What Is an Inner Line Permit?
An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is a mandatory travel document issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Dharchula, Uttarakhand. It grants Indian citizens access to restricted border areas near the India-China and India-Nepal boundaries — including the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat route.
No tourist is permitted beyond Chiyalekh without a valid Inner Line Permit. The ILP, Adi Kailash permit, and Om Parvat permit are all different names for the same authorisation.
Who Needs an ILP?
Every Indian citizen visiting areas beyond Dharchula — including Gunji, Nabi, Kuti, Jolingkong (Adi Kailash), and the Om Parvat viewpoints — must carry a valid ILP. Foreign nationals and NRIs require separate clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and should begin the application process at least 60 days in advance.
Documents Required
You will need the following documents to apply:
- Valid Government ID — Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Passport
- Passport-size photographs — 2 recent coloured photographs (white background)
- Medical fitness certificate — Issued by a registered MBBS doctor, confirming fitness for high-altitude travel (above 3,000 M)
- Address proof — Driving Licence, Ration Card, or utility bill
- Emergency contact details — Name, phone number, and relationship of next of kin
- Filled ILP application form — Available online or at the SDM office
How to Apply Online
The Pithoragarh District Administration has digitised the ILP application process. Here is the step-by-step method:
- Visit the official portal at pass.pithoragarh.online
- Click "Register" and create a new account with your mobile number and email
- Log in to your dashboard
- Fill in personal details: full name, father's name, age, gender, permanent address, and travel dates
- Upload scanned copies of your ID proof, photographs, medical certificate, and address proof
- Submit the application
- Wait for approval — the ILP is typically issued within 1–2 working days
- Download and print the approved permit
Offline Application (Walk-in)
You can also apply in person at the SDM Office in Dharchula. Carry original documents along with two photocopies of each. Walk-in applications are processed same-day if submitted before noon, but delays are common during peak season (June and September).
ILP Fees
The permit fee is nominal — approximately ₹50–₹150 per person depending on the route. Northern Trails handles the entire ILP process for all yatris booked with us at no additional charge.
Validity and Coverage
- The ILP is valid only for the specific travel dates mentioned in your application
- It covers the route from Dharchula to Gunji, Nabi, Kuti, and Jolingkong (Adi Kailash)
- Om Parvat viewpoints at Nabhidhang are included
- Lipulekh Pass access is subject to separate security clearance and is not guaranteed
Checkpoints Along the Route
Your ILP will be verified at approximately 10 checkpoints between Dharchula and Adi Kailash. The verification process takes around 15–20 minutes at each stop. Carry your original permit and a photocopy at all times. Key checkpoints include:
- Dharchula (departure check)
- Tawaghat
- Pangla
- Bundi
- Gunji
- Nabi village
- Jolingkong (Adi Kailash)
Tips from Our Team
- Apply at least 7 days before your travel date to avoid last-minute delays
- Keep 4–5 photocopies of your ILP — checkpoints often retain a copy
- Save a photograph of your permit on your phone as backup (mobile networks are unreliable beyond Dharchula)
- If travelling with Northern Trails, we handle the entire process — just send us scans of your documents after booking
Northern Trails ILP Service
When you book any Adi Kailash or Om Parvat package with Northern Trails, we handle the complete ILP process from our Dharchula office. Our team has direct coordination with the SDM office and ensures permits are ready before your arrival. This is included in all our packages at no extra cost.