Sikkim will host the 13th International Tourism Mart from November 13–16, showcasing Northeast India’s natural beauty, culture, and adventure potential. The event highlights sustainable tourism, global partnerships, and India’s vision to make the Northeast a world-class travel destination.
Sikkim is set to host the 13th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) for the North Eastern Region from November 13 to 16, reaffirming India’s commitment to promoting the Northeast as a global tourism hotspot. The event, organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, aims to highlight the region’s natural beauty, cultural richness, adventure opportunities, and sustainable tourism practices.
A Platform to Showcase the “Ashta Lakshmi” of India
The International Tourism Mart, an annual flagship initiative of the Ministry, celebrates the tourism potential of the eight north-eastern states — often referred to as the “Ashta Lakshmi” of India. The 2025 edition in Gangtok seeks to position the region as a preferred destination for eco-tourism, wellness, culture, and adventure on the global map.
According to an official release, the event will be inaugurated by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in the presence of Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Tourism Ministers of other Northeastern states, and senior officials from both the Centre and State Governments.
Sikkim: A Model for Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
Hosting the ITM in Gangtok carries special significance. Sikkim has long been recognized for its sustainable tourism model, driven by community participation, organic farming, and environmental conservation. With its pristine Himalayan landscapes, spiritual heritage, and vibrant ethnic culture, Sikkim embodies the ideals of responsible tourism that the Ministry of Tourism aims to promote across India.
The event is being organized in alignment with the Ministry’s flagship “Travel for Life” initiative, which focuses on environmentally responsible travel and lifestyle practices. By choosing Sikkim as the venue, the government underscores the state’s pioneering role in promoting eco-friendly, inclusive, and people-centric tourism.
International Participation and Global Collaboration
The 13th ITM will attract wide global participation, featuring delegates from 19 countries, including Spain, Thailand, France, Russia, Germany, and Vietnam. Around 39 international tour operators, 5 international influencers, 50 domestic buyers, 20 domestic influencers, and 91 domestic sellers are expected to participate.
The Mart will serve as a vibrant platform for business-to-business (B2B) interactions, product presentations, and technical sessions to foster collaboration between domestic and international tourism stakeholders. Discussions will focus on cinematic tourism, homestay development, youth entrepreneurship, digital innovation, sustainability, and adventure tourism.
Cultural Showcases and Experiential Tourism
Beyond business meetings, the ITM will feature a range of cultural performances, showcasing the art, dance, and music traditions of the North East. Participants will also embark on technical visits to iconic locations in and around Gangtok — including the Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology — to experience Sikkim’s heritage and spirituality first-hand.
In addition, product presentations will highlight the region’s diverse tourism assets — from wildlife and river cruises to handicrafts, heritage festivals, and culinary traditions. Following the main event, familiarization tours will be conducted across various northeastern states, offering participants a firsthand view of the region’s natural and cultural treasures.
Driving Northeast India’s Tourism Vision
The International Tourism Mart 2025 represents more than a regional showcase — it’s a reaffirmation of the Government’s vision to transform the Northeast into a global tourism hub. With its serene landscapes, biodiversity, and welcoming communities, the region has the potential to become a leading destination for nature, culture, and adventure seekers from around the world.
As India accelerates its push for sustainable growth under the “Dekho Apna Desh” and “Travel for Life” campaigns, the event also reinforces the government’s strategy to link tourism with livelihood creation, women empowerment, and rural development.
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In the words of tourism experts, Gangtok’s hosting of ITM 2025 is not just a milestone event — it’s a symbol of unity in diversity and a testament to how responsible tourism can drive inclusive development across India’s most scenic frontiers.
