Sikkim Rural Tourism Meet 2025 to promote culture, adventure and sustainable tourism

Uttarey in West Sikkim is all set to host the Sikkim Rural Tourism Meet (SRTM) 2025 from March 22 to March 25, 2025. Organized by Sikkim Tourism, this event aims to showcase the beauty of rural Sikkim while promoting sustainable tourism, local businesses, and cultural heritage. The meet will bring together tourism stakeholders, policymakers, travel enthusiasts, and local communities for an enriching exchange of ideas and experiences.

The event will begin on March 22, with the arrival of participants at Bagdogra Airport. Guests will receive a warm, traditional welcome, setting the tone for an immersive cultural experience. From there, they will proceed to Rholu in South Sikkim, where they will enjoy a special lunch at a Wayside Tourism Amenity. This will provide an opportunity to taste local flavors while experiencing the hospitality of rural Sikkim. After lunch, visitors will be taken to their respective homestays, offering them a firsthand experience of village life. These homestays, run by local families, will give guests an authentic glimpse into the traditions, customs, and daily lifestyle of the people of Sikkim.

On March 23, the formal inauguration of the event will take place at Uttarey, West Sikkim, in the presence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim. The day will begin with a B2B meeting, where local tourism stakeholders and invitees will engage in discussions about business opportunities, partnerships, and ways to strengthen rural tourism. This will be followed by the arrival of the Chief Minister, who will visit community stalls set up by local artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs. These stalls will showcase Sikkim’s traditional crafts, handloom products, organic food items, and other indigenous goods.

The highlight of the day will be the cultural program and inaugural ceremony, where artists and performers from different parts of Sikkim will present traditional music and dance performances. The event will also include an interactive session where community members, stakeholders, and local travel agents will have the opportunity to discuss rural tourism and share their insights. This will be followed by another vibrant cultural program featuring folk songs, storytelling sessions, and performances showcasing the rich traditions of the region. The day will end with a community dinner, where visitors and locals will come together to enjoy a traditional feast, fostering cultural exchange and stronger community bonds.

The third day of the event, March 24, will be dedicated to adventure, exploration, and business engagement. After breakfast, participants will gather at the venue for a meet and greet session with the Hon’ble Area MLA, followed by a segregation of groups for different activities. Visitors will get the opportunity to explore Sikkim’s breathtaking landscapes and participate in various adventure tourism activities. Those interested in culture and heritage can take part in a Village and Handloom Tour, where they will get to interact with skilled artisans, witness the making of traditional handwoven fabrics, and learn about the rich history of Sikkimese craftsmanship.

For adventure seekers, the Chewabhanjang Day Trek will provide a thrilling experience of Sikkim’s mountainous terrain. Visitors can also explore Phoktey Dara, a picturesque viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. Other activities include bird watching, mountain biking, and a visit to a sheep farm. Thrill-seekers can enjoy paragliding and hot air balloon rides, providing a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful landscapes. There will also be an opportunity for angling, allowing visitors to try their hand at traditional fishing methods.

Another key attraction of the day will be a visit to a Heritage Homestay and a Monastery, where visitors can experience the spiritual side of Sikkim. They will also get a chance to see traditional ornaments, taste local beverages, and enjoy an authentic Sikkimese meal. These experiences will not only introduce visitors to the rich cultural and culinary heritage of Sikkim but also support local businesses and homestay owners.

The day will conclude with a closing ceremony, featuring a special address by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department (TCAD) and event organizers. The evening will be filled with cultural performances, including a traditional dance showcase and a musical performance by Sofiyum, a renowned Lepcha traditional band. After this, visitors will return to their homestays for the final dinner of the event.

On the final day, March 25, visitors will enjoy an early breakfast before departing for Bagdogra Airport. With packed breakfast and warm farewell wishes, guests will leave with memories of an unforgettable rural tourism experience in Sikkim.

The Sikkim Rural Tourism Meet 2025 aims to bring long-term benefits to the region by promoting sustainable rural tourism. The event will focus on knowledge sharing, capacity building, networking, and policy advocacy to create a positive impact on local communities. By supporting rural homestays, traditional crafts, and eco-tourism activities, the event will contribute to the economic and social growth of rural Sikkim.

SRTM 2025 will also encourage industry partnerships, educational collaborations, and marketing support to help rural tourism flourish. Government initiatives such as the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ series and rural tourism cluster development will play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility of Sikkim’s lesser-known but beautiful destinations. The inclusion of these destinations in major travel itineraries will further boost tourism, providing local communities with more opportunities to benefit from this sector.

With a perfect combination of culture, adventure, and business opportunities, the Sikkim Rural Tourism Meet 2025 is expected to be a landmark event, bringing together tourism professionals, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure lovers.