Meghalaya Protocol

To promote tourism in Sikkim, constraints on the entry of tourists in the restricted areas have been considerably relaxed; however visitors should follow the underlying necessary guidelines to have a hassle-free experience while visiting this picturesque state of India. Indian Nationals intending to visit Sikkim do not require any special permit while visiting some of the unrestricted areas like Gangtok, Yuksom, Rumtek, Pemayangtse, Phodong etc, but visiting certain areas of North Sikkim like Yumthang Valley, Chungthang, Lachung, Yumesamdong, Lachen, Thangu, Chopta and Gurudongmar Lake, it is mandatory even for Indian nationals also to obtain a permit.

Foreign Nationals intending to visit Sikkim can obtain a permit for an initial period of 15 days which is extendable up to 30 days. The permits can be arranged very easily at several places such as Siliguri, Darjeeling, Rongpo and Malli. These permits can also be obtained from Indian Embassy at different places. Foreign tourists have to travel in groups of two or more to visit restricted and protected areas of Sikkim like Yumthang Valley, as they are not allowed to club and go with Indian tourists.

There are however further restrictions on visiting several places deeper inside Sikkim. Both domestic and foreign visitors require special permits to visit Tsongo and Nathula area which is a day tour from Gangtok. Foreigners can only visit Tsongo and not Nathula.