Entry Permit for Arunachal Pradesh
How to apply for a permit to enter Arunachal Pradesh
All tourists require a permit to enter Arunachal Pradesh
About
Arunachal Pradesh is a restricted area and official permission is required to enter the state. Therefore, visitors are required to obtain a a permit to enter Arunachal Pradesh. The permit is granted as a routine for tourists and should be easy to acquire.
Permit Types
There are separate permits for Indian and foreign tourists:
Inner Line Permit (ILP)
For indian tourists.
The permit is usually included in tour packages and the application is handled by the travel agent. If not, you can apply for your own permit online.
Apply onlineProtected Area Permit (PAP)
For foreign tourists.
The permit is usually included in tour packages and the application is handled by the travel agent. If not, you can apply for your own permit in person at one of the following locations:
In India
- Recommended: Deputy Resident Commissioner Office of Arunachal Pradesh, in Guwahati
- Resident Commissioner of Arunachal Pradesh, in New Delhi
- Ministry of Home Affairs, in New Delhi. (Recommended only for exceptional cases that are not covered by the Resident Commissioner)
Abroad
- Indian Mission (Embassy of India) in your home country, before coming to India
FAQ
Why is Arunachal Pradesh a restricted area?
The permit system for Arunachal Pradesh has been in place since 1873 to protect the culture and identity of the indigenous tribes in the region. It was designed to prevent the influx of migrants thus protecting and preserving the rich heritage of the North Eastern Tribes.
Under this system, the Indian government requires everyone who wishes to travel to this area to get a permit before entering the state. Foreign tourists should apply for a Protected Area Permit (PAP), Indian travelers need an Inner Line Permit (ILP).
How long does it take to apply for a permit?
It generally takes around 1 week to process the permit when applying in India. If you apply by yourself from abroad then it can take longer and it is recommended to apply 8 weeks in advance.
Do I need to apply for a permit myself?
In most cases, the application is handled by a travel/tour agency as part of a tour package. If you are coming to Arunachal Pradesh without an organized tour then you have to apply for a permit by yourself.
What do I need to bring when I travel?
You need to print out a copy of your permit and bring it with you when you enter Arunachal Pradesh. Make sure to bring multiple copies, as you need to give one at each checkpoint you cross and hotel you stay at.
For foreigners, also bring multiple copies of your Indian visa and your passport. The copy of your passport should include the page with your personal information and also the page where your visa was stamped when you entered India.
