Sikkim, July 13 (Siliguri Chronicle) – Soreng, a picturesque town in West Sikkim, has been named the Most Promising New Destination at the Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) Calcutta 2025. The recognition is expected to give a major boost to the region’s efforts to promote slow tourism, which encourages visitors to explore at a relaxed pace and connect deeply with local culture and nature.
A delegation from Sikkim, led by Deputy Speaker of the Sikkim Assembly Rajkumari Thapa and Soreng-Chakung MLA Aditya Golay, took part in the event. Aditya Golay is the eldest son of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay).
Aditya Golay, a prominent advocate of community-based tourism in Sikkim, described the award as a “collective achievement” for Soreng. He said the recognition reflects the efforts of the local community in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism. “This award validates Soreng’s natural charm, our grassroots tourism efforts, and the state’s strong focus on sustainability under chief minister Prem Singh Tamang’s leadership,” he said.
Created in 2021, Soreng district has quickly emerged as a model for community-driven tourism, with locals playing a key role in shaping travel experiences that are sustainable and culturally rooted.
Aditya outlined plans to develop Soreng as a hub for slow tourism, which focuses on immersive travel, local culture, and sustainable practices.
“Unlike conventional tourism, slow tourism is about connection with people, nature, and the rhythm of the place. We are making it easier for travellers to stay longer, even work remotely, with amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi in rural areas,” said Aditya.
“An adventure tourism park is also on the cards, with attractions ranging from ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) rides and paragliding to bird watching.”
For spiritually inclined travellers, Aditya announced plans for a Vrindavan Dham at Dodok, near Soreng. Another project, titled Stairs to Heaven, is being developed at Daramdin, about 23 km from the town.
According to sources, Soreng’s presentation at TTF impressed the jury with captivating video features, exhibits from 10 village tourism committees, and support from local tourism bodies such as the Soreng Tourism Development Association (STDA), Travel Agents Association of Sikkim (TAAS), and Sikkim United Tour Operators (SUTO).
Homestay promoters, eco-tourism experts, and representatives from the Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure and Ecotourism (IHCAE) were also part of the Sikkim delegation.
Bikash Basnet, political secretary to the chief minister, said Sikkim’s participation in TTF 2025 underscored the state’s renewed focus on inclusive and sustainable tourism.
“TTF gave us a valuable platform to showcase Sikkim’s diversity, forge partnerships and present new initiatives that position our state as a leading destination in the Eastern Himalayas,” he said.
The Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) Calcutta 2025 is being held at the Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan.
