‘Supercar drive opens a new chapter for Sikkim tourism’

GANGTOK,: The supercar rally along high-altitude border roads of East Sikkim including Nathu La, Tsomgo and Cho La on December 13-14 has brought global visibility for the Himalayan State besides opening new tourism opportunities.
“The event has created global visual appeal through media coverage, social media, and word-of-mouth from participants, which will inspire more travellers to explore Sikkim,” said Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha, the Chief Minister’s additional political secretary (Gangtok district).
Tshering Wangchuk played a pivotal role in the smooth conduct of the ‘Sikkim-The Silk Route Drive’, a self-funded and self-driven rally by a high-profile group based in Mumbai. The rally in Sikkim from December 12-15 was supported by the Indian Army under the ‘Ranbhoomi Darshan’ initiative while the State government extended logistical and administrative support.
“We have successfully concluded the memorable “Sikkim – The Silk Route Drive”, organised under the aegis of the Trishakti Corps, Black Cat Division, and the Government of Sikkim. This unique drive led by Zain Rais (Bay Entertainment) was not just an event, but a proud moment for Sikkim, showcasing our historic Silk Route, breathtaking landscapes, and the spirit of collaboration between civil administration and the Indian Army,” said Tshering Wangchuk in a media statement.
The flag-off was done by Lt Gen Manraj Singh Mann, GOC Trishakti Corps, at the Indian Army Base Camp, Sukna near Siliguri. The supercars travelled along the NH 10 on December 12 where they were warmly received at Rangpo before reaching Gangtok.
The journey reached a historic milestone on December 14 at Cho La Pass (14,300 ft), where the 17 supercar owners were given a grand reception and flag ceremony by the Governor of Sikkim, Om Prakash Mathur. This moment symbolised trust, coordination, and Sikkim’s readiness to host world-class experiential tourism.
“I sincerely thank the Government of Sikkim under the leadership of Chief Minister P.S. Golay, along with the Indian Army, Tourism department, Culture department, IPR department, SIMFED, Sikkim Police, DAC Gangtok, media fraternity and all supporting organisations including SIBIN, SAMSA, CCS, The Brothers, OMAS, DAMC and every well-wisher who contributed with guidance, effort, and encouragement,” said Tshering Wangchuk.
Regarding its impact on Sikkim Tourism, the additional political secretary maintained that this super car rally has opened a new chapter for Sikkim tourism. 
“It sends a strong message to the world that Sikkim is safe, well-organised, and capable of hosting premium and high-end tourism experiences while respecting nature and culture. The event has created global visual appeal through media coverage, social media, and word-of-mouth from participants, which will inspire more travellers to explore Sikkim,” he said.
In the coming days, this will help to promote the Old Silk Route as a signature international tourism circuit, attract luxury, adventure, and experiential tourists, create opportunities for local guides, homestays, hotels, transport providers, and artisans, and encourage responsible tourism and infrastructure development, he said.
“Most importantly, it strengthens Sikkim’s image as a destination where heritage, adventure, sustainability, and hospitality go hand in hand. This drive was not the end, but the beginning of many such initiatives that will place Sikkim firmly on the global tourism map,” said Tshering Wangchuk.