Sikkim hosts 13th International Tourism Mart

Positioning the Northeast as one of India’s fastest-growing tourism frontiers, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday inaugurated the 13th International Tourism Mart (ITM) for the North Eastern Region at Pangthang near Gangtok. The annual event, aimed at boosting regional tourism and strengthening global market linkages, is being hosted by Sikkim for the second time since the Mart began in 2013.Sikkim first hosted the International Tourism Mart in 2015, at Gangtok.

Khandu, addressing delegates, said the Northeast’s natural wealth and cultural diversity had finally begun receiving national attention. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritising tourism infrastructure in the region and opening new economic avenues that were absent a decade earlier. The improved focus, he said, has allowed all Northeastern states to market their tourism products more effectively, leading to stronger local economies that are now growing within sustainable limits.

Calling the ITM an “important platform” for the region, the Chief Minister said the event enables direct interaction between tourism stakeholders and policymakers, helping states better shape their strategies. He expressed confidence that Sikkim would use this opportunity to expand its tourism market while maintaining environmental balance.

ITM is important because it connects the Northeast with national and international markets, supports local economies, and strengthens tourism development.

Khandu described the Northeast as a “rising star” in Indian tourism, noting that despite difficult terrain, the region has successfully positioned itself as a unique destination that blends culture, adventure and nature.

Sikkim Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia said it was a proud moment for the state to host the Mart again. He highlighted Sikkim’s reputation for natural beauty and rich traditions, calling the state and the broader Northeast “a jewel in India’s tourism landscape.”

This year’s edition has drawn wide participation, with around 90 delegates from 22 Indian states and 39 tour operators from 19 countries. Senior leaders including Assam Tourism Minister Ranjeet Kumar Das, Arunachal Tourism Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, Sikkim MP Indra Hang Subba and Tourism Secretary V Vidyavatti attended the event.

The International Tourism Mart (ITM) is an annual event organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India to promote tourism in the North Eastern Region (NER).