In the most welcoming change for Ladakh travelers, Inner Line Permits (ILP) are no longer required for domestic tourists to visit anywhere in Ladakh. This includes Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, Umling La Pass, Marsimik La, and even Demchok or Chumur. You only need to pay the Ladakh Environment/Green/Ecology Fee online and carry a receipt of the payment.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Do You Need Any Permits in Ladakh in 2026?
Indians do not need any separate permits in Ladakh for regular sightseeing in 2026. You just need to pay the Ladakh Environment Fee on the official LAHDC website and carry the receipt. Here is the direct link to pay: https://www.lahdclehpermit.in/register-as-domestic
The current Ladakh Environment/Development Fee (EDF) is broken down as follows:
- Environment/Green Fee = Rs 400 per person (one-time per year)
- Wildlife Fee = Rs 20 per person per day
- Red Cross Fund Fee = Rs 50 per person (one-time per year, optional). You can skip this fee if you choose not to pay it.
Practical Info Box (Updated February 2026)
Official Portal: www.lahdclehpermit.in
Environment Fee: Rs 400/person (one-time) + Rs 20/person/day (wildlife) + Rs 50 Red Cross (optional)
Example 7-day cost: Rs 400 + Rs 140 + Rs 50 = Rs 590 per person
Payment: Online via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI
ID Required: Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License, or Voter ID
Permit Validity: 3 weeks for Indians, 15 days for foreigners
Children: Below 12 years are exempt (carry valid photo ID)
Agent Discount: 10% discount on total fees when applied through a local registered travel agent
DO NOT confuse the environment fee receipt with the old Ladakh Inner Line Permit. You just need to carry the fee payment receipt, either a hard copy or a soft copy on your phone. This receipt may be checked at some checkposts. Hence, people still confuse it with a permit. But this is simply a verification that you have paid the Ladakh environment fees.
What Is the History Behind Ladakh Inner Line Permits?
The permit system in Ladakh has gone through several changes over the years. Understanding this history helps clear up the confusion that many travelers still have about whether they need permits or just the environment fee.
In June 2017, Ladakh Inner Line Permits were made available online from the official website of the Leh Ladakh administration. It was a piece of very welcoming news for all the people planning their trip to Leh Ladakh. This step helped all those tourists who travel to Ladakh during holidays and found the Leh DC office closed during those days to get the permits to travel to tourist spots.
Tourists could apply for the Leh Ladakh permits online, choose a tour operator to pay the fee, and get their copies of the Ladakh permit online. This step eased the process and eliminated the hassles of procuring these permits in advance. Leh Ladakh Inner Line Permits were available online for both domestic tourists as well as foreigners.
Back in 2014, the concept of Inner Line Permits for domestic Indian tourists was waived. It meant all Indians traveling to the Inner Line region of Ladakh, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri, were exempted from the need for Inner Line permits. Domestic tourists just required a self-declaration form when visiting these places, and that acted as a permit for them.
However:
The decision was reverted in 2017 to the original requirements of having permits. In April 2017, authorities in Leh Ladakh re-introduced the Environment Fee of Rs 300, the Red Cross Fund fee of Rs 100, and Inner Line Permits for domestic tourists as well. Now all tourists, foreigners, and Indians, visiting the Inner Line region of Leh Ladakh needed these permits to visit Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri.
Then in 2021, the ILP requirement was replaced by the Environment/Development Fee (EDF) system. The fee amounts were revised to the current structure of Rs 400 environment fee, Rs 20/day wildlife fee, and Rs 50 optional Red Cross fund. Since then, Indian tourists no longer need a separate “permit” document. They just need the EDF payment receipt.
Foreigners need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit tourist places in Ladakh, which is different from the environment fee paid by domestic tourists. Foreign nationals must apply through a registered travel agent in Leh or through the official LAHDC website. Keep in mind that visitors from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka need to apply separately through the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.
How to Pay the Ladakh Environment Fee Online in 2026?
Paying the Ladakh Environment Fee online is straightforward and saves you the hassle of visiting government offices in Leh. This will help you a lot in planning your trip to Ladakh smoothly. I will also discuss the offline process for those who prefer to do it in person at the Leh DC office.
The Ladakh Environment Fee is required for Indian tourists, while foreigners require a Protected Area Permit (PAP). You need the EDF receipt to visit inner line places like Nubra Valley, Khardung La, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Dah, Hanu Villages, Man, Merak, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Chusul, Hanle, Digger La, and Tangyar (for trekking only).
You do not need any permits or EDF receipt to travel on the Manali Leh Highway or Srinagar Leh Highway or to Zanskar Valley.
These permits/fees are not required for residents of Ladakh UT and children below the age of 12 years. They can visit the inner line region by showing a valid Photo ID proof.
Both the Environment Fee (for Indians) and Protected Area Permits (for foreigners) are available online from the official website www.lahdclehpermit.in of the LAHDC Leh administration. All tourists can go through the website to pay the fee or obtain permits.
You need to pay an Environment fee of Rs 400 per person (one-time), Wildlife fee of Rs 20 per person per day, and an optional Red Cross Fund fee of Rs 50 per person. You need to provide a valid photo ID proof to apply. Payment can be made online via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.
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What Are the Steps to Pay the Ladakh Environment Fee Online?
The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes. Follow these steps carefully to complete your Ladakh Environment Fee payment online before your trip.
- Visit the official LAHDC Leh website at www.lahdclehpermit.in and click on the “Apply for Permits -> Domestic Clients” button on the center bottom of the screen. It will take you to the first step of providing your details.
- On this page, you need to enter your details including Name, State, Gender, ID Type, ID Number, and Home Address.
- Apart from that, you need to choose if you are applying directly or through an agent. I recommend choosing to apply directly because with the agent option, you have to get in touch with the agent to get your permit processed. However, going through a registered local agent gives you a 10% discount on fees.
- Lastly, you need to enter the Arrival Date when you are arriving in Leh and will start exploring inner line areas of Ladakh. Then, click on Submit.
- When you click on submit, it will take you to the screen with two options: “Click here to issue an individual permit” and “Click here to issue group permit.”
- If you are applying alone, click on the Individual permit option. If you are in a group, choose the group option and add details of other members on the next screen.
- Once you choose the respective option (and fill group details if applicable), you will go to the next screen where you need to select the circuits you plan to visit in Ladakh. A reference number will be generated on the page.
- IMPORTANT: Note down the reference number and save it somewhere safe. You will need it to reprint your permit/receipt anytime later.
- Select the required circuits based on your Ladakh itinerary. You cannot reissue permits easily, so choose all the circuits you plan to visit at once. The circuit table below will help you select the right ones.
- Enter the Start Date and End Date of the permit, which determines the total wildlife fee (Rs 20 per person per day).
- Click on Apply for Permits button to go to the confirmation page that shows your selected circuit details with dates.
- Click on the Proceed button to generate your permit/receipt. Print a few copies of this. Download the sample online permit for reference.
- Your receipt shows the total fee that includes Environment Fee (Rs 400 per person, one-time), Red Cross Fund Fee (Rs 50 per person, one-time, optional), and Wildlife Fee (Rs 20 per person per day).
- You can click on the Pay Now option to pay online using a Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. On successful payment, a receipt will be generated with a unique Collection ID. Take printouts of both the Permit Receipt and the Transaction Receipt. SMS and Email confirmations will also be sent.
- You can use the reference number to reprint your permit anytime from the homepage menu options.
Step 1: Register as a Domestic Tourist on LAHDC Portal
Step 2: Choose Individual or Group Permit
Step 3: Select Circuits and Date Range
Step 4: Review and Generate Your Permit
Step 5: Pay the Environment Fee Online
Which Ladakh Permit Circuits Should You Select?
