Certain
areas of Ladakh which were formerly closed to foreigners on account of their
sensitive strategic position or proximity to international borders have
recently been partially opened. Movement within them however is limited to a
number of specifically designated circuits, and foreign visitors are allowed
to go only in groups, accompanied by a recognized/ registered tour operator.
The maximum time allowed on any circuit is seven days. Permits must be taken
from the Deputy Commissioner (head of the district administration) in Leh,
but citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, SriLanka and Myanmar will be issued
permits only with the prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs,
Government of India, New Delhi. Foreign diplomats and members of the United
Nations and other international organizations are required to apply for
permits to the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi.
