Pelling Permit Rules 2026: Indians & Foreigners

Sikkim’s permit system confuses many travellers, because rules differ for Indian and foreign nationals and for different parts of the state. For Pelling and West Sikkim’s main sights, the answer is simpler than you might think.

The short answer

Indian nationals: no permit needed for Pelling, Pemayangtse, Rabdentse, Khecheopalri, Yuksom and the usual West Sikkim sights. Carry a valid photo ID.
Foreign nationals: need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Sikkim. It’s free and lets you visit Pelling and other open areas.
Treks and border areas: extra permits apply (for example Khangchendzonga National Park treks, Tsomgo/Nathu La and North Sikkim).

For Indian citizens

Indian nationals can travel freely to Pelling and the main West Sikkim destinations without any permit. Carry an original government photo ID (Aadhaar, voter ID, driving licence or passport) as checkpoints may ask for it.

Permits are needed if you go beyond the standard tourist areas, for example:

Treks inside Khangchendzonga National Park such as Dzongri–Goechala from Yuksom — arranged through registered operators with park entry formalities.
East Sikkim border areas such as Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Nathu La.
North Sikkim — Lachung, Yumthang, Lachen and Gurudongmar.

These are usually arranged by your tour operator or travel agent in Gangtok with ID copies and photos.

For foreign nationals

All foreign nationals (including OCI card holders travelling on foreign passports) need a Restricted Area Permit to enter Sikkim. Key points:

It’s issued free of charge.
You can apply online through the Sikkim Tourism portal, or obtain it at entry points such as the Rangpo and Melli checkpoints and designated offices in Siliguri and other gateway cities.
You’ll need your passport, a valid Indian visa and passport photos.
The RAP allows you to visit open areas, including Pelling, Pemayangtse, Khecheopalri and Yuksom.
Protected areas (such as interior trekking routes and some northern and eastern border zones) need a separate Protected Area Permit, usually only for groups arranged through registered tour operators.

The ₹50 Sikkim tourist fee

Separately from permits, Sikkim charges every tourist a ₹50 per person fee, introduced in March 2025 under the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Rules. Your hotel collects it at check-in for the state’s Tourism Sustainability Development Fund. It covers a stay of up to 30 days, and children under five are exempt. It applies to Indian and foreign visitors alike.

Permit rules, validity periods and entry points can change. Always check the latest guidance on the official Sikkim Tourism website before you travel.

Most of West Sikkim’s sights are open to all visitors with the right permit.

Permits at a glance

Destination	Indian nationals	Foreign nationals
Pelling, Pemayangtse, Rabdentse	No permit	RAP
Khecheopalri Lake, Yuksom town	No permit	RAP
Dzongri–Goechala trek	Trek/park permit via operator	RAP + PAP via operator (group)
Tsomgo Lake / Nathu La	Permit via operator	Restricted; check current rules
North Sikkim	Permit via operator	PAP via operator (group)

Practical tips

Keep several photocopies of your ID or passport and visa, plus passport photos.
Foreign visitors: keep your RAP with you throughout your stay — hotels may record it.
If combining Pelling with Gangtok and North Sikkim, let one operator handle all permits.

Planning the route? See how to reach Pelling and our full Pelling travel guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do Indians need a permit to visit Pelling?

No. Indian nationals do not need a permit for Pelling or the main West Sikkim sights. Carry a valid government photo ID.

Do foreigners need a permit for Pelling?

Yes. Foreign nationals need a free Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Sikkim, which covers Pelling and other open areas.

Where can foreigners get a Sikkim permit?

The RAP can be applied for online via the Sikkim Tourism portal or obtained at entry points such as Rangpo and Melli, and at designated offices in gateway cities like Siliguri.

Do I need a permit to trek from Yuksom?

Yes. Treks into Khangchendzonga National Park, such as Dzongri–Goechala, require permits arranged through registered operators, and foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit.