Inner Line Permits

Certain parts of Leh-Ladakh lie close to international borders and are classified as protected or restricted areas. To preserve national security and manage tourism responsibly, both Indian and foreign travelers are required to obtain official permits before visiting these regions.

These permits—Inner Line Permits (ILP) for Indian citizens and Protected Area Permits (PAP) for foreign nationals—are mandatory for accessing popular destinations like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Hanle, and Tso Moriri. Here’s everything you need to know about how to apply, where to go, and what areas require special permission.

To obtain an ILP, PAP and RAP, please refer to the guidelines mentioned below:

Inner Line Permit (ILP):

Indian tourists need an ILP to visit the following areas:​

  • Nubra Valley (including Khardung La, Diskit, Hunder, Turtuk, Sumur, Panamik, Warshi)​

  • Pangong Lake (via Chang La, Durbuk, Tangtse, Spangmik)​

  • Tso Moriri Lake (via Chumathang, Mahe, Nyoma, Loma Bend)​

  • Dah-Hanu Villages​

  • Changthang Valley​

  • Chushul, Hanle, Phobrang, Marsimik La​

  • Batalik​

  • Tangyar Trek (from Leh-Saboo-Tangyar)​

  • Wari La​

  • Merak​

 

To obtain an ILP:

  • Online Process:

    • Visit the official LAHDC Permit website. or you can also download ​Leh Tourist Management app from Google Play Store.

    • Fill in personal details, travel itinerary, and upload a valid ID proof (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Passport, or Voter ID).​

    • Pay the required fee online.​

    • Download and print the approved ILP.​

  • Offline Process:

    • Visit the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Leh.​

    • Fill out the application form with relevant details.​

    • Attach copies of valid ID proof.​

    • Pay the nominal fee.​

    • Collect the approved ILP.​

 

Protected Area Permit (PAP) / Restricted Area Permit (RAP):

Foreign tourists require a PAP or RAP to visit protected areas such as:​

  • Pangong Lake​

  • Tso Moriri Lake​

  • Nubra Valley​

  • Certain trekking routes​

 

To obtain a PAP/RAP:

  • The permit is issued by the Leh DC office.

  • Travelers need to apply through a registered travel agent.​

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