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Over 1,500 Tourists Stranded In North Sikkim As Landslides And Heavy Rains Cut Off Key Roads

Rescue operations have been hampered, especially in the search for 8 missing tourists whose vehicle plunged into the river near Munsithang. Authorities are working to restore roads, power, and water while urging travellers to avoid the region until conditions improve.

by Mallika Khurana
Over 1,500 Tourists Stranded In North Sikkim As Landslides And Heavy Rains Cut Off Key Roads

North Sikkim is currently struggling with a massive weather crisis brought on by incessant rainfall and landslides. The landslides blocked several important roads in the area, and the intense rains left 1,500 tourists dealing with the difficult situation. A vehicle with tourists on board fell over 1,000 feet into a river, making the situation even worse.

Over 1,500 Tourists Stranded In North Sikkim

On Saturday, landslides triggered by nonstop rainfall caused massive disruptions across the district of Mangan. In several places, such as Theeng and Chungthang, roads were completely destroyed, preventing access to important tourist destinations.

The tourist vehicle with 11 tourists fell into the Teesta River. Sadly, one person lost their life, and two others were injured but rescued. The rescued tourists are currently receiving treatment at STNM Hospital in Gangtok. However, eight tourists and the vehicle driver are still missing.

According to the Hindustan Times reports, the Mangan district collector, Anant Jain, revealed that rescue efforts have been severely hampered by the weather. The rising water level of the Teesta River temporarily suspended all search operations. Although 6 cellphones and four ID cards were found near the riverbank, the whereabouts of the missing are still unknown.

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Weather Causes Damage To Infrastructure In The Area

The heavy rains have triggered multiple landslides in areas like Theeng and Chungthang. The weather conditions also affected infrastructure in the region, including the damage to the Phidang Bailey Bridge. It is an important link between Mangan and Chungthang. Its base was partially damaged due to the river’s high currents, complicating relief and rescue efforts.

According to Hindustan Times, local authorities have reported 100+ tourists stuck in Lachen and over 1,000 tourists stranded in Lachung. With roads blocked on both ends, tourists have been advised to stay put in their hotels until the routes are safely reopened.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued strong warnings for the area. Locals and tourists must stay careful about their safety and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay indoors as much as possible and away from riverbanks and unstable slopes.

Officials are working around the clock to clear landslides, restore services, and ensure stranded tourists are safe and cared for, Hindustan Times reported.

If you are currently planning a trip to North Sikkim, it is better to reconsider. The authorities have also suspended all tourist permits for the area for at least the next 2 days.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva/milehightraveler

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First Published: June 01, 2025 1:40 PM