Despite scorching temperatures gripping mainland India, the serene mountains of Sikkim are struggling to entice tourists, as revealed by recent data from hotels in Gangtok. Occupancy rates in April this year ranged from 45 to 57 percent, a stark contrast to the robust 76 to 82 percent recorded in the same period last year.
Multiple factors contribute to this downturn. Poor connectivity between Siliguri and Gangtok, aggravated by frequent closures of the NH10 highway, disrupts travel routes. The recent closure of NH10 for maintenance work further compounds the issue, forcing vehicles onto longer, alternative paths.
Additionally, exorbitant travel costs over the past years deter potential visitors. Lingering effects of the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) of 2023, particularly in north Sikkim, continue to hamper tourism. Key gateways like Lachen remain closed to travelers, adding to the region’s accessibility woes.
Figures indicate a persistent decline in hotel occupancy throughout 2024 compared to the previous year. This trend prompts concerns among stakeholders, with some relinquishing property leases due to financial strain.
Despite Sikkim’s struggles, neighboring Darjeeling experiences a steady flow of tourists, underscoring the divergence in regional tourism fortunes.
In contrast, Sikkim’s recovery efforts post-GLOF demonstrate resilience. Prompt government action and infrastructure rehabilitation initiatives contribute to a notable resurgence in tourist arrivals by the end of 2023. Domestic inflows surged to 113,498, while foreign arrivals surpassed pre-disaster levels, reaching 10,124.
The anticipated opening of a railway line to Sikkim next year offers hope for a revitalized tourism sector. However, current challenges underscore the need for sustained efforts to overcome obstacles and restore Sikkim’s allure as a premier tourist destination.
