Eco and Adventure tourism institute in Sikkim by 2008

In a bid to increase the eco-tourism and adventure tourism offerings in the state, Sikkim Tourism plans to set-up an eco and adventure tourism institute in the southern part of the state by mid-2008. An investment of Rs 15 crore has already been earmarked for the project from the state tourism board, as well as the Government of India.

Commenting on the project, GP Upadhaya, Secretary Tourism, Sikkim, said, "The name of the institute has not yet been finalised. It will be set-up by Sikkim Tourism, while the operations will be leased to a professional company, which has expertise in the field of ecotourism and adventure tourism. We have already approached the Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS) to review the credentials of the company that will look after the management of the institute."

In terms of the courses that are slated to be offered at the institute, Upadhaya claims that it is too premature to disclose anything at present. As of now, the plan is to offer long-term courses for three to six months, as well as short-term courses for a span of 10-12 days. The courses will be aimed at both, the domestic and international travellers.

Apart from this, the state will also be hosting an International Flower Show for a month, starting March 17, 2008, at Saramsa Garden near Gangtok. About 20 countries are expected to participate in the show. "March is the peak season in terms of tourists' arrivals - domestic and international - to Sikkim," offered Upadhaya.

Source: Travel Biz