Chapter IV

Tourism Conditions

Tourism conditions refer to both natural and built conditions that are considered

essential considered essential for existence of tourism destinations. The status of

tourism conditions in Sikkim is assessed in the present chapter by using the tourism

indicators that were identified and specified in chapter II in this report. The adopted

indicators are as follows:

• Diversity of Tourism Attractions;

• Status and Development of Tourism Circuits;

• Accommodation Sector;

• Connectivity and Transportation;

• Tourist Security;

• Cleanliness and Hygiene; and

• Tourism Convenience.

4.A. ASSESSMENT OF TOURISM CONDITIONS:

4.A.I. Tourism Attractions:

Tourism attractions in the State are categorized into natural, cultural as well as

adventure attractions. The overall status of tourism attractions in Sikkim are

discussed below:

A. Natural Attractions: Sikkim is endowed with natural attractions since its

inception. Such attractions include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere

reserves, high altitude lakes, rivers, waterfalls, mountain peaks, mountain passes,

107

hot springs and scenic views among others. The table 4.1 depicts the natural parks

and wildlife sanctuaries in Sikkim till 2009.

Khanchedzonga National Park (KNP) is the largest protected area in Sikkim

notified in August, 1977, situated in the North-West frontiers of the State while

Kitam Bird Sanctuary is the smallest in terms of its size covering an area of six

square kilometer notified in June 2002.' These sanctuaries house a number of flora

and fauna typical to Sikkim catering to needs of wildlife enthusiasts, eco-tourists'

and nature loving visitors. These protected areas in the form of national parks and

wildlife sanctuaries are in center of attraction mainly for two reasons. Firstly, it

helps generate much needed resources from tourism for its maintenance and

secondly, it plays its role in maintaining ecological balance of the destination area.

Table: 4.1 : National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Sikkim

SI No.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

Protected Areas

Khanchendzonga National Park

Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

Kyongnosia Alpine Sanctuary

Singba Rtiododendron Sanctuary

Barsey Rtiododendron Sanctuary

Pangolaktia Wildlife Sanctuary

Kitam Bird Sanctuary

Area in Sq Km

1784

52

35

31

43

104

128

6

Altitude (Meters)

1400-8586

1524-2749

2000-3263

3292-4116

3048-4575

2110-4100

1760-4390

320-875

Location

North-West

East

Soutti

East

Nortti

West

East

NA

Year of Notification

Aug, 1977

April, 1974

March, 1987

Aug, 1984

Aug, 1984

July, 1996

Nov, 2000

Jun, 2002

Source: Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management, Preparatory Study or) Integrated Project for Sustainable Development of Forest Resources in Sikkim, Final report. Govt, of Sikkim, 2009, p9.

' Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management, Preparatory Study on Integrated Project for Sustainable Development of Forest Resources in Sikkim, Final report, Govt, of Sikkim, 2009, pp66-67

108

Table 4.2 : Important Bird Areas in Siki im

SI No Bird Areas Area (ha)

01 Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary 10400

02 Dombang Valley-Lachung-Lema-Tsungthang 600000

03 Fambong Lho Wild Life Sanctuary-Himalayan Zoological Park-Ratey 7826 Chu Reserve Forest

04 Khanchendzonga National Park and Biosphere Reserve 28500

05 Kyongnsola Alpine Sanctuary-Tsomgo-Tamze-Chola 3100

06 Lhonak Valley 5000

07 Low Land Forest (Melli-Bguwa-Kitam-Jorethang-Namchi-Sombarey) 2000

08 Maenam Wild Life Sanctuary- Tendong Reserve Forest 3539

09 Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary-Zuluk-Bedong Cho-Nathu la 12400

10 Tso Lhamu Plateau Lashar-Sebuia Yumesamdong Complex 5000

11 Yumthang-Singba Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary 43000

Source: Islam, M.Z. & Rahmani, A.R. (2004) Important Bird Areas of India: Priority sites for Conservation,

Mumbai: Bombay Natural History Society, p77

Table 4.2 enlists important bird areas in Sikkim in which bird watching is practiced

by eco-tourists' visiting the State. These areas cover seven protected areas (PAs),

reserve forest as well as valleys known for such an activity. In terms of coverage,

Dombang valley covers highest hectares of bird areas in the State followed by

Singba WLS, KNP, Pangolakha WLS, Barsey WLS in descending order.

Like parks and sanctuaries, hot springs and lakes have added another dimension to

enriched natural attractions in the State. Majority of lakes in Sikkim are considered

sacred by native Sikkimese. These high altitude lakes and hot springs are regularly

frequented by tourists' throughout the year. The most popular lakes in terms of

visitation rate of tourists are Tsomgo Lake (Changu), Khecheopalri, Guru Dongmar

and Tso Lhamu etc.

109

Table 4.3 : District-wise list of Important Hot Springs and Lakes in Sikkim in 2009

Districts

East

West

Nortti

Soutti

Hot Springs

—

Phurchachu (Reshi)

Yumthang

Ralong

Lakes

Tsomgo Lake (Changu)

Khecheopairi Lake

Guru-Dungmar Lake

—

Source: File Papers, Tourism Department, Govt, of Sikkim, 2009

Similarly, mountains in Sikkim also takes an important position in maintaining

ecological balance of the State in the one hand and tourism attractiveness on the

other. It can be seen (table 4.4) that majority of high altitude mountains are situated

in west district in Sikkim while the rest three are located in East. North and South

Districts devoid of high altitude mountains in their territory.. Mount

Khanchedzonga, the third highest peak in the World is situated in West District

while Siniolchu is considered as most beautiful mountain in Eastern Himalaya.

Table 4.4 : Mountain-Attractions in Sikkim

SI No.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

Name of Mountains

Mt. Kanctiendzonga

Mt. Kabru

l t. Siniolchu

Mt Simvo

Mt. Rathong

ML Pandim

MLPaunhri

Mt. Lamaongden

ML Mesunyange

District

West

West

West

West

West

West

East

East

East

Height

28,156 ft.

24,215 ft.

22,600 ft.

22,476 ft

22,100 ft.

22,100 ft

22,000 ft

19,366 ft

19,300 ft

Source: File Papers, Tourism Department Govt, of Sikkim, 2009

110

Sustainable tourism practices call for striking a balance between ecological

sustainability and economic sustainability. The resource use and economic

prosperity conflict demands optimum use of natural resources so its incremental

economic benefits percolate down to fixture generations.

B. Cultural Attractions: Cultural attraction establishes relationship between hosts

and guests in a tourism destination. These are offered in the form of arranging

cultural festivals, dance ,drama's organized by local communities to showcase their

ethnic culture. Sikkim has a rich cultural heritage which is practiced by the

communities residing in the State. The prominent among them are Lepcha, Bhutia

and Nepalese. However, the collective strength of Nepalese exceeded the total

number of persons belonging to the Lepcha- Bhutia coimnunities. A list of

traditional cultural festivals is mentioned in the table given below:

Table 4.5 : Cultural Festivals in Sikkim SI No.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

Name of Festivals

Maghe Sankranti

Lossar/Sanam Lhossar

Guthor Chaam

Bhumchu (Tashiding)

Saga Dewa

Sakewa

Tendong Lho Ram Fat

Pang Ltiabsol

Dassain (Durga Puja)

Tiwar (Dipawali)

Teyongshi-Shrizunge-SawanTungnam

Ctiristmas

Tanu Lochar

Losoong

Time of Festivals

January

February

February/Marcti

February/Marcti

May

June

8* August

August/ September

September/October

October/November

December

Do

Do

December/January

Source: Sikkim- A Statistical Profile 2004-05, Department of Economics, Statistics, Monitoring and Evaluation (DESME), Govt, of Sikkim, pi33

111

Sikkim house around 96 monasteries and gumpa's in its territory. These

monasteries represent symbol of Sikkim's rich cultural heritage and carrier of

customs and traditions from one generation to the other. The majority of well-

known monasteries are located in West district. Dubdi is the oldest monastery in

Sikkim located in the West in conjunction with Pemayantse and Tashiding

Monasteries. East district house world famous Rimitek Dharma Chakra Center

together with the Institute of Tibetology around it.

