Latest news with #DepartmentofTourismandCivilAviation
India.com
5 days ago
- India.com
All Tourist Destinations In Sikkim, Except Lachen And Lachung, Open: State Tourism Department
The Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Government of Sikkim, has confirmed that, except for Lachen and Lachung in Chungthang Sub-Division of Mangan district, all other tourist destinations across the state remain open and safe for visitors. Speaking to the media, Additional Chief Secretary CS Rao clarified that permits to Lachen and Lachung are currently suspended due to road damage caused by recent landslides. However, he emphasised that Sikkim offers over 200 tourist destinations, with only around 25-30 of them located in the affected Mangan district. The remaining destinations across Sikkim's other five districts are fully accessible and continue to receive many visitors. Despite the temporary restrictions, the state has not witnessed any decline in tourist footfall. Many tourists who had initially planned to visit Gurudongmar Lake or Yumthang Valley have now diverted their trips to destinations like Yuksom, Kecheopalri Lake, and Pelling in the west, which remain unaffected and equally attractive. Rao also highlighted the state's ongoing evacuation efforts, mentioning that around 65 tourists were successfully airlifted from Lachen with the help of the Indian Army and paramilitary forces. Approximately 63 more are expected to be rescued by tomorrow, ensuring full evacuation from the affected region. The tourism department reassures all stakeholders and visitors that tourist safety and comfort remain a top priority. "Only a small portion of North Sikkim is affected. The rest of the state is safe and welcoming," Rao stressed, urging tourists not to cancel their travel plans and to continue visiting Sikkim. Meanwhile, the evacuation of stranded tourists from Chaten has begun today at Pakyong Greenfield Airport. According to a release, the two MI 17 helicopters have successfully completed its first evacuation operation, transporting 39 evacuees from Chaten to Pakyong Greenfield Airport. Additionally, four passengers were safely evacuated using the Cheetah Helicopter. In order to provide convenience to the tourists to commute to Siliguri, the Government of Sikkim has further arranged SNT buses for their ease.
News18
28-05-2025
- Politics
- News18
If You Are Leaving On May 29, Then Leave By 6am: Sikkim To Tourists
Last Updated: PM Narendra Modi is expected to take part in a major commemorative event at Paljor Stadium to mark 50 years since Sikkim became the 22nd state of India on May 16, 1975. The Sikkim government on Monday issued a travel advisory urging all tourists and visitors who are planning to leave Gangtok on Thursday, May 29, should do so by 6 am. This notice comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's to the state for its 50th Statehood Day celebrations. PM Modi is expected to take part in a major commemorative event at Paljor Stadium to mark 50 years since Sikkim became the 22nd state of India on May 16, 1975. The directive, issued by Sikkim's Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation on May 26, sparked confusion and concern among travellers. However, the state government clarified that the directive aimed to ensure unobstructed traffic flow and heightened security during the prime minister's visit on May 29. The narrow streets of Gangtok are ill-suited for large crowds and high-security convoys, a senior state official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. He said that the measure was purely precautionary to avoid congestion and ensure the safety of all. Officials have asked tourists to coordinate with local hotels and travel operators to avoid disruption during the celebrations. Sources said that crowd control is a major concern in the area, with thousands expected to gather along the PM's route. The directive also noted that security had been ramped up not just in Gangtok, but across Sikkim and in parts of North Bengal, including Alipurduar, which the prime minister is scheduled to visit later that day. According to officials familiar with the itinerary, PM Modi will arrive via helicopter from Bagdogra airport to Gangtok in the morning, proceed to Alipurduar in the afternoon, and then head to Patna via the Hasimara air base. Earlier this week, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang personally reviewed the preparations at Paljor Stadium, which will host the central function of the statehood celebration. Sikkim's State Day is typically observed on May 16, but this year's golden jubilee celebrations have been deferred to May 29 to coincide with the prime minister's availability. First Published: May 28, 2025, 15:52 IST
