News & Announcement
Namchi Marks World Tourism Day 2026 With A Vision For Smarter And Digital Tourism
Namchi, September 27 (IPR): The Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Namchi, in collaboration with the District Administrative Centre, Namchi, organised the World Tourism Day 2026 celebration at a local hotel in Namchi today.
The programme brought together tourism stakeholders, officials, participants and guests to commemorate World Tourism Day and highlight the importance of tourism as a significant sector for economic development, livelihood generation and the promotion of Sikkim’s natural and cultural heritage.
MLA Namchi-Singithang and Chairman, Denzong Agriculture Cooperative Society, Mr Satish Chandra Rai graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
At the onset of the programme, a message from the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, was played, followed by a message from the Minister, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Mr Tshering T. Bhutia, on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2026.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest expressed his gratitude to the entire tourism fraternity for the warm welcome extended to him and conveyed his greetings and best wishes to all on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2026.
Speaking on the potential of tourism, he stated that tourism is a sector which requires comparatively minimal investment while offering vast and diverse possibilities for livelihood generation and economic growth. He emphasised the need for collective participation and responsible contribution from all stakeholders towards strengthening the tourism sector in the State.
He highlighted the vision of the Chief Minister under “Team Sikkim” and urged everyone to consider their duties and responsibilities as their foremost priority. He stated that collective responsibility, dedication and coordinated efforts would be essential in translating the developmental vision of the State into tangible outcomes.
The Chief Guest also highlighted the spirit of “Team Namchi”, stating that the district has, over the years, demonstrated the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among different stakeholders. He noted that Namchi has a greater vision for development with the continued support of the State Government and has witnessed significant progress in various sectors, including infrastructure, water supply, road connectivity and other developmental provisions.
He further informed that efforts are being undertaken towards the planned and comprehensive remodelling of Namchi in the coming period. Referring to the ongoing construction at Boomtar, he highlighted the upcoming professional, world-class stadium, which is envisioned as an important facility not only for the people of Namchi District but also for people from across Sikkim.
Emphasising the importance of tourism for Namchi, he urged every individual to contribute towards sustaining and strengthening the sector. He stated that Sikkim attracts visitors from different parts of the country and the world, and stressed that the people of Namchi should actively promote the district as a tourism destination. He highlighted Namchi’s favourable location, moderate climate, scenic landscapes and several tourist attractions as factors contributing to its tourism potential.
He further called upon tourism stakeholders and the local community to work collectively towards making tourism a sustainable source of livelihood while ensuring the preservation of the district’s natural beauty, culture and heritage.
A presentation on “Digital Transformation and Citizen-Centric e-Services” was subsequently delivered by Dr Sapna Gurung, Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation. The presentation aligned with the global theme, “ Digital Agenda & Artificial Intelligence to Re-Design Tourism” and highlighted the growing role of technology and digital platforms in improving accessibility, efficiency and delivery of tourism-related services to citizens, visitors and stakeholders.
The programme thereafter featured a video presentation on the Adventure Fest at Linkhimtar, Namthang, showcasing the adventure tourism potential and activities associated with the destination.
This was followed by a video presentation highlighting the digital initiatives undertaken by the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, showcasing the department’s efforts towards incorporating technology and digital platforms in tourism promotion and service delivery.
As part of the programme, awards and certificates were distributed to recognise and appreciate the outstanding contribution and performance of tourism stakeholders in the district.
The following tourism stakeholders were felicitated for the best performance in their respective categories:
1. Best Homestay – Paizoo Homestay, Yangang, run by Mr Prem Kumar Gurung.
2. Best Hotel – Lasso Regency, Namchi, run by Mr Jolly Lassopa.
3. Best Travel Agency – Namchi Cab, represented by Mr Sachin Sharma.
4. Best Tour Guide – Mr Phurba Tamang, Namthang.
5. Best Photographer – Mr Sanjay Pradhan, Char Dham, Namchi.
6. Best Performing Lessee – Mr Ishwar Tiwari, Tarku Cafeteria (Zero).
In addition, Certificates of Appreciation were presented to the following tourism stakeholders in recognition of their valuable contribution towards promoting and supporting tourism activities in the district:
1. Hotel Bliss, Makhim, Namchi.
2. Smart City Travel Agency, Namchi.
3. Mr Jit Bahadur Tamang, Photographer, Temi Tarku.
4. Alley Dara Farmstay, Bhanjyang.
5. Main Line Taxi Driver Association, Namchi.
6. Local Taxi Driver Association, Namchi.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by the Joint Director, Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Namchi, Ms Lamin Theengh.
The Vote of Thanks was proposed by the Assistant Director, Department of Tourism, Namchi, Ms Dipti Rai, who expressed her sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries and all those associated with the successful conduct of the World Tourism Day celebration.
A special mention was made of the unwavering support, guidance and encouragement extended to the District Collector, Ms Anupa Tamling, stating that her continued support had been instrumental in the successful organisation of the programme.
