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Everything you need to know about the Inner Line Permit required to visit Tsomgo Lake — documents, process, cost and checkpoints explained.
Tsomgo Lake — also called Changu Lake — sits at 12,313 ft in East Sikkim, approximately 40 km from Gangtok on the road toward Nathula Pass. Because the lake falls within a restricted zone close to the Indo-China border, all visitors must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) before entering the area.
The permit is issued by the Sikkim Tourism office or through authorised tour operators. It is mandatory for all Indian visitors — no exceptions. Children above 12 years also require their own permit.
Most visitors get permits through their operator or driver. Submit your ID details at the time of booking — your permit is ready on the day of travel. Wizzride handles this for all sightseeing tour passengers.
Permits are issued at the Sikkim Nationalised Transport counter near the main bus stand. Counter opens at 8:00 AM. Arrive early during April–June and October–November peak season.
Visit sikkimtourism.gov.in to check if online permit applications are currently available for Tsomgo. Availability may vary — verify before travel.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Permit Type | Inner Line Permit (ILP) |
| Fee (Indian national) | ~₹100 per person (subject to revision) |
| Validity | Single day — valid only for the date specified |
| Vehicle permit | Required separately — arranged by operator |
| Children under 12 | Permit not required |
Permits are verified at the following checkpoint before entry to Tsomgo Lake:
Wizzride's Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir & Nathula Pass shared sightseeing tour includes all permit arrangements. No queuing, no paperwork — starting at just ₹1,713 per person.