Gyalshing, March 23 (IPR): The Sikkim Rural Tourism Meet 2025 continued on its second day at Gumpa Dara, Uttarey, with the presence of Tourism Minister Mr. Tshering Thendup Bhutia as the Chief Guest and Agriculture Minister Mr. Puran Gurung as the Guest of Honour. The event, organized under the Sikkim INSPIRES initiative by the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, aims to promote rural tourism for economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and sustainable development.
Adventure Tourism Promotion
The Chief Guest flagged off hot air balloon rides, paragliding, and off-road mountain biking, marking a new step in Sikkim’s adventure tourism sector. He also held discussions with bungee jumping experts from Nepal, who gave positive feedback on the sport’s potential in the region.
Minister’s Address on Rural Tourism
In his speech, Minister Bhutia emphasized the transformative impact of rural tourism, praising Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) for his vision. He highlighted that rural tourism should benefit local communities directly by encouraging homestays, eco-tourism, and adventure tourism.
He also spoke about the Sikkim INSPIRES initiatives, including skill development programs for rural youth and women. Over 20 training programs are currently running to help entrepreneurs in the tourism sector. Institutes like IHCAE (Chamchey) and IHM (Renock) are providing professional training and certification in tourism-related fields.
Tourism Growth and Infrastructure Development
Area MLA Sudesh Kumar Subba highlighted major tourism developments in Maneybong-Dentam, including:
✅ A new Sub-Tourist Information Center at Dentam
✅ Conversion of Singshore Bridge into a Sky Glass Deck Skywalk
✅ Road improvements and wayside amenities
✅ Development of the Chewabhanjyang Corridor for cross-border tourism and trade
He encouraged local entrepreneurs to network with tourism agencies and promote homestays.
Sikkim’s Rising Tourism Potential
Principal Secretary C.S. Rao shared that 60 tourism professionals from across India attended the event. He noted that Sikkim ranks fourth in poverty alleviation, and rural tourism is a key initiative to boost the economy.
According to tourism data:
🏡 1,908 homestays can accommodate 15,500 tourists per day
🏨 1,170 hotels can host 32,000 tourists daily
🏠 Total capacity (including guest houses and hostels): 51,000 tourists per day
He also announced the Mega Homestay Initiative, under which 1,000 new homestays with modern facilities will be developed.
Upcoming Tourism Developments
🚧 NH10 road connectivity will improve by January 2027
✈️ SpiceJet flights will resume by April end
🚁 Helicopter services are operational with a 23-passenger capacity
🌍 International Tourism Mart (ITM) 2025 is planned for November in Pelling
📈 UNNATI Scheme will boost investment in rural tourism
Business and Cultural Exchange
A Business-to-Business (B2B) Conclave was organized to help local entrepreneurs connect with investors and tourism stakeholders. The event also showcased Sikkim’s cultural heritage, including traditional exhibits, antiques, folk performances, and music.
A Tourist Guide Book by Mr. Sher Bahadur Subba was also released.
Conclusion
The event was attended by key officials, including MLAs, senior government officers, tourism professionals, vloggers, YouTubers, and adventure tourism experts from Bhutan and Nepal.
The Sikkim Rural Tourism Meet 2025 will continue until March 24, featuring more interactive sessions, exhibitions, and activities to promote sustainable rural tourism development in Sikkim.