Thursday, Nov 13, 2025 22:30 [IST]
Last Update: Wednesday, Nov 12, 2025 16:53 [IST]
GANGTOK,: The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India in coordination with Government of Sikkim, is all set to organize the 13th International Tourism Mart (ITM) for the North Eastern Region from November 13 to 16 at Gangtok.
A press release informs that the event will be inaugurated by Chief Minister PS Golay in presence of Union Tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu. The event will also be attended by Tourism ministers from all the Northeastern States.
The International Tourism Mart is the Ministry’s annual flagship event aimed at showcasing the tourism potential of the North Eastern Region often called the “Ashta Lakshmi” of India to domestic and international stakeholders. The Mart provides a platform to promote the Northeast’s rich natural beauty, vibrant cultural heritage, and adventure tourism opportunities, while encouraging sustainable and inclusive tourism growth, the release mentions.
This year’s 13th ITM will welcome representatives from 19 countries, including Spain, Thailand, France, Russia, Germany, and Vietnam. The event will feature 39 international tour operators, 5 international influencers, 50 domestic buyers, 20 domestic influencers, and 91 domestic sellers, fostering meaningful B2B interactions and global partnerships.
A series of technical sessions, panel discussions, and product presentations will explore emerging opportunities in cinematic tourism, home stays, youth entrepreneurship, digital innovation, sustainability, and adventure tourism. The event aims to strengthen networks among domestic and international stakeholders, encouraging investment and cooperation in the Northeast’s tourism sector, the release adds.
The Mart will also feature cultural performances celebrating the rich artistic and folk traditions of the North East. Delegates will experience technical visits to prominent attractions in and around Gangtok such as the Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, offering a glimpse into Sikkim’s unique cultural and spiritual identity.
Post-event familiarization tours will take participants to various destinations across the North Eastern States, allowing them to experience first-hand the region’s diverse landscapes, cuisines, crafts, and traditions.
“The 13th International Tourism Mart in Gangtok stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to transforming the North East into a global tourism hub. With its serene environment, forward-thinking tourism model, and strong community ethos, Sikkim provides the perfect backdrop for this landmark event - celebrating the spirit of unity in diversity and reaffirming the promise of responsible, inclusive, and sustainable tourism development,” the release mentions.
