Sikkim Enforces Tourist Tax for Sustainable Development

The Sikkim government mandates all tourist accommodation providers to contribute to a sustainable development fund. A fee of Rs 50 per tourist is collected to support tourism infrastructure. The government threatens fines and de-registration for non-compliance under the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Act.

The Sikkim government has introduced a new mandate requiring all tourist accommodation providers to contribute to the Tourism Sustainable Development (TSD) fund. The directive aims to enhance the state's tourism infrastructure.

The Tourism and Civil Aviation Department has instructed hotels, resorts, and other accommodation providers to charge a Rs 50 fee per tourist, which will be submitted to the government through the Atithi Guest Information System. This initiative, launched in March 2025, seeks to promote sustainable tourism and improve facilities.

Additional Director of Tourism Tenzing Gelay Bhutia has warned businesses of penalties, including fines and possible de-registration, for failing to comply with this statutory requirement, as outlined in the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade (SRTT) Act, 2024, and related rules.

(With inputs from agencies.)