Do OCI Holders Need a Visa for Sikkim? Here’s the Complete Guide (2025 Update)
If you’re an OCI cardholder planning a trip to Sikkim, here’s something you must know before booking your flights: A Protected Area Permit (PAP) / Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required to enter Sikkim, even if you hold an OCI card.
Surprised? Most travelers are.
But don’t worry, this guide explains everything in a simple, human way so you can plan your Sikkim trip smoothly.
Why Do OCI Holders Need a Special Permit for Sikkim?
Sikkim is a sensitive border state sharing boundaries with Nepal, Bhutan, and China, which is why certain regions require government-issued permits for foreign nationals and OCI cardholders.
So even if you hold an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, you’re still classified as a foreign national under Indian immigration rules, and you need a permit.
Types of Permits OCI Holders Need for Sikkim
Here’s the complete breakdown:
1. Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Required for entering:
- Gangtok (beyond certain check-posts)
- Tsomgo Lake
- Baba Mandir
- Nathula Pass (very strict)
- Zuluk & Old Silk Route
- North Sikkim districts like Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake, and Yumthang Valley
2. Protected Area Permit (PAP)
Usually issued for:
- West Sikkim
- Dzongri & Goechala trek routes
- Pelling & adjoining areas
Validity:
Usually 30 days, extendable once under special circumstances.
Read More…Nathula Pass Travel Guide for 2025: Permits, Safety Tips, and more
Documents OCI Holders Must Carry
To make the permit process smooth, keep these ready:
- Valid OCI card
- Passport (min. 6 months validity)
- Passport-size photographs
- Indian e-visa / entry visa details
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Sikkim itinerary
- Self-declaration form
Tip: North Sikkim (Lachen–Lachung–Gurudongmar) permits are rarely granted to foreign nationals and OCI holders due to security rules. Always confirm before planning.
How to Apply for the Sikkim Permit as an OCI Holder
You cannot apply for the permit online. It must be issued in person at any of these authorized offices:
Permit Issuing Locations
- Sikkim Tourism Office, M.G. Marg, Gangtok
- Checkpost at Rangpo (entry point)
- Foreigners Registration Office
- Sikkim House (Delhi/Kolkata)
Usually, your registered tour operator handles this.
Can OCI Card Holders Visit North Sikkim? (Honest Answer)
This is the most asked question.
Gurudongmar Lake is NOT permitted for OCI holders.
Lachen & Lachung are also highly restricted.
Foreigners (including OCI holders) are allowed only up to the Yumthang Valley with strict approvals. If you see agencies promising full North Sikkim access, be cautious.
Best Places in Sikkim That OCI Holders Can Visit
Good news, you can still explore some breathtaking destinations:
Gangtok City
- Rumtek Monastery
- Pelling
- Ravangla – Buddha Park
- Namchi – Chardham
- Yuksom
- Temi Tea Garden
- Zuluk (only with a special permit)
These are safe, beautiful, and permit-friendly.
Explore…Sikkim and Darjeeling tour package
Why Travel with a Registered Operator for Sikkim?
Because it saves time, hassle, and unexpected permit denials.
Tripjyada Tourism helps with:
- Permit assistance for OCI travelers
- Taxi & cab services through NorthEastCab
- Customized Sikkim tour packages
- Hotel + itinerary planning
- Hassle-free entry formalities at Rangpo
Sikkim is magical, but rules are strict. With the right permits and a trusted operator, your journey becomes smooth and unforgettable. If you’re an OCI traveler dreaming of Sikkim, Tripjyada is here to guide you with clean information, genuine updates, and end-to-end travel support.
