Sikkim, popularly known as the Traveler’s Paradise, has finally opened up for domestic tourism from 10th October 2020, after remaining dormant for almost 6 months amidst COVID19 pandemic. Sikkim tourism is the major source of income for the state as at least 15% of the population relies directly or indirectly on tourists for their day-to-day income.
Blessed with incredible landscape with lofty, snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, vivid monasteries, lush greenery and serenity all around, Sikkim is a favourite among tourists and backpackers. The state is also famous for a breathtaking view of the Mt Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world! There is so much beauty in the state that choosing one Sikkim tourist spot is nearly impossible. The best way to explore Sikkim is by taking a road trip to the various famous destinations located here, enjoying the picturesque beauty of the place.
If you are planning to visit this gorgeous destination in your upcoming vacation, take note of these State-issued SOPs you must follow while visiting Sikkim.
Sikkim Tourism Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) To Follow
Sikkim tourism is incomplete without adventure, trips to astounding monasteries, view of the mighty Kanchenjunga and azure lakes and rivers. If you want to experience a trip to these amazing Sikkim tourism places, you need to read through this post and take note of the SOPs. Tourism in Sikkim will commence in a phased manner, keeping in mind the safety and security of the tourists as well as of the locals. Here are the state-issued SOPs that every tourist must follow.
Guidelines to Prevent and Protect from COVID-19
- In the first phase, the state will allow only domestic tourists and foreign nationals living in India.
- All tourists visiting Sikkim are ‘advised’ to carry a certificate of COVID -ve test with them obtained within 72 hours before arriving at the state. The test should either be RT-PCR or Truenat test.
- Tourists must obtain a “Travel Card” issued by the state by registering themselves on the Sikkim Tourism Web Portal before travelling. Also, the tourists must carry this card with them at all times during their travel within the state.
- Tourists must ensure that their travel in Sikkim is pre-booked along with accommodations that comply with health and safety guidelines, as well as travel agents or tour operators.
- The state has also advised old people (above 65 years), children under 10 and people with comorbidities to avoid travel to Sikkim. In case they must travel, then they should limit their movement.
- All tourists must carry their protective gear which includes face masks, shields, gloves, thermometers and sanitisers.
- Tourists are strictly advised to refrain from going into containment zones during their travel in Sikkim.
- The SOPs also encourage tourists to avoid cash payments and instead opt for digital or cashless transactions for a smooth and contactless experience.
- Tourists must also notice that hotels and accommodations are directed to not undertake reservations of travellers who have not registered themselves on the government web portal.
- Hotels located in containment zones are prohibited from operations and taking reservations.
- The hotels will have at least one room for emergency isolation in case of tourists developing symptoms.
Now that you have made note of all the SOPs to be followed while visiting this state ensure to carry your own protective gear and follow all the guidelines stringently.
Enjoy a trip to all the incredible places to visit in Sikkim, while taking proper precautions against COVID19 and let us know your experiences in the comments below.
If you wish to explore nearby places to Sikkim, you can book a safe stay at hotels in Pelling and also check out these beautiful places to visit in Pelling as well!
Your stay is completely protected by Treebo Hygiene Shield safety measures.
