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Special RAP (Army Permit)

Bum La Pass Permit — Restricted Area Permit for the Indo-China Border, Tawang

Bum La Pass at 15,200 ft is an Indo-China border crossing 38 km from Tawang. Only Indian nationals with both an Arunachal ILP and a special Bum La RAP can visit — here's how to arrange it.

Indian Nationals Only15,200 ftArmy Permit RequiredSeasonal (Apr–Oct)

What is the Bum La Pass Permit?

Bum La Pass (15,200 ft) is an active India-China border pass approximately 38 km north of Tawang town. The Madhuri Lake sits just before Bum La on the same road. Bum La is controlled by the Indian Army and requires a special Restricted Area Permit in addition to the standard Arunachal ILP.

The Bum La RAP cannot be pre-arranged from outside Tawang — it is issued by Army authorities in Tawang on the day before your visit. Only registered Tawang tour operators can apply on your behalf. Foreign nationals are not permitted at Bum La.

Apply in Tawang: The Bum La special permit is arranged only after you reach Tawang town. You cannot apply from Guwahati or Delhi. Budget at least one full day in Tawang before your Bum La visit for permit processing.

Who Needs the Permit?

Indian Nationals

Arunachal ILP (pre-arranged) + Bum La RAP (arranged in Tawang via local operator). Minimum group of 2.

Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals are NOT permitted at Bum La Pass.

Documents Required

  • Valid Arunachal Pradesh ILP (already obtained before reaching Tawang)
  • Government photo ID — Aadhaar, Voter ID or Passport
  • Two passport-size photographs
  • Booking with a Tawang-registered tour operator

How to Arrange the Bum La Permit

1
Reach Tawang with your Arunachal ILP

Your ILP must already be valid. Arrive in Tawang at least 1 day before your planned Bum La visit.

2
Register with a Tawang-based operator

Your hotel or a local operator submits the group application to the Army HQ in Tawang. The RAP is processed overnight.

3
Depart early — weather closes by 2 PM

Bum La is open only until 2 PM. Depart Tawang by 7–8 AM. The road covers ~38 km including Madhuri Lake — allow 3–4 hours each way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Permit Guides

Tawang ILPSela Pass GuideAll Arunachal Permits