You’re all set for your dream Ladakh trip—bags packed, bike or car ready, and adventure calling. But if you’re a foreign traveler (except from Bhutan or Nepal), there’s one thing standing between you and this Himalayan paradise: the Protected Area Permit (PAP). Without it, you won’t be able to enter some of Ladakh’s most stunning gems.
Ladakh has breathtaking but sensitive border areas, and to visit places like Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, and Nubra Valley, foreign travelers must obtain a Protected Area Permit for Ladakh. It’s just a small piece of paper but a big deal for your Ladakh bike trip! The PAP is a special permit designed to regulate access to border regions while preserving Ladakh’s unique culture.
Don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it sounds. With a little planning, you can get this permit easily and explore Ladakh without any hiccups. In this guide, we’ll break down how to get a Protected Area Permit in Ladakh, where to apply, and some handy tips to make the process smooth. Let’s get you permit-ready for an epic adventure!