Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Nagaland — 2026 Guide

Inner Line Permit (ILP) — Indian Travellers

The ILP can be applied for online at the official Nagaland government portal (ilp.nagaland.gov.in) or at the Deputy Resident Commissioner offices in Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Shillong, Dimapur and Mokokchung.

You'll need: a scanned ID proof (Aadhaar, voter ID or passport), one passport-size photo, your travel dates and the districts you intend to visit. The fee is around ₹50 for a 30-day permit. Processing is usually 1–2 working days online.

We apply for the ILP on behalf of every Indian guest on our packages — you don't need to do anything except send a photo and ID scan.

Protected Area Permit (PAP) — Foreign Travellers

Foreign nationals (except those from Bhutan) need a PAP, issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Nagaland Tourism office. The permit is typically issued for a group of two or more, valid for up to 10 days.

Requirements: passport (with at least 6 months validity), Indian visa, two photographs, full itinerary and accommodation details. Processing takes 7–10 working days, so apply at least 3 weeks before travel.

Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan and China require additional approvals. We can guide you through the PAP application as part of our booking process.

What the permit allows

The ILP and PAP cover most tourist districts including Kohima, Dimapur, Mokokchung, Wokha, Phek and Mon. Some border areas remain restricted even with a valid permit — your guide will know what's allowed.

When to apply

For the Hornbill Festival in December, apply for the ILP at least 1 week before travel, and the PAP at least 3 weeks before. The online portal occasionally slows down in late November as festival traffic peaks — don't leave it to the last day.