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♤ The Himalayan Homestays programme fosters conservation-based community managed tourism development in remote settlements, by gradually building local capacity and ownership.
♤ It stands out as an example that aims to be sensitive to both host and visitor expectations without compromising the aspirations of host communities, and at the same time seeks to balance these aspects with conservation of the area’s unique cultural and natural heritage.
Highlights of Sikkim’s Ecotourism Policy
♤ “Sikkim - the Ultimate Tourist Destination” is the policy motto of the state. The state is employing a system of environmental fees, and permits for entries, and stay time restrictions in some environmentally sensitive high altitude/ pristine areas.
♤ Operationalization of tourism in various modes, such as village tourism, nature tourism, wildlife tourism, trekking/adventure tourism, and cultural tourism in the state and institutionalization of tourism management at the community level.
♤ Promotion and use of local art & craft, cuisines, etc., along with organizing tourism fairs and festivals.
♤ Imparting training in tourism related service industries.
The efforts made by Sikkim can be a basis of responsible tourism in other Himalayan states.