Apart from these traditional festivals mentioned in table 4.5, some of the tourism

festivals (table 4.6) are organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of

Sikkim armually to draw tourists especially during lean season. These include

Flower Festivals, Namchi Mohotsava, Tourist Festival, Cultural Festivals and

Teesta-Rangeet Festivals etc. The Tourist Festival in Gangtok usually draws

attention of highest number of exhibitions and visitors'. The Festival by and large

draws 100 participants and 5000 visitors per year.

Table: 4.6 Annual Tourism Festivals in Sikkim

SI No

01

02

03

04

05

Title of Event

Flower Festivals

Namctii Mohotsava

Tourist Festivals

Cultural Festivals

Teesta-Rangeet Festivals

(White Water Rafting and Angling Tournament)

Place

Gangtok

Namchi

Gangtok

Mangan

Teesta River

District

East

South

East

North

Average No. of Exhibitions/ Visitors/Participanls

60 Exhibitions, 70000 visitors/year

150 Exhibitions, 100000 visitors /year

200 Exhibitions, 150000 visitors /year

200 Exhibitions, 100000 visitors /year

100 participants, 5000 Visitors/year

Source: Best Practices Adopted by the State Govemments for the Development of Tourism, Final Report, Vol.11, Ministry of Tourism (MR Division), Govt, of India, 2005, p217.

112

Tourist-host cultural exchanges can bring welcome changes in the life of resident

communities in the form of derived economic benefits. However, its impact upon

customs and habits of locals has to be thought through otherwise it can result in

social unrest.

C. Adventure Attractions: Adventure attraction added another dimension to the

list of tourism attraction in the State. In Sikkim, packages are offered for this kind

of adventure tourism which includes trekking, river rafting, nature trails, mountain

biking, mountaineering expeditions among others. Trekking packages are the most

popular; especially the Yuksam-Dzongri trek trail, is the only trek trail in the State

for which route permits are made available to the foreigners. ^ Literature survey

points to the fact that trekking destinations are subject to large scale littering of

trekking corridor, use of forest for ftiel etc. can lead to catastrophe for mountain

destination. As majority of the trek trails are located in fragile mountain regions,

limited movement of trekkers can maintain economic sovereignty of the locals, in

the one hand, and ecological sustainability of the destination on the other. However,

there are reports of overcrowding of trek trails, especially the Yuksam-Dzongri trek

trail, would have lasting impact upon the Sikkim in general and concerned

destination in particular.

^ Ibid, p. 309

113

Table: 4.7 : Popular Trekking Routes in Sikkim

SI. No

Name of Trek Places Covered Suitable Season for Trek

01 Monastic Trek

02 Rhododendron Trek

03 Khanchendzonga Trek

04 Coronation Trek

05 Kasturi Orar Trek

Pemayangfse-Sangacholing-Khechopairi-Dubdi-Sinon-Tashiding-Ralong. wiarcn-May/uci uec.

Nayabazar- Hilley / Soreng-Varsey-Dentam- Pemayangtse.

Yuksom-Bakhim-Tsoka-Dzongri/Bikbari-Zematti/ Churigang-Goechala Rathong Glacier and back.

Rumtek-Sang-Yangang-Rabongla-Tashiding-Yuksom.

March-May

Mid March-Mid June./Oct-Dec.

Oct-Dec.

Yuksom-Dzongri-Thangsing-Kasturi Orar- Mid-March to Mid-Labdong-Sinon-Tashiding. June./Oct-Dec

Source: File Papers, Tourism Department, Govt, of Sikkim, 2009.

Amongst the other adventure tourism products, river rafting is currently offered by

one travel agency and is carried out in the Teesta and Rangeet rivers. Similarly,

nature trails are special interest trails offered by the travel agents in the State which

includes rhododendron trails, butterfly trails, bird watching trails etc.

Most experienced travel agents are handling mountaineering expeditions in Sikkim.

However, there is a concern relating to adequate safety measures, emergency

facilities like airlifting in case of emergency and adequate medical facilities with

trained manpower at base stations for mountaineering expeditions. Besides this,

two other activities that show good potential are rock climbing at Ralong, Kewzing,

Felling and hand gliding at Jorethang. ^

' Govt, of India , Best Practices Adopted by the State Governments for the Development of Tourism,

Final Report, Vol.11, Ministry of Tourism (MR Division),, 2005, p310

"ibid.pSlO.

Mbid,p310.

114

4.A.2. STATUS AND DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM CIRCUITS:

Department of Tourism, Government of Sikkim has taken a series of policy

measures to promote inter-state tourism circuits in the State. Accordingly, a number

of schemes were adopted and implemented to materialize such a policy. Such

circuits are classified as Buddhist/Pilgrimage Circuit, Trekking and Adventure

Tourism Circuit and also Ecotourism Circuits. The important amongst these are:

Namchi-Tendong Hill-Ravangla;

Felling- Femayangtse monatery;

Lachung-Lachen-Yumthang;

Gangtok-Rumtek Monastery-Tsomgo Lake-Fhodong Monastery- Nathu-la Fass etc.

In fact, the Report of Working Group on Tourism recognizes only Gangtok based

tourism circuits in the State.^ The report also identified popular intra-state travel

circuit involving Darjeeling-Sikkim-Kalimpong as the busiest circuit in the region.

Some of the completed circuit developments pursued by the Department of

Tourism, Government of Sikkim are:

• Rangpo-Singtam—Lamatar-Samdruptse-Rumtek-Tingchim-Dzongu-

Lamongoan;

• West District Trekking Circuit: Hee Bermiok-Chiwa-Neh Dham;

* Govt of India, Report of the Working Group on Tourism, 12the Five Year Plan (2012-2017), Ministry of Tourism, 2012b, Pp 1-205 ' Govt, of Sikkim, Tourism Annual Report 2004-05, Govt, of Sikkim, 2005, Ppl-27

115

• West District Trekking Circuit: Yuksam-Dzongri;

• Buddhist circuit at Tashiding, West; and

• Rumtek to rest of East District.

From the extensive visits to the State and also from the movement tourists, gives us

impression that there are three inter-state circuits prevailing in the State. These are

Gangtok Circuit, Felling Circuit and Ravangla Circuit. Gangtok circuit essentially

covers Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, places in and around Gangtok to Tsomgo

Lake, Nathu la in the East District and also places like Lachung, Lachen, Yumthang

in the North District. Felling circuit basically covers places like Geysing,

Khecheopalri Lake, Darap, Yuksam, Khanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (KBR),

Tashiding, Naya Bazar among others. This circuit is popular amongst adventure

tourists visiting the State. Ravangla Circuit mainly covers Kewzing, Namchi,

Solophok (Char Dham), Temi, Samdruptse, Rabdentse Ruins etc. This circuit

presents a mixture of cultural, heritage as well as nature based tourism products.

However, Gangtok based circuits are busiest circuit in the State remain

overcrowded during peak season had its impact upon the land and masses of the

State.

4.A.3. ACCOMMODATION SECTOR:

Sikkim has been experiencing growth of a number of hotels especially in the budget

category. The hotel survey conducted by the Bureau of Economics and Statistics in

1992 indicated existence of a total of 93 hotels comprising of 1934 beds and 119

116

guest houses including 269 beds was there in the State. ^ The table (4.15) given

below depicts district-wise growth of hotels in Sikkim (especially budget segment)

during the period of 2001-02 to 2009-10.