The entire inner line permit area in Ladakh is divided into 8 circuits. You need to select the ones matching your itinerary. Here is the complete list to help you choose:
| # | Circuit Covers | Select If You Plan To Visit |
| 1 | Khalsi, Domkhar, Skurbuchan, Hanu, Baima, Dha in Khalsi Sub-Division | Dah Hanu Villages |
| 2 | Khardong, Khalsar, Trith up to Warsi and Yarma Gonbo, Disket, Hunder, Turtuk, Pachathang, Tyakshi in Nubra Sub-Division | Nubra Valley including Turtuk, Tyakshi |
| 3 | Upshi, TsomoRiRi/Korzok in Nyoma Sub-Division | Tso Moriri |
| 4 | Upshi, Dipling, Puga, TsomoRiRi/Korzok in Nyoma Sub-Division | Tso Moriri and Tso Kar |
| 5 | Kharu, Changla, Durbuk, Tangtse, Lukhung, Spangmik, Man-Merak (Pangong Lake) in Nyoma Sub-Division | Pangong Tso |
| 6 | Upshi, Chumathang, Mahe, Loma Bend in Nyoma Division | Loma |
| 7 | Leh-Kharu-Changla-Durbuk-Tangtse-Lukung-Spangmik-Man Merak (Pangong) up to Chushul and Loma Bend | Chusul and Loma Bend (for Pangong to Tso Moriri direct route) |
| 8 | Tangtse-Kargyam-Sato, Barma, Chushul | Chusul |
Pro Travel Tip: Apply for the Ladakh Environment Fee online only when your travel dates are finalized. The system stores your photo ID card number in the database, and the same ID proof cannot be used again for the next 15 days. So if you change your dates after applying, you will need to use a different ID. Also, select all circuits you plan to visit at once since reissuing permits requires waiting or using a different ID.
How to Apply for the Environment Fee or Permits Offline at Leh DC Office?
If you prefer to pay the environment fee in person or if you need to get special stamps for Hanle and Chusul routes, you can visit the Tourist Information Center (TIC) Office, opposite J&K Bank, Main Market, Leh. You can also apply at the Leh DC Office.
The TIC office is open on all working days (Monday to Saturday) from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM. The Leh DC office timing is 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but they generally do not accept applications after 3 PM. Hence, you should reach the Leh DC office before 2 PM. Best approach is to reach around 10:15 AM to find the least rush and a hassle-free process.
Is the Leh DC Office Open on Saturday and Sunday?
Leh DC office is closed on Sundays and national holidays. Hence, you should plan your Leh Ladakh trip such that your first sightseeing day does not fall on a Sunday or a holiday. I have heard that the DC office is sometimes open on Sundays for half a day, but I will say do not count on it. If that is the case, the best approach is to pay the Ladakh environment fee online before your trip or get it arranged through a local travel agent.
The offline/in-person application is primarily needed if you want to get special stamps for Hanle or Chusul routes on your receipt. For regular tourist destinations like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri, the online payment receipt is sufficient.
Below are the steps for applying at the DC office in Leh in person:
- You need to fill the permit application form to get the approval. Carry a pen with you if filling the form at the Leh DC office.
- The fee structure is the same as online: Rs 400 for environment fee (one-time), Rs 20 per day per person for the wildlife/permit fee, and Rs 50 one-time towards the Red Cross Fund (optional). There is a special discounted fee for students, which is a one-time Rs 20. Students need to show their institution i-card.
- You need to have photocopies of a valid Photo-ID proof (Passport, Driving License, Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN Card, etc.) that proves your identity. Although the photocopies were not checked for attestation during my visits, I feel one should not take any chance and get them attested before going to Leh Ladakh.
- You can apply for permits for your entire group, but you need to attach the photocopy of photo-ID cards for each member and fill the details of all group members in the application form.
- Anyone who has your group’s photocopies of valid Photo-IDs can get the permits on your behalf. Usually, hotels in Leh town provide this facility if you are comfortable sharing photocopies of your ID proofs with them via email.
- The permit approval process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours. Hence, it is always best to reach the DC office early morning. Sometimes, when there is a rush of tourists, permits are issued in two batches, morning and evening. Try to be in the morning batch so that you have time to start your Leh local sightseeing the same day.
- The application forms are usually available at the photostat shops nearby (one is just behind Leh DC office). You can also download the form from here: Inner Line Permit Form and Application Letter (Page 2).
- Usually, the form remains the same, so filling it at home and completing the documentation beforehand can save a lot of time in Leh.
- In the application form, for each member, you need to mention the name with parent/guardian name, complete permanent address, the places you want to visit, and the specific dates for which you need the permits. In the copy information section, mention the hotel name and address where you are staying in Leh.
- Write Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri to cover all three major tourist spots. Writing Nubra Valley covers all places in Nubra including Khardung La and Turtuk.
- Besides the permit application form, you need to write a request application letter addressing the DC of Leh Ladakh district for the approval of your permits.
- In the application letter, express your interest in visiting the desired places along with the dates. Both the application form and the request letter should be in sync for places, names, and dates. Download the unfilled request application from here: Inner Line Permit Form and Application Letter (Page 3).
- Make two to three photocopies of the entire set: Application Form, Approval Request Letter, and Photo IDs of all members.
- Submit the photocopies at the DC office along with the original copies of the form and request application.
- The clerk will ask you to deposit the fees (amount depends on number of days and members) + Red Cross Fund fees (Rs 50 per member, optional) + Environment Fee (Rs 400 per member).
- Once you deposit the fee, the clerk will stamp the permits. In some cases, the clerk may ask you to get a signed approval from the ADC room, or your documents will be placed in the ongoing batch. In the latter case, you may wait 1 to 3 hours for approved permits.
- Once you get the stamped approved permits, go to the photostat shop and make photocopies.
- These photocopies are submitted at every checkpost on the way to your sightseeing destinations, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri. Hence, make at least ten copies if you are staying long enough in Ladakh.
- The validity of the permits is three weeks for Indians and one week (15 days as of 2026) for foreigners. There is no limit on the number of times you can enter a place during the valid period as long as you have the permit.
- Although not strictly required, carry passport-sized photographs as well. On all your trips, you should carry them because you never know when you may need one. Did you check my comprehensive list of things to carry on a Ladakh trip?
Do You Need a Separate Permit for Hanle in 2026?
Since March 2022, no separate Inner Line Permit is required for Hanle village. Indian tourists can visit Hanle with just the standard Ladakh Environment Fee receipt. You do need to select the appropriate circuits (Circuit 6 for Loma and the Hanle route) when applying online.
However, keep in mind that access to Hanle is always subject to the current border security situation. The army at Loma checkpost has the final say. They can, and sometimes do, turn back tourists based on prevailing conditions. So while you do not need a separate permit document, getting past the Loma checkpost depends on the army’s assessment on that day. If you are visiting the DC office in person, getting an additional Hanle stamp on your receipt can help, though it is not technically mandatory anymore.
What About the Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route via Chusul?
For the direct route from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri that passes through Chusul village, select Circuit 7 (Pangong to Chushul and Loma Bend) when applying online. This route also falls under the environment fee system now.
Like Hanle, the Chusul route is near the border and army checkposts have the discretion to allow or deny passage based on the security situation. Getting the appropriate circuit stamps at the DC office can provide additional documentation, though the online receipt with the correct circuits selected should work.
Can Tourists Visit Umling La Pass in 2026?
Umling La Pass, at an altitude of 5,883 meters (19,300 feet), is the world’s highest motorable road, built and opened by BRO. It is about 105 km from Hanle Village and about 235 km from Leh. In 2021, Guinness World Records officially recognized it as the highest motorable road in the world.
Indian tourists can visit Umling La Pass with the standard Ladakh Environment Fee receipt. No separate permit is required since March 2022. However, because of its proximity to the China border, army checkposts control access and can restrict civilian movement at any time. Many travelers have been turned back from the Loma checkpost depending on the border situation on that particular day. So while there is no permit barrier, the army’s decision on the ground is final.
What Are the Important Rules for Hanle, Chusul, and Umling La?
To travel to Hanle, Chusul, or Umling La, make sure you select the correct circuits during the online application. When applying online, select circuits covering Man, Merak, Chusul, Tsaga, Loma, Nyoma, and Hanle to cover all routes in inner Changthang. The permits/EDF receipt for inner Changthang and Hanle are issued only to Indian nationals, not for foreign tourists.
