Inner Line Permits (ILP) & Protected Area Permits (PAP) in Ladakh: What First-Timers Need to Know (2025)

Whether you're drawn to the dramatic vistas of Nubra Valley or the serene beauty of Pangong Lake, there’s an important consideration before you go: permit rules. Let’s make sense of it all - keeping it simple, beginner-friendly, and stress-free when traveling with Exoticamp.

With Exoticamp, we handle all permits - no queues, no hassle, just Himalayan magic!

Introduction to Ladakh Travel

Ladakh, now a union territory of India, is a dream destination for both domestic tourists and foreign tourists seeking adventure, culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. From the high-altitude deserts to the vibrant monasteries and serene lakes, Ladakh offers experiences unlike anywhere else in the country. However, because Ladakh shares sensitive borders with neighboring countries, the Indian government has designated certain regions as protected areas. To ensure responsible and secure travel, visitors must obtain the appropriate permits—either an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian citizens or a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreign nationals. These line permits are official travel documents that grant access to specific protected areas, helping to preserve Ladakh’s unique environment and culture while maintaining national security. Understanding the permit process is essential for a smooth and memorable Ladakh trip.

More about Ladhak here: https://www.exoticamp.com/blogs/leh-ladakh-travel-guide-first-timers

What Are Inner Line Permits (ILP) & Protected Area Permits (PAP)?

These permits are required to visit specific inner line regions in Ladakh.

Inner Line Permits (ILP) apply to Indian citizens for border-sensitive regions like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, and Khardung La Pass. The ILP is an official travel document issued to Indian nationals for access to these inner line regions.

For foreign nationals, a Protected Area Permit (PAP) is mandatory to enter restricted zones. The PAP is an official travel document issued to foreign nationals for entry into protected line regions. These often require a minimum group size of 2 and must be secured through a registered tour operator.

Areas Requiring Permits in 2025

You’ll need an ILP or PAP to visit the following:

Nubra Valley

Pangong Lake

Tso Moriri Lake

Khardung La Pass

Turtuk Village

Hanle

Nyoma

Chushul

Dah & Hanu

Hanu Villages

Digger La

Loma Bend

Marsimik La

Man & Merak Villages

These areas, including the popular nubra valley khardung la, are part of most Leh Ladakh tour packages and central to Exoticamp’s beginner itineraries.

Who Needs Permits?

For Indian Citizens:

ILP required for restricted areas.

Apply online via https://www.lahdclehpermit.in/register-as-domestic or offline.

Valid ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID) needed.

For Foreign Nationals:

PAP required.

Must apply through a registered tour operator or online at https://www.lahdclehpermit.in/register-as-overseas

Group travel required (minimum 2 people).

Passport, visa, itinerary, and photos needed.

Permit Validity & Fees

For Indian citizens: ILP valid for up to 3 weeks. The required fee for the Inner Line Permit includes the ILP fee, environment fee, Red Cross Fund fee, and a small processing fee. If you apply online or through a tour operator, the small processing fee is usually added. However, if you visit the Deputy Commissioner's Office in person—where permits are issued and stamped—you may be able to waive the small processing fee. There is no limit on the number of times you can enter a restricted area with a valid ILP.

For foreign nationals: PAP typically valid for one week or 15 days depending on location.

No limit on number of times you can enter a restricted area with a valid ILP.

Fee Breakdown:

ILP fee: ₹450 per person

Processing fee: ₹150 (waived if applied in person at the Deputy Commissioner's Office, Leh)

The DC Office is open on Saturdays and Sundays during spring and summer for permit applications.

Ladakh Environment Fee:

All tourists - Indian or foreign - must pay the Ladakh Environment Fee, which is currently ₹300.

Fee: ₹300 per person

Carry a receipt copy at all times - it's required at checkpoints. Tourists must ensure they have this receipt during their travels.

Documents Required for Permit Application

Applying for an Inner Line Permit or Protected Area Permit in Ladakh requires you to have the right documents ready. For Indian citizens, a valid photo ID proof is mandatory—this can be your Aadhaar card, driving license, passport, or voter ID. When filling out the application form, make sure to attach clear copies of your chosen ID. Foreign nationals, on the other hand, must provide a valid passport with an Indian visa, along with passport-sized photos. Depending on your nationality and travel plans, you may also need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) or, in rare cases, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). It’s always best to check the latest requirements with the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Leh or consult a registered travel agent, as rules can change. Having all your documents in order will help ensure your permit is processed smoothly and without delay.

How to Get the Permits

For Indian Tourists:

Visit https://www.lahdclehpermit.in/

Fill in personal and travel details

Upload ID and itinerary

Pay the permit and environment fee

Print the permit (or get it stamped at the DC Office)

For Foreign Nationals:

Submit documents to a registered Ladakh tour operator

Receive a stamped Protected Area Permit

Takes 1–3 business days

Direct Route and Permits

If you’re planning to take the direct route from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri via Chusul, you’ll need a special line permit in addition to your standard Inner Line Permit. This scenic route passes through several restricted areas, so it’s essential to secure the correct permits from the DC Office in Leh before your journey. The application process involves submitting your travel details, paying the required fees—including the environment fee, Red Cross Fund fee, and the inner line permit fee—and specifying your intended travel dates. You can pay these fees online or through your tour operator, making the process convenient and efficient. Remember, permits are issued for a specific valid period, so plan your Ladakh trip itinerary accordingly to avoid any issues at check posts along the way. Always carry your permit copies, as you’ll need to show them at various checkpoints throughout the route. With the right permits in hand, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Ladakh’s most remote regions without worry.

Common Mistakes First-Timers Make

Applying too close to travel date

Not including all destinations (e.g., Hanle, Turtuk)

Not printing multiple copies

Confusing ILP with PAP

Arriving on a public holiday or Sunday (if not spring/summer)

Wildlife & Environmentally Sensitive Areas

Many permit zones fall under protected landscapes:

Hemis National Park – Snow leopards, rare flora

Changthang & Karakoram Sanctuaries – For migratory birds, marmots, and kiangs

All such locations fall under ecological regulations - permit checks are stricter

Why Travel with Exoticamp?

All permits included

Transparent pricing

Book now:
Explore Exoticamp’s beginner-friendly Leh Ladakh trip

FAQs

Q: Is ILP required for Leh city?

No, permits are not required to stay or explore Leh town.

Q: Is a permit needed for Pangong Lake?

Yes. Both Indian and foreign tourists must obtain a permit. You need an inner line permit to visit Pangong Lake and other restricted areas like Nubra Valley.

Q: Do I need a permit to travel on the Manali Leh Highway or Srinagar Leh Highway?

No, you do not need a permit to travel on the Manali Leh Highway or Srinagar Leh Highway. These routes are open to all travelers without any special permit requirements.

Q: Can I apply for permits after arriving?

Yes, but it’s safer to apply in advance to avoid last-minute delays.

Q: How long is my permit valid?

ILP: up to 3 weeks for Indians. PAP: typically one week for foreigners.

Q: Can a foreigner travel solo to restricted areas?

No. PAP requires a group of two or more and booking through a registered operator.

Final Takeaway

Permits might sound complicated, but with the right help, they’re easy to manage. Whether you're Indian or foreign, traveling solo or in a group - your best option is to go with a trusted operator who handles it all.

Don’t stress about permits - we’ve got you covered.
Join Exoticamp’s Leh Ladakh trip for first-timers and focus on what truly matters - the journey.