C. S. Rao, Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism), Sikkim, announced that the state is preparing to roll out a fully digitised permit system for restricted and protected areas, simplifying access to popular high-altitude sites.
Rao told reporters the move will replace the current paper-based permit process, which often causes long waits for tourists. The new system will offer:
online application for Restricted Area Permits (RAP) and Protected Area Permits (PAP)
QR-based digital permits for faster validation at checkpoints
Real-time integration between tourism, transport, police and army departments
He added that pilot testing is already underway with select operators, and a full launch is expected soon. This change is projected to dramatically reduce permit wait times and improve visitor flow to key destinations like Nathu La, Tsomgo Lake, Lachen, Lachung and Zuluk.
Rao emphasised the reform is part of a broader strategy to make Sikkim more accessible and visitor-friendly, while preserving border security.
