It is common to seek permits and visa while traveling abroad. But did you know, you require permit to travel within the country too? Surprised.
Firstly, this is not a new rule. The need for Inner line permit is a part of the Indian travel history for a long time. Inner line permit is required for all those who are visiting sensitive international border areas of India. This measure helps the authorities in regulating the movements of people and protect the tribal communities.
Places in India where, even an Indian requires a permit.
1. Mizoram
Mizoram, one of the gems of the north east is largely known for its tribal community and alluring landscapes. People travelling to Mizoram need an Inner line Permit from the liaison officer, Govt of Mizoram in the following cities: Kolkata, Silchar,Shillong, New Delhi and Guwahati. For those who are entering the state by air, you can obtain the passes from the security officer on arrival at the Lengpui Airport in Aizawal.
Fees amount: Temporary – Rs 120 Regular – Rs 220
Documents required: Four passport-sized photographs and a photo ID.
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2. Arunachal Pradesh
The land of dawn lit mountains and the north eastern most state, Arunachal Pradesh shares it borders with Bhutan, Myanmar and China. The permits can be obtained from the resident commissioner, Govt of Arunchal Pradesh from the cities of Kolkata, Shillong, Guwahati and New Delhi. Apart from this, one can get the permit forms online.
Fees amount: Rs. 100 per person valid for 30 days.
Documents required: Pan card or driving license or passport or voter id and passport-sized photo.
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3.Ladakh
The region of Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir is a very sensitive location as it shares it borders with Pakistan and China. Certain areas of the region are not open to civilians, however, the most beautiful parts like Dah, Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley, Khardung la pass, Tangyar are under the Inner line Permit rule. The permit can be obtained from the DC office located near Main bazaar in Leh or one can get online permits.
Fees amount: Rs 30 per day per person
Documents required: Self-attested photocopies of valid nationality proof, photo-IDs and a request application letter addressing the DC of Leh-Ladakh district for the approval of your permits.
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4.Lakshadweep
The land of a thousand islands is a union territory of India. All the travellers heading to this union territory must obtain a permit to enter which is available free of cost and is valid for a period of 5 months.
Fees amount: Free of cost for a period of 5 months.
Documents required: Provide your name, address, date and place of birth.
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5.Sikkim
Sikkim, The north east favourite has certain entry restrictions and an Indian national requires an inner line permit to visit protected areas such as Lachung, Tsomgo Lake, Nathulla, Dzongzi and Gorchala Trek to name a few. Permit from Natula and Gurudongmar lake are issues by the tourism and civil aviation department and can be obtained free of cost.
Fees amount: They can charge anywhere between Rs. 150 - 200 for the form and additional Rs 20 for fee charged by the permit issuing authority. For example, total permit cost for Nathula pass would be around Rs. 200/- per person.
Documents required: Photo ID proof such as a passport, voter's ID card or driving license.
It is always advisable to know about the place you are traveling to.
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6. Nagaland
The most mountainous state in the north east, Nagaland is known for its lush greenery. Indian visitors need to get Inner Line Permit, which is available from any Nagaland Government office or from any Nagaland House.
Fees amount: Rs 50 per person (for 15 days), Rs 100 per person (for 30 days)
Documents required: 2 Passport size photographs. Photocopy of one identity proof (Pan Card/Aadhaar Card/Voter ID)
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7. Manipur
The jewelled town of North India, Manipur, is famous for its natural beauty. Permit for Manipur came into being effective from December 2019.
Fees amount: A fees of Rs 500 in the first instance and Rs 1,000 for every renewal has to be paid for anyone seeking Regular Permit for a period of 15 days.
Documents required: Valid nationality proof and photographs.
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8. Meghalaya
The latest north eastern state to be added to the list of Inner line permits. More detailed are awaited once the permit is put into action.
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The Flapper Life helps to arrange permits for all our travelers.