The Himalayan state is easing border permit requirements and investing in infrastructure upgrades as it seeks to attract more domestic and inbound visitors through niche and experience-led tourism
The north-eastern Indian state of Sikkim is promoting niche offerings such as rural and adventure tourism in both domestic and international markets. It is also seeking to ease travel for foreign visitors by removing permit requirements for certain areas along its international borders with China, Bhutan and Nepal.
“We hosted about 1.7 million domestic tourists last year. At present, international travellers require permits to visit certain border destinations such as Changu, which can be discouraging for them. We are therefore looking to remove the requirement for such permits. We have already sent a communication to India’s minister of external affairs to look into this,” said Neeraj Pradhan, secretary – tourism, government of Sikkim.
The state is seeing inbound arrivals from Europe, Bangladesh and South-east Asia.
“The demand for Sikkim is growing every year. We are seeing particularly strong interest from Bangladesh, and the Buddhist corridor is also driving movement from South-east Asian markets. With ongoing infrastructure improvements including better road connectivity and a railway line currently under construction, the state is well positioned to attract more tourists in the coming years,” stated Sumit Mitruka, founder and managing director of Summit Hotels & Resorts.
The hospitality group operates properties across five destinations in Sikkim and in January launched Summit Signature Retreat Pangthang in Gangtok, marking its entry into the retreat segment in the state.
“We are expanding our presence further into the North, West and South of the state. Sikkim’s landscape is exceptionally beautiful, and each region offers a distinct terrain and travel experience,” added Mitruka. He noted that Sikkim ranks high on leisure travellers’ wish lists and is widely regarded as a bucket-list destination.
Agoda, in its December 2025 insights on domestic travel interest in India’s North-east, reported that Gangtok was the second most searched destination in the region on the platform from October to December 2025. The report also highlighted growing interest in smaller towns such as Pelling.
“We are receiving enquiries from across India. Sikkim has also become increasingly popular for trekking with access to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp from the state. In addition, the China border, particularly Nathula Pass, is a major attraction for visitors. There are also locations such as Changu Lake where tourists can experience snowfall for much of the year, making them especially appealing,” said Mitruka.
Last year, the state government organised the three-day Sikkim Rural Tourism Meet 2025 in Gyalshing district to showcase immersive rural experiences. Plans are underway to develop 1,000 new homestays equipped with modern amenities to provide comfortable yet authentic stays. The state also offers adventure activities including bungee jumping, paragliding and hot air balloon rides.
“Adventure and rural tourism remain relatively unexplored segments in Sikkim. We are inviting travel agents, travel writers and bloggers to visit the state and experience our rural and adventure offerings first-hand so that greater awareness can be created,” added Pradhan. Alongside participation in tradeshows, the state is increasing its focus on digital marketing.
Pradhan also said a skywalk under construction in the Maenam area is expected to become the highest in the world. Funded jointly by the state and central governments, the project is targeted for completion by year-end.
In the recent Union Budget 2026-27, the Indian government announced a new scheme to develop Buddhist circuits across north-eastern states, including Sikkim. The initiative will focus on temple and monastery preservation, improved connectivity, and upgraded pilgrim amenities and interpretation centres.
“Sikkim is well positioned to attract travellers seeking diverse experiences, whether in wildlife, eco-tourism or Buddhist heritage. With the Indian government also focusing on strengthening infrastructure and developing the Buddhist circuit, the state can expect an increase in both domestic and inbound tourist arrivals,” said Ravi Gosain, president of the Indian Association of Tour Operators.
Sikkim’s rural tourism strategy aligns with its eco-conscious policies, promoting responsible tourism and community participation while minimising environmental impact.
“Sustainability is the most important aspect we must address while promoting tourism. The development of homestays, along with the creation of employment opportunities, will help strengthen the rural economy of the state. Around 70 to 80 per cent of our land is under forest cover, making sustainable and responsible tourism essential for us. The Government of Sikkim has made significant efforts to conserve its forest areas and has also undertaken extensive tree plantation initiatives in non-forest regions,” concluded Pradhan.
