North Sikkim Permit Guide | Lachung, Lachen & Yumthang Valley
North Sikkim Permit – Complete Guide for Tourists
North Sikkim is one of the most beautiful yet restricted regions of Sikkim, famous for Lachung, Lachen, Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, and Gurudongmar Lake. Due to its proximity to international borders and high-altitude terrain, a special travel permit is mandatory for all tourists.
At Tour Adviser, we provide complete North Sikkim permit assistance along with permit-approved taxis and tour packages, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
❓ What is North Sikkim Permit?
The North Sikkim Permit is a government-issued travel authorization that allows tourists to visit restricted areas in North Sikkim district.
This permit is issued by the Sikkim Tourism Department and is compulsory for all travelers.
📌 Without a valid permit, entry to North Sikkim is not allowed.
📍 Places Covered Under North Sikkim Permit
🔹 Lachung Route
Lachung Village
Yumthang Valley
Zero Point (subject to weather)
🔹 Lachen Route
Lachen Village
Gurudongmar Lake
🚫 Nathula Pass requires a separate special permit.
🧾 Who Needs North Sikkim Permit?
| Category | Permit Required |
|---|---|
| Indian Tourists | ✅ Yes |
| Foreign Tourists | ⚠ Limited access |
| Children | ✅ Yes |
| Solo Travelers | ❌ Not allowed |
👉 Minimum 2 persons required for permit approval.
📄 Documents Required for North Sikkim Permit
For Indian Tourists:
Government-issued Photo ID (Aadhaar / Voter ID / Passport)
Passport-size photographs
For Foreign Tourists:
Passport
Valid Indian Visa
Passport-size photographs
❌ PAN Card is not accepted.
🕒 Validity of North Sikkim Permit
Usually valid for 1–2 days
Area-specific (Lachung or Lachen)
Issued one day prior to travel
Subject to weather & road conditions
🏢 Where is North Sikkim Permit Issued?
Permits are issued through:
Sikkim Tourism Office, Gangtok
SDPO Office
Registered Tour Operators (recommended)
👉 Tour Adviser handles the entire permit process, saving you time and effort.
🚖 Taxi Rules for North Sikkim
Only Sikkim-registered vehicles allowed
Taxi must be permit-approved
Shared or private taxis allowed
Night travel is not permitted
✔ We provide authorized North Sikkim taxis from Gangtok.
🌦️ Best Time to Visit North Sikkim
March – June: Best for Yumthang Valley & sightseeing
October – December: Clear views (subject to snowfall)
July – September: Mostly closed due to monsoon
❄ Heavy snowfall may lead to sudden road closures.
⚠ Important Rules for North Sikkim Travel
Carry original ID proof
Follow local & army instructions
Respect environmental regulations
Limited medical facilities (carry medicines)
High-altitude precautions required
📞 North Sikkim Permit Assistance with Tour Adviser
Tour Adviser is a trusted tour operator in Sikkim, offering:
✔ North Sikkim permit assistance
✔ Permit-approved taxis
✔ Lachung & Lachen tour packages
✔ Customized Sikkim itineraries
📱 Call: 9832588889 / 8001915555
💬 WhatsApp available
❓ FAQs – North Sikkim Permit Guide
Q1. Is North Sikkim permit mandatory?
Yes, a valid permit is compulsory to visit North Sikkim.
Q2. Can foreign tourists visit North Sikkim?
Foreign tourists are allowed only in selected areas, subject to government rules.
Q3. Can I travel solo to North Sikkim?
No, solo travel is not permitted. Minimum two travelers are required.
Q4. Is Gurudongmar Lake included in the permit?
Yes, Gurudongmar Lake is included under the Lachen route permit.
Q5. Can Tour Adviser arrange North Sikkim permits?
Yes, we arrange permits along with taxi and tour bookings.