Over 1,000 Tourists Stranded in North Sikkim After Permit Suspension Due to Landslides

Heavy Landslides in North Sikkim Leave Over 1,000 Tourists Stranded, All Permits Suspended

Tourist movement to North Sikkim has come to a standstill following relentless rainfall and massive landslides that have stranded more than 1,000 tourists in the region. On Thursday, the Sikkim Police Permit Cell officially suspended all travel permits for North Sikkim, effective from April 25 until further notice.

Key access routes, including the Lachen-Chungthang and Lachung-Chungthang roads, have been severely affected by landslides at Munshithang and Lema/Bob, rendering them impassable. While the road leading up to Chungthang remains open, authorities have strongly advised against night travel due to unstable weather conditions and the potential for further landslides.

“In light of the current situation, no permits will be issued for tourists intending to travel to North Sikkim,” read an official statement from the Permit Cell. Already-issued permits for April 25 have been revoked as a precautionary measure.

Tour operators have been directed to halt all trips to the northern part of the state, and local police are working closely with administrative officials to manage the situation. Efforts are underway to support stranded tourists and prevent any further movement into areas deemed unsafe. “We urge everyone to cooperate with the authorities and adhere strictly to safety protocols,” said a police official stationed in the affected zone.

This disruption has come during peak tourist season, a time when destinations like Lachen, Lachung, and the picturesque Gurudongmar Lake typically draw large crowds. However, the region’s steep, mountainous terrain makes it highly susceptible to landslides, especially during episodes of heavy and continuous rainfall.

The Sikkim Tourism Department has requested travelers to defer or redirect their plans to safer parts of the state. Tourists currently in Sikkim are being encouraged to stay informed through official government channels and to avoid relying on unverified or unofficial sources for updates.

Hotels, tour guides, and local business owners have been alerted to the permit suspension to help manage travel disruptions and guide tourists appropriately. For those already in the state, authorities recommend exploring alternative destinations until the weather conditions stabilize and access routes are restored.

As heavy rains continue to lash the region, rescue and repair teams are on high alert, with efforts underway to assess and clear blocked roads. Meanwhile, the administration is closely monitoring the situation and will issue updates as conditions evolve.