(TAN): India’s Sikkim state, nestled in the Himalayas, will reopen for tourists from October 10, reports said, citing government officials.
The Gangtok Municipal Corporation area, however, will be under complete lockdown for seven days during September 21–27 to contain the spread of Covid-19. Gangtok is the state capital.
The borders of the state with the neighbouring West Bengal will also be opened for unrestricted movement of vehicles from October 1. According to the officials, the tourism department in consultation with the health department will issue a standard operating procedure (SOP) for the hotels and the tourism sector shortly. Hotels and homestays complying with the SOP will be allowed to take bookings from September 27.
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Sikkim government Principal Secretary R. Telang said the odd-even road restrictions on movement of taxis and passenger vehicles will be withdrawn from October 1. Private vehicles will have to continue following the restrictions till further order. All the shops except those selling essential items will remain closed.
Sikkim is a popular tourist destination, both for domestic and international tourists.
