Sikkim will now allow fully vaccinated travellers to enter the state. The state government in an order stated that from July 5 onwards, travellers who have received both the jabs of COVID vaccine will now be allowed to enter the state, without having to produce a negative RT-PCR report.
As per the order, “Entry of all persons, including tourists, who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, shall be allowed entry from Melli and Rangpo check post, without RT-PCR negative report, on production of valid vaccination documents. For all others, existing restrictions will continue to apply.”
The order further states that all guest houses, hotels, and homestays would be allowed to operate with 50 per cent capacity. However, the establishments are required to follow COVID-19 protocol that have been laid out by the government. As per the order, showrooms and malls will also be allowed to operate, with strict adherence of COVID-19 protocols.
The Sikkim Hotel and Restaurant Association (SHRA) welcomed the state government’s decision to open the tourism industry, which is the highlight of Sikkim’s economy. They stated that they will ensure COVID guidelines are in place for the safety of people.
Tourists were not allowed to enter Sikkim since March this year, following the second wave of COVID. Sikkim also announced 'Visit Sikkim 2022', at the end of the year, as a campaign to revive the pandemic-struck tourism sector of the state.
