Sikkim joined the Indian union in 1975 as the 22^nd state. Within its compact 7096 sq kms lies not only some of the world’s most scenic places but also the state’s most prominent landmark Mt. Khangchendzonga, the third highest peak in the world and venerated by the Sikkimese as their guardian deity. With varied microclimates along its elevation continuum ranging from 440 meters to over 8540 meters above sea level Sikkim is considered one of the bio-diverse hotspots in the world.

In 2000 the total population of the state was estimated at little 0.5 million and growing at 2.5% per annum. 90% of the population live in villages scattered over wide geographical areas and not in clusters adding to the difficulties in undertaking development works. 68% of the main workers are engaged in agriculture on largely marginal holdings. More than 40% of the population are considered to be living below the poverty line and almost all of them are rural based.

Given the state’s rich natural endowments, and a mélange of different cultures and traditions coexisting in harmony tourism stands out as a tremendous long term opportunity for the social and economic upliftment of the rural masses. The Government is giving high priority to its development. The concern is in what form it will occur and who will benefit from it.

ACCESSIBILITY

By Flight :The nearest airport is at Bagdogra (120 km. from Gangtok) which is connected by scheduled flights to Calcutta, Delhi and Guwahati. From Kathmandu, fly to Bhadrapur, east Nepal(1 hour), then drive to Kakarbhitta (Nepal-India border, 35 km), to Siliguri(37 km) and to Gangtok (114 km, 4 hrs). Or fly to Biratnagar.

Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation also operates a daily helicopter service flight from Bagdogra to Gangtok (20 minutes)

By Rail : The new Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Siliguri railway stations have regular train services to other parts of the country. Both these facilities are in the State of West Bengal. 

By Road : Gangtok is at a distance of 114 km from Siliguri and will take 4 hours from Siliguri to reach Gangtok. Gangtok is connected by road with Darjeeling(4 Hrs) and with Bhutan, Phuntsholing (6 Hrs). 

# NOTE : Foreigners require an Inner Line permit (ILP) to enter Sikkim and can visit Gangtok, Rumtek, Phodong and Pemayangtse. The ILP is issued at all the Indian Embassies abroad and in Sikkim Tourism offices at Delhi, Calcutta and Siliguri. ILP is also issued from Rangpo, entry point into Sikkim. Special permits issued from Gangtok are required for trekking to Dzongri/Goechala & Singalila Ridge and visit to North Sikkim and Tsomgo Lake.

FOREIGNERS ENTRY FORMALITIES

Foreigners must obtain inner line permit (ILP) to visit Sikkim, the permits can be obtained from all Indian missions, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi, Sikkim Tourism office, New Delhi, Sikkim Tourism Office, Calcutta and Sikkim Tourism Office, Siliguri on the strength of an Indian Visa. Foreigners are issued  a permit for initial period of 15 days duration on the spot without any delay provided photocopies of Passport and Visa details along with two passport photos of applicants are made available then and there. It can be extended for further 30 days from the Home Dept., Govt. of Sikkim, depending on the merits of the case.

For those interested in going for trekking in the interior regions of the state, the department of Tourism issues protected area permit (PAP) at Gangtok which is available for certain specified area for groups consisting of 2 or more foreigners subject to the condition that the trekking program is arranged through a registered travel agency.

Foreigners interested in religious/ research work will require a special permit for long-term stay from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India. Individual tourists should confirm permitted areas from the Tourist Information Centre, Gangtok. 

The Foreigners registration office is located on Kazi Road, Gangtok - 223041

* While travelling in Sikkim get your passport stamped at all check posts.