- Sikkim will introduce a digital QR-based permit system for high-altitude border areas
- The system covers Nathu La, Tsomgo Lake, Lachen, Lachung, and Zuluk regions
- Online permits will reduce queues and enable real-time visitor monitoring across agencies
Sikkim is poised to introduce a digital permit system for its high-altitude and border-adjacent destinations, revolutionising the way tourists access these areas. The state government will transition from a traditional paper-based process to a fully digital, QR-based platform, simplifying the issuance of Restricted Area Permits (RAP) and Protected Area Permits (PAP) for sensitive regions.
The digital system will cover areas like Nathu La, Tsomgo Lake, Lachen, Lachung, and Zuluk, all located near international borders. According to officials, this initiative will reduce long queues during peak seasons and enable more efficient monitoring of visitor movement in ecologically fragile areas.
The move responds to the growing demand for seamless travel experiences in the Northeast, where physical permits and long wait times have often discouraged travellers. The digital transition is expected to streamline the approval process, reduce wait times at permit offices, and provide travellers with greater convenience, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
By implementing this digital system, Sikkim aims to enhance the overall travel experience while maintaining the region's ecological balance. The QR-based permits will be valid at all authorised entry points, making it easier for tourists to explore Sikkim's breathtaking beauty.
How Will Sikkim's Online Permit System Work?
Applying for a permit online is about to get a whole lot easier! Here's how it works:
- Travellers apply online and receive a QR-based permit, allowing them to breeze through security checks at various points.
- The system synchronises data across multiple agencies, including tourism, police, transport, and the Army, enabling real-time verification.
- The user-friendly digital platform is designed to be accessible to all, empowering travellers from diverse backgrounds to navigate the permit application process with ease.
- Once approved, the QR permits are valid at all authorised entry points, making exploration a breeze.
Trial runs are already underway with a small group of operators, and tourism officials are eager to roll out the full-scale system soon. This initiative aims to create a more efficient, secure, and sustainable travel experience, protecting Sikkim's ecological balance while welcoming the world to explore its breathtaking beauty.
