Permits In Leh 2023 : Guide For The Inner Line Permit

Leh, the coveted and pristine city, located under the shadow of the Himalayas, is one of the most visually appealing as well as serene places in Ladakh. Ladakh is a favourite spot of swashbucklers because of the challenging and tough barren areas. The climate at times becomes unforgiving at the arid lands.

The city is only accessible between May and September given that the conditions are suitable, which makes it a top spot for that ‘spiced-up’ adventures. There’s no shortage of attractions whether it be riding at the highest motorable pass, the Khardung La or experiencing The Shanti Stupa and The Victory Tower. The trip will undoubtedly be incomplete if you haven’t done camping.

Why so? Since none of the different adventures in Leh can bring one face-to-face with the rush equivalent to camping in the region. However, there are some things one must know before heading out to camp in Leh. From Inner Line permit to best-camping sites, one has to take calculated decisions before camping here, keeping in the account, the particular rules and unforgiving weather conditions of the places.

Following the above things in mind, then Leh can interest one in a memorable vacation. Camping in Leh is a blend of beautiful views of the mountains, serene lakes and challenging terrains increasing the adrenaline rush of daredevils from all over India and some other countries.

Some beautiful camps located in the Leh district will be mentioned further in this article, but first a little discussion about Inner Line Permit

Inner line Permit For Leh

ILP or Inner Line Permit is a travel document issued by the Government of India allowing an Indian and foreigner traveller to travel to protected areas for a limited period. While obtaining this permit is mandatory for all other citizens of India and foreigners, the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir State are exempted. Ladakh Protected Area Permit (PAP), must be obtained by foreigners visiting Ladakh before entering the region.

The Inner Line Permit is valid for three weeks for Indians, and one week for foreigners. It can also be noted that there is no limit on the number of times one can visit a place within the period. However, one must always carry the permits along while visiting.

Obtaining the Inner line permit may be an unwieldy task which demands to stand in a long queue for hours. This task is especially true when one’s trip dates coincide with any government holidays, including Saturday and Sunday. One can visit the site http://lahdclehpermit.in for both ILP and PAP. Take the print out and reach the LAH DC office at Leh.

There the requisite amount has to be paid for getting the ILP approved. The other way is to pay the requisite amount online with the J&K Bank payment gateway. Then take the print out of payment receipt(necessary) and ILP, go to LAH DC office at Leh and get the ILP approved.

Tips For Permits in Leh

One must carry original ID proofs mentioned while applying for ILP and multiple copies of the documents.
One will get ILP for all the routes separately, with sticker and stamp.
Once the ILP is approved, get them photocopied in 3-4 numbers of each and deposit at ATCP posts.
One thing that has to be noted is that the Inner Line Permit is not required for visiting all the areas. It is only needed in some areas like Nubra valley, Khardung La, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Dah, Hanu Villages, Man, Merak, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Chushul, Hanle, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only).
Also, if someone is going directly from Pangong to Tso Moriri, it needs to be mentioned to the officer stamping the permits. They will then endorse it as "Tso Moriri via Tsagala". This endorsement is imperative for the direct route and is not included in the list of ways mentioned online.

Camping Locations in Leh

There are loads of camping locations where one can have a go on in Leh, but these are some of the top ones for a fantastic experience:

1. Pangong Retreat Camp – Retreat by the Magical Pangong

Pangong Retreat Camp is one of the highest-rated campsites by travellers on most travel sites; in fact, they deserve that too. Lake facing camps amidst lush greenery are some of the exclusive features of this campsite taking full advantage of the scenic beauty. One who is looking for camping in a location in Leh where the breathtakingly surreal views can be enjoyed with comfort, this is the place to be.

Address: Spangmik, Pangong Lake Road, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir.

2. Camp Redstart – For a heavenly stay in Spangmik Village

Located a few minutes away from the famous Spangmik Village, Camp Redstart is another attractive campsite in an idyllic setting of the utterly gorgeous Himalayan land. It is located 100 m away from the Pangong lake at a height and thus gives beautiful views of the lake and the green area surrounding it, right outside the camp. This one feature provides the field with Redstart a forefront over the competitors.

Address: Pangong Lake, Spangmik Village, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir
Contact: 094191 77245

3. Tsomoriri Camp and Resort – For the feel of a boutique stay

This place is most sought after for a memorable camping session at 15,000 feet above sea level in the Changthang territory, and this is something not to be missed. There are five rooms and 15 connected tents with all the facilities one needs for a comfortable stay. The views of beautiful Lake in front would leave one overwhelmed. The average cost of booking a camp room for two people for a day is INR 5000.