Access to Hanle, Chusul, and Umling La is always subject to the current political or border situation. Sometimes, the army does not allow tourists on these routes regardless of having a valid EDF receipt.
Even with the correct circuits selected and a valid receipt, do not consider it a guaranteed pass. Army personnel have turned back many tourists since 2011, even those with valid permits, based on the actual political and border security situation. Unless you pass the Chusul checkpost or Loma checkpost to the other side, there is no guarantee you will not be turned back on these routes.
One more thing: photography equipment is sometimes not allowed beyond Loma towards Hanle. In case you have cameras, pack them in bags and refrain from taking pictures in sensitive border areas.
Here are sample permits issued and stamped by the Tourist Information Center:
What Is the Fastest Way to Get Ladakh Permits?
The fastest and most convenient approach in 2026 is to simply pay the Ladakh Environment Fee online from the comfort of your home, before you even start your trip. This saves you all the hassle of visiting the DC office in Leh.
However, if you also plan to visit Hanle or travel the Chusul route, here is my recommended approach. First, download the application form at home. Fill the form completely and attach photocopies of photo ID proofs for all members of your group.
Write a request application letter addressing the Leh Ladakh DC expressing your intent to visit the desired places and requesting the permits for your travel duration. Staple the entire bundle, including the filled application form, request letter, and photocopies of photo ID proofs.
Once you reach Leh, go to the DC office and submit the bundle along with the required fees. Get the permit stamped. For Hanle and Chusul, make sure you specifically ask for the relevant stamps. Otherwise, you may be sent back by the army from the checkposts.
On the way back, get 8-10 photocopies of the stamped permits. You need to submit these at checkposts while going to Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, etc.
This approach will save a lot of time and energy in Leh. Otherwise, you will keep running to photocopy shops for one thing or another, and that will surely eat into your precious sightseeing time.
The worst-case scenario would be that the DC office changes the format of the application form. Even then, you will just need to fill the new form and attach your documents. The pre-prepared photocopies and request letter will still be useful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indians need Inner Line Permits in Ladakh in 2026?
No, Indian tourists do not need a separate Inner Line Permit. Since 2021, the ILP has been replaced by the Ladakh Environment/Development Fee (EDF). You just need to pay Rs 400 (environment fee) + Rs 20/day (wildlife fee) + Rs 50 (Red Cross, optional) online at www.lahdclehpermit.in and carry the receipt.
How much does the Ladakh environment fee cost for a 7-day trip?
For a 7-day trip to Ladakh, the total environment fee per person is approximately Rs 590. This includes Rs 400 one-time environment fee, Rs 140 wildlife fee (Rs 20 x 7 days), and Rs 50 optional Red Cross Fund fee. If you apply through a local travel agent, you get a 10% discount.
Can I pay the Ladakh environment fee online before my trip?
Yes, and this is actually the recommended approach. Visit www.lahdclehpermit.in, click on “Domestic Clients,” fill in your details, select the circuits you plan to visit, and pay via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI. You can do this from anywhere before reaching Leh.
Do foreigners need permits for Ladakh?
Yes, foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit restricted areas in Ladakh. The PAP must be applied through a registered travel agent in Leh or via the LAHDC official website. Foreigners must travel in a group of two or more. Visitors from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka must apply through the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.
Is Hanle open for tourists without special permits?
Since March 2022, Hanle does not require a separate Inner Line Permit. Indian tourists can visit with just the Ladakh EDF receipt. However, access depends on the army’s decision at Loma checkpost, which is based on the current border security situation. Getting a Hanle stamp at the Leh DC office in person can help, but is not mandatory.
Can I visit Umling La Pass in 2026?
Indian tourists can visit Umling La Pass (19,300 ft, the world’s highest motorable road) with the standard Ladakh Environment Fee receipt. No separate permit is needed. However, access is controlled by army checkposts near Loma, and they can restrict civilian movement at any time based on border security conditions.
What is the validity of Ladakh permits?
The Ladakh EDF receipt / Inner Line Permit is valid for up to 3 weeks (21 days) for Indian citizens and 15 days for foreign nationals. During the valid period, you can enter and re-enter any permitted area unlimited times as long as you carry copies of your permit.
Do I need permits for Manali Leh Highway or Srinagar Leh Highway?
No. You do not need any permits or environment fee receipt to travel on the Manali Leh Highway, Srinagar Leh Highway, or to Zanskar Valley. The EDF is only required when you visit inner line areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, and other restricted destinations.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article helps you understand the complete process of paying the Ladakh Environment Fee online and obtaining permits for Leh Ladakh. The system has become much simpler since the shift from Inner Line Permits to the online Environment/Development Fee. For regular tourist destinations like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri, you can complete the entire process online before leaving home.
You no longer need to worry about holidays or odd timings of reaching Leh and then running around for permits. Just pay the fee online, carry the receipt, and focus on enjoying your Ladakh trip.
In case you find this article useful, feel free to share it with your family and friends who are planning a trip to Ladakh. And if you have any further questions about permits, fees, or planning your trip, please post them in the comments section below. You can also ask questions on the Leh District official website for the latest updates.
Again, to download the application form for Leh Ladakh Inner Line Permit, click the following link: Ladakh Inner Line Permit Form and Application Letter
Last Updated: February 2026
1,147 Comments
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hi Mate,
I just wanna ask you mate from where i can got the permit.
Can we apply online is there any link for that if possible please provide it to me
Hi Dheeraj,
I am a solo female traveler from Malaysia. Is it allowed to be in all those restricted area by myself alone without hiring any tour agency? Will this be approved by the goverment?
Appreciate your advice.
Rina
Rina, you need to get the protected area permit through travel agency only being a foreigner but then you do not need to travel with them. It is just for the permits you need the agency.
Thanks for the informative response, Dheeraj
Thank you for the detailed guidance. Unfortunately, I had entered my name twice and try as I might, could not find a way to edit it. So I had to abort the attempt to get ILP online. I cannot even try again because my ID number is “already registered”. Any suggestions on what to do in such a scenario?
Can you use some other ID number like the PAN, Passport, Aadhar, the one that you not used. It should work in that case
Hi Dheeraj i applied for ILP online and made payment, we will visit Nubra and Pangong but while applying online I marked all the 7 circuits,
I just want to know that will it be a problem??
And what Wii be the next step at DC office
Hi Dheeraj we’ll be visiting leh from 25 to 30 sep. And our route will be Leh to Nubra to Pangong to Leh.
Which route I have to select while applying online for ILP.
And after applying online would I still have to visit DC office??
Ashish, you can pay the fee as well as apply the permit both online now. As mentioned in the article above, you have to select 2,5
Once you pay the fee and take the printout, visit the Tourist Info Center in Leh and get the permit stamped from them after showing the receipts.
Hi Dheeraj,
Is Pan card acceptable as ID for applying for ILP?
Regards
Rayhan
Yes Rayhan, you can submit PAN card as it is a valid Photo ID Nationality proof.
Hello Dheeraj, this forum has helped me a lot when I was planning my Ladakh trip. I got probably two friends for life and awesome travel partners from this forum itself. I am very much thankful. But, I am a freelancer and I write and take pictures for a living. Most of the pictures clicked by me are copyright protected. The cover photo that you are using is clicked by me. I uploaded it when I posted my query for travel partners. I would appreciate if you can credit it to me. My name is Tania Banerjee. Thanks.
Has been duly noted and added as well Tania. The picture was used from DoW Media Library only as there was no description, we override the description. However, we have duly added your credit.
Thank you very much! Much appreciated. Also, thanks for the awesome information you provide here. Keep up the good work!
Hi, the ILP are now being issued online and the process is completely online. Anyone can apply and make payment online and then submit this receipt at dc office for verification
Rahul the article has the link to updated information.
How to apply for marsimik la ilp online. There is no option for Marsimik la in the online form.. Plz suggest
Suman, you will have to apply it manually by filling up form available at photostat shop near LEh DC office and then submit that form in person by writing Marsimik La on top of it with other destinations. Many of the sensitive areas like Marsimik La, Umling La, Hanle, Chusul route have been closed this year. Some are permanent closed, some they are issuing permits on off basis and in some case even after permits, checkposts at these places are not allowing to pass through.
