In 2024, Sikkim is expected to have an unheard-of increase in tourism. In the first quarter of the year, up till March 31, 2024, Sikkim welcomed an astounding 2,90,401 tourists, according to official figures issued by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of them, 30,864 were visitors from outside the country, and the other 2,56,537 came from within it.
After the terrible Glacier Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in October 2023, Sikkim’s hotel industry is expected to recover thanks to this spike in visitors. 43 people have died as a result of the disaster, which primarily affected the state’s northern region, while over 70 people are still listed as missing. As a result, there was a notable decline in the number of tourists during the second tourism season. Still, the early signs point to a strong comeback, and Sikkim is well-positioned to become again one of the top travel destinations.
Over two lakh fifty thousand to three lakh people who work in the tourist business directly or indirectly are the driving force behind this comeback. These comprise the hoteliers, guides, taxi drivers, tour operators, and many other stakeholders who are the backbone of the tourist industry in Sikkim.
Press Release
Tourism and Civil Aviation Department.@tourismgoi pic.twitter.com/tk79AyjgO1— Sikkim Tourism (@TourismSikkim) April 5, 2023
Prior to the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, the tourism industry is reported to have earned over 500 crores in revenue, demonstrating the significant economic influence it has on the state. This number is anticipated to significantly increase as visitor numbers continue to rise, giving the local economy a much-needed boost.
Sikkim is well-positioned to take advantage of the tourism boom thanks to its extensive network of 1,725 travel agencies and lodgings that can accommodate the flood of tourists with a total of 38,208 beds. The tourism industry’s key component, the transportation sector, has 12,232 smaller taxis, 6,200 regular taxis, and 2,206 registered luxury cars. In addition, there are guides and other small bed and breakfast businesses that work together to make tourism activities in the state run well.
Author: Rohit Singh
Rohit Singh is passionate individual currently pursuing a degree in Journalism and Mass communication , driven by a desire to do something in the media industry . Driven by a desire to revolutionize media, I aspire to lead by example and instigate a shift towards more responsible and impactful journalism. I love to learn new things and try to adapt them
