New passport for return trip to restricted areas?

Padma

Hi folks,
I was wondering if anyone who has been to India a few times and has visited restricted zones (like Sikkim) has had any trouble with re-entry using their old passport (with many extension stamps) and questions about why you are back?

After my first trip i got a new passport because it was old but also because i spent the maximum allowed time in sikkim and wanted to do the same 9 months later and was worried about the authroities making life hard. This year I stayed the maximum, then left for 5 days then went backfor the maximum again which is not usually allowed. The border patrol guy let me through because he remembered me and was ok with me doing volunteer work (and I was with local friends)and the superintendant of police stopped them kicking me out each time my extension was up for the same reason (the sikkimese police are really very kind to me)but it might be all new people this year and a million other variables and I am not sure what to do.

My fear is that because there are not one but two permits (more than is usually allowed) and it will only have been 9 months since i was last there that i will get hassle going in and out for another 2 months or they might deny me entry at all).

A new passport will cost $175 and they may wonder why i want a second one in one year.

I would be very greatful for any advice of experience with this sort of thing.

Thanks
Padma