Hi Dheeraj,
From your experience of traveling in Ladakh, can you advise on road conditions and the possibility of snow on the roads and snowfall while traveling to Leh from Shrinagar and Leh to Manali. It will help us to prepare ourselves better for the trip. We are planning the trip in last week of May 2018 from Delhi via Shrinagar route and aim to complete the circuit through Manali.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Harsh, last week of May this year sounds reasonable to travel from Srinagar to Ladakh to Manali. Manali Leh road should open by the first week of June when you will reach that leg of the tour after covering Srinagar – Leh and Manali – Leh. So, I believe it should be fine to travel Regarding snowfall, it may or may not happen, it depends on the weather. Sometimes, especially on Manali – Leh, snowfall does happen in May or June.
Hello Dheeraj,
Hope you are doing well. I have two questions regarding the permit.
Me and my friend are planning to cover Umlingla Pass near Hanle, and we have requested one of our friend in Leh to arrange the permits and mail it to us as we don’t want to go Leh and waste two more days. Do you think this will work ? or we have to be physically present in Leh to obtain the permits ? Second question is which all places should be mentioned on the permit to ride through Hanle region easily ?
I will not recommend travel to Hanle without getting acclimatized in Leh. To visit Hanle, you need to write Loma, Hanle, Photi La, Umlingla Pass
Hello Dheeraj,
Me and 03 of my friends will be traveling first time to Leh from 19th – 26th Aug 2017. We will be arriving leh on 19th Aug at 1200 hrs via Flight and will stay for acclimatization till 20th. However, we will be exploring the local market and do the nearby sightseeing on these 02 days. but for that we require Rented RE’s (02) Two riders and 02 Pillions. Note: Weight of per pillion is 90-95 Kgs. (both doesn’t know riding)
Our Tour Plan is as follows:
i. 21st Early Mrng (EM) i.e. 0600 Hrs we will head towards Nubra or Diskit and want to return to Leh on the same day (If possible)
a) If we go to Nubra, can we come back on same day 21st, or shud we go to Deskit only and then return to Leh.
or
(b) stay at Hunder and then proceed to pangong on 22nd early mrng . How much time will it take to reach pangong via leh -karu – changla)
ii. 22nd EM vl move from Leh (or hunder, as mentioned above) – Karu- Chang La – Pangong Tso . Overnight Stay at Pangong
iii. Return leh on 23rd by evening, hand over the bikes to lessor.
iv. head to kargil via bus on 24th mrng so that we can reach srinagar by 25th..
v. explore srinagar on25th & 26th
Our return Flight is from Srinagar on 26th Aug 2017 at 1600 Hrs (Dept. tym) Need to be airport by 1400 Hrs and heard that travel time from leh – Srinagar is almost 12-14 Hrs and a night Hault at Kargil. Can we manage to reach srinagar airport on 26th before 1400Hrs if we leave on 25th Mrng.
Regards
Vishal Nanda
Vishal, I will recommend that you go to Nubra and stay for one night there and then next morning move to Pangong Tso directly from Nubra Valley. Then come back to Leh from Pangong Tso. This is the most recommended option or else drop Srinagar plan for sightseeing. Leh – Srinagar is around 13-16 Hrs depending on breaks nd traffic.
Thank u so much for ur quick response and guidance. I really appreciate it..
Best wishes for your trip, feel free to post any further questions you may have
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your response.
Another query.
We will travel Ladakh with a local experienced driver in his Xylo. Do we need to obtain inner Line permit / pay tax for him also?
No, locals do not need permits.
Hi Dheeraj,
2 queries.
1. What is the difference between obtaining Inner Line Permit directly and through agent?
2. I will visit restricted places on the first 6 days of Leh visit. After this, I will be at Leh for 3 more days for visiting Lamayuru / local sight seeing etc. What should be time span for my Inner Line Permit?
Regards,
1. You pay extra for the services of the agent
2. Go for the 6 days when you will visit restricted areas.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are Indian citizen, resides at Kolkata and have planned to visit Ladakh hiring local taxi and experienced driver. Time is first week of September, and the route is Manali to Leh. Return by flight.
Queries are:
1. Do we need to have Inner Line Permit to visit places like Khardungla, Nubra, Pangong, Tsomoriri & Hanle?
2. What is the procedure of getting the same – it will be great help if you can tell us the updated procedure of 2017.
3. Can we get it from my home town through mail/website link, or I need to visit Leh Administration office physically for this?
4. We are a team of 2 persons. Do we need 2 separate Permit or 1 single permit will be OK for both of us.
5. What is the cost for the permit?
Regards,
Hi Dheeraj,
Permits require if we travel from srinagar to leh manali on personal bike or car?
No permit required in this case for Rohtang Pass and on this route. However, if you want to visit places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, you will need to get inner line permits.
Thanks Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Thank you for such an informative guide for travelers. We are two couples, who have planned a bike trip around Leh from July 21- 28. It is the very first time for us in Leh Ladakh and also first time for long bike rides. We fall in the age group 30-35 and are physically fit without any serious ailments. Despite thorough planning with help of DOW, I am a bit apprehensive about certain aspects of the trip. The itinerary we plan to follow is given below: We are flying into Leh from Delhi.
Day 1: Reach Leh in morning and Acclimatize, Hire bikes
Day 2: Ride to Alchi and back. Rest
Day 3: Leh to Nubra via Khardungla. Overnight at Hunder.
Day 4: Nubra to Pangong (Need best route and Fuel options). Overnight in Pangong
Day 5: Pangong to Leh
Day 6: Leh (Tso Moriri Maybe)
Day 7: Leh (Tso Moriri Maybe)
Day 8: Flight out of Leh
Queries:
1. What is the best route from Nubra to Pangong for normal bikes and will we have enough fuel to last Leh – Nubra-Pangong- Leh if we carry extra fuel with us?
2. We have Day 6 and 7 in hand and were wondering if Leh -Tso Moriri- Leh would be possible or too tight?
Thanks so much
Juhi
Hello Juhi,
I will recommend taking the traditional route from Leh to Changla to Pangong Tso rather taking the direct route to Pangong tso from Nubra which is quite tough and there is no help available in case of any breakdown. Since, you will be on rented bike, chances of breakdown is fair. This will mean dropping the Tso Moriri and either use day as rest or do a three day trip to Nubra Valley and visit Turtuk village in Nubra Valley.
Namaskaar Deepak Bhai
This is Ankur from Agra. Me and my friend are planning to go to ladakh on 15th of this month on bike from Delhi. Initially evrything was cleared that we should go manali first thn via jispa–> sarchu finally leh but while doing homework for this trip I stuck in a delimma that what to do and how to do. Actually i have only 9 days + 1 extra day for the whole trip and i want to explore almost all the main places like Nubra Valley, Khardung La, Pangong Tso Lake, of ladakh region(please correct me and add that place, if any major sight left mentioning by me). I whole heartedly request you to please make a balanced plan for me as this is going to be my first road trip to leh-ladakh. I choose manali as a starting point because i heard that it saves almost two days in comparison to srinagar – leh route plus i have a free accomodation and food facility at manali too. You are also requested to please enlighten the issue of permit & documents required for the whole trip from New Delhi upto destination going to set by you and what is the procedure of aquiring the same and from where. Please it is once again requested dear elder brother to guide me
Sorry in advance for making you bother
I hope you will reply soon
A lots of love and blessings from me for your generous and very helpfull guidance in advance sir ji
Hi Ankur,
With just 9 days in hand, you should read and follow the plan: How to make a Ladakh trip in 9 days
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Just a clarification please,
Is any permit needed for going to Tso Moriri from Tso Kar lake? We are planning to go there in our way from Manali to Leh, so we can’t apply for any permit before because, as far as I uderstood, they can only be issued in Leh.
Maybe the permit for Tso Moriri only applies for the route from Pangong?
Cheers!
Hi Carletes,
Yes, you need permit to visit Tso Moriri as ITBP checkpost checks the permits and then allow you to go to Tso Moriri lake and further. The lake falls in the Inner Line and hence permit is necessary. Moreover please read: 5 reasons not to visit Tso Moriri from Manali side
Hi Dheeraj,
I really appreciate your advise.
