hidden Gem of Kumaon.

What is Protected Area Permit (PAP)?

A Protected Area Permit (PAP) is needed by foreign nationals to visit certain areas in India that are sensitive due to security and border reasons. These permits are controlled by the Ministry of Home Affairs, and sometimes issued through State Government offices.

Foreigners can only travel in groups of two or more persons, and the trip must be arranged through a government-registered tour operator. PAP is valid for 10 days, which can be extended up to 7 more days.

Example: A foreigner visiting Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh or North Sikkim (Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley) must get a PAP. They cannot travel solo in these regions.

Key Differences – ILP vs PAP

Where ILP is Needed?

For Indian travellers, ILP is required in these regions:

• Ladakh: ILP needed for Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri, Turtuk, and other border areas.

• Uttarakhand: Treks like Adi Kailash, Om Parvat, and Darma Valley need ILP. I have already written a detailed post on Darma Valley, which includes ILP process in detail.

• Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram: Entire state needs ILP for Indians.

• Himachal Pradesh: Some remote areas near the border (e.g., Chitkul, Shipki La) may need ILP based on route.

Where PAP is Needed?

Foreigners must apply for PAP to enter these Himalayan areas:

• Arunachal Pradesh: Especially Tawang, Ziro, Bomdila.

• North & East Sikkim: Including Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, Nathu La Pass.

• Ladakh: Foreigners need PAP for Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso.

• Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland: Also require PAP for foreigners.

In these areas, just having an ILP is not enough for foreigners. They need both ILP + PAP or sometimes only PAP depending on the rules.

How to Apply for ILP?

For most states, you can apply for ILP:

• Online through state government portals

• At designated offices in cities/towns (e.g., DC Office, SDM Office)

• You need: ID Proof, Passport-sized photos, purpose of visit, and travel dates

Example: For Adi Kailash, ILP is issued from Dharchula SDM Office after submitting Aadhaar and travel plan. I’ve shared full process in my post on Adi Kailash trek.

How to Apply for PAP?

PAP application is a bit more strict:

• Foreigners must apply through a registered tour operator

• Submit copies of passport, visa, photos, and detailed itinerary

• Group of at least 2 persons required

• In some states like Sikkim, permit is issued by State Tourism Department

The PAP takes time, so apply at least 15 days before your trip.

Cost of ILP & PAP

• ILP Fees: ₹100 to ₹300 depending on state

• PAP Fees: ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 depending on destination and agency

• Some areas give free PAP for Indians (like Sikkim), but charge foreigners

Trekking Example: Who Needs What?

🏔️ Adi Kailash Trek

• Indians: ILP needed (from Dharchula)

• Foreigners: PAP + ILP through tour operator

🏔️ Darma Valley Trek

• Indians: ILP from local authorities

• Covered in detail in my article: Darma Valley – The Hidden Gem of Kumaon

🏔️ Tawang

• Indians: ILP required

• Foreigners: PAP needed, no solo travel allowed

Final Words

Both ILP and PAP are important to ensure smooth and legal travel in Himalayan border areas. These permits help in preserving tribal cultures, controlling over-tourism, and maintaining national security.

As a traveller or trekker, you must:

• Check in advance if the destination needs a permit

• Carry original documents and multiple photocopies

• Respect local rules and customs

You can also explore more on Himalayan treks like Darma Valley, Adi Kailash, and others on my website mohitbangari.com, where I share full guides, routes, permit tips and cultural info.

By – Mohit Bangari