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Protected Area Permit

Gurudongmar Lake Permit — PAP Guide for North Sikkim's Sacred High-Altitude Lake

Gurudongmar Lake at 17,800 ft is one of the world's highest lakes. It requires both a North Sikkim ILP and a special PAP — here's how to arrange both.

Indian Nationals Only17,800 ftNorth SikkimOperator Required

What is the Gurudongmar Lake Permit?

Gurudongmar Lake at 17,800 ft is one of the highest lakes in the world, sacred to Buddhists, Sikhs and Hindus alike. Located in North Sikkim near the China border, it requires a two-step permit: first a North Sikkim Inner Line Permit (ILP), then a special Protected Area Permit (PAP) for the Gurudongmar zone.

Unlike Tsomgo Lake or Nathula Pass, Gurudongmar permits cannot be obtained independently. They must be arranged through a registered Gangtok tour operator, who submits group details to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) office in Chungthang.

Apply 3–4 days in advance. The SDM Chungthang process for Gurudongmar takes longer than East Sikkim permits. Do not attempt to arrange this on arrival in Gangtok.

Who Needs the Permit?

Indian Nationals

All Indian citizens require both the North Sikkim ILP and the Gurudongmar PAP. Minimum group of 2 recommended — solo permits are rarely issued.

Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals are NOT permitted at Gurudongmar Lake.

Documents Required

  • Valid government-issued photo ID — Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport
  • Two recent passport-size photographs per person
  • Pre-booked accommodation in Lachen (mandatory overnight halt)
  • Tour booking confirmation with a registered Sikkim operator

How to Get the Gurudongmar Permit

1
Book a registered North Sikkim tour (only way)

Gurudongmar permits are issued only to registered tour groups. Book with a Gangtok-registered operator and submit all ID proofs and photos 3–4 days before travel.

2
Operator applies to SDM Chungthang

Your operator submits the group application to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate office in Chungthang. Permits are countersigned and collected on the travel day.

3
Overnight halt at Lachen (mandatory)

Lachen at 8,838 ft is the last overnight halt before Gurudongmar. You must acclimatise here for at least 1 night before ascending to 17,800 ft.

Cost & Validity

ItemDetails
ILP (North Sikkim)~₹100 per person
PAP (Gurudongmar zone)~₹200 per person
ILP validity3–5 days (covers North Sikkim circuit)
PAP validitySingle day at Gurudongmar

Checkpoints

📍 Mangan Checkpoint📍 Chungthang Checkpoint📍 Lachen Checkpoint📍 Thangu Checkpoint
Altitude warning — Gurudongmar at 17,800 ft is extreme altitude. Acclimatise properly in Lachen. Consult a doctor if you have cardiac or respiratory conditions. No ATM or mobile network beyond Lachen — carry cash.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Permit Guides

North Sikkim ILPYumthang Valley PermitZero Point PermitAll Sikkim Permits