Table 4.8 : District-wise Number of Hotels in Sikkim during 2001-02 to 2009-10

District/

Towns

2001-02*

No of

Hotels No of Beds

2008-09@

No of

Hotels

No of

Rooms No of Beds

2009-10#

No of

Hotels

No of

Rooms No of Beds

East District

West District

Nortti District

South District

Total

158

75

29

23

285

5499

138

288

402

6051

354

132

87

40

613

4526

1353

608

224

6711

9362

NA

NA

609

9971

418

132

87

40

677

4378

1113

608

324

6423

9075

2227

1216

609

13127

Source: *20 Years Perspective Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development in Sikkim, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, 2002, p235

@ Annual Report 2008-09, Department of Tourism, Govt, of Sikkim, p27

# Annual Report 2009-10, Department of Tourism, Govt, of Sikkim, p31

The table shows predominance of East District of Sikkim in the accommodation

sector in the State in terms of number of hotels, rooms and beds available during

the course of eight years (2001-02 to 2009-10). East District has accounted for 55

per cent of the hotels and 91 per cent of the available hotel beds in the State during

2001-02. West District, second in that order, housed 26 per cent of the hotels and 2

per cent of the beds followed by North District (10 per cent of hotels and 5 per cent

of beds) and South Districts (8 per cent of the hotels and 7 per cent of the beds)

respectively during the period. During 2001-02 to 2008-09, the numbers of hotels

and beds, in the East District, gone up by 2.24 times and 1.7 times respectively. In

percentage terms, its share in 2008-09 was 58 per cent, 94 per cent and 67 per cent

*As mentioned in the report of the '20 Years Perspective Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development in Sikkim', 2002, Ministry of Tourism, Govt, of India, p-167

117

of the available number of hotels, beds and rooms in the State respectively. West

District has also registered an increase in number of beds (during 2001-02 to 2008-

09) and hotels in the State during 2008-09. In absolute terms, the district has added

57 more hotels than the same during 2001-02. The growth of number of hotels in

the North and South Districts has grown up by three and 1.74 times respectively

during 2001-02 to 2008-09. The other districts have also registered nominal

increase in their number of hotels and beds during 2008-09. In the last phase of

2009-10, East district has extended its tally of hotels to 418 representing 62 per cent

of the hotels in the State. However, the districts tally of number of beds and rooms

gone down by 3.07 per cent and 3.27 per cent respectively during the same period.

The district holds 62 per cent of the hotels, 68 per cent of rooms and 69 per cent of

the available beds in the State during 2009-10; an indication of haphazard growth

of tourism activities in the State.

Table 4.9: Distribution of Approved Hotels and Rooms

State 5*

Deluxe 5* 4* 3* 2* r Heritage

in Sikkim during 2010

Others Total NER

Share (%) Sikkim . . . . . . . . .

Hotels 1 1 5 8 1 16 3077

Rooms 63 58 117 130 25 393 22.44

Source: India Tourism Statistics 2010, Ministry of Tourism, Govt, of India, pi 27 * indicates Star category Hotels approved by Indian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)

Table 4.9 enlists distribution of approved hotels and rooms by Ministry of Tourism,

Government of India during 2010. Sikkim possessing 30.77 per cent number of hotels and

22.44 per cent rooms among NESs during the period.

118

4.A.4. CONNECTIVITY AND TRANSPORTATION:

Sikkim does not have any airports or railheads because of its rough hilly terrain.

The closest airport (i.e. Bagdogra Airport) is situated in Siliguri, West Bengal, 124

kilo metres from State capital Gangtok. The adjoining major railway station is New

Jalpaiguri (NJP) situated at distance of five kilo metres from Siliguri. The National

Highway No. 31A links Siliguri to East District in Sikkim on the way to State

Capital Gangtok; the other three districts do not have any direct link with National

Highway. The highway is metalled road which runs parallel to River Teesta before

entering Sikkim at Rangpo. Small vehicles ply through this route can easily connect

small towns and district head quarters inside the State. Apart from this, Sikkim

Nationalized Transport (SNT) is also plying small buses at 27 locations; 25 of

which are inside the State while the rest two connecting neighboring State West

Bengal.

The following table 4.10 depicts number of registered passenger transport vehicles

in Sikkim at the end of 31'' March, 2007 and 2009. The bus comprised of stage

carriages, contract carriages, private sector vehicles and other buses. The taxi's

consists of motor cabs, maxi cabs and other taxis.

Table 4.10 : Calculation of Vehicles per square kilo meter area of Sikkim as on 31" March, 2007 and 2009

States

Sikkim

NE Average

2006-07

Buses Taxis

429 6499

2008-09

Buses Taxis

294 7108

% Growth

Over

2006-07

6.84

Area Sq Km

7096

Vehicle per Sq Km Area

2006-07

0.98

0.41

Vehicle Per Sq Km Area 2008-09

1.04

0.45

Source: Road Transport Year Book 2007-09, Vol. I, 2011, Ministry of Road Transport and Highw/ays, Govt, of India, p14-16. NE stands for North East India

119

Sikkim recorded 0.98 and 1.04 vehicle per square kilo metre during the period of

2006-07 and 2008-09, which is higher than North East average for the same.

During 2009-10, Sikkim has registered 880 contract/stage carriers and 41 luxury

tourist vehicles to facilitate traffic volume in the State. ^ Hence, it, thus, enhances

vehicle per square kilo metre area to 1.17 till 2009-10.

The annual growth rate of registered motor vehicles in Sikkim was in the region of

11 per cent to 13.6 per cent during 1998-99 to 2004-05; with an annual growth rate

of taxis and cars in the region of 33-46 per cent, particularly in the years of 2002-

05. The growth rate of vehicles during 2005-10 averaged to 13 per cent per annum

with a total 70 per cent increase in their number of registered vehicles in 2010 as

compared to 2005.'° Sources from Transport Department reveal that 36 per cent of

the local taxi users are daily commuters while 64 per cent are occasional

commuters including tourists. However, increase in such a huge number of vehicles

in the would create congestion, vehicular pollution and its direct impact upon land

mass of the State

4.A.5. TOURIST SECURITY:

Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India, reported that the security

situation of Sikkim is normal and continues to remain peaceful. Regarding the entry

of foreigners in Sikkim's territory, it further stated that some areas Sikkim have

been declared 'Restricted Areas' under Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963.

' Govt, of Sikkim.(2012)Transport Department, Motor Vehicle Division, '" Govt, of Sikkim (2011) Sikkim Action Plan for Climate Change (2012-2030), Draft Copy, Water Security and Public Health and Engineering Department, pl45

120

In terms of both the Orders (i.e. 1958 and 1963), no foreigners shall enter into or

remain in any protected area/restricted area except in accordance with the permit

issued by the Central Government or any officer authorized by the Government in

its behalf. For promoting tourism in the Sikkim, the guidelines regarding the

relaxation of Protected Area Permit (PAP)/ Restricted Area Permit (RAP) regime

have been issued from time to time by MHA.''

Sikkim State Tourism Policy 2010 reveals that State Government has decided to

create and establish multipurpose special tourism police/ security which can

provide information, security, safety, courtesy, guidance and hospitality; along the

same line as formed in the case of Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Andhra

Pradesh. Accordingly, the Department has made arrangements for tourism police

at select locations. Such police is provided with special uniform/having

distinguishing mark and assist the tourists whenever need arises. They are specially

selected and trained for working at tourist destinations. As a part of the project, at

least one room with attached toilet facilities are earmarked for tourist police at all

destinations in Sikkim,''' Similarly, necessary signages, warnings, cautions and help

line are installed at all key locations and points. To facilitate better service to the

tourists', best tourist police award is instituted by the Department of Tourism and

the award is given to best tourist police every year.'''

" Govt, of India (2010-11): Annual Report 2010-11, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA),pl3-14 ' Govt, of India (2005) Documentation of Best Practices Adopted by State Governments for the Development of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism (MR Division) Vol I, pi 01 " Govt, of Sikkim (2010) Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010, Department of Tourism, p33 ''' Govt, of Sikkim (2010-11) Tourism Annual Report, Department of Tourism, p58

121

In order to instill confidence in the tourism practices, the Government has already

established complaint, grievance and suggestion cell within the tourism department.

It will be further strengthened by involving interlinked departments and tourism

service providers. Immediate redressal of grievances will be taken up for

discussion, if possible on online basis.'^

4.A.6. CLEANLINESS AND HYGIENE:

A. Water and Sanitation: The table 4.11 indicates that in rural Sikkim, East

District is having highest number of concrete house (42.42 per cent) in 1991, gone

up to 64.86 per cent in 2001. The West, North and South District registered less

than 14.1 per cent household with concrete structure during 1991. In the course of

ten years, number of concrete houses increased by 14.93 times, 16.39 times and

13.4 times respectively for West, North and South Districts; a clear indication of

replacing traditional houses with concrete structures. The access to safe drinking

water, electricity and latrine has registered remarkable increase for West, North and

South Districts during the period of 1999-2001 with the exception of East district;

which registered less than rural average of 87.91 per cent during the same period.

