Learn about Inner Line Permit (ILP) for tourists

The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is a travel document issued by the Government of India allowing Indian and foreign travellers to travel to protected areas for a limited period. Learn all about Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Ladakh

What is an Inner line Permit?

An interline permit in Ladakh is a special permit issued by the local authorities that allow tourists to travel to certain areas in Ladakh that are close to the border with China or Pakistan. These areas are considered sensitive due to their proximity to the international border and require special permission to enter.

Who would need an Inner line Permit?

All non-residents of Ladakh who intend to visit any sightseeing places must obtain the Inner Line Permit (ILP). The interline permit is required for tourists who wish to travel to the following areas:

1. Nubra Valley

2. Pangong Tso Lake

3. Tso Moriri Lake

4. Dah Hanu

5. Hanle

6. Sham Valley

7. Leh Local Sightseeing

How to obtain an Inner line Permit for domestic tourists?

The Inner Line Permit (ILP) can be obtained online through the Ladakh administration's official website or in person at designated offices in Leh or Kargil. Tourists can apply for a permit by filling out the form on the LAHDC permit website using the below link:

https://www.lahdclehpermit.in

Protected Area Permits for international travellers?

All international travellers must visit the permit office in person at the DC office in Leh. You will need to provide the following documents in original:

1. A copy of your passport and visa

2. A print copy of your filled permit form

For how much duration is an ILP valid?

It is important to note that the interline permit is only valid for a specific duration and area. Therefore, tourists are advised to plan their itinerary carefully and apply for the permit well in advance to avoid any inconvenience. The maximum validity of an ILP is up to 15 days.

Who all are not eligible to apply for ILP/PAP in Leh?

1. Citizens of China, Taiwan, Hongkong, Myanmar, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Srilanka are not eligible to apply for ILP. They must apply the same at the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.

2. Diplomatic Passport Holders.

3. Solo international travellers also cannot apply for a permit. However, you can still apply for the same by clubbing together your permit application with other international tourists.

Following Passport Holders Require Protected Area From Ministry Of External Affairs, Goi, New Delhi

1. DIPLOMATIC PASSPORT

2. UN PASSPORT

3. INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION PASSPORT

4. OFFICIAL PASSPORT/ VISA

5. JOURNALIST PASSPORT/ VISA

Citizens Of Following Countries Require Protected Area Permit From Ministry Of Home Affairs, Goi, New Delhi

1. PAKISTAN

2. AFGHANISTAN

3. CHINA

4. BANGLADESH

5. MYANMAR

6. SRI LANKA

7. FOREIGN NATIONALS OF PAKISTANI ORIGIN

8. TAIWAN – (PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA)

9. HONG KONG – (SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE

REGION PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA.)

Additionally, it is essential to follow all the rules and regulations laid down by the authorities while visiting these sensitive areas. This includes obtaining necessary permits and avoiding any prohibited activities.