How to Get Inner Line Permit for Adi Kailash: Step-by-Step Process 2025

Introduction: Understanding the Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Adi Kailash

The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is a mandatory travel document required for all visitors to Adi Kailash, as the region falls near the Indo-Tibet border in a restricted area of Uttarakhand. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire process of obtaining your ILP for a smooth pilgrimage experience.

What is Inner Line Permit and Why is it Required?

The Inner Line Permit is a security clearance document mandated by the Indian government for travel to areas near international borders. For Adi Kailash, located in Pithoragarh district near the Tibet border, the ILP serves multiple purposes:

• Border Security: Regulating civilian movement in sensitive areas
• Environmental Protection: Limiting tourist footfall in ecologically fragile regions
• Safety Monitoring: Ensuring proper documentation for emergency situations
• Cultural Preservation: Managing visitor numbers to protect local culture

Without a valid ILP, you will not be permitted to travel beyond Dharchula checkpost.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply:

• Indian citizens only (foreigners not permitted)
• Age limit: 15-70 years (medical fitness certificate required for 60+)
• Health requirement: Physically fit for high-altitude trekking
• Clean criminal record: Police verification mandatory

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare these documents before your visit to the SDM office:

1. Identity Proof (Any One)

• Aadhar Card (most accepted)
• Passport
• Voter ID Card
• Driving License

2. Photographs

• 2-3 recent passport-size colored photographs
• White background preferred
• Clear face visibility (no caps/sunglasses)

3. Medical Fitness Certificate

• Issued by MBBS doctor
• Stamped and signed on clinic letterhead
• Must be dated within 15 days of application
• Should explicitly state “fit for high-altitude travel”

4. Police Verification Certificate

• Obtained from local police station
• Valid for 15 days from issue date
• Should state “no criminal records”

Medical Fitness Certificate: What Doctors Look For

Your doctor will assess:

• Blood pressure: Must be within normal range (120/80 ±10)
• Heart condition: ECG may be requested for 50+ age
• Respiratory health: No chronic lung diseases
• Previous altitude sickness: Declare any history
• Current medications: List all prescribed drugs

Pro Tip: Get your medical check-up done 1 week before your travel date to allow buffer time.

Police Verification Process

Steps to Obtain Police Verification:

1. Visit your local police station with ID proof
2. Request verification letter for “Adi Kailash Yatra” travel
3. Pay nominal fee (₹50-100, varies by state)
4. Collect letter within 2-3 days

Important: The certificate must be dated within 15 days of ILP application.

Where and How to Apply: SDM Dharchula Office

Office Details:

• Location: Sub-Divisional Magistrate Office, Dharchula, Uttarakhand
• Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 AM - 5 PM (Closed on govt. holidays)
• Contact: +91-XXXXX-XXXXX (Tourist facilitation desk)

Application Process:

1. Arrive at Dharchula SDM office with all documents
2. Collect ILP application form (available at office)
3. Fill form with accurate details
4. Submit documents with 2 passport photos
5. Pay permit fee (₹200-300 per person)
6. Collect permit receipt
7. ILP issued same day or next working day

Best Time to Visit Office: Early morning (10-11 AM) to avoid crowds.

Online vs Offline Application

Currently Available: Offline Only

As of 2025, ILP for Adi Kailash must be obtained in person at Dharchula SDM office. Online applications are not yet available.

Why Offline?

• Security verification requires physical presence
• Medical examination may be conducted on-site
• Biometric data collection at office

Future Update: Uttarakhand government is planning online portal launch in 2026.

Processing Time and Fees

Timeline:

• Same-day permit: If all documents are correct (visit office before 2 PM)
• Next working day: If submitted after 2 PM or during peak season
• Rejection/Re-application: 1-2 additional days

Fee Structure (2025):

• ILP Fee: ₹200 per person
• Processing Charge: ₹50 per person
• Medical Check (if done at office): ₹100-200
• Total Approx: ₹350-450 per person

Payment Methods: Cash preferred (some offices accept UPI)

Verification at Checkpoints

Your ILP will be checked at multiple points:

Checkpoints:

1. Dharchula Entry: First verification
2. Gunji Village: Army checkpoint
3. Nab Chowki: Border patrol verification
4. Jolingkong: Final checkpoint before Adi Kailash base

Carry Multiple Copies: Keep 2-3 photocopies of your ILP + original.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Expired Documents: Medical certificate valid only 15 days ❌ Incorrect Photos: Size/background doesn’t match requirements ❌ Incomplete Forms: Missing signatures or unclear handwriting ❌ Cash Issues: Office may not have change, carry exact amount ❌ Weekend Rush: Office closed on weekends, plan accordingly ❌ Group Applications: Submit all members’ documents together to avoid delays

Tour Operator Assistance vs Self-Application

Self-Application (DIY):

Pros:

• Cost-effective (no service charges)
• Complete control over process
• Direct interaction with authorities

Cons:

• Time-consuming (need to visit office personally)
• Language barriers (if not familiar with Hindi)
• Risk of rejection if documents incorrect

Tour Operator Assistance:

Pros:

• Hassle-free process
• Expert guidance on documentation
• Group permits processed faster
• Hotel bookings integrated

Cons:

• Service charges (₹500-1000 per person)
• Dependent on operator’s efficiency

Recommended: If traveling as part of organized tour package, let the operator handle permits.

Special Considerations

For Senior Citizens (60+):

• Enhanced medical screening required
• Heart & BP monitoring mandatory
• Doctor’s explicit fitness declaration needed

For First-Time High-Altitude Travelers:

• Mention any pre-existing medical conditions
• Carry prescribed medications with doctor’s note
• Acclimatization certificate (if available)

Group Permits:

• All members must apply together
• One person can act as group leader
• Photocopy of all IDs submitted together

What Happens if Your ILP is Rejected?

Reasons for rejection:

• Incomplete documentation
• Medical unfitness
• Adverse police report
• Incorrect information

Solution: Rectify issues and reapply next working day.

FAQs: ILP for Adi Kailash

Q: Can I apply for ILP in advance from my home city? A: No, ILP must be obtained in person at Dharchula SDM office.

Q: Is ILP transferable or extendable? A: No, ILP is valid only for specified dates and person. Not transferable.

Q: What if I lose my ILP during the journey? A: Immediately report to nearest checkpoint/police post. A duplicate can be issued with verification.

Q: Do children need ILP? A: Yes, children above 15 years need ILP. Below 15, parental ILP covers them (mention in application).

Q: How long is ILP valid? A: Typically 7-14 days from issue date (covers your entire journey duration).

Get Expert Assistance with Your ILP

At Shiv Yatra Tourism, we simplify the permit process with our dedicated permit assistance service:

✅ Complete documentation guidance ✅ Medical certificate arrangement ✅ Police verification support ✅ SDM office representation ✅ Fast-track processing for groups

Contact us for hassle-free ILP assistance and complete Adi Kailash Yatra packages.

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Disclaimer: ILP rules and fees are subject to change by Uttarakhand government. Always verify latest requirements before travel.

Last Updated: January 2025