No More Tourist Permits In North Sikkim’s Landslide-Prone Chungthang As Weather Conditions Worsen

by Shreya Rathod
No More Tourist Permits In North Sikkim’s Landslide-Prone Chungthang As Weather Conditions Worsen

In North East India, Sikkim is one of the most well-known tourist destinations. Its breathtaking landscape is dotted with high-altitude lakes, sweeping green slopes, bright gardens, aqua rivers, milky waterfalls, stunning monasteries, and unmatched views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest summit in the world. Due to recent accounts, North Sikkim has stopped issuing tourist permits.

North Sikkim Has Stopped Issuing New Tourist Permits

Chungthang sikkim
Credits: Ankur Panchbudhe/ Flickr

North Sikkim is seeing its fair share of issues with the monsoon season, namely with flash floods and landslides. According to recent accounts, North Sikkim was home to thousands of trapped tourists who have now been rescued and evacuated.

The Mangan district’s Chungthang section was the worst-affected area. It is one of North Sikkim’s top tourist attractions. Due to the weather-related substantial road damage, the area is currently highly dangerous. The district authorities have stated that no new tourist permits will be issued for the area for the time being and until further notice, keeping the weather condition and everyone’s safety in mind.

Thousands of tourists were left stranded as a result of the area’s landslip, which severely damaged the main route. According to sources, there were 2,464 travellers who were left stranded in total.

Also Read: This Is The First Edition Of Sikkim Arts and Literature Festival; Here’s All You Need To Know

Chungthang Is One Of The Tourist Destinations

Chungthang sikkim
Credits: Wikimedia

Located where the Lachen and Lachung rivers meet, Chungthang town is a beautiful tourist destination. The importance of locations like Chungthang, Lachen, and Lachung cannot be overstated for individuals who are passionate about Mt. Kanchenjunga and outdoor adventure sports like trekking and hiking. Due to these factors, heavy foot traffic is typical, especially after the winter.

Those travelling for spiritual holidays frequently choose this area as their destination. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim, has blessed Chungthang as a holy location. Additionally, Chungthang serves as the entry point to well-known locations including Yumthang Valley and Lachung.

Sikkim’s mountains, woods, and hills are home to a wide range of uncommon and exotic Himalayan animals. Further, high elevations are the only places where many of these animals and birds may be found. A rare privilege is being able to see them in their native environment.

Also Read: Sikkim Landslides: Indian Army Rescues 3,800 Tourists So Far From Harsh Weather Conditions

North Sikkim is an amazing place with several scenic spots. However, due to its location and weather conditions, the place experiences landslides and roadblocks.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva

First Published: June 20, 2023 11:20 AM