Monday, Jan 12, 2026 23:00 [IST]
Last Update: Sunday, Jan 11, 2026 17:21 [IST]
GANGTOK, :
Sikkim has been conferred the “Most Tourist Friendly State of India”
Award at the 9th edition of the Bengal Travel Mart (BTM) 2026, held
from January 9 to 11 in Siliguri.
The Bengal Travel Mart 2026 is one of the most
significant tourism trade events in Eastern India, providing a dynamic platform
for tourism stakeholders, policymakers, buyers, sellers, and media from across
India and abroad.
Tourism and Civil Aviation department, Government of
Sikkim was the partner State and highlighted Sikkim’s growing prominence as a
responsible and sustainable tourism destination, informs a press release.
The award was received by Dr. Prerna Chamling, additional
secretary, Tourism and Civil Aviation department, accompanied by Durga Prasad
Sharma, deputy director, TIC, Siliguri, and Vijeta Chettri, assistant director,
Tourism and Civil Aviation department. Officers and staff of the department
actively participated throughout the event, representing the State and engaging
with national and international tourism stakeholders, the release mentions.
“This recognition reflects the consistent efforts of the
Government of Sikkim in implementing best practices in tourism development,
visitor management, sustainability, and community-based tourism,” the Tourism
department said in a press release. “The award is also a testament to the
State’s commitment to good governance, eco-friendly policies, hospitality
standards, and inclusive growth in the tourism sector.”
The 9th edition of the Bengal Travel Mart
witnessed wide-ranging participation from national and international tourism
organizations. Nepal Tourism Board and Department of Tourism, Government of
Bhutan, participated as international country partners. Nepal Association of
Tour & Travel Agents and Hotel & Restaurant Association of Bhutan were
also part of the event.
The event recorded participation from over 160 domestic
and international exhibitors, including major hotel chains such as ITC Fortune,
Udaan, The Fern, Summit Yashshree, Mount Hotels, and several others.
A structured B2B meet between buyers and sellers
facilitated meaningful business interactions and future collaborations.
The presence of international, national, and local media
houses, along with buyers from across the country and abroad, ensured wide
visibility for the event and for Sikkim’s tourism achievements, the release
adds.
