In a significant achievement for the State's tourism sector, Sikkim Tourism has been honoured with the prestigious "Most Instagrammable Landscape – Hairpin Bends near Zuluk, Sikkim" award at the India Today Tourism Survey & Awards 2026 held in Goa.
In a significant achievement for the State's tourism sector, Sikkim Tourism has been honoured with the prestigious "Most Instagrammable Landscape – Hairpin Bends near Zuluk, Sikkim" award at the India Today Tourism Survey & Awards 2026 held in Goa.
The award celebrates the extraordinary natural beauty and visual appeal of the iconic hairpin bends near Zuluk in East Sikkim, a destination renowned for its spectacular Himalayan vistas and one of the most photographed landscapes in the country. The recognition highlights Sikkim's growing prominence as a premier travel destination and underscores the State's commitment to promoting sustainable and experiential tourism.
The award was presented by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon'ble Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Government of India,and Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Goa.
The honour was received on behalf of the Government of Sikkim by Shri.Tshering T. Bhutia, Hon'ble Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, accompanied by Shri Sonam Norgay Lachungpa, Chairman, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim.
As part of the event, Shri. Tshering T Bhutia also participated in the Tourism Conclave attended by leading policymakers, tourism experts, industry stakeholders and representatives from across the country. During the deliberations, the Hon'ble Minister highlighted Sikkim's immense tourism potential, emphasizing the State's unique blend of pristine natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, adventure tourism opportunities and strong commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
The Hon'ble Minister further showcased the Government's vision for positioning Sikkim as a world-class tourism destination through responsible tourism development, improved connectivity, eco-friendly initiatives and community-based tourism models that ensure inclusive growth while preserving the State's fragile mountain ecosystem.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Shri. Tshering T Bhutia stated that the award is a testament to the collective efforts of the Government, local communities and tourism stakeholders in promoting Sikkim's unparalleled natural beauty and unique visitor experiences. He noted that such national recognition will further strengthen Sikkim's position on the global tourism map and inspire continued efforts towards excellence in tourism development.
The Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, remains committed to advancing sustainable tourism practices while preserving the State's ecological and cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from Sikkim's remarkable natural and cultural assets.
This prestigious recognition further reinforces Sikkim's standing as one of India's most sought-after tourism destinations and is expected to enhance its appeal among domestic and international travellers.