Silk Route Sikkim Permit – Complete Guide (Updated 2025)

Silk Route Sikkim Permit – Complete Guide (Updated 2025)

🔒 Why You Need a Permit:

The Silk Route in East Sikkim (places like Zuluk, Nathang Valley, Kupup, and Gnathang) lies in a protected border area, so an Inner Line Permit (ILP) or Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required.

✅ Who Can Visit?

• 🇮🇳 Indian Nationals: ✅ Allowed with PAP/ILP

• 🌍 Foreign Nationals: ❌ Not allowed in Zuluk & Nathang
  (They can visit nearby areas with a Restricted Area Permit but not the core Silk Route)

📍 Where to Get the Permit (Offline)

1. Rongli Check Post

• Most common entry point for Silk Route travelers

• Permit can be arranged on the spot (usually via your cab driver or travel agent)

• Timings: 8 AM – 3 PM (Monday to Saturday)

• Takes 30–60 minutes if documents are ready

💻 Online Application: Is It Available?

❌ As of now (2025), there is no official government portal to apply directly online for the Silk Route permit.

✅ However, you can get permits arranged online through authorized tour operators or cab providers.

🟢 Example: Tourbix Ride can arrange your PAP in advance if you book a ride with them from NJP, Bagdogra, or Gangtok.

📄 Documents Required (for Each Traveler)

• ✅ 2 Passport-size Photographs

• ✅ Photocopy of Government-issued Photo ID

  • Aadhaar Card / Voter ID / Passport / Driving License (PAN Card not accepted)

• ✅ Sikkim Entry Stamp (you get this at Rangpo or Melli checkposts)

💰 Permit Cost

• 📄 Paperwork Charge: ₹200–₹300 per person (approx.)

• 🛻 Agent/Cab Arrangement Fee: Included in most packages

• 🧾 Valid for 5–7 days depending on route

🧭 Important Travel Tip

🚖 Book your cab through trusted local services (like Tourbix Ride) and have your driver coordinate the permit — they usually do this daily and can save you time and hassle.

🟦 Want Help with Permits?

Tourbix Ride offers permit assistance + cab service from NJP, Siliguri, Gangtok, Kalimpong, etc.

📞 Call: +91 6296-368490
🌐 tourbixride.com

Booking with Tourbix Ride

• ✅ Registered operator partners for permits
• ✅ Local, vetted drivers used to alpine starts
• ✅ WhatsApp updates, transparent pricing, clear inclusions

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