With Nagaland's famous Hornbill Festival just a few days away, many tourists—both foreign and domestic—who plan to witness this annual cultural extravaganza may be wondering how and where to obtain the ILP and PAP.
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DIMAPUR — With Nagaland's famous Hornbill Festival just a few days away, many tourists—both foreign and domestic—who plan to witness this annual cultural extravaganza may be wondering how and where to obtain the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP), the documents required for entry into the state.
Hornbill Festival, which is celebrated from December 1 to the 10th at the Naga Heritage village in Kisama, Kohima, has become one of the most popular festivals in India and a major tourist attraction for the state.
Entry Permits to Nagaland
Visitors can come to the state by air, train or road. The nearest railway station and airport to the main venue of the Hornbill Festival are both located in Dimapur, which is about 70 km away from Kohima and approximately 1 hr 30 minutes drive by road on a typical day.
Also read: Sightseeing chopper rides launched ahead of Hornbill Festival 2025
However, it may be noted that visitors require the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP) to enter the state. These travel documents are mandatory, so tourists may apply for it well in advance to ensure hassle-free visit.
Inner Line Permit details
It is mandatory for both domestic (Indians) and foreign tourists to obtain ILP to enter Nagaland. This has been enacted to protect the culture and identity of the state's indigenous people, and in force since 1873.
As per the information provided on the Nagaland government’s official website, tourist can apply for the travel document at the Nagaland Inner Line Permit portal (
Additionally, domestic applicants should provide a recent passport photo and ID proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Drivers License or any Govt. approved ID). Applicants from Karbi Anglong, Dima Hasao, Karimganj, and Hailakandi are required to upload their NRC (in English).
For foreigners, the required documents are a recent photo, passport (both sides) and Visa.
Protected Area Permit details
[EDIT: It may be noted that a few days after this story was published, the government of India announced relaxation of PAP in Nagaland for 10 days, from December 1 to the 10th, in view of the Hornbill Festival]
PAP is a permit required for foreign nationals to enter specific restricted areas within India. The government of India re-imposed the regime for the states of Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur last year, citing security concerns.
All foreign nationals visiting these states can apply for the document through the e-FRRO portal (https://indianfrro.gov.in/efrro/home) within 24 hours of their arrival. The permit is issued electronically and no physical copies are provided.