So, could we just go to Tsokar Lake instead? I undestand that no permit is needed for that, right? BTW we are riding Manali motorbikes. Are they allowed there?
We know that they are banned in Tso Moriri, but not sure if this also happens in Tso Kar.
Our plan is visiting Batal, Chandratal lake and Kaza before Tso Kar lake, distributed as follows:
Manali – Chandratal – Batal
Batal – Kaza
Kaza- Batal
Batal – Keylong
Keylong – Sarchu
Sarchu – Tso Kar lake
Tso Kar lake – Sarchu
Is this AMS friendly? 😀
Thank you a lot
Hello Carletes,
Technically, they should not be taken to Tso Kar but you can always say that you are just moving to Manali – Leh and took a short detour in worst case if at all confronted. Probability is very very less. Spend a night at Chandratal after coming back from Kaza instead of Batal. It will prep you for a sleep at Sarchu. If you sleep well at Sarchu, there will not be any issue with Tso Kar as well.
Hi Dheeraj,
I have applied for inner line permits online but for payment there was not any options available. After I applying online for permit where should we have to pay environment charges and all. Do I still have to go to office of District Magistrate.
Yes Amol, payment need to be done at DC office in Leh or at Tourist Info Center at Leh and getting the permits stamped.
Hi,
I plan to visit Leh in a car provided to me by my company for my personal use with white number plates. RC is my company’s name. Can there be any problems if I go beyond Leh e.g to Nubra valley on this car?
Documents I can carry:
1. Proof that I am an employee of the company on whose name car is registered
2. Declaration from my company that car is allotted to me for personal use and is not for commercial use
Also a few sites still mention ILP are required for Nubra and Pangong. Is this correct? Visited both in 2014 without any ILPs. Is there any recent change in the rule?
Hi Anoop,
As long as you can prove that you work for the company, it should be OK. These documents will suffice. And yes, since April 2017, ILP and environment fee are reintroduced again as mentioned in the article above too.
Thanks Dheeraj..
– Any idea how much time it could take to deposit money at TIC Leh? Hoping that not more than couple of hours in the morning and we can leave for Diskit on the same day. Any contacts who can do this for me in advance?
– I am planning to go with my Family (wife and 5 year old daughter) on my 2014 Fiat Punto 1.3 Diesel which has covered 44,000 kms so far. Route is Jaipur to Leh and back via Srinagar starting 1st July.
I plan to cover Leh-Diskit-Hunder-Panamik-Leh on my Punto and then take local cab for Leh-Pangong-Leh.
Me and my cousin did the same route in 2014 on a Maruti Estilo which gives me good confidence. Do you foresee any issues / any comments?
Hi Anopp,
When you will fill the online form, it will tell you the fee which you need to submit. In order to get in advance, you can also connect with info@offbeatescapes.com
Also, I Will not recommend going over to Nubra Valley without at least one complete day of rest and acclimatization in Leh especially with family.
You can do both Nubra Valley and PAngong tso from Leh on your car. Just be cautious and careful, drive slow on dirt tracks or roads with pebbles/stones to avoid puncture.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to rent a bike from Chandigarh for leh Ladakh via srinagar then coming back to chandigarh via Manali. There is some news going on that the manali bike association will not allow rented commercial bikes from outside states.
Can you please help me and confirm if I can take the rented bike from chandigarh and complete the trip as I have planned? Please let me know if the rented bike from chandigarh will create any issue in the travel path.
Awaiting your reply.
thanks,
Yes Nirmit, no Ladakh bike can cross Sarchu post and allowed in HP and no HP bike is allowed in Ladakh to enter. There is too much tensions going on and I will not recommend taking the rented bike to Ladakh unless things settle down.
thank you for your valuable reply.
If the rented bike from Chandigarh is the white number plate and we say that this bike belongs to a friend of ours. Can this help in tackling the situation there ??
No Nirmit, in case you are caught up, they check the RC of the bike and it has to be in the name of you or any family member with whom you can prove the relationship by showing a valid GOVT ID. It is done specifically to curb these kinds of workarounds 😉
hi,
Dheeraj ji,
i am planning the following , will it be possible ?
day 1 leh
day 2 Leh – Nubra (stay)
Day 3 Nubra to Pangong ( stay) – is this possible via the khalsar shyok )
DAy 4 PAngong to Hanle ( via Chusul) ( places to mention for permit online mode)
day 5 hanle to Tso moriri to sarchu ( stay )
DAy 6 Sarchu to Manali.
or
we can do the following also
day 1 leh
day 2 Leh – Nubra (stay)
Day 3 Nubra to Pangong ( stay) – is this possible via the khalsar shyok )
DAy 4 PAngong to Hanle ( via Chusul)
day 5 hanle to Tso moriri to leh
DAy 6 rest / buffer
day 7 return flight from leh.
regarding ILPs , we can apply online but for hanle via chushul there is no option !
your feedback is highly appreciated.
Prasun, in your second plan, better use Day 6 for rest or sham valley trip on Day 2. This will help you acclimatize a bit more. Then follow rest and take flight on Day 7. You can apply for hanle permits at DC office in Leh or in person at Tourist info center.
Hello Dhiraj..
We hv planned ladakh trip from 7 to 17 September 2017 starting from srinagar n ending at manali. We have planned to travel by our own bikes n planned to cover places like pangong tso moriri hundar khardung la etc.. So please tell me is it fine to travel by our own bikes in leh ladak considering the current taxi n bike mafia scenario? And can we get permits for all the places at the same time for 12 days?
Yes Atul, there is no issue at all by traveling on private bikes. Do not be afraid, they are good and helping people and just want people to respect the rules they have laid to curb outsiders commercial people minting money from their resources or opportunities. Private bikes or cars do not have any issues right from the start except just one ugly incident that happened.
YEs, you can apply the permits once for all days you are in Ladakh.
hello Mr. Dheeraj,
I want to visit Ladakh this early August and want to camp there i am carrying my tent myself but i need to get government permission for that can I apply for that online? If not where to contact I will be going from Manali-Leh route and how much time it will take the whole process of permission.
No permission is required for camping in Ladakh. Please read: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley
If you are talking about permits, then please read: Ladakh Inner Line Permits Available Online
Hey dheeraj!
First of all thanks for all the information, its really helpful.
I just wanted to know if the inner line permit for an Indian citizen is issued on driving license also or only on passport?
Yes Ravi, you can apply for inner line permit with Driving License as well.
I will go Tso moriri from Manali it possible sir ? or I have to reach Leh first
Please read: 5 reasons not to visit Tso Moriri from Manali side
sir,
i am planning to go to leh ladakh in 16th june from ahmedabad(gujarat) alone.
my bike is on my mothers name….will there any problems?
I don’t think you Akash, you should be good to travel on that bike
If I take proper papers which make sure them that I am son of her…does it works.
If I take proper papers which make sure them that I am son of her…does it works.
Sir there are two possibilities.
(1) If I take proper papers which make sure them that I am son of her
(2) I can change name on TV book. But I can’t get rc book because it take 1-2 months to reach. I only get the paper on which it suggest that this bike is on my name
Yes, it works for sure. If you have a passport it will work and also since surname will match that will work too. No need to change the name of the book.
Yes it works Akash.
Sir..
what is the process for getting ILPs for hanle? is it okay i download this form and mention all places that im planning to visit??
Kaushick, yes, download the form mention all the places, go to DC office in Leh, pay the environment and permit fees and get it stamped by DC office. Once done, get the 10-12 copies of that permit to submit on various checkposts to the places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Hanle etc..
ok sir..what all places to be mentioned if im travelling from leh to hanle via chumathang?
Leh, Loma, Nyoma and Hanle is sufficient.
