Sikkim is one of the most favorite tourist destinations of India. And from the coming October, tourists vising the state can get their Restricted Area Permit and Protected Area Permit online.
Sikkim is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the Northeastern region of India. But since it has international borders with China, all tourists to the state must have special permission. Protected area permits are necessary for foreigners in places where Indian citizens need Inner line permits. Restricted area permits are for more secure destinations. In the case of Sikkim, North and east districts need Restricted area permit while Protected area permit are needed for entering the state.
Previously these had to be done physically, so foreign tourists had to loose one day of travel for the same. Once this new website is ready, potential tourists from all over the world will be able to get their permits before visiting. However valid Indian visa is one of the requirements for the application.
The Travel Agents Association of Sikkim has welcomed this decision. Since the process becomes easier, the state and everyone associated with the industry has chances of making more profits. This will also prevent time wastage as well as scams created by middlemen.
