Nagaland is one of the 3 North Eastern States that still requires tourists to obtain the Colonial Era 'Inner Line Permit.' One can get the Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Nagaland in Dimapur. We got our Inner Line Permit issued at the 'Deputy Commissioner Office' in Dimapur.
It is a fairly simple process but a little time consuming. The permit is issued for 30 days by default. The documents required are a photocopy of address proof, one passport size photo and the ILP form needs to be duly filled in block letters. Post this, a picture of yours is clicked while submitting the form. After this we had to wait for the DC to sign the ILP. The entire process took us about 3 hours and we were armed with the official permit papers to visit Nagaland.
We were charged Rs.10 per form and Rs.130 per person for the permit. However, we were not provided any receipt and upon questioning all of a sudden came the language barrier and our further questions were unanswered. After this we were pretty certain that it was not a fee but a polished way of taking bribe.
There are various Army check-posts in Nagaland that may ask for your ILPs so remember to keep them safe and handy.
If you are flying into Dimapur, ILP can be obtained at the airport.
