Sikkim Imposes Stricter Regulations on Tourist Transport, Standardizes Taxi Tariffs between Gangtok and Nathula
Sticking Up for Tourists: In a bid to keep those exploring Sikkim from being stung by excessive charges, the government of Sikkim has standardized taxi fares between Gangtok and Nathula Pass. This move comes in light of grumbles about exorbitant travel permit fees imposed by tour operators.
Many wanderers felt short-changed and reluctant to uncover the stunning locales due to the hefty expenses. The revelation from Principal Secretary of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, C. S. Rao, sets the fare for luxury cars at ₹7,000 and for regular vehicles at ₹6,500 for a round trip, with permit charges included, effective forthwith.
A regulatory order was passed after a high-level meeting presided over by Chief Secretary V. B. Pathak, attended by key officials including DGP A. K. Singh and representatives from the Home, Tourism, and Transport Departments. This directive is geared towards instilling transparency and shielding tourists from being gouged, promoting a fair travel experience in Sikkim.
To lend a helping hand to tourists, the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department has divulged contact numbers for lodging any fare-related complaints: the department can be reached at 9434182178, the Police Check Post at 7908081127, and the Transport Department at 9434126851.
The authorities have assured stringent implementation of these rates under the Central Motor Vehicle Act 1988, CMV Rules 1989, and Sikkim Motor Vehicles Rules 1991.
To manage tourist flow and avoid overcrowding, the government has limited the number of permits issued for Nathula to 800 vehicles until June 30.
The central government had previously chided Sikkim for high taxi fares and travel permit expenses burdening tourists visiting the mesmerizing state.
Nathula Pass: More Than Just a Pass
Nathula Pass (14,140 feet) is a vital mountain pass in the Himalayas. Positioned along the border between India and China, it connects the Indian state of Sikkim with China's Tibet Autonomous Region. This pass is a sought-after tourist locale, appreciated for its breathtaking panoramas and historical significance.
The voyage from Gangtok to Nathula offers jaw-dropping vistas of the Eastern Himalayas, providing opportunities to witness the rich biodiversity and distinctive landscapes of the region.
At one point part of the ancient Silk Route, Nathula Pass facilitated trade between India and Tibet. Following its closure after the Sino-Indian War of 1962, Nathula Pass was reopened in 2006 for limited trade.
Travelers venturing to Nathula Pass can now enjoy a fair and affordable lifestyle thanks to the government's regulation of taxi fares. With luxury cars set at ₹7,000 and regular vehicles at ₹6,500 for a round trip, tourists can visit this historical and scenic pass without concerns about overpriced travel expenses. This initiative supports travel to Sikkim, inviting more visitors to experience the stunning vistas and rich biodiversity along the Silk Route.