Table 4.11 : District wise Distribution of Concrete Houses and Access to Drinking Water, Electricity and Latrines of Rural Sikkim in 1991 and 2001 (in Per cent)

Districts

Households with Concrete Houses

1991 2001

Access to Drinking Water, Electricity, and Latrine

1991 2001

East West North

South

Rural Sikkim (Mean)

42.42 4.71 4.02

5.25

14.1

Source; Census of India 1991, 2001

64.86 70.33 65.89

70.42

67.88

65.89 96.38 93.13

89.38

86.20

Planning Commission, Govt, of India

68.38 98.25 90.88

94.11

87.91

" Ibid, p34

122

Table 4.12 : Access to Safe Drinking Water in Urban and Rural Sikkim during 1981-2001

States

Sikkim

India

1981

Drinking Water

Rural (%) Urban (%)

21.7 71.9

26.5 75.1

1991

Drinking Water

Rural (%) Urban (%)

70.8 92.8

55.5 81.4

2001

Drinking Water

Rural (%) Urban (%)

67.0 97.1

73.2 90.0

Source: Statistical Abstract India 2004, Central Statistical Organization, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Govt, of India, p75.

Table 4.12 reveals that the access to safe drinking water in rural Sikkim was 21.7

per cent in 1981, increased to 70.8 per cent in 1991 and finally down to 67 per cent

in 2001. The water accessibility in urban Sikkim was 71.9 per cent in 1981,

enhanced to 92.8 per cent in 1991 and gone further up to 97.1 per cent in 2001. The

total access to safe drinking water for Sikkim was below the national average of

38.2 per cent in 1981, increased to 10.9 per cent above national average and finally

gone down by 7.2 per cent below the national average in 2001. However, Sikkim

was best performing State amongst the NESs in terms of safe water accessibility in

199land placed just below Arunachal Pradesh during 2001.

Table 4.13 : Households with Sanitation Facilities in Sikkim 1998 (Per cent)

Amenity UrtDan Rural Total

Flush Toilet

Pit Toilet/Latrines

No Facility

82.9

7.9

9.1

50.2

19.4

30.5

55.0

17.7

27.3

Source; National Family Health Survey 2 (NFHS 2), 1998-99, p. 38

123

National Family Health Survey (NFHS) Study (table 4.13) revealed that 55 per cent

of the households have flush toilet (using either piped water or bucket water for

flushing) while 18 per cent had pit toilet/ latrine and 27 per cent had no sanitation

facility in Sikkim during the period. It is found large urban gap with respect to

sanitation facility as 83 per cent of the urban household had a flush toilet compared

to 50 per cent of rural households. The percentage of pit toilet/latrines was 7.9 per

cent in urban Sikkim while the same is 19.4 per cent in rural areas totaling 17.7 per

cent in the entire State.

B. Solid Waste Management: The solid waste generation consists of municipal

solid waste in the form of garbage, refuge and other discarded solid materials from

industrial, corrmiercial, agricultural operations and commercial activity including

waste generated by tourists. Sikkim generates 0.45 per capita of solid waste per day

amounts to 8.75 kgs per square kilo meter area of the State. The total quantity of

municipal solid waste generated is about 42 tonnes per day (0.27 per cent) and the

problem is mainly in urban areas'^.

The table reveals the amount of municipal solid waste generation per cent per kg

per day in Gangtok (i.e. 0.44) is higher than the North East average during 2004-05.

The actual figure might be quite higher than whatever mentioned above. A compost

plant at Martam is designed to handle waste amounting to 50 metric tonne per day

which covers entire organic waste generated at Gangtok and the neighboring areas.

However, the landfill area which is designed to for 15 to 20 years may not last that

' Govt, of India (2008) Sikkim Development Report, Planning Commission, p41 124

long. Hence, the principle of 3R and waste segregation are mandatory for effective

treatment of waste in the city. '

Table 4.14: Waste Generation Rate in Sikkim during 2004-05

NE States

Sikkim

NE Average

Waste Generation

Rate (%) Kg/Day)

0.44

0.29

NE Cities

Gangtok

Characteristics (%)

Compostable Recyclable

46.52 16.48

55.62 19.18

Moisture

44.00

53.63

Source: Management of Municipal Solid Waste, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Ministry of Environment and Forest, Govt, of India, Delhi, 2007, p5-7. NE stands for North East India

C. Foods and Beverages: Local cuisines in Sikkim are full of nutritional value and

served to tourists as a part of culinary tourism. Traditional foods in Sikkim are

generally categorized into fermented foods and beverages produced by micro­

organism and non-fermented foods. Fermented foods are prepared by the actions of

micro-organism either naturally or by adding starter cultures, which modify the

substrates biochemically and organoleptically into edible products; and are

generally palatable, safe and nutritious. '*

' Govt, of Sikkim (2007): State of Environment Report 2007, Prepared by EN VIS Centre, Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management, p84 '* Tamang, J.P. and Holzapfel, W.H. (1999): Biochemical Identification Techniques-Modem Techniques: Micro Floras of Fermented Foods. In Encyclopedia of Food Microbiology, eds. R.K. Robinson, C.A. Batt, and P.D. Patel, Academic Press, London, p249-252.

125

Table 4.15 : Ethnic Fermented Foods in Siltkim

Product

Kinema Maseura

Gundruk

Sinki

Mesu

Khalpi

Sel Roli

Churpi (Soft)

Churpi (Hard)

Chhu

Philu

Somar

Dahi/Shyow

Mohi

Gheu

Sidra

Sukuti

Gnuchi

Korgyong

Sukula

Sukula Masu/

Satchu

Substrate

Soyabean

Black Lentil

Leafy Vegetable

Radish Tap Root

Bamboo Shoots

Cucumber

Rice, Wheat, Flour

Cow/Yak Milk

CowA'ak Milk

CowA'ak Milk

CowA'ak Milk

CowA'ak Milk

CowA'ak Milk

Cow Milk

Cow Milk

Fish

Fish

River Fish

Beer/Yak/Pork

Buffalo Meat

MuttonA'ak/Beef/

Pork

Nature and use

Sticky Soyabean curry

Dry Ball like Condiment

Dried Sour Soup Pickle

Dried Sour Soup: Pickle

Sour: Pickle

Sour: Pickle

Round Deep Fried Bread

Soft Cheese Like: Curry/Pickle

Hard Mass: Masticator

Soft Strong Flavored Dish

Cream Fried Curry with Butter

Paste Flavored Condiment

Curd/ Savory

Butter: Milk

Butter

Dried Fish Curry

Dried Salted

Smoked Fish: Curry

Sausage: Curry

Dried Meat: Curry

Smoked Meat; Curry

Major Consumer

Non Brahmin Nepalese

Newer

All

All

All

Bahun- Chettri

Nepalese

All

All

Bhuta/Sherpa/lepcha

Bhuta/Sherpa

Sherpa

All

All

All

Non Brahmin Nepalese

Non Brahmin Nepalese

Lepcha

Bhutia/Lepcha

Newar

Non Brahmin Nepalese / Bhutia / lepcha

Source: Tamang, J P. (2007) Ethnic and Fermented Foods and Beverages in Sikkim, Journal of Hill Research, 20(1), p. 5.

