Planning a trip to Nathula and Tsomgo Lake in Sikkim? This is the new permit office

In a significant step towards decentralising the permit issuance system in Sikkim, a new permit office was inaugurated today at the Panchayat office in Kishan Bazar, Rongli. The office was inaugurated by Tshering Thendup Bhutia, Minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation, along with Puran Kumar Gurung, Minister for Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, and Fisheries.
If you are planning to visit top tourist destinations like Nathula, Zuluk, and Tsomgo Lake, the newly opened Rongli Permit Office will specifically cater to domestic tourists seeking permits for these places. By localising the permit process, the office aims to streamline travel logistics, making it easier for tourists to obtain necessary approvals without delays.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia emphasised the importance of tourism as a primary livelihood source for many in the state. The importance of rural tourism and the establishment of Tourist Information Centres (TICs) across six districts were also highlighted, ensuring that visitors receive essential guidance and support.
The inauguration event also highlighted the district’s success in promoting rural homestays and eco-tourism. Visitors are urged to maintain discipline and adhere to local regulations to align with responsible tourism.
If reports are to go by, the event also addressed the new Nathula permit issuance system, the Tourism Sustainable Development fee and the available exemptions. The importance of community-based governance was also discussed along with the fact that there’s a need for collaboration between government agencies and local stakeholders to further advance Sikkim’s tourism sector.



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