Sikkim Considers New Permit Rules for Restricted Areas

Gangtok: Sikkim is planning to tighten its permit system for Restricted Area Permit and Protected Area Permit zones. A proposal discussed at a recent consultation could ban two-wheelers from these sensitive regions. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang led the meeting with tourism operators, drivers, and government officials to discuss the Integrated Online Permit System.

Nothing is final yet. The measure requires formal Cabinet approval and more discussion. Officials stated: "The proposed restriction on bikers has not yet come into effect."

These changes are part of a broader upgrade under the Sikkim INSPIRES initiative. The state wants to use geo-fencing and digital verification to make travel checkpost-free. Current rules rely on the Foreigners Protected Areas Order of 1958, managed by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and state departments.

Proposed rules hit out-of-state vehicles hard. Only cars and bikes registered within Sikkim will be allowed on these routes. Tourists driving their own motorcycles from outside the state will be locked out of these zones. Visitors can still hire local bikes. Sikkim Bike Rental offices provide state-registered motorcycles for those wanting to explore the areas.