These inexpensive culturally acceptable traditional foods provide basic diet as

staple, pickle, confectionary condiment and alcoholic beverages; which supplement

enhanced nutrition, palatability, wholesomeness of the product with acceptable

flavor and texture. More than twenty varieties of ethnic fermented foods and more

than ten types of fermented beverages are consumed in Sikkim. Most of them are

126

common while other fermented foods are less similar and confined to a particular

community and places. Traditional alcoholic beverages constitute an integral part of

dietary culture and have strong ritual importance among the ethnic people in the

Himalayas where activities require appreciable quantities of alcohol.'^ Alcoholic

beverages are exclusively prepare fi-om locally grovra cereals -grains using

traditionally prepared mixed innocula or starter called mercha ^°. Traditional

alcohol brewing is a home based industry mostly done by rural women using their

indigenous knowledge of alcohol fermentation. Rural women also sell the food

products to the local market and earn their livelihood. The promotion of culinary

tourism in the State itself would benefit local residents in two ways. Firstly, it helps

generate much needed revenue for locals by using home grown cereals; and finally

would reduce the leakage effect in tourist destinations like Sikkim

4.A.7. TOURISM CONVENIENCE:

For facilitating tourism convenience, a number of such facilities introduced by the

Department of Tourism, government of Sikkim during the last ten years or so. The

Government has initiated the process of establishing modem wayside amenities

(WSA), washrooms, motels, at a distance 10 kilo meters each inside the State. In

this regard 63 locations have been identified and approved which includes which

includes modem wayside amenities (WSA), restaurants, souvenir, souvenir shops,

information centers, public convenience, park lounge with all facilities, retiring

" Tamang, J.P. and Nikkumi, S. (1996) Selection of Starter Culture for production of Kinema, A Fermented Soya bean Food of the Himalaya, World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology 12, p629-35 ^"ibid.pSl ' Govt, of Sikkim, Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010, Department of Tourism,Pp37-38

127

room. Police Control Room, vehicle repairing center, local handicrafts/costumes/

jewellery shop, local food shop among others. Such conveniences are implemented

through public private participation. ^

Tourist Information Centers (TICs), Cafeterias, Wayside Amenities (WSA):

Tourist Information Centers (TICS): A well established network of thirty tourist

information centers (TICS) were created to provide services to the tourists/

intending tourists as and when needed. Ten of such centers are having touch screen

kiosk installed to serve tourists' at large. At present, TICs of Sikkim cover places

like Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, Rangpo, Gangtok, Melli,

Jorethang, Namchi, Damthang, Ravangla, Felling, Mangan, Lachen, Rumtek,

Lingdum etc. The first five places are situated outside Sikkim, while the remaining

twelve places are known tourist destinations inside Sikkim.

Cafeterias: Department of Tourism took a series of initiatives to set up cafeterias

in number of locations. Important among them are mentioned below:

Table 4.16 : District wise Important Cafeterias in Sikkim in 2010

East West North South

Pakyong Cafeterias at Singshore Sajong Cafeteria Tarl<u Cafeteria

Cafetera

Sangkhola Dalapchand Helipad Temi Cafeteria

Cafeteria Cafeteria

Rongpo Mining Damthang Cafeteria

Cafeteria

Bakthang Falls

Cafeteria

Ganesh Tok Cafeteria

Aritar Cafeteria

Source: Tourism Annual Report 2010-11, Department of Tourism, Govt, of Sikkim, p. 22.

^ Ibid, p38

128

Wayside Amenities (WSA): Like TICs and Cafeterias, WSA are also introduced to

cater to the services of the tourists as and when required. The important amongst

them are mentioned below:

Table 4.17: District-wise Important WSA's in Silckim in 2010 East West North Soutti

SajongWSA LegshipWSA KabiWSA RavanglaWSA

Pakstiip WSA Simctithang WSA

Sirwani WSA

Sribadan WSA

Source: Tourism Annual Report 2010-11, Department of Tourism, Govt, of Sikkim, p. 22

However, it involves a unique form tokenism rather addressing the issues at hand.

Most often, this services are not provided in remote centres which badly affects the

information access of tourists in those destinations

Banking and Communication Services: The following table indicates that East

District is having highest number of telephone connection, post offices and

telephone centers spreading over 954 square kilo metre. The density of telephone

per thousand persons is 142.37 in urban areas while the same is 11.28 persons in

rural areas. The coverage of density of population in terms number of persons per

kilo meter stands at 10.16 persons. Similarly, number of STD PCOs in urban areas

are more (i.e. 289 numbers) than the rural areas (11 numbers). As far as number of

banks are concerned, east district house maximum number of commercial banks

and cooperative banks till 2010-11. The ATM services are provided mainly by the

Commercial banks including State Bank of India (SBI), United Bank of India (UBI)

among others.

129

Table 4.18 : District wise break up of Banlu and Communicational Facilities in Sikkim during 2010

Particulars

COMMUNICATION FACILITIES:

Telephone Connection

Post Offices

Telephone Centers

a. Density of Telephone

(Numbers/1000 Persons)

b. Density of Telephone

(No of Persons per Sq km)

PCO Rural

PCO Urban

BANKS:

Commercial Banks

Cooperative Bank

Unit

Nos

Nos

Nos

Ratio

Ratio

Nos

Nos

Nos

Nos

East

9694

83

23

U=192.37

R=11.28

10.16

11

289

64

4

Statistics

West

195

48

12

U=135.32

R=11.36

1.67

4

30

9

2

North

474

24

3

U=250

R=4.04

0.11

3

18

7

1

South

1693

54

9

U=167.65

R=4.28

2.25

4

41

14

3 Source: Annual Reports 2010-11, Directorate of Industries, Govt, of Sikkim., 2011, p34 U: Urban, R: Rural

North district is having second highest number of telephone connection, post

offices and telephone centers spreading over 4226 square kilo metre area. The

density of telephone per thousand persons is 250 in urban areas while the same is

4.04 persons in rural areas. The coverage of density of population in terms number

of persons per kilo meter stands at 0.11 persons only, the lowest in the State.

Similarly, number of STD PCOs in urban areas outoumbered (i.e. 18 numbers)

rural areas (3 numbers). As far as number of banks are concerned, north district

house least number of commercial banks and cooperative banks till 2010-11. Like

East District, ATM services are provided mainly by the Commercial banks

including State Bank of India (SBI), United Bank of India (UBI) among others.

130

The West District, the number of telephone connection, post offices and telephone

centers are 195, 48 and 12 respectively for the district during the period. The

density of telephone per thousand of population and density of telephone per person

per kilometer shows the same trend as revealed by other three districts. Usually, the

density of telephone per thousand of population for urban areas is more in west

district than the rural areas. Similarly, more PCO's are functioning in the urban

areas than the rural areas. The district is also having nine commercial banks and

two cooperative banks. Like other districts, ATM services are provided mainly by

the Commercial banks including State Bank of India (SBI), United Bank of India

(UBI) among others.

The number of telephone connection, post offices and telephone centers are 1693,

54 and 9 respectively for the South District during the period. The density of

telephone per thousand of population and density of telephone per person per

kilometer shows the same trend as revealed by other three districts. Typically, the

density of telephone per thousand of population for urban areas is more in South

District than the rural areas. Similarly, more PCO's are functioning in the urban

areas than the rural areas. The district is also having fourteen commercial banks and

three cooperative banks. Like other districts, ATM services are provided mainly by

the Commercial banks including State Bank of India (SBI), United Bank of India

(UBI) among others.

131

4.A.8. TOURISM DEVELOPMENT INDEX (TDI):

Tourism Development Index (TDI) is a tool to measure district wise variation of

tourism activity in a particular region^^. This is a composite index, which

collectively represents the impact of various components for the development of

tourism activity. Higher value of index indicates higher concentration of tourism

activity in that destination. The TDI for jth district is computed as follows.

n=8

TDIj = Yxij /N 1=1

The following eight standard variables are included for construction of the above

index:

^ 1 : Percentage of tourist in the Jth district; X2: Percentage of hotels/guest houses

in the jth district;

X3: Occupancy Rate in the jth district; X4: Percentage of places of tourist

attractions in the jth district;

X5: Road density in the jth district; X6: Hospital beds per thousand of population in

the jth district;

X7: Post office per thousand of population in the jth district and

X8: Bank branches per thousand of population in the jth district.

