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Restricted Area Permit + ILP

Yumthang Valley Permit — RAP & ILP Guide for the Valley of Flowers, North Sikkim

Yumthang Valley at 11,800 ft is North Sikkim's famed "Valley of Flowers." Both Indian and foreign visitors need permits — here's exactly how to arrange them.

Indian & Foreign Nationals11,800 ftNorth SikkimOperator Required

What is the Yumthang Valley Permit?

Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim is famous for its spring rhododendron blooms and alpine meadows along the Teesta River. At 11,800 ft, it lies within a Restricted Area, requiring a two-permit combination: a North Sikkim Inner Line Permit (ILP) plus a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for the Yumthang zone specifically.

Unlike East Sikkim permits, Yumthang permits must be arranged through a registered tour operator — walk-in applications are not accepted. The operator submits the application to the SDM Chungthang or relevant authority.

Foreign nationals welcome — Yumthang Valley is one of the few RAP zones in North Sikkim that permits foreign visitors, making it a popular stop on the North Sikkim circuit.

Who Needs the Permit?

Indian Nationals

North Sikkim ILP + Yumthang Valley sector permit. Both issued through your registered tour operator.

Foreign Nationals

Restricted Area Permit (RAP) covering North Sikkim including Yumthang. Must be obtained via a registered travel agent at least 48 hours in advance.

Documents Required

  • Valid government-issued photo ID (Indian) or Passport + visa copy (Foreign)
  • Two recent passport-size photographs
  • Pre-booked accommodation in Lachung (mandatory overnight stay)
  • Tour package confirmation with registered operator

How to Get the Permit

1
Book with a registered Gangtok tour operator

Provide IDs and photos 2–3 days before travel. Your operator submits the combined application to the permit authority.

2
Overnight at Lachung (mandatory)

Lachung village at 8,900 ft is the mandatory halt before Yumthang. You spend a night here for acclimatisation and the permit is valid for the next day's trip.

3
Checkpoint at Lachung

The permit is verified at the Lachung checkpoint before you ascend to Yumthang. Carry originals.

Cost & Validity

ItemDetails
ILP (North Sikkim)~₹100 per person
Yumthang sector permit~₹100–200 per person
RAP (foreign nationals)~₹2,000 per person (3 days)
ValidityCovers the North Sikkim circuit duration

Checkpoints

📍 Mangan Checkpoint📍 Chungthang Checkpoint📍 Lachung Checkpoint

Frequently Asked Questions