
Gangtok, Sikkim – May 29, 2025
Travel Advisory Issued Ahead of Prime Minister’s Visit
The Sikkim government has officially issued a travel advisory, urging tourists who are planning to leave Gangtok on May 29, 2025, to depart by 6:00 AM. This advisory has been issued in light of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the state, which coincides with the celebrations marking Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Day. The advisory, released on May 26, 2025, by the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, serves to facilitate smooth traffic movement and bolster security during this high-profile event.
The reason for the early departure request is rooted in the need to streamline traffic flow and implement heightened security measures across Gangtok and other key areas. The Prime Minister’s visit, which will draw significant attention, requires meticulous planning to ensure both the safety of attendees and the smooth execution of the celebrations.
Ensuring Smooth Traffic Flow and Heightened Security
On May 16, 2025, the state of Sikkim marked a momentous occasion, celebrating 50 years of Statehood. This year’s Statehood Day holds additional weight as it represents the golden jubilee of the state’s integration with India. To commemorate this milestone, Prime Minister Modi is set to visit Gangtok on May 29, further elevating the significance of the event.
The Tourism & Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim emphasized the importance of maintaining uninterrupted traffic flow and enforcing tight security measures around the capital city, particularly as the Prime Minister’s visit unfolds. To facilitate these efforts, all tourists planning to leave Gangtok on May 29 are strongly advised to do so by 6:00 AM. The decision is intended to mitigate congestion on the narrow, winding mountain roads and provide the security forces with the necessary time to manage and secure the event location effectively.
Preparing for an Early Start
Visitors to Gangtok are urged to plan their departure ahead of time, ensuring that arrangements with local hotels and transport services are made in advance. Travelers should take proactive measures to avoid any last-minute disruptions. Many hotels and tour operators in Gangtok are expected to cooperate by offering early check-outs and organizing transport services to help tourists comply with the early departure recommendation.
For tourists, the key to a hassle-free experience on this day is to be proactive in organizing logistics. Early planning will ensure that visitors can avoid potential delays that might arise from the increased security presence and traffic management efforts surrounding the Prime Minister’s visit.
Heightened Security Measures Across Sikkim and North Bengal
Beyond Gangtok, security measures are being heightened throughout Sikkim and into parts of North Bengal, including Alipurduar. The Prime Minister’s itinerary on May 29 includes a helicopter ride from Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok, followed by a visit to Alipurduar in the afternoon. Later in the day, he will depart for Patna through Hasimara Air Base.
Given the significance of the Prime Minister’s visit, coordinated security arrangements across these regions are crucial to ensure public safety. In preparation for the event, Sikkim’s Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang conducted a final review of all logistical arrangements at Paljor Stadium on May 26, ensuring that everything is in place for the grand occasion. The state government, in collaboration with local agencies, is working diligently to guarantee that the event goes off smoothly without any incidents.
A Momentous Occasion for Sikkim
Every year, Sikkim’s Statehood Day is celebrated on May 16 to mark the state’s official merger with India. However, the golden jubilee celebrations on May 16, 2025 hold special significance. This milestone is a reflection of the state’s five decades of growth, not just in terms of its democratic evolution, but also its socio-economic development and cultural integration within the broader context of India.
For travelers visiting Sikkim on May 29, this will undoubtedly impact their travel plans. With the focus on security and traffic management around the celebrations, it is highly recommended that visitors prepare in advance for potential disruptions. The request for early departures is made with the intention of maintaining order and minimizing inconvenience for both residents and tourists.
Global Impact on Travel
The global tourism industry may experience a ripple effect due to the enhanced security measures and the national attention on Sikkim’s Statehood Day celebrations. Tourists who had planned to visit India during this time may encounter delays or diversions, particularly in regions such as Gangtok and Alipurduar. As India remains one of the top global tourist destinations, the added security protocols and logistical changes surrounding this high-profile event could influence travelers’ overall experiences.
International tourists who plan to travel through North Bengal or Sikkim should keep an eye on the local advisories and consider adjusting their travel schedules accordingly to avoid any potential disruptions.
Key Information for Travelers
- Depart by 6:00 AM if you plan to leave Gangtok on May 29, 2025.
- Ensure you have coordinated with local transport services and hotels ahead of time to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Increased security presence will be felt across Sikkim and parts of North Bengal, especially in Alipurduar, where the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit later that day.
Final Thoughts
The 50th Statehood Day of Sikkim is a momentous occasion not just for the state but for the entire nation. With Prime Minister Modi attending the celebrations, the event takes on even greater significance, symbolizing both cultural integration and democratic growth. For Sikkim, this milestone represents a rich history of development, making it a key moment to reflect on its past and look forward to its future.
As travelers prepare to visit Sikkim during this historic occasion, they should remain aware of the travel advisory and the associated security and traffic arrangements. By following the Sikkim government’s recommendations, tourists will not only ensure their own safety but also contribute to the smooth operation of what promises to be a remarkable event in the state’s history.
Source: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/sikkim-government-issues-critical-travel-advisory-for-tourists-departing-gangtok-in-anticipation-of-prime-minister-modis-landmark-visit-and-fifth-statehood-day-commemoration-heres-al/