" Sattar, S. and Shaban, A.(2000): Development of Tourism Industry in Sikkim: A Spatio-Temporal Analysis, Geographical Review of India, Vol. 62, No.4,p320

132

The variable XI represent the demand component of the tourism activity while the

other variables signify the supply component in the construction of the index. The

supply component comprised of attraction (X4), accommodation (X2, X3),

accessibility (X5), and infrastructural facilities (X6, X7, X8). N represents the total

number of variables used.

Table 4.19 : Tourism Development Index of Four Districts of Sikkim SI No

Parameters East North West Soutti

01 Percentage of tourist inflow in each district (X1 )a

02 Percentage of hotel/guest houses in the district (X2) b

03 Occupancy rate in the district (X3) b

04 Percentage of the places of tourist attractions (X4) c

05 Road density of the district (X5) d

06 Hospital beds per thousand of population in the district (X6) e

07 Post office per thousand of population (X7) d

08 Bank branches per thousand of population (X8) d

Total

70.00

61.74

24.07

27.45

0.94

0.49

0.30

0.26

185.25

5.00

12.85

18.57

25.49

0.05

0.51

0.06

0.02

62.55

15.00

19.5

13.95

23.53

0.82

1.03

0.35

0.08

74.26

10.00

5.91

10.64

23.53

1.40

0.6

0.37

0.12

52.57

TDI 23.15 7.82 9.28 6.57

Source: a. Tourism Annual Report 2010-11, Department of Tourism, Govt, of Sikkim b. Tourism Annual Report 2010-11, Department of Tourism, Govt, of Sikkim c. Department of Tourism, Govt, of Sikkim. d. Directorate of Industries, Govt, of Sikkim e. Sikkim Statistical Profile 2010-11, DESME. Govt, of Sikkim.

The above table shows TDI of four districts of Sikkim during 2010-11. The East

District is way ahead in terms of TDI compared to remaining three districts while

West, North and South District follows it descending order. It is an indicator of the

fact that highest tourism concentration took place in the East District; which is

considered to be the nerve centre of tourism activity in the State.

133

Let us further suppose that there is no difference between TDI of each district of

Sikkim. Applying chi square test at 5 per cent level of significance, at 3 degrees at

freedom. The calculated value of for chi square is 14.35 is greater than the tabulated

value of chi square at 5 per cent level of significance i.e. 7.81; hence the

assumption is rejected and significant difference exists between the TDI of all the

districts in Sikkim. Thus, TDI reflects tourism concentration of tourist influx in the

East District in general and Gangtok in particular.

4.B. FINDINGS OF THE TOURISTS SURVEY:

4.B.I. Tourist Attractions:

Of the foreign tourists surveyed, 79 per cent of them rated tourist attractions

(including recreation facilities) as excellent, 10 per cent termed it very good while

the other 10 per cent rated it as average; the rest one per cent of them did not

respond. 42 per cent of the domestic tourists surveyed expressed their satisfaction

about tourists attractions in Sikkim and ranked it excellent, 26 per cent of them

rated it very good while 22 per cent of them termed it as average. 5 per cent of them

are dissatisfied with tourism attractions in the State. The rest 6 per cent of them did

not respond during survey.

Table 4.20: Spot/Attraction Ratings of Tourists

Ratings

Excellent

Very Good

OK Not So Good

Poor

Non-response

Domestic Tourists

Number

140 86 74 0 16 20

Percentage

42 26 22 0 5 6

Foreign

Number

104 13 13 0 0 2

Tourists

Percentage

79 10 10 0 0 1

Source: Data Collected during Field Survey of Tourists.

134

4.B.2. Cultural Attractions:

Foreign tourists' surveyed expressed keen interest in local culture as 77 per cent of

them have the knowledge of the local culture prevailing in Sikkim; the rest 23 per

cent did not socialize with people of the chosen destination. 56 per cent of the

domestic tourists' expressed their interest in local culture during their visit to the

State while 43 per cent have shown lack of interest in the subject. The rest of the

domestic tourists' (one per cent) did not respond to the query.

24 and 44 per cent respectively of the domestic and foreign tourists' (table 4.21)

gathered information about local culture of the State through chatting and mixing

with the local residents during their stay in Sikkim. Social relations and proximity

to the State help domestic (4 per cent) and foreign tourists (5 per cent) to know

about Sikkimese culture. Invitation to cultural show and social function including

marriage brought domestic (4 per cent) and foreign tourists' (12 per cent) in touch

with local residents. Hotel staffs provides requisite information for 3 and 6 per cent

respectively of the domestic and foreign tourist during the their stay in Sikkim.

135

Table 4.21 : Tourists' Responses relating to Cultural Aspects of Sikkim

Responses

Chatting and Mixing witti ttie Local people

Social Relations and Proximity

Observation wtiile Travelling

During Cultural Show

From Hotel Staffs

Invited by the Local People for Social

Function and Cultural Show

While Wisiting Local Monasteries

Books, Literature, internet

With the help of Tourist Guide and Tour Operators

Don't know

Non Response

Total

Domestic Tourists

(Number)

79

13

5

8

11

13

5

3

6

193

336

% age

Response

of total

23.51

3.87

1.49

2.38

3.27

3.87

1.49

0.89

1.79

57

100

Foreign Tourists

(Number)

58

6

8

16

11

3

30

132

% age

Response

of total

43.94

4.55

6.06

12.12

8.33

2.27

22.73

100

Source: Data compiled during Field Survey of Tourists'

Rests of the domestic tourists' divulge that observation (2 per cent), attending

uninvited cultural shows (2 per cent), by visiting local monasteries (2 per cent),

book, literature, internet etc. enriched them regarding their knowledge concerning

Sikkimese culture. Significantly, two per cent of the foreign tourists fail to

recapitulate the source from which they gathered information about local culture.

4.B.3 Accommodation Facilities:

The responses from the survey relating to satisfaction of accommodation facilities

are also based on five point rating scale from excellent to poor. 30 per cent of the

domestic tourists and 31 per cent of the foreign tourists expressed their satisfaction

136

about accommodation facilities in the State and termed it as excellent. 16 per cent

domestic tourists rated it as very good while the other 48 per cent of them ranked it

as average. Similarly, 26 per cent of the foreign tourists reported it as very good

whereas and the other 39 per cent of them rated this service as average. Of the

remaining, 6 per cent and 3 per cent each of domestic and foreign tourists conveyed

their dissatisfaction relating to accommodation facilities offered.

Table 4.22 : Rating of Accommodation by Tourists Surveyed

Ratings

Excellent

Very Good

OK

Not So Good

Poor

Non-response

Domestic Tourists

Number

94

54

160

4

20

4

Percentage

30

16

48

1

6

1

Foreign Tourists

Number

41

34

51

0

4

2

Percentage

31

26

39

0

3

1

Source: Data collected during Field Survey of Tourists'.

Out of the total domestic tourists surveyed, 88 per cent of the domestic tourists

expressed their satisfaction about hotel services; 11 per cent of them conveyed their

dissatisfaction while one per cent did not respond. Majority of the foreign tourists

(83 per cent) surveyed are pleased with the hotel services provided to them whereas

3 per cent of them expressed their displeasure; at the same time 14 per cent did not

respond.

The major cause of displeasure cited by domestic tourists includes sub-standard

unhygienic hotel services (4 per cent), insufficient websites for hotels and non-up

gradation of connecting numbers (one per cent). One per cent of the foreign tourists

are dissatisfied with the water problem in the hotels.

137

4.B.4. Connectivity:

Earlier discussion suggests that Sikkim neither has train services nor air services in

its territory. Tourists visiting the State have to reach their destination either via New

Jalpaiguri or Siliguri by train/bus or air services respectively through the

neighboring State of West Bengal. Accordingly, schedules are drawn to cover

tourists' arrival up to New Jalpaigviri/Siliguri and then from there to reach the

ultimate destination. The survey reveals that tourists used different combination of

transportation from their place of residence to get into Sikkim. The table mentioned

below shows different combinations of mode of transportation used by domestic

and foreign tourists during survey.

