Gangtok, 11 January: Sikkim has been conferred the prestigious “Most Tourist Friendly State of India” award at the 9th edition of the Bengal Travel Mart (BTM) 2026, held from January 9 to 11, 2026 in Siliguri.
As per the press release issued by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, the award was presented in recognition of the state’s sustained efforts in promoting responsible, inclusive, and sustainable tourism practices. The department also participated in the event as the Partner State, highlighting Sikkim’s growing prominence as a preferred tourism destination in India.
Bengal Travel Mart 2026 is one of the most significant tourism trade events in Eastern India and serves as a major platform for tourism stakeholders, policymakers, buyers, sellers, and media from across the country and abroad. The event aims to strengthen tourism cooperation, promote destinations, and facilitate business opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector.
The award was formally received by Dr. Prerna Chamling, Additional Secretary, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, accompanied by Durga Prasad Sharma, Deputy Director, Tourist Information Centre (TIC), Siliguri, and Vijeta Chettri, Assistant Director, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. Officers and staff of the department actively participated throughout the three-day event, representing the State of Sikkim and engaging with national and international tourism stakeholders.
According to the press release, 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 award is also a testament to the state’s commitment to good governance, eco-friendly policies, high hospitality standards, and inclusive growth within the tourism sector.
The 9th edition of the Bengal Travel Mart witnessed wide-ranging participation from both national and international tourism organisations. The Nepal Tourism Board and the Department of Tourism, Government of Bhutan, participated as International Country Partners. Prominent international associations such as the Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) and the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Bhutan (HRAB) were also part of the event.
The event recorded participation from over 160 domestic and international exhibitors, including major hotel chains and hospitality groups such as ITC Fortune, Udaan, The Fern, Summit Yashshree, Mount Hotels, and several others. A structured Business-to-Business (B2B) meet between buyers and sellers was organised, facilitating meaningful business interactions, partnerships, and future tourism collaborations.
The presence of international, national, and local media houses, along with buyers from across India and abroad, ensured wide visibility for the event and significantly enhanced the exposure of Sikkim’s tourism achievements on national and global platforms.
As stated in the press release, the Government of Sikkim, under the able guidance of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, remains committed to further strengthening its position as a leading tourist-friendly destination. The state continues to focus on promoting sustainable tourism practices, enhancing visitor experiences, and preserving its rich cultural and natural heritage.
