A First-Time Traveller's Guide to Inner Line Permits

Several North-East Indian states — including Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Mizoram — require Indian citizens to carry an Inner Line Permit (ILP), and foreign nationals to carry a Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for certain zones. ILPs for Indian citizens can typically be applied for online through each state's dedicated portal, or on arrival at designated checkpoints. Processing usually takes a few working days, so it's worth applying at least a week before travel during peak season. For foreign nationals, permits are usually arranged through a registered tour operator and may require travelling in a group of two or more depending on the state and district. Always carry physical and digital copies of your permit, along with valid photo identification, for checkpoint verification along your route.