Nearly 1,000 tourists are stranded in North Sikkim following severe landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, prompting local authorities to suspend travel permits to the region. The district administration has directed all tour operators to refrain from sending tourists to North Sikkim until further notice, as the situation continues to deteriorate.
On Thursday, April 24, 2025, around 200 tourist vehicles were reported stranded at Chungthang, a location approximately 100 kilometers from Gangtok, the state capital. The stranded tourists are currently taking shelter in a local Gurudwara, according to officials from the region.
Massive landslides have been reported at Munshithang on the Lachen-Chungthang road and at Lema/Bob on the Lachung-Chungthang road, severely hampering vehicular movement. "A massive landslide has occurred at Munshithang on the Lachen-Chungthang road and Lachung-Chungthang road. Further, it has been raining continuously in North Sikkim. The road to Chungthang is open, but due to heavy rain, it cannot be accessed at night," said Sonam Dechu Bhutia, Superintendent of Police for Mangan district.
In light of the ongoing weather conditions, the district administration has canceled all permits for tourists intending to visit North Sikkim on April 25, 2025. Access to popular hill stations like Lachung and Lachen, known for their stunning natural beauty and proximity to attractions such as Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley, has been severely impacted.
The heavy rainfall and landslides in North Sikkim coincide with a challenging time for the region, which has recently faced security issues. Earlier this week, the Jammu-Srinagar national highway was reopened for one-way traffic after being closed for three days due to landslides. This closure was exacerbated by a terror attack in Pahalgam, Anantnag district, which left at least 26 people dead, primarily tourists.
Officials are working to ensure the safety of those stranded and are assessing the situation as it develops. Local authorities are coordinating with tour operators and emergency services to provide necessary assistance to the stranded tourists.
As the weather forecast predicts continued rainfall, the district administration remains vigilant, emphasizing the importance of safety for both tourists and local residents. The suspension of travel permits reflects a cautious approach to prevent further complications in an already precarious situation.
In the meantime, tourists are advised to remain calm and patient as they await updates regarding their travel plans. The local administration has assured that they are doing everything possible to facilitate a safe return for all stranded individuals.
Travelers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels for the latest updates on weather conditions and travel advisories. The situation in North Sikkim serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather in mountainous regions and the importance of preparedness when traveling in such areas.
As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on ensuring that all tourists are safe and accounted for, while also addressing the immediate challenges posed by the landslides and heavy rains. The community continues to demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity, as local organizations and volunteers step up to assist those in need.
In conclusion, the combination of natural disasters and security concerns has created a complex situation for North Sikkim. Authorities are actively working to manage the crisis while prioritizing the well-being of tourists and residents alike.
