Gyalshing, Feb 10: Sikkim’s Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Tshering T Bhutia on Monday conducted a preliminary inspection of major tourism infrastructure projects at Yuksam, aimed at strengthening the region’s position as a premier eco-tourism and adventure destination.
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| Sikkim Tourism Minister Tshering T Bhutia interacts with officials and local stakeholders during an inspection of tourism infrastructure projects at Yuksam. (Image: DIO-Gyalshing) |
The Minister was accompanied by Tourism & Civil Aviation Secretary Hondala Gyaltsen, Additional Director Tenzing Gelay, Joint Director (Adventure Cell) Kazi Sherpa, Senior CHA Vikash Rai, Assistant Director, District Tourism Office, Gyalshing Gyamtso Tshering Bhutia, along with other officials, Gram Panchayat members, and local stakeholders.
During the visit, the Minister inspected the Coronation Park site, where statues of the three Lamas and the first Chogyal of Sikkim are being installed. Officials informed that nearly 90 per cent of the construction work has been completed, with the project nearing its final stage.
The Minister also reviewed the office setup of the Tourist Information Centre (TIC) at Yuksam, which is expected to become operational soon. Once functional, the TIC will issue trekking permits for the internationally acclaimed Khangchendzonga trek, including the Dzongri–Goechala route, directly from Yuksam - providing significant convenience to tourists and easing procedures for local tourism stakeholders.
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Additionally, the Minister inspected the proposed outreach centre of the Indian Himalayan Centre for Ecotourism and Adventure (IHCEA), which will operate alongside the TIC. The centre is envisioned as a hub for training in adventure activities, mountaineering, and allied sports for tourists as well as local youth.
Emphasising the significance of the initiatives, Minister Bhutia said that under the leadership of Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, the state government is committed to bringing every corner of Sikkim onto the global tourism map. He added that the projects would boost the local economy, promote sustainable tourism, and contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of the people.
The Minister informed that the facilities will be formally inaugurated by the Chief Minister in the coming days.
