Sikkim witnesses a surge in tourism

Among them, nearly 257,000 are domestic tourists and over 30,000 were foreign tourists

SUJAL PRAHDAN, EOI, GANGTOK, APRIL 27, 2024 : Sikkim is witnessing an unprecedented surge in footfall of tourists in 2024.Official data released by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department reveal that Sikkim has welcomed a total of over 290,000 tourists in the first quarter of the current year, till March 31,2024. 

Among them, nearly 257,000 are domestic tourists and over 30,000 were foreign tourists. This surge in tourism signals a promising rebound for Sikkim's hospitality sector, which was severely impacted by the devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood last October.

The calamity wreaked havoc particularly in the northern part of the state. Consequently, the tourist influx during the second tourist season witnessed a significant dip. 

However, with the current early trend indicating a robust recovery, Sikkim is poised to reclaim its status as a premier tourist destination. 

Behind this resurgences a dedicated workforce of more than 250,000people, directly or indirectly associated with the tourism industry. These include hoteliers, tour operators, taxi drivers, guides and numerous other stakeholders who form the backbone of the tourism sector of Sikkim. 

The economic impact of tourism on the state is substantial with the industry estimated to have generated over Rs 500 crore in revenue prior to the onset of the Covid-19pandemic. 

As the number of tourists numbers continue to climb, this figure is expected to witness a significant increase, providing a boost to the local economy.

Sikkim has a network of1,725 travel agencies and accommodations offering a total of over 38,000 beds to cater to the influx of visitors. 

There are over 2,200registered luxury vehicles catering to the needs of tourists, along with 6,200standard taxis and over12,000 smaller cabs. There are also minor bed and breakfast establishments.