Sikkim Abolishes Physical Permits for Foreign Tourists, Online Clearance Now Mandatory

• Sikkim has completely abolished the physical permit system for foreign tourists entering Protected and Restricted areas.
• Foreign nationals must now obtain online clearance to visit these areas, as per MHA directives.
• Paper-based Protected Area Permits (PAP) or Restricted Area Permits (RAP) will no longer be issued.
• Foreign tourists can visit Tsomgo (Changu) Lake, Yumthang Valley, and Zero Point with online approval.
• The new system aims to enhance national security, transparency, and ease of the permit process through digitalization.

Why It Matters: Sikkim mandates online clearance for foreign tourists in protected areas, boosting security and digital transparency.