Present during today’s programme were officials and representatives from various line departments, tourism stakeholders, members of local associations, awardees, participants and other guests.
The programme brought together tourism stakeholders, officials, participants and guests to commemorate World Tourism Day and highlight the importance of tourism as a significant sector for economic development, livelihood generation and the promotion of Sikkim’s natural and cultural heritage.
MLA Namchi-Singithang and Chairman, Denzong Agriculture Cooperative Society, Mr Satish Chandra Rai graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
At the onset of the programme, a message from the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, was played, followed by a message from the Minister, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Mr Tshering T. Bhutia, on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2026.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest expressed his gratitude to the entire tourism fraternity for the warm welcome extended to him and conveyed his greetings and best wishes to all on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2026.
Speaking on the potential of tourism, he stated that tourism is a sector which requires comparatively minimal investment while offering vast and diverse possibilities for livelihood generation and economic growth. He emphasised the need for collective participation and responsible contribution from all stakeholders towards strengthening the tourism sector in the State.
He highlighted the vision of the Chief Minister under “Team Sikkim” and urged everyone to consider their duties and responsibilities as their foremost priority. He stated that collective responsibility, dedication and coordinated efforts would be essential in translating the developmental vision of the State into tangible outcomes.
The Chief Guest also highlighted the spirit of “Team Namchi”, stating that the district has, over the years, demonstrated the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among different stakeholders. He noted that Namchi has a greater vision for development with the continued support of the State Government and has witnessed significant progress in various sectors, including infrastructure, water supply, road connectivity and other developmental provisions.
He further informed that efforts are being undertaken towards the planned and comprehensive remodelling of Namchi in the coming period. Referring to the ongoing construction at Boomtar, he highlighted the upcoming professional, world-class stadium, which is envisioned as an important facility not only for the people of Namchi District but also for people from across Sikkim.
Emphasising the importance of tourism for Namchi, he urged every individual to contribute towards sustaining and strengthening the sector. He stated that Sikkim attracts visitors from different parts of the country and the world, and stressed that the people of Namchi should actively promote the district as a tourism destination. He highlighted Namchi’s favourable location, moderate climate, scenic landscapes and several tourist attractions as factors contributing to its tourism potential.
He further called upon tourism stakeholders and the local community to work collectively towards making tourism a sustainable source of livelihood while ensuring the preservation of the district’s natural beauty, culture and heritage.
A presentation on “Digital Transformation and Citizen-Centric e-Services” was subsequently delivered by Dr Sapna Gurung, Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation. The presentation aligned with the global theme, “ Digital Agenda & Artificial Intelligence to Re-Design Tourism” and highlighted the growing role of technology and digital platforms in improving accessibility, efficiency and delivery of tourism-related services to citizens, visitors and stakeholders.
The programme thereafter featured a video presentation on the Adventure Fest at Linkhimtar, Namthang, showcasing the adventure tourism potential and activities associated with the destination.
This was followed by a video presentation highlighting the digital initiatives undertaken by the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, showcasing the department’s efforts towards incorporating technology and digital platforms in tourism promotion and service delivery.
As part of the programme, awards and certificates were distributed to recognise and appreciate the outstanding contribution and performance of tourism stakeholders in the district.
The following tourism stakeholders were felicitated for the best performance in their respective categories:
1. Best Homestay – Paizoo Homestay, Yangang, run by Mr Prem Kumar Gurung.
2. Best Hotel – Lasso Regency, Namchi, run by Mr Jolly Lassopa.
3. Best Travel Agency – Namchi Cab, represented by Mr Sachin Sharma.
4. Best Tour Guide – Mr Phurba Tamang, Namthang.
5. Best Photographer – Mr Sanjay Pradhan, Char Dham, Namchi.
6. Best Performing Lessee – Mr Ishwar Tiwari, Tarku Cafeteria (Zero).
In addition, Certificates of Appreciation were presented to the following tourism stakeholders in recognition of their valuable contribution towards promoting and supporting tourism activities in the district:
1. Hotel Bliss, Makhim, Namchi.
2. Smart City Travel Agency, Namchi.
3. Mr Jit Bahadur Tamang, Photographer, Temi Tarku.
4. Alley Dara Farmstay, Bhanjyang.
5. Main Line Taxi Driver Association, Namchi.
6. Local Taxi Driver Association, Namchi.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by the Joint Director, Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Namchi, Ms Lamin Theengh.
The Vote of Thanks was proposed by the Assistant Director, Department of Tourism, Namchi, Ms Dipti Rai, who expressed her sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries and all those associated with the successful conduct of the World Tourism Day celebration.
A special mention was made of the unwavering support, guidance and encouragement extended to the District Collector, Ms Anupa Tamling, stating that her continued support had been instrumental in the successful organisation of the programme.
Present during today’s programme were officials and representatives from various line departments, tourism stakeholders, members of local associations, awardees, participants and other guests.