Hi,
Our itinerary is
13-08-2017 Manali to Sarchu
14-08-2017 Sarchu – Pang – Leh
15-08-2017 Leh- Khardung La – Nubra
16-08-2017 Nubra- Shyok- Pangong Tso
17-08-2017 Pangong Tso – chusul – TSo moriri lake
18-08-2017 TsoMoriri to Sarchu
18-08-2017 Sarchu- Manali
Can you please Let me know how many permissions would i require and the charges for the permissions
sorry 19-8-2016 sarchu – manali
Hey Sai, you need Rohtang Pass permit to go beyond Rohtang Pass. And once in Leh, you will need Inner Line Permit from DC OFfice in Leh.
Also, your plan is too too ambitious and I will not suggest such a plan. There is no rest day in Leh, then you are directly sleeping at Sarchu from Manali which will cause AMS issues.
Yes sir according to your blog i have read that we need to have some bookings in LEH to get the permit for Rohtang pass, but we dont have bookings. What we have to do now?
This year onward it is not required to have the booking to get Rohtang Pass permit.
Thank you very much sir :).
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for your very informative posts. However I am a bit confused as the article states that Indian Nationals do not require inner line permits. To summarize my questions
1) My itinerary involves the Manali – Leh Highway. Via 4 motorbikes. Where do I get the Rohtang Pass permit? Can it be acquired online before travel? We will hit Rohtang on 30th June if the weather is all ok and the roads open. Is there any pre- requisiste such as hotel bookings etc to get this pass? What is the charge for the pass? And should we expect any kind of hindrance at rohtang of not securing this pass. Sorry for a lot of questions, but we are travelling from the UAE and have all the flights etc booked as of now for a journey to start on 30th june from Manali. Appreciate any help or direction
2) we will stay at jispa, then sarchu and then at rumtse after which we will directly head to pangong tso. Read in your article that you need inner line permits which we need to get from LEH DC. Being Indian nationals, does it apply to us as well? Do we need to first head to Leh DC get the required permit and then head back to pangong tso?
Sunirmshafi, I think you missed read the first alert box of Update April 2017. Anyways, read this now: Ladakh Inner Line Permits Available Online
For Rohtang Pass permit, visit: http://admis.hp.nic.in/ngtkullu/BeyondRohtang/InformatoryScreen
Your inner line permit is solved but I will not recommend the plan you are planning to undertake.
Dear Dheeraj
Appreciate the response and have been waiting for the same. The requirements of the permit is now quite clear. As for my plan, I saw that you’ve mentioned that it is not recommended. Can you shed some light and provide your recommendations? We would be riding via bikes.. any help would be appreciated
Day 1 : Manali – Jispa , halt at Jispa
Day 2 : Jispa – Sarchu, halt at sarchu
Day 3 : Sarchu – LEH, halt at LEH
Day 4 : Rest in LEH
Day 5 : LEH – Pangong . Halt at Pangong
Day 6 : Pangong – LEH, halt at LEH
Day 7 : Visit Khardungla and return to LEH
Day 8 : Fly from LeH to Delhi
I will suggest following edits:
Day 1 : Manali – Jispa , halt at Jispa
Day 2 : Jispa – Leh, leave by 6 AM for sure, halt at Leh
Day 3 : Leh rest day and acclimatization, permits are now available online.
Day 4 : Leh – Khardung La – Nubra Valley
Day 5 : Nubra Valley – Leh
Day 6 : Leh – Pangong tso
Day 7 : Pangong tso – Leh
Day 8 : Fly from LeH to Delhi
Hi Dheeraj,
I’m a Chinese，If I got ILP，Can I visit the restricted places like Tso Moriri, Nubra Valley？
No Lee, you cannot travel to inner line areas with just ILP. You have to get permission from MHA, New Delhi
Hi dheeraj ,
Can we get inner line permit in one day ?
Just wanted to know iif this will be time consuming
Thanks
Yes, it is a trivial process. Just have your documents ready and pre-prepared by downloading the above form. Just go there, submit the fees and get the permit signed. Then on the way back make 10-12 copies of it. It will not take more than couple of hrs at max.
Hi Dheeraj
We are 2 couples traveling Delhi – Srinagar – Kargil – Leh – day trips to Nubra and Pangong Tso – Leh – Sarchu – Manali – Delhi. We start on 6 June to reach Jammu. We come back to Delhi on 19 June. We are traveling in an Innova. Please advice us which route you suggest frm Kargil i.e. Normal highway via magnetic hill or the route through Batalik. Batalik route might require ILP, which we will organise. Pls suggest assuming we are not planning another trip soon 🙂
Thanks
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here
Update April 2017 = Pay environment fees and apply for permits again
The environment fees of Rs 400 & Inner Line Permits (most likely as well) will again be required in Ladakh for Indian Tourists / Nationals with effect from April 1st, 2017. This has been recently announced and is available on official website of Leh administration. It is expected that a public circular should follow soon as well. Hence, like it used to happen before 2014, all Indian Nationals or Indian Tourists WILL need to pay environment fees and may need to also get the inner line permits in Leh – Ladakh region in order to visit the restricted places like Dah, Hanu Villages, Pangong Tso, Man, Merak, Tso Moriri, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only).
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link All you want to know about Inner Line Permits for Ladakh
Thanks a lot Dheeraj. Based on your suggested blogs we have already palnned our trip. Now we are only debating which is a better route to take for a first time traveler to Leh assuming we are not planning any other trip to Leh soon.
1) Kargil – Mulbekh – Lamayuru – Leh
or
2) Kargil – Batalik – Dah – Skurbuchan – Leh
Thanks
I will surely go with Lamayuru route if I am planning the trip to Ladakh for the first time. The views and route are much much better and you get to see the moonland mountains which Lamayuru is famous for apart from its monastery & restaurant 🙂
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks a lot for your feedback. We are all set to go next week. Just wanted another advice about going thru the Srinagar route. Given the situation in the valley, should we do the to and fro trip via Manali or should we continue with our plan to enter Leh via Srinagar – Kargil route.
Warm Regards
Please read this thread: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/question/terrorist-killed-in-north-kashmir/
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for helping me in other pages, now I have booked my tickets and have my itinerary.
I arrive in Leh on Aug 9th (2017) and leave on Aug 19th. I will be renting a bike from LEH.
Will I need to get inner line permits as I will be visiting Pangong TSo , Tso moriri etc… If yes then where should I apply for them? Can i apply online or only after reaching Leh?
Update April 2017 = Pay environment fees and apply for permits again
The environment fees of Rs 400 & Inner Line Permits (most likely as well) will again be required in Ladakh for Indian Tourists / Nationals with effect from April 1st, 2017. This has been recently announced and is available on official website of Leh administration. It is expected that a public circular should follow soon as well. Hence, like it used to happen before 2014, all Indian Nationals or Indian Tourists WILL need to pay environment fees and may need to also get the inner line permits in Leh – Ladakh region in order to visit the restricted places like Dah, Hanu Villages, Pangong Tso, Man, Merak, Tso Moriri, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only).
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link All you want to know about Inner Line Permits for Ladakh
Hello Again Dheeraj,
I checked leh website – lahdclehpermit.in. No where it is mentioned about permit for Indian citizen. They are asking only oversea clients.
Is there any other website where this notification is published.
Well, that site is only for Protected Area Permit. Indians need Inner Line Permit from DC office in Leh. You can check leh.nic.in where there is a notification running for payign environment fee of Rs 400. Also, check the updated permit form which states the charges and fees and updated by DC office in 2017: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Inner-Line-Protected-Area-Permit-Form.pdf
Dheeraj,
Hi! I am an avid follower of your website and have taken numerous advice from it! My 3 friends and I are scheduled to land in Leh on 13th May and to depart for our home on 20th May.
Now we had an entire trip planned with Nubra Valley, Turtuk and Pangong in our plan. We reached out to Thinles of Botho guesthouse, someone who came highly recommended in tripadvisor.
Everything was on schedule when suddenly I learned today from Thinles that Leh is now currently not giving Permits to tourists from SAARC countries 🙁 This is so sudden and I saw no news of this anywhere! Now, do you have any suggestions for us as to what to say to the DC office once we reach Leh? We want to try again for the permit.
