The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, will organize the 13th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) for the North Eastern Region from 13 to 16 November 2025 in Gangtok, Sikkim. The event will be inaugurated by Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in the presence of Shri Prem Singh Tamang, Chief Minister of Sikkim, and Shri Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh. Tourism Ministers from the North Eastern States and senior officials from both the Ministry of Tourism and State Governments will also participate.
Flagship Event to Promote North East as a Global Tourism Destination
The International Tourism Mart is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Tourism designed to project the North Eastern Region — referred to as the “Ashta Lakshmi” of India — as a premier travel destination. The Mart aims to showcase the region’s unique natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure tourism opportunities while encouraging sustainable and inclusive tourism development.
The 13th edition in Gangtok reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to developing the North East as a hub for eco-tourism, wellness, culture, and adventure travel. This year’s event aligns with the Ministry’s Travel for Life initiative, which promotes responsible and environmentally conscious tourism.
Sikkim: Model State for Sustainable Tourism
Hosting the ITM in Sikkim carries special importance. The state has been recognized nationally and internationally for its exemplary model of sustainable and responsible tourism. Known for its pristine landscapes, organic farming, rich spiritual heritage, and vibrant local traditions, Sikkim embodies the Ministry’s vision of community-led, eco-friendly tourism development.
Global Participation and Collaborative Sessions
The 13th ITM will attract participants from around the world, with representatives from 19 countries including Spain, Thailand, France, Russia, Germany, and Vietnam. The event will feature 39 international tour operators, 5 international influencers, 50 domestic buyers, 20 domestic influencers, travel media professionals, and 91 domestic sellers.
A series of technical sessions, panel discussions, product presentations, and B2B meetings will take place to foster collaboration between domestic and international stakeholders. Discussions with State Tourism Officials will focus on themes such as cinematic tourism, homestays, youth entrepreneurship, digital innovation, sustainability, and adventure tourism.
Cultural Showcases and Site Visits
The Mart will feature cultural performances representing the North East’s rich artistic traditions. Participants will also take part in technical visits to major sites in and around Gangtok, including the Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. Product presentations will highlight tourism segments such as wildlife and river cruises, heritage crafts, culinary experiences, and festivals.
After the event, familiarization tours will be organized across various North Eastern States, providing domestic and international participants with firsthand experiences of the region’s cultural and natural diversity.
Promoting the North East as a Global Tourism Hub
The 13th International Tourism Mart in Gangtok symbolizes the Government’s commitment to transforming the North East into a global tourism hub. With its serene landscapes, vibrant communities, and strong focus on sustainability, Sikkim offers an ideal setting for this prestigious event. The Mart represents a collective effort to celebrate India’s diversity while promoting responsible, inclusive tourism that benefits both people and the environment.