'Homestay tourism' flourishing in rural Sikkim

Gangtok, March 10: Tucked away in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, Sikkim, the second smallest state in the country, charms visitors with its charismatic beauty.

It has now come out with an initiative to offer tourists with traditiol and homely feeling to make people feel at ease and simultaneously enjoy the beauty and culture of Sikkim.

Sikkim is arguably one of India’s loveliest destitions.

Homestay Sikkim offers the visitors an experience and an opportunity to live with locals and share their lifestyle.

People of Yaakten, a small hamlet in East Sikkim, have joined hands to start this community-based ‘homestay tourism’ to attract visitors and also improve their socio-economic condition.

Some eight families are engaged in homestay business and they have developed an infrastructure which is being appreciated.

“Earlier, villagers used to earn their livelihood through cultivation only, but once homestay came in, it became a tourist hub and for which the economic condition of the people has improved a lot. It provided the students with an opportunity to earn as they get an opportunity to perform cultural dances of Sikkim and showcase their talent to the tourists,” said Basant Gurung, Operator, Sikkim Kisaan Traditiol Village Tourism.

Apart from Yaakten homestay, there are other homestays in Sikkim which have grown in recent times such as Orchid homestay, Guras homestay, Chakha homestay, Kothebari homestay, etc

Besides offering homestay to the travellers, Yaakten has marvelous views of the Kanchenjunga range and the lush green valleys of Sikkim.

Being in Yaakten one can witness the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim people and enjoy the local cuisine and beverages.

“Well, economically we are improving a lot and different tribes like ‘Sirpa’, ‘Bhutia’ we all have gathered and have taken this initiative to promote tourism and to basically help our future generation especially our girl child to get proper education. If we talk about the one year record till now 70 groups of tourists has visited our homestay and we try our best to offer them the best hospitality,” said Gayan Bahadur, Subba Kisaan, Sikkim Kisaan Traditiol village tourism.

The homestay not only provides the comfort of home to tourists, but also helps villagers generate some extra income. (ANI)