Lastly, if we don’t get the permit at all, can you suggest an itinerary from 13th May to 20th May? Our flight reaches on 13th May so we’ll take that day rest and we depart 20th May in the morning so basically, 14th May to 19th May an itinerary of places without requiring permit and must visit would be really helpful 🙂
Sami
Hi Sami,
If that is the case, I am not sure if anyone can help out. If they have stopped permits for SARC countries, then I am not sure what is the process. May be you can check it online yourself as Protected Area Permits are now available online: http://www.lahdclehpermit.in/
Dheeraj,
I did check that website and there is a FAQ PDF there as well where it mentions some countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan requires permission from the Home Ministry. There is no mention of Bangladesh in that document.
Hopefully we can show this once we reach Leh and try and get the permit 🙂
Thank you for the very quick reply as always!
Yes Samy, also try to apply for Online Permit and you may get it. There was another person who posted in the forum that Bangladeshi citizen require only Protected Area Permit now and the option comes while filling up the online form. Please check it.
Hi
Below is my Itinerary
Day 1 – Srinagar-Sonamarg-Zoji La-Dras-Kargil
Day 2 – Kargil-Mulbek-Namika La-Fotu La-Lamayuru-Nimmoo-Leh
Day 3 – Sighseeing in Leh
Day 4 – Leh-Khardung La-Sumur-Panamik-Diskit-Hunder
Day 5 – Diskit/Hunder-Wari La-Chang La-Pangong lake
Day 6 – Pangong Lake-Man-Merak-Chushul-Tsaka Pass-Hanle
Day 7 – Hanle-Nyoma-Mahe-Karzok(Tso Moriri)
Day 8 – Karzok-Tso Kar-More Plains-Sarchu
Day 9- Sarchu-Baralacha La Pass-Keylong-Rohtang Pass-Manali
Day 10- Manali-Chandigarh
Let me know how many permissions would i require and the charges for the permissions
This looks good Ketan, you will need a permit for 5-6 days from DC office in Leh for places listed from Day 4 to Day 8. No other permit is required. Just take care of the fuel and ensure there are other vehicles in company to support on these desolated routes.
Hello Sir,
we are 4 friends plan tour from ambala to leh on 4 bikes as your guideline as
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu/Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu/Patnitop – Srinagar
Day 3 | Srinagar – Kargil
Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit (Nubra Valley) – Hunder – Diskit
Day 7 | Hunder/Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Hemis – Pangong Tso
Day 9 | Pangong Tso – Thicksey – Shey Palace – Leh
Day 10 | Leh Rest Day or Sham Valley Tour around Leh including Magnetic Hills, Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Alchi, Likir, Basgo, Confluence at Nimmu
Day 11 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Day 12 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Moore Plains (Manali – Leh Highway) – Pang – Sarchu
Day 13 | Sarchu – Manali
Day 14 | Manali – Delhi
please tell me that which place is given in permit and there is only one permit for all trip
Thanks & Regards
Kuldeep Singh
Hi Kuldeep,
The environment fees of Rs 400 & Inner Line Permits (most likely as well) will again be required in Ladakh for Indian Tourists / Nationals with effect from April 1st, 2017. This has been recently announced and is available on official website of Leh administration. It is expected that a public circular should follow soon as well. Hence, like it used to happen before 2014, all Indian Nationals or Indian Tourists WILL need to pay environment fees and may need to also get the inner line permits in Leh – Ladakh region in order to visit the restricted places like Dah, Hanu Villages, Pangong Tso, Man, Merak, Tso Moriri, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only).
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link All you want to know about Inner Line Permits for Ladakh
Only one permit is required.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks dheeraj sir
if we find any problem then we contact to you again
thanks again
Sure, feel free to post any further question about your trip.
Dear Dheeraj bhai,
As per our itinerary (see below), we will visit Khardung la, Hundar, Turtuk, Panamik, Aghom, Shyok, Tangtse, Spangmik Pangong Tso-Man- Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Hanle-Nyoma and Tso moriri from Leh and then to Manali.
1.Please suggest what we need to do to get the ILP, and from where we will get it? I downloaded the form, but could not understand where we need to mention the places we intend to visit.
2.What will be the charge per person? Is the environmental fee Rs 400 needs to be paid one time or for every day of the trip? That will be huge then..
3. what documents need to be submitted?
4. Will the drivers will arrange the permit? or we have to do ourselves?
Please advice in detail.
Day1 (30/5/17 Tue)- Kolkata to Srinagar morning flight and move to Sonamarg
Day2 (31/5/17 Wed)- Sonamarg– Kargil/Mulbekh
Day3 (1/6/17 Thu)- Kargil/Mulbekh – Leh
Day4 (2/6/17 Fri)- Leh Local sightseeing and permit preparation
Day5 (3/6/17 Sat)- Leh – Hundar
Day6 (4/6/17 Sun)- Hundar – Turtuk – Deskit / Hundar-Panamik-Deskit#
Day7 (5/6/17 Mon)- Deskit – Agom-Shyok – Tangtse #
Day 8 (6/6/17 Tue)- Tangtse – Spangmik
Day 9 (7/6/17 Wed)- Spangmik – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Hanle *
Day 10 (8/6/17 Thu)- Hanle – Niddar Road – Korzok (Tsomoriri)**
Day 11 (9/6/17 Fri)- Tsomoriri(Korzok) –Tso Kar – Barlach la (Suraj Tal) -Keylong
Day 12 (10/6/17 Sat)- Keylong – Manali )
Day 13 (11/6/17 Sun)- Manali – Kulu – Kalka and catch 11:50pm Kalka Mail
Day 14 (12/6/17 Mon)- Train
Day 15 (13/6/17 Tue)- Morning 8:00 arrive Kolkata
If not possible,then * Day 9: Spangmik – Chusul – Saga – Chumathang
**Day10: Chumathang – Tsomoriri Stay (Korzok)
# If Tangtse cannot be reached directly from Hundar, then stay only 1N in Hundar…and Hundar to leh on nxt night and then Leh to Tangste.
Dear Amit,
Replies below:
1. Where it is written “Crant Permission to Indian Citize to visit _______________” in that blank you have to mention the name
2. Environment fee of Rs 400 is one time, permit fee of Rs 20 is per day.
3. Your valid Photo Id Nationality Proof
4. They can do so on your behalf, will need all the documents and filled, signed permit form from you guys.
5. Your plan looks OK but DO NOT venture into the Niddar route alone.
Hi Mr dheeraj ji
My self CHIRAG
I will be plan leh tour on 15th August arrivals and plan 1st day (16th) – leh sightseeing (17th) – nubra valley-(night stay) (18th) – nubra to leh (19th) – pangong lake return (20th) buy bus tso moriri and night halt (21st) – return to leh buy bus. (22nd) – leh to srinager return. It is possible this plan. Plz suggests me
HI Chirag,
You seem to have just 7 days in hand and public transport is not that frequent in Ladakh to make trip with such ease. You should refer: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air
thanks but it is possible to go tso moriri by bus and any vehical available for tsomoriri to tso kar.debring and return to leh.
which option is better to tso moriri to leh or tso moriri to return to sarachu to manali
Chirag, you should refer: How to make a budget Ladakh trip by public transport and Rates & Time table of Bus Services in Leh – Ladakh
Sir…do we require inner line permits to visit places like nubra valley,khardung la,tso moriri? whats the recent announcement about sir?
Update April 2017 = Pay environment fees and apply for permits again (those who missed before)
The environment fees of Rs 400 & Inner Line Permits (most likely as well) will again be required in Ladakh for Indian Tourists / Nationals with effect from April 1st, 2017. This has been recently announced and is available on official website of Leh administration. It is expected that a public circular should follow soon as well. Hence, like it used to happen before 2014, all Indian Nationals or Indian Tourists WILL need to pay environment fees and may need to also get the inner line permits in Leh – Ladakh region in order to visit the restricted places like Dah, Hanu Villages, Pangong Tso, Man, Merak, Tso Moriri, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only).
What about Visiting the area of Batalik village and the road that takes to the villages Dha and Goma Hanu ? Are they excluded from present ILP requirement of 2017?
India loves red tape and bureaucracy. Three cheers to it.
You will need permit to visit Dah Hanu. As per recent update, everyone need permits to visit inner line areas in Ladakh.
