Tourism worldwide is rapidly evolving, with history, culture, and nature walks emerging as some of the most popular and engaging activities for travellers. These immersive experiences offer an authentic connection to local heritage and the environment, far removed from the crowded, over-commercialized “tourist spots” that have long dominated the industry. Darjeeling, for instance, is swiftly gaining recognition as the Hiking Capital of India, thanks to enterprising individuals who have introduced nature and cultural heritage trails. This trend of eco-friendly, experiential tourism is a timely shift, one that Sikkim must embrace in a far more substantial way.
Despite its rich biodiversity, unparalleled natural beauty, and deep cultural heritage, Sikkim has remained overly reliant on conventional tourism models. Tourists flock to well-known destinations such as, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass and Gurudongmar Lake while other areas, ripe for exploration, remain underdeveloped or completely overlooked. It is time to broaden the scope of Sikkim’s tourism by diversifying the experiences available to visitors, moving beyond sightseeing to offer more meaningful and sustainable engagement with the state's natural and cultural assets.
One promising initiative that points in this direction is the upcoming two-day birdwatching training programme organized by the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim in the Sumin region of Namcheybong Constituency, Pakyong District. Birdwatching, often dismissed as a niche activity, has immense potential in Sikkim, a biodiversity hotspot with over 500 species of birds. This training is a step in the right direction, as it taps into the growing global interest in eco-tourism, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the state’s ecological wealth while promoting conservation awareness.
However, this effort must not remain a one-off. Sikkim needs a comprehensive, state-wide strategy to develop and promote nature-based tourism, including birdwatching, hiking, and cultural heritage walks. Local communities must be engaged and trained to act as custodians and guides, ensuring that tourism growth benefits them economically and fosters environmental stewardship. The emphasis should be on low-impact, high-value tourism that attracts travellers who seek meaningful, responsible travel experiences rather than sheer numbers.
Sikkim's government and tourism stakeholders must look beyond the conventional, "bucket-list" tourist destinations and work towards creating sustainable, authentic experiences that not only attract tourists but also preserve the region’s natural and cultural wealth. If Darjeeling can carve out a new identity as the Hiking Capital of India, Sikkim, with its abundant resources and vibrant culture, can certainly lead the way in eco-tourism in India.
