New Rules for Visiting Protected and Restricted Areas
The Sikkim government has officially stopped issuing physical permits to foreign tourists visiting the state’s protected and restricted areas. From now on, online approval is mandatory for all foreign nationals planning to travel to these regions.
This move aligns with strict instructions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and aims to streamline the permit process while improving monitoring and compliance.
No More Physical PAP or RAP Permits
In a formal notification released by the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, the state government confirmed that Protected Area Permits (PAP) and Restricted Area Permits (RAP) will no longer be issued in offline or physical form under any circumstances.
All applications must now be submitted digitally, ensuring a fully online permit system for foreign visitors.
Online Applications Through the e-FRRO Portal
Mandatory Digital Process for Foreign Nationals
Foreign tourists are required to apply for permits only through the e-FRRO portal, which operates under the Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration & Tracking (IVFRT) platform.
Key points to note:
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Applications must be submitted online only
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Permits must be applied for before entering protected or restricted areas
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Tourists should apply after arriving in India
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Entry without prior online approval will not be allowed
Authorities have stressed that only applications made via the official e-FRRO website will be accepted.
Travel Agencies Asked to Assist Tourists
Tour Operators Directed to Inform Foreign Visitors
The Tourism Department of Sikkim has instructed all travel agencies and tour operators to immediately inform foreign tourists about the updated permit rules.
Agencies have also been advised to:
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Actively help tourists with the online permit application
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Prevent last-minute delays or travel disruptions
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Ensure smooth coordination for foreign travel in Sikkim
Urgent Implementation to Ensure Smooth Tourism
Calling the matter urgent, the state government has directed officials to widely circulate the new guidelines among all tourism stakeholders. The objective is to ensure seamless compliance, improved tourist management, and uninterrupted tourism activities across Sikkim.
Key Takeaway for Foreign Tourists
Foreign nationals planning to visit Sikkim’s restricted or protected areas must:
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Apply online only
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Use the e-FRRO portal
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Complete the process after entering India
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Obtain approval before travelling to restricted zones
This digital shift marks a significant step toward modernising tourism regulations in Sikkim while maintaining national security and administrative efficiency.
