Sikkim govt introduces entry fee for tourists to boost infrastructure, better visitor experience

The fee will be levied at hotels during check-in and deposited into the Tourism Sustainability Development (TSD) Fund.

With effect from March 14, the Sikkim government has implemented an entry fee of INR 50 per tourist under the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Rules, 2025, the state officials confirmed recently.

The collected revenue will be directed towards enhancing tourism infrastructure, including improved road connectivity, cleanliness, and an overall better visitor experience. The fee will be levied at hotels during check-in and deposited into the Tourism Sustainability Development (TSD) Fund.

The charge applies to all tourists except children below five years and covers a stay of up to 30 days. If a visitor returns after a month, the fee will be charged again.

This definitely is a forward-thinking initiative, reinforcing Sikkim's commitment to responsible tourism. This model can serve as an inspiration for other destinations grappling with high tourist footfall, which could benefit from adopting a similar approach.