Definition
A travel document Indian citizens from other states need to enter Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur. Each state issues it, mostly online, for a fixed period, and it is checked at entry gates.
Where Indians need an ILP
At the time of review:
| State or territory | What Indian visitors need |
|---|---|
| Arunachal Pradesh | ILP for the whole state |
| Nagaland | ILP |
| Mizoram | ILP |
| Manipur | ILP (since 2019) |
| Sikkim | No ILP for entry, but permits for areas such as Tsomgo, Nathu La and North Sikkim |
| Ladakh | No ILP; a fee is collected for areas such as Nubra, Pangong and Tso Moriri |
Lakshadweep also requires an entry permit for Indian visitors, issued separately.
How to apply
Each state runs an online e-ILP system. You upload a photo and ID (Aadhaar, voter ID or passport), choose dates and an entry point, and pay a small fee. Approval usually takes a day or two. Print copies and carry the original ID.
Example
A Delhi group of four plans a Guwahati–Bomdila–Tawang trip in October. They apply for Arunachal e-ILPs two weeks ahead, naming Bhalukpong as the entry gate. At the Bhalukpong checkpost, police match each permit with its holder's ID and check that the dates cover the trip. On most land packages to the Northeast, the tour operator or DMC arranges this for you.
Practical advice
- Apply only on the official state portal, not look-alike sites.
- Match names exactly as on your ID.
- Make sure the permit covers every day you'll be in the state, plus a buffer for landslides or snow.
- Foreign nationals, including OCI cardholders, need a Protected Area Permit instead.
For Northeast planning, see our travel guides.