Gyalshing, May 4, 2026 (IPR): Sikkim’s Minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation, Tshering T. Bhutia, on Monday led a joint inspection of proposed and ongoing tourism projects in the Yuksam–Tashiding region of Gyalshing district, aimed at strengthening the area’s tourism potential.
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| Tourism Minister Tshering T. Bhutia reviews site plans with officials during an inspection of tourism projects in the Yuksam–Tashiding area of Gyalshing district. (Image: DIO Gyalshing) |
The inspection covered key sites under the Buddhist Circuit Scheme, including the upcoming Eco-tourism Pilgrimage Complex featuring the Green Tara Devi Statue at Silnon Monastery, as well as existing infrastructure earmarked for redevelopment and beautification.
The Minister, accompanied by senior engineers from the department - including Principal Chief Engineer-cum-Secretary Neeraj Pradhan, Chief Engineer Pratap Gautam, and Superintendent Engineer Ashok Chettri - along with architects from Pan Architecture, Gangtok, assessed both new proposals and current facilities. Local Gram Panchayat members and stakeholders also participated in the visit.
The team began the inspection from Rangit Bridge and proceeded to Drakar Tashiding Monastery, reviewing sites identified for development. At Silnon Monastery, preparations were reviewed for the Eco-tourism Pilgrimage Complex, whose foundation stone was recently laid virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 28 during his Sikkim visit.
The Minister announced that construction work for the Green Tara Devi Statue complex will commence from May 5, with a focus on accelerated execution.
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During the visit, Bhutia also interacted with monastery committees and local residents at Silnon and Tashiding, discussing project plans and community involvement.
The inspection team later visited Famrong Waterfall near Labing village, where possibilities for beautification and tourism development were explored, before proceeding to Yuksam to review existing infrastructure for renovation and enhancement.
Officials said the visit was part of a broader effort to improve tourism infrastructure, promote religious and eco-tourism, and ensure sustainable development across Sikkim’s key destinations.
