Nelong Valley, in Uttarkashi district, is called the “Ladakh of Uttarakhand” for its stark Himalayan beauty and cold desert terrain. Located near the Indo–Tibet border, it is a restricted area, and entry is allowed only with an Inner Line Permit (ILP).
If you are planning your first trip, this guide explains exactly how to get the Nelong Valley Permit in 2026, including the full step-by-step offline process, required documents, approval timeline, and important rules you must follow.
Why Is a Permit Required for Nelong Valley?
Nelong Valley lies near the Tibet border, making it a sensitive region from a security perspective. Because of this, visitor movement is regulated by the local administration.
All permit requests are approved by the SDM of Uttarkashi, and the process must be completed in person through official offices.
Who Can Apply for Nelong Valley Permit?
- Permits are issued only to Indian citizens
- Foreign nationals and NRIs are not eligible
- Permit is issued for a single day and a specific time slot
- Visitors must return to the checkpoint before 5:00 PM
Step-by-Step Process to Get Nelong Valley Permit (2026)
Step 1: Write an Application to the District Magistrate (DM), Uttarkashi
Begin by writing a formal application addressed to the DM of Uttarkashi, clearly stating your intention to visit Nelong Valley.
Your application must include:
- Full details of all participants
- Driver details
- Vehicle details
- Photocopies of government-issued ID cards of all participants
📌 Tip:
Keep two photocopies of the complete application set for later use.
Step 2: Visit the District Collectorate, Uttarkashi
Once your application is ready, visit the District Collectorate Office in Uttarkashi and submit it at the DM office.
After verifying all details:
- Officials will issue a signed letter
- Your application will be returned with official approval markings
📍 District Collectorate Location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/YzBuTNkmMWBjbyM5A
Step 3: Submit Documents at the District Thana (Police Station Kotwali)
Next, take your application and signed letter to the District Thana / Police Station Kotwali, located about 500 meters from the District Collectorate.
Here:
- Police officials may ask a few routine questions
- After verification, they will sign your original letter
📍 Police Station Location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/VKrk6cNnZEuQ92L57
⏳ This step may take some time, so patience is important.
Step 4: Visit the District Collectorate Again for Final Permit
Return to the DM office with the signed original letter.
After final verification:
- Your Nelong Valley Permit will be generated
- Keep this permit safe and accessible
Checkpoint & Entry Fee Information
The permit must be shown at the checkpoint near Bhaironghati.
At the checkpoint, you also need to pay the Gangotri National Park entry fee:
- ₹250 per vehicle
- ₹150 per person
Important Rules & Things to Keep in Mind
- Carry enough water and snacks before entering the valley
- Follow the Leave No Trace protocol strictly
- Carry binoculars—you might spot rare wildlife like a Snow Leopard
- Keep 1–2 buffer days in your plan for permit processing delays
- Carry 2–3 photocopies and one original government ID
- Use your official name in the application (not nicknames)
- Permit approval usually takes 1–2 days
- Permits are not issued during bad weather or rain
- Always check the weather forecast before applying
- The valley gets extremely cold, especially by evening—carry warm clothes
- You must return to the checkpoint before 5 PM
Validity of Nelong Valley Permit
- Valid for one day only
- Issued for a specific time slot
- Late return can lead to complications at the checkpoint
Need Help With Your Nelong Valley Permit?
If you want to avoid delays and paperwork, local guides and travel companies from Uttarkashi can help you arrange your Nelong Valley permits before you even arrive.
trafficbots.in, based in Uttarkashi, assists travelers with the permit process through local expertise and on-ground coordination.
Contact us: trafficbots.in/contact or fill the form and we’ll guide you step by step.
Final Words
Nelong Valley is one of Uttarakhand’s most restricted yet breathtaking destinations. While the permit process requires patience, following the steps carefully ensures a smooth experience. Plan ahead, respect local rules, and prepare well to make your first Nelong Valley visit in 2026 truly unforgettable.
Is a permit required to visit Nelong Valley?
Yes. Nelong Valley is located near the Indo–Tibet border and falls under a restricted area. An Inner Line Permit approved by the Uttarkashi administration is mandatory for all visitors.
Who issues the Nelong Valley permit?
All Nelong Valley permits are approved by the SDM of Uttarkashi after verification through the District Magistrate’s office and the local police station.
Can foreign nationals or NRIs apply for Nelong Valley permit?
No. Permits are not issued to foreign nationals or NRIs. Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply.
How long does it take to get the Nelong Valley permit?
The permit process usually takes 1–2 days, provided there are no government holidays, bad weather conditions, or administrative delays.
Is the Nelong Valley permit valid for multiple days?
No. The permit is valid for only one day and is issued for a specific time slot.
What is the deadline to return from Nelong Valley?
Visitors must return to the checkpoint before 5:00 PM on the same day. Late returns can create issues at the checkpoint.
Where is the Nelong Valley permit checked?
The permit is checked at the checkpoint near Bhaironghati, before entering the valley.
Is there any entry fee apart from the permit?
Yes. At the Bhaironghati checkpoint, visitors must pay the Gangotri National Park entry fee:₹250 per vehicle
₹150 per person
What documents are required for the Nelong Valley permit?
You need:
A written application to the DM of Uttarkashi
Photocopies of government-issued ID cards of all participants
Driver and vehicle details
It is recommended to carry 2–3 photocopies and one original ID.
Can permits be issued during bad weather or rain?
No. Permits are not issued if the weather is gloomy or rainy. Always check the weather forecast before applying.
Do I need to apply using my official name?
Yes. You must mention your official name exactly as per your government ID. Nicknames should not be used.
Can the permit process take longer than expected?
Yes. Due to government holidays, weather conditions, or administrative delays, the process may take longer. It is advised to keep 1–2 buffer days in your travel plan.
What should I carry while visiting Nelong Valley?
Visitors should carry:
Enough water and snacks
Warm clothes, as the valley gets very cold
Binoculars, as rare wildlife sightings are possible
Also, follow the Leave No Trace protocol strictly.
Can local agencies help with the Nelong Valley permit?
Yes. Local guides and travel companies based in Uttarkashi, such as trafficbots.in, can help arrange the permit before you reach Uttarkashi, making the process smoother.