The Ladakh administration is reviewing the existing Protected Area Permit (PAP) and Restricted Area Permit (RAP) system for foreign tourists, with a proposal to introduce a single Protected Area Permit for the Union Territory, except for areas that remain specifically restricted.

The initiative is aimed at simplifying travel procedures for international visitors while ensuring that security and regulatory requirements continue to be effectively maintained. The proposal was discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Ashish Kundra, Chief Secretary, Ladakh, at the Civil Secretariat in Leh.

During the meeting, Sanjit Rodrigues, Administrative Secretary, Tourism & Culture, presented details of the current permit framework, including the geographical areas covered under PAP and RAP and restricted zones, particularly in northern and eastern Ladakh. Officials also reviewed the existing procedures for issuing and verifying permits under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.

Single Permit Proposed for Easier Travel

Under the proposed system, foreign tourists could potentially obtain one PAP covering most of Ladakh, while specifically restricted locations would be clearly mentioned in the permit. The move is expected to reduce procedural complexities for visitors travelling between different parts of the Union Territory.

The administration is also examining ways to reduce unnecessary checkpoints and streamline permit verification. Facial recognition technology and self-registration facilities are being considered at designated checkpoints to make verification faster and more standardised.

Dedicated registration and verification desks for foreign nationals at the airport are also being explored, along with revised procedures for travellers requiring additional scrutiny.

Stronger Monitoring Alongside Tourism Facilitation

Hotels, guesthouses and homestays will continue to maintain mandatory records of foreign visitors through the Form III portal, earlier known as Form C. Consultations with taxi and bike unions are also planned to improve the maintenance of travel records and visitor information.

The Tourism Department has been directed to prepare a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) incorporating the recommendations discussed at the meeting.

The proposed reforms reflect Ladakh’s effort to create a more seamless foreign tourist experience while maintaining necessary security safeguards, supporting the region’s growth as a premium tourism destination.