Dheeraj,
I heard that in order to travel from kargil to leh via batalik and dha hanu, we need to take inner line permit (ILP) from kargil for batalik and ILP from leh for dha hanu. As I will be travelling from srinagar to leh via kargil-batalik-dha hanu-leh , I can arrange ILP for batalik from kargil DC office (as heard again, plz correct me if I am wrong), But my confusion, annoying, worry is how can I arrange ILP from leh to visit dhan hanu before I actually travel there (to leh) as I dnt have any plans of returning back as I have further plans to visit manali. Please help !
Deepak, people who travel in the direction from Leh to Kargil to Srinagar via Batalik route gets the permit from Leh and those who travel from Kargil to Leh gets the permit from Kargil DC office. So, you can get it from Kargil DC office and you should be good. Also, you can visit Dah hanu without going from Batalik and without needing any permit in case traveling from Kargil to Leh.
Yeah Dheeraj, I understand completely what you said. But in my case I want to visit both places i.e., Batalik from kargil (ILP from kargil ) and head directly from there to dha hanu (as I will have ILP only for batalik, as ILP for dha hanu will be issued in Leh) as well and further to leh. So how about obtaining permit for dha hanu in this case is my confusion. I don’t want to return to kargil again from batalik and travel on Fotula and go to dha hanu and take back same route and get to leh. ( Or will kargil DC office issues dha hanu permit as well for one way travellers ? )
Hope I am very much clear in making you understand what I want to convey.
You can just write both Batalik, Dah, Hanu on the form when applying for permits at Kargil DC office. The Dah Hanu, permits are restored this year only and still there is no official statement on permits but just on environment fee. However, people are applying for the permit and paying the environment fee as it used to happen before 2014. So, I believe you will not have any issues with it if you just write Dah Hanu, Batalik while applying permit at Kargil office.
Thank you Dheeraj. Thanks for update. We people can travel worry free because of people like you helping the enthusiasts all the way. Really appreciate and wonder how you reserve time for DoW.
Thank you, Deepak, like a nobleman said once “Where these is passion and will, there is a way…” 😉
hi dheeraj ji
we have 27 members on 27 seater bus to planned, to visit leh on 1 june from jammu srinager kargil, leh 3 days , 2 days nubra, 1day pangong ,1) can we direct go to sarchu from pangong. 2) on this day all roads will opened or not. 3) today i know that this year inner line permit is compulsory for indian as well as foreigners also. and fee are approx 1000 to 1100 for indian , is it true or not plz confirm . 4) leh to manali road are open or not on 9 june from pangong to sarchu & 10 june sarchu to manali.
Hi Rupesh,
This year there is too much of snowfall and Manali – Leh is expected to open by the second week of June. Plying heavy vehicle on it may not be conducive, so better postpone the trip by couple of weeks.
Update April 2017 = Pay environment fees and apply for permits again (those who missed before)
The environment fees of Rs 400 & Inner Line Permits (most likely as well) will again be required in Ladakh for Indian Tourists / Nationals with effect from April 1st, 2017. This has been recently announced and is available on official website of Leh administration. It is expected that a public circular should follow soon as well. Hence, like it used to happen before 2014, all Indian Nationals or Indian Tourists WILL need to pay environment fees and may need to also get the inner line permits in Leh – Ladakh region in order to visit the restricted places like Dah, Hanu Villages, Pangong Tso, Man, Merak, Tso Moriri, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only). For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Hi Dheeraj,
Read about Leh Innerline Permits are back from DOW. how likely is Leh DC office operating on SUNDAY!.
we have planned ride in june, where we reach leh on Sat and Sunday is a break day before we start our ride to Nubra valley on Monday. now for Permits, we need to re-plan. can you suggest please.
Leh DC Office does not operate on Sunday. You will have to either replan or arrange them in advance.
Hi Dheeraj,
I wanted to know if i can build tents in places like Nubra, pangong, hanle, moriri and jispa! Is it allowed to build our own tents? Or they(locals) won’t allow us? Because we are tight on budget.
Arth, you may read: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley. It covers the topic in detail
Hi Dheeraj,
This is Amol. How are you doing?
I have one question regarding permit, do we require permit to Visit Spiti Valley ( we are planning to go Shimla Via Keylong Khibber Kaza Pooh pangi ) If yes then from where we can get this permit.
Regards
Amol
I am doing good Amol, thanks !!
Indians do not require permit to visit Spiti Valley. It is only applicable for foreigners.
Thanks Dheeraj. We are planning to go Kaza from Leh keylong and kaza Do you have any idea when keylong kaza road will open ?
Amol, Keylong to KAza road has been opened yesterday.
Thanks A lot Dheeraj. We are leaving on 10th From Pune.
Wonderful, best wishes for your journey. Do share the updates with all of us, it will help others too.
Little bit off topic but how can i avoid Taxi union of Leh as i am going there with rented bikes.. is there any way? I’ll ride with 3 other bikes! The bike company where we are hiring said there won’t be an issue.. is it true? As we are students hiring in leh will cost us more!
In case you are lucky and not confronted, you may avoid them else if checked, you will have to park the outside rented bike and hire another bike in Leh.
Hi dheeraj , i have some changes in my route so it goes like
Day 1: Delhi to pathankot
2: pathankot to Srinagar
3: Srinagar to kargil
4: kargil to leh
5:leh rest /sightseeing
6:leh to hunder
7: hunder to pangong
8: pangong to leh
9: leh to hanle
10: hanle to tso morir
11: tso moriri to sarchu.
12:sarchu to manali
Now the things is thay if and only if we don’t need a buffer day i really want to go to Kaza in spiti valley. Do you know how to plan my trip so i can include Kaza in my list? Is there any road goes to kaza from keylong? Or should i start after reaching Manali?
Hello Arth, first of all with just one day in hand, it is not possible to visit Kaza. The roads to Kaza from Keylong or Manali are one of the worst roads you may have ever seen. Riding/Traveling on it takes a toll on the body and in one day in any case it is not possible and will mean touching and coming. You may try
Tso Moriri to Keylong, Keylong to Chandratal, Chandratal to Manali in one day but doing it this way with Kaza does not make any sense to me.
Let’s say i have two days after reaching keylong . What do you suggest?
Again within two days it won’t make any sense to visit KAza as you will not be able to see much things up there. It is better to visit Chandratal lake in Spiti Valley and come back to Manali in those two days.
Hi Dheeraj
We are three friends and we are planning for Leh this June, last week most likely. We plan to go manali by bus and then hire 2 Bullets from there and then drive all the way to Leh. Also we plan to drive Kargil from Leh and then back to Leh.
I wanted to check with you :
1. what all locations you would advise in Leh or near Leh to visit.
2. Moreover, we plan to do sleepover in tent is that possible in that region? I mean we putting our own trek tent.
3. How is your opinion on Leh -> Kargil -> Leh
4. We are 3 guys and will be renting 2 bikes, so pillion will also be there. is that ok and what challenges we should expect with pillion.
Thanks
Andy
Hello Andy,
Firstly, you should know that outside rented bikes are not allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh. You will again have to rent a bike in Leh so you pay twice. Also, return back the bike in Manali as pickup charges of bikes are too high and leaves a big dent in the pocket.
1. I will be able to suggest a plan, once you let me know how many days you are planning for this trip.
2. Yes, please refer: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley
3. That is fine, you need two days for it.
4. Please read: 5 Tips to Rent Bike in Leh – Ladakh and Ride with Pillion
Thanks Dheeraj for you experienced response.
We are planning a trip of around 9 days excluding travel to manali from where we are taking the bikes.
Regarding renting bikes again in Leh, we heard that manali rentals charge 50% when we display the receipts of Leh rentals. So we are planning on that.
Oki, that is fine in that case if you are OK with the rental pricing. You may refer: Ladakh from Manali – Most Common Itinerary
Hi Dheeraj
After reading your blogs me and my friends decided to rent bikes from delhi and travel to Leh via Srinaga-Kargil and then coming back via Leh-Manali side.
Thanks
Andy, you will have to hire the bikes again in Leh. I hope you are aware about the rule.