Sikkim has registered its highest-ever domestic tourist arrivals for the January May 2025 period, with 8,43,231 visitors a 24.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This figure surpasses the previous record of 8,31,644 set in 2019, marking a strong post-pandemic recovery in the state’s tourism sector.
January saw an unexpectedly high footfall of 1,92,973 tourists, while May emerged as the peak month with 2,13,570 visitors, despite heavy rainfall. The state’s focused promotion of alternative tourism circuits, particularly North Sikkim’s Silk Route, played a major role in attracting travelers. In April alone, the Silk Route welcomed 1,31,400 tourists, including 15,774 international travelers. The 3rd Mile stretch was the most visited, drawing 1,23,404 people, with April 6 being the busiest day. North Sikkim saw 55,528 visitors in April before adverse weather forced the temporary closure of key routes from mid-month.
Despite the domestic tourism boom, foreign tourist arrivals dropped significantly, with only 34,847 international tourists recorded between January and April—a 25.4% decline year-on-year. Disrupted routes and shifting global travel patterns are believed to be contributing factors.
June brought additional challenges as around 1,500 tourists were stranded in Lachen and Lachung following a cloudburst and landslide. Evacuation efforts were launched promptly, with road access restored for Lachung and phased airlifts arranged for Lachen due to severe conditions. Most tourists were safely evacuated by June 6, despite ongoing weather disruptions.
While domestic tourism remains a strong pillar for Sikkim’s economy, the state continues to focus on resilient infrastructure and safety protocols to manage future challenges and revive international arrivals.
