There are certain places in India that require travellers to obtain a special Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit. These areas are typically situated near India's international borders and are considered sensitive zones. The issuance of ILPs helps regulate the movement of individuals in these regions. If you weren't aware of which destinations need the Inner Line permit, read on to find out.
There is one surprise that Indians do not need an ILP to visit places Like Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir despite them sharing borders with other countries. (Image: Shutterstock)
Not many people were aware about Inner Line Permits, until PM Narendra Modi's visit to the Islands of Lakshadweep went viral. It was then that travellers in India read up about the scenic beaches off the Kerala coast and learnt about the special permit needed to visit this magical part of India. Here's a look at destinations in India where an ILP is necessary to visit even for Indian citizens. (Image: PIB)
No 01. Lakshadweep | This Union Territory in India, necessitates permits for all travellers to manage tourist numbers on the paradise islands. To obtain a permit, one needs to provide a clearance certificate from a local police station along with identification documents. Online applications for permits are available.
No 2. Manipur | Issued by the Government of Manipur, the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime was extended to Manipur on December 11, 2019 with President Ram Nath Kovind signing an order to the effect. The decision came two days after Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced in the Lok Sabha that the ILP would be extended to the northeastern state. Manipur became the fourth state Northeast India where the ILP regime is applicable.(Image: Shutterstock)
No 03. Arunachal Pradesh | Located at the border junction of Myanmar, Bhutan, and China, Arunachal Pradesh requires Inner Line Permits for non-locals due to its sensitive nature. Travellers can obtain the permit for protected areas from the resident commissioner of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh in cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Shillong and Guwahati. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 04. Meghalaya | In Meghalaya, acquiring an Inner Line Permit is a prerequisite before heading out on any travel, which aligns with its practice akin to neighbouring northeastern states. As per the revised Meghalaya Residents, Safety, and Security Act of 2016, individuals intending to reside in the state for over 24 hours, including tourists, laborers, and those involved in business activities are mandated to obtain a permit and furnish necessary documents to the government. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 05. Nagaland | This scenic state that shares its border with Myanmar, is known for its unique tribes. However, all Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit to visit the region. The permit can be procured online or from the deputy commissioner of Dimapur, Kohima, New Delhi, Shillong, Mokokchung and Kolkata. (Image: Reuters)
No 06. Mizoram | With borders adjoining Myanmar and Bangladesh, Mizoram, home to various indigenous tribes, requires an Inner Line Permit, which can be obtained from liaison officers of the government of Mizoram. Cities like Guwahati, Silchar, Kolkata, Shillong, and New Delhi issue these permits, with a special pass available for those entering via flight at Lengpui Airport, Aizawl. There are two types of ILPs available, a 15-day temporary permit or a six-month regular permit.
No 07. Protected areas of Sikkim | Visiting remote protected areas in Sikkim, such as Tsomgo-Baba Mandir, NathuLa Pass, Dzongri trek, Singalila trek, Yumesamdong, Gurudongmar lake, Zero Point, Yumthang, and Thangu-Chopta Valley require a permit issued by the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department. Obtaining permits is possible at Bagdogra Airport and Rangpo check post, with assistance from tour operators or travel agents. (Image: Shutterstock)