The Government of Sikkim is keeping no stones unturned for the development of tourism in the State, but now it seems that the time has come that a joint tourism development venture be started for a sustained development of the entire Himalayan belt in tourism.

A meeting on the same lines was held with the representatives of Himalayan Publications from United Kingdom in the capital. The meeting discussed the ways and means for the collaborative promotion of the Himalayan Tourism in Europe.

Raja Ram Giri, the Editor of Himalayan Publications based in UK in his address said that the Himalayan tourism promotion will include the countries such as Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and the state of Sikkim. Stating that these places have its distinct features to offer for the tourist the joint promotion can be the one of the best step forward to make a place in the international tourism market. He said that ‘though Sikkim is a part of India but now the time has come to promote Sikkim as a sole tourism destination”. He also mentioned that because of the recent political turmoil in the hills the tourism sector was badly hit affecting to about 10 lac stake holders.

A joint venture amongst the Himalayan destinations will enhance tourism of all the concerned places. He also added that the best newspapers of United Kingdom should be invited to cover Sikkim for its promotion in the international market. Luckendra Rasaily, the President of Travel Agents Association of Sikkim welcoming the idea said that the modalities on the proposal of joint tourism should worked out seriously.

He also informed that they have been requesting the Government to discuss with the Centre Government to establish tourist immigration center at Nathula border so that the international tourism can be promoted. Bivek Pradhan, General Secretray of Sikkim Hotel and Restaurant Association said that the said association is putting it’s best to strengthen the hospitality in Sikkim. He also added that the association will support all the steps taken for this venture. Joint Secretary, Tourism Department Mrs Prava Rai, and Assistant Director,Tourism Department Mrs Reepandi Lepcha also put their opinion during the meeting.

Courtesy: Sikkim Mail

 

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