Table 4.23 : Mode of Transportation of Preferred by Domestic and Foreign Tourists

Mode of Transportation

Train & Shared Taxi

Train & Chartered vehicle

Train & Bus

Chartered Vehicle

Personal Car

Public Bus & Shared Taxi

Shared Taxi

Air & Shared Taxi

Air &Chartered Vehicle

Bus & Chartered Vehicle

Air, Bus & Shared Taxi

Air, train & Bus

Air, Train & Shared Taxi

Air, Train & Chartered Vehicle

Air, Bus & Shared Taxi

Bus & Shared Taxi

Bus & Bus

Chartered Vehicle & Chartered Vehicle

Domestic

120

88

34

28

18

12

10

10

8

4

2

2

0

0

0

0

0

0

Foreign

14

4

0

10

0

0

2

22

36

0

0

0

12

20

2

8

2

2

% of Domestic Tourist

36

26

10

8

5

4

3

3

2

1

0.5

0.5

0

0

0

0

0

0

% of Foreign Tourist

11

3

0

8

0

0

1.5

17

27

0

0

0

9

15

1.5

6

0.5

0.5

Source: Data compiled during Field Survey of Tourists.

138

The table depicted above (table 4.23) reveals preference of domestic tourists for

train and shared taxi mode of transportation for reaching Sikkim as 36 per cent of

them opted for this combination. Train and Chartered Vehicles combination and

Train and Bus combination accounts for 26 per cent and 10 per cent respectively for

domestic visitors while air, train and bus/shared taxi (0.5 per cent) have opted by

least number of visitors. It is significant to mention that a portion of domestic

tourists (14 per cent) from neighboring States have opted for either chartered

vehicle or personal car as a means to reach Sikkim.

In case of foreign tourists', 27 per cent of them choose to travel via air and

chartered vehicle combination to reach the destination followed by air and shared

taxi (17 per cent), train and shared taxi (11 per cent), chartered vehicle (8 per cent)

etc. in descending order.

4.B.5. Tourist Satisfaction:

Tourist survey reveals interesting responses from tourists relating to status of

tourism in the State. On being asked about their tour assessment, cent per cent of

the foreign tourists and 99.2 per cent of the domestic tourists expressed satisfaction

regarding the tour down under. In absolute terms, 35 per cent of the domestic

tourists and 53 per cent of the foreign tourists rated their trip as excellent one; 37

and 33 per cent respectively of them rated it as very good whereas 27 and 14 per

cent of the domestic and foreign tourists assessed it as average.

139

Ratings

Table 4.24 : Tour Assessment Ral

Domestic Tourists

Number Percentage

ings of Tourists

Foreign Tourists

Number Percentage

Excellent

Very Good

OK

Not So Good

Poor

119

124

90

0

3

35

37

27

0

0.8

70

43

19

0

0

53

33

14

0

0

Source: Data collected during Field Survey of Tourists

Fig. 4.2 Percentage of Tourists' Willing to Come Back to Sikkim

Foreign Tourists'

Domestic tourists

20 40 60 80 100 120

• No

• Yes

Domestic tourists

6

94

Foreign Tourists' |

1

99

Source: Data Collected during Field Survey of Tourists

On an average about 97 per cent of the tourist surveyed (both domestic and foreign)

expressed their wish to make a trip to Sikkim once again. Precisely, 94 per cent of

the domestic and 99 per cent of the foreign tourists have conveyed their pleasure of

travelling to the State in the near future while 6 per cent and one per cent

respectively replied disapprovingly about for visiting Sikkim.

140

Tourists offer a variety of suggestion to improve the status of tourism in the State.

19 per cent of the domestic tourists and 5 per cent of foreign tourists identified

improvement of road condition including transport and communication is the prime

necessity for spread of tourism industry inside Sikkim. Availability of skilled

tourist guide and proper and timely accessibility of information are suggested by 7

per cent of the domestic and 13 per cent of the foreign tourists. Similarly, marketing

of tourist spots, qualitative foods, attractive tour packages, extended shopping hours

and creation of new tourist spots etc. are the areas which need immediate attention

as suggested by 7 per cent of domestic tourists. Reduction of permit charges is

advised by 5 per cent of the domestic and 18 per cent of the foreign tourists during

that period.

46 per cent of the domestic tourists surveyed reportedly did not face any problem

during the tour while 27 per cent did not give any response to the queries. Amongst

the rest, 6 per cent of them cited political strike in Darjeeling as the major problem

for touring Sikkim, 4 per cent refer to high rates of vehicles for travelling from one

tourism spot to other as the prime cause of concern for the tourists. 4 per cent of the

domestic tourists revealed that tourism service providers in Sikkim fails to provide

requisite information and guidance in respect of some tourism spots; the quality of

food, its high cost and bad service in the hotels including sanitation are cited as

main problems faced by 5 per cent of tourists while involvement of broker (2 per

cent), water and electricity problem (2 per cent), transport and communication

problem (0.5 per cent), non-availability of ATM services (one per cent), excessive

cost of necessaries in some tourism spots (3 per cent), bad roads (one per cent),

141

difficulty in getting on the spot accommodation (0.5 per cent) etc. are some of the

problems faced by tourists visiting the state.

52 per cent of the foreign tourist surveyed reported that they did not face any

problem while visiting Sikkim. The major problem visualized by foreign tourists

includes political strike in Darjeeling (11 per cent), bad roads and clean room (9 per

cent), lot of rubbish in the street (5 per cent), inconveniences created by Restricted

Area Permit (RAP) (3 per cent), cloudy sky (3 per cent) and cold (one per cent).

The rest 14 per cent did not respond to the question.

4.B.6. Quality of Food:

43 per cent of the foreign tourists rated quality of food as either excellent or very

good while remaining 12 per cent of them rated this service as average. In sharp

contrast to foreign tourists, 27 per cent of domestic tourists rated it as excellent, 21

termed it as very good and 45 per cent of them reported as average; while 6 per cent

of them expressed their dissatisfaction about quality of food provided to them

during survey period.

Table 4.25: Quality of Food Ratings of Tourists

Ratings Domestic Tourists

Number Percentage

Foreign Tourists

Number Percentage

Excellent

Very Good

OK

Not So Good

Poor

Non-response

90

70

151

2

21 2

27

21

45

0.6

6 0.6

57

57

16

0

0 2

43

43

12

0

0 1

Source; Data collected during Field Survey of Tourists

142

4.B.7. Shopping Facilities:

Survey confirms that 77 per cent each of domestic and foreign tourists' reportedly

visited local market/shops during their stay in Sikkim. The other 23 per cent of the

domestic tourists did not venture into market/shops during the trip. Amongst the

foreign tourists', 21 per cent abstain from visiting markets while the rest one per

cent did not respond.

Table 4.26 : Responses of Tourists' Visiting Local Markets

Responses

Yes

No

Non-responses

Domestic Tourists

(Number)

259

77

0

Foreign Tourists

(Number)

102

28

2

Source; Compiled during Survey

On being asked about did they purchase anything to take back to home, 55 per cent

of the domestic tourists and 50 per cent of the foreign tourists replied positively

regarding purchase of products from Sikkim. 42 per cent of the domestic tourist and

45 per cent of the foreign tourist replied negatively about it and the remaining two

per cent each of them did not respond. Interestingly, one per cent of the domestic

and four per cent of the foreign tourists' have divulged that they are planning to purchase

some products in their way back to home.

143

Fig. 4.4 : Responses of Tourists' regarding purchase of products

200

^ 150

100

50

^e-.^^

Response

I Domestic Tourist

Foreign Tourist

Table 4.27 : Range of Products Purchased by Tourists during their Visit

Responses

Socks

Yak Cheese

Traditional Clothing and garments

Handicrafts

Winter Garments

Souvenir

Tea

Ornaments / Jewellery

Cardamom

Sikkimese Hat

Globes

Wine

Bag

Necessaries

Electronic Items

Non-response

Domestic Touhsts

2

0

11

0

52

8

8

2

2

5

4

20

3

6

2

0

%

0.61

0

3.33

0

15.75

2.42

2.42

0.61

0.61

1.52

1.21

6.06

0.91

1.82

0.61

Foreign Tourists

3

2

3

13

4

37'

2

2

2

1

0

0

0

8

0

27

%

2.31

1.54

2.31

10.0

3.08

28.46

1.54

1.54

1.54

0.80

0

0

0

6.15

0

20.77

Source: Data collected during Field Survey of Tourists

Domestic and foreign tourists revealed a range of products they found interesting

during their trip to Sikkim. Maximum number of domestic tourists volunteered their

preference for winter garments followed by wine products, traditional clothing and

144

garments, souvenir, tea, necessaries, Sikkimese hat, gloves etc. descending order.

