Culture · Lingtam
Permit morning and Rongli bazaar stop
A relaxed start at Rongli: finish your Silk Route permit with a host or agent, then walk the bazaar, the oldest market on this trade road.
Photo: Tsen2006 · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Rongli is where the Silk Route permit is processed, usually in 30 to 60 minutes. Your driver or homestay takes documents into the office. Keep original ID, photocopies and two passport photos ready.
While you wait, walk the bazaar. Wikipedia calls Rongli one of the oldest markets of Sikkim, on the trade route between Kalimpong and Tibet. You will find tea shops, groceries, banks, ATMs and shared jeep stands.
Buy snacks, water and any medicines before going up, because supplies are limited above. Offices keep government hours and may close on holidays. Check current status before you travel.
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Questions travellers ask
Before you book
How long does the permit take?
Often 30 to 60 minutes if documents are complete, longer on busy weekends. Offices keep government hours and may close on holidays. Arrange it through your homestay in advance if possible. Check current status before you travel.
What documents do we need?
Original photo ID for every traveller, photocopies and two passport photos each, children included. The permit is in your name for dates and a vehicle. Indian nationals only. Check current status before you travel.
Where can we withdraw cash?
Rongli and Rhenock have ATMs, but they can be empty or offline. Withdraw cash in Gangtok, Pakyong or Rangpo before you head up. Carry small notes for homestays.
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