Here are 10 key points Sikkim to Charge INR 50 Entry Fee for Tourists from March 2025:
- INR 50 Entry Fee Introduced – Sikkim will implement a ₹50 entry fee for tourists from March 2025 under the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Rules 2025.
- Collected at Hotel Check-In – The fee will be charged when tourists check in at hotels, guesthouses, and other accommodations in the state.
- Exemptions Apply – Children under five years old and government officials on duty will not be required to pay the fee.
- Valid for 30 Days – The entry fee covers stays of up to 30 days. If a tourist leaves and re-enters after this period, they will need to pay the fee again.
- Focus on Sustainable Tourism – The initiative aims to manage growing tourism responsibly while preserving Sikkim’s environment and cultural heritage.
- Revenue Directed to TSD Fund – The collected funds will go to the Tourism Sustainability Development (TSD) Fund, dedicated to enhancing tourism-related infrastructure.
- Funding Infrastructure & Cleanliness – The TSD Fund will support projects such as road improvements, cleanliness drives, and visitor facilities.
- Tourism Industry Supports the Move – Stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the need for clear communication with tourists to avoid confusion.
- Hotels to Display Information – Authorities recommend that hotels and accommodations clearly inform guests about the entry fee to ensure transparency.
- A Model for Responsible Tourism – Sikkim’s move sets a precedent for other destinations, showing how tourism growth can be balanced with environmental conservation.
Sikkim Introduces INR 50 Entry Fee for Tourists to Promote Sustainable Tourism
Starting March 2025, tourists visiting Sikkim will be required to pay an INR 50 entry fee as part of the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Rules 2025. This initiative aims to support sustainable tourism while preserving the state’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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How the Entry Fee Works
The INR 50 fee will be collected at hotel check-ins and will apply to all visitors, except:
- Children under five years old
- Government officials on official visits
The fee covers stays of up to 30 days. However, if a tourist leaves and re-enters after this period, they will need to pay the charge again. This move is part of Sikkim’s broader strategy to manage tourism responsibly while ensuring the state can accommodate growing visitor numbers without harming its fragile ecosystem.
Supporting Tourism Development
The revenue generated from this fee will be directed towards the Tourism Sustainability Development (TSD) Fund. The fund will be used for:
- Enhancing tourism infrastructure
- Improving road connectivity
- Maintaining cleanliness
- Developing visitor facilities
Additionally, the TSD Fund will support long-term conservation projects to protect Sikkim’s environment and cultural heritage for future generations.
Industry Response and Implementation
Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the move, recognizing its role in maintaining a balance between tourism growth and environmental conservation. To avoid confusion, authorities recommend that hotels, guesthouses, and other accommodations clearly display information about the entry fee, ensuring tourists are well-informed before their arrival.
A Model for Responsible Tourism
Sikkim has long been a leader in sustainable tourism, and this initiative further strengthens its commitment. By involving tourists in funding infrastructure and conservation efforts, the state aims to create a responsible tourism model that can be replicated in other regions. The introduction of this fee is a significant step towards balancing tourism expansion with environmental and cultural preservation, ensuring a better experience for both visitors and locals.
This move sets an example for other destinations looking to implement responsible tourism practices while improving infrastructure and services for travelers.
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