Least number of domestic tourists revealed their preferences ornaments, cardamom,

socks, as well as electronic items. Most of the foreign tourists have shown their

inclination for souvenir followed by handicrafts, necessaries, winter garments,

traditional clothing and garments, socks, tea/jewellery/cardamom etc. in that order.

Small number of tourists has their fondness for Sikkimese hat.

Domestic and foreign tourists put forward a divergent view on shopping facilities

available in the State. 90 per cent of the foreign tourists surveyed have favorable

opinion about shopping facilities existing in the State while 3 per cent of them are

dissatisfied with it. Out of them, 51 per cent rated it excellent, 21 per cent termed it

very good while 18 per cent revealed it as average with 6 per cent of them did not

respond. Consequently, 60 per cent of the domestic tourists have rated shopping

facilities in the state as either average or poor while 11 per cent of them did not

respond. Altogether, 19 per cent of the domestic tourists surveyed rated it excellent

and 10 per cent of them termed it very good.

Table 4.28 : Shopping Facilities Ratings of Tourists

Ratings Domestic Tourists

Number Percentage

Foreign Tourists

Number Percentage

Total

Number Percentage

Excellent

Very Good

OK

Not So Good

Poor

Non-response

64

32

176

0

26

38

19

10

52

0

8

11

68

28

24

0

4

8

51

21

18

0

3

6

132

60

200

0

30

46

29.46

13.39

44.64

0

6.7

10.27

Source: Data collected during Field Survey of Tourists'.

145

4.C. SUMMING UP THE CHAPTER:

These protected areas in the form of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries are in

center of attraction mainly for two reasons. Firstly, it helps generate much needed

resources from tourism for its maintenance and secondly, it plays its role in

maintaining ecological balance of the destination area. Sustainable tourism

practices call for striking a balance between ecological sustainability and economic

sustainability. The resource use and economic prosperity conflict demands

optimum use of natural resources so its incremental economic benefits percolate

down to future generations.

Cultural attractions are offered in the form of arranging cultural festivals, dance,

drama's organized by local communities to showcase their ethnic culture. Tourist -

host cultural exchanges can bring welcome changes in the life of resident

communities in the form of derived economic benefits. However, its impact upon

customs and habits of locals has to be thought through otherwise it can result in

social unrest.

The majority of the trek trails in the State are located in fragile mountain regions;

limited movement of trekkers can maintain economic sovereignty of the locals, in

the one hand, and ecological sustainability of the destination on the other. However,

there are reports of overcrowding of trek trails, especially the Yuksam-Dzongri trek

trail, would have lasting impact upon the Sikkim in general and concerned

destination in particular.

146

Tourist movement suggests that there are three circuits prevailing in Sikkim i/e.

Gangtok Circuit, Felling Circuit and Ravangla Circuit. However, Gangtok based

circuits are busiest circuit in the State remain overcrowded during peak season had

its impact upon the land and masses of the State.

Sikkim has been experiencing grov^h of a number of hotels especially in the budget

category. The growth of accommodation sector indicates the predominance of East

District of Sikkim in terms of number of hotels, rooms and beds available during

the course of eight years (2001-02 to 2009-10). The district embraced 62 per cent of

the hotels, 68 per cent of rooms and 69 per cent of the available beds in the State

during 2009-10; an indication of haphazard growth of tourism activities in the

State.

Sikkim recorded 0.98 and 1.04 vehicle per square kilo metre during the period of

2006-07 and 2008-09, which is higher than North East average for the same.

During 2009-10, Sikkim has registered 880 contract/stage carriers and 41 luxury

tourist vehicles to facilitate traffic volume in the State. '' Hence, it, thus, enhances

vehicle per square kilo metre area to 1.17 till 2009-10. However, increase in such a

huge number of vehicles in would create congestion, vehicular pollution and its

direct impact upon land mass of the State.

The State Government attaches prime emphasis on tourism safety measures. In

order to instill confidence in the tourism practices, the Government has already

established complaint, grievance and suggestion cell within the tourism department.

^* Govt, of Sikkim.(2012)Transport Department, Motor Vehicle Division. 147

It is further strengthened by involving interlinked departments and tourism service

providers. Immediate redressal of grievances will be taken up for discussion, if

possible on online basis. Sikkim tourism police is created serve tourists at twelve

tourist destinations inside Sikkim.

Creation of concrete structures across Sikkim has recorded highest growth rate

during 1991-2001 by replacing traditional houses has had its effect upon the

environment. Access to safe drinking water, electricity as well as latrines has

registered marked improvement in rural Sikkim during 1991-2001; a precondition

for tourism growth in the State.

Sikkim generates 0.45 per capita of solid waste per day amounts to 8.75 kgs per

square kilo meter area of the State. The total quantity of mvmicipal solid waste

generated is about 42 tonnes per day (0.27 per cent) and the problem is mainly in

urban areas. Further, the lone composting plant at Martam is unable to handle such

a quantum of mvmicipal solid waste would result in health problem for the

residents' in general and tourist in particular.

Local cuisines in Sikkim are full of nutritional value and served to tourists as a part

of culinary tourism. Traditional foods in Sikkim are generally categorized into

fermented foods and beverages produced by micro-organism and non-fermented

foods. The promotion of culinary tourism in the State itself would benefit local

residents in two ways. Firstly, it helps generate much needed revenue for locals by

using home grown cereals; and finally would reduce the leakage effect in tourist

destinations like Sikkim

148

The State government has introduced a good network of tourist information centres,

cafeterias, wayside amenities, public convenience etc. to serve tourist as and when

required. However, it involves a unique form tokenism rather addressing the issues

at hand. Most often, this services are not provided in remote centres which badly

affects the information access of tourists in those destinations

Banking and communication services divulges that the East District is having

highest number of telephone connection, post offices and telephone centers

spreading over 954 square kilo metre. The density of telephone per thousand

persons is 142.37 in urban areas while the same is 11.28 persons in rural areas. This

is another example of lopsided development in the State.

Tourism development index (TDI) indicates concentration of tourism in the East

District of the State which has become nerve centre of tourism activity of the State.

76 per cent of the foreign tourist surveyed have rated tourist attractions as excellent

whereas 42 per cent of ranked it as excellent during the course of tourist survy.

Foreign tourists' surveyed expressed keen interest in local culture as 77 per cent of

them have the knowledge of the local culture prevailing in Sikkim; 56 per cent of

the domestic tourists have revealed their interest for local customs and traditions

during their stay in the State.

On an average about 97 per cent of the tourist surveyed (both domestic and foreign)

expressed their wish to make a trip to Sikkim once again. Precisely, 94 per cent of

the domestic and 99 per cent of the foreign tourists have conveyed their pleasure of

travelling to the State in the near fiiture. 46 per cent of the domestic tourists

149

surveyed reportedly did not face any problem during the toiir while in the case of

foreign tourists, 52 per cent of them did not face any problem while touring Sikkim.

43 per cent of the foreign tourists rated quality of food as either excellent or very

good while remaining 12 per cent of them rated this service as average. In sharp

contrast to foreign tourists, 27 per cent of domestic tourists rated it as excellent, 21

termed it as very good and 45 per cent of them reported as average;

Survey confirms that 77 per cent each of domestic and foreign tourists' reportedly

visited local market/shops during their stay in Sikkim.

Tourist reveals preference of domestic tourists for train and shared taxi mode of

transportation for reaching Sikkim as 36 per cent of them opted for this

combination. Train and Chartered Vehicles combination and Train and Bus

combination accounts for 26 per cent and 10 per cent respectively for domestic

visitors while air, train and bus/shared taxi (0.5 per cent) have opted by least

number of visitors.

150