--- title: "Bumla Pass Permit: How to Get It, Rules & Tips | Tawang" description: "How to get a Bumla Pass permit in Tawang: who can visit, documents, how far in advance to apply, best time, road conditions and what to carry for the 15,200 ft pass." canonical: https://destinationtawang.com/journal/bumla-pass-permit-guide/ --- Permits * 6 min read # Bumla Pass permit: _how it works._ Bumla is the trip everyone wants, and the one with the most rules. Here's how the permit works and how to make the day go smoothly. By Destination Tawang team * Updated 5 November 2026 ## What is Bumla Pass? Bumla Pass is a high mountain pass on the India-China border, about 37 km from Tawang at roughly 15,200 ft. The army maintains a viewpoint where soldiers often share the history of the 1962 conflict. [More about Bumla](https://destinationtawang.com/places-to-visit-in-tawang/bumla-pass/). ## Who can visit? Bumla is generally open only to Indian nationals. You must already hold a valid [Arunachal ILP](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/arunachal-pradesh-ilp-guide/). Rules can change at short notice, so check before you travel. ## How the permit works 1. Arrive in Tawang with your ILP and original photo ID. 2. A special permit is processed in Tawang, normally the day before your visit. 3. The permit is then endorsed by the army before your trip. 4. Carry the permit, your ID and photocopies on the day; there are checkposts on the way. Your driver or tour operator usually handles the paperwork. That's why most travellers plan Bumla for their second day in Tawang. ## What to keep ready * ILP printout * Original government photo ID plus a few photocopies * Passport-size photos * Names and ID numbers of everyone in your group ## Best time to go March to June and October to November usually offer the best mix of open roads and snow views. In deep winter, heavy snow can close the road; in the monsoon, it can be muddy. See [when to visit](https://destinationtawang.com/when-to-visit-tawang/). ## How the day goes Leave Tawang early, visit PT Tso and the Bumla viewpoint, then stop at [Shongatser Lake](https://destinationtawang.com/places-to-visit-in-tawang/shongatser-lake/) on the way back. Expect to return by late afternoon. Our [Bumla day trip](https://destinationtawang.com/tawang-tour-packages/bumla-pass-day-trip/) follows this plan. ## Altitude and safety At over 15,000 ft, air is thin. Spend at least a night in Tawang first, drink water, move slowly and don't push if you feel unwell. Travellers with heart or breathing conditions should consult a doctor first. ## Frequently asked questions Can foreigners visit Bumla Pass? Bumla Pass is generally open only to Indian nationals. Rules can change, so check the current position before planning. How do I get a Bumla Pass permit? A special permit is processed in Tawang, usually the day before your visit, and then endorsed by the army. You need a valid ILP and original photo ID. Is Bumla Pass open in winter? It can be, but heavy snowfall can close the road for days. Keep your plans flexible from December to February. ### Planning a Tawang trip? Tell us your dates and group. A local planner sends a tailor-made route and quote, with no obligation. [Plan my trip ](https://destinationtawang.com/plan-your-trip/) ### On this page 1. What is Bumla Pass? 2. Who can visit? 3. How the permit works 4. What to keep ready 5. Best time to go 6. How the day goes 7. Altitude and safety 8. FAQ ### Talk to a local Questions about permits, roads or weather? Ask us on WhatsApp. [ WhatsApp](https://wa.me/918132971962)[Plan my trip](https://destinationtawang.com/plan-your-trip/) ## Keep reading [All guides ](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/) [](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/things-to-do-in-tawang/) Guide * 9 min read ### [15 best things to do in Tawang, from a local.](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/things-to-do-in-tawang/) From a 17th-century monastery to a 15,200 ft border pass, here's how we'd spend your days in Tawang, and what most visitors miss. [Read the guide ](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/things-to-do-in-tawang/) [](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/guwahati-to-tawang-road-trip/) Route * 8 min read ### [Guwahati to Tawang by road: the complete route guide.](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/guwahati-to-tawang-road-trip/) Roughly 450 km, two days, one 13,700 ft pass. Here's how to drive from Guwahati to Tawang the right way. [Read the guide ](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/guwahati-to-tawang-road-trip/) [](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/arunachal-pradesh-ilp-guide/) Permits * 6 min read ### [Arunachal Pradesh ILP for Tawang: how to apply online.](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/arunachal-pradesh-ilp-guide/) Every Indian visitor from outside Arunachal needs an Inner Line Permit to reach Tawang. It's quick to get online if you use the right website. [Read the guide ](https://destinationtawang.com/journal/arunachal-pradesh-ilp-guide/) Plan my trip ## Let's design your _Tawang_ Tell us who's coming, when, and what you'd love to feel. A local planner replies with a route, vehicle and quote made for you, usually within a few hours. * A plan written for your dates and group, not a fixed package * No obligation: decide only when the plan feels right * Local drivers, permit guidance and on-the-road support [81329 71962](tel:+918132971962) [60097 88843](tel:+916009788843) [WhatsApp us](https://wa.me/918132971962) --- Plan a tailor-made trip: https://destinationtawang.com/plan-your-trip/ | WhatsApp: https://wa.me/918132971962 | Phone: +918132971962