Preserving Authenticity: Sikkim's move to restrict third-party rentals of homestays

The government of Sikkim, a picturesque Himalayan state in India known for its natural beauty and tourism appeal, has implemented a significant policy change regarding homestays. According to an advisory issued on September 11 by the state's Tourism and Civil Aviation department, homestay owners are now prohibited from leasing or renting their establishments to third parties. This development aligns with the Sikkim Registration of Homestay Establishment Rules of 2013, which are designed to regulate the operation of homestays in the region.

The new directive mandates that homestays can only be run and operated by the local entrepreneurs who own the properties. This decision is aimed at encouraging local ownership and entrepreneurship within the tourism sector, as well as ensuring compliance with established regulations. The Sikkim government's move underscores its commitment to preserving the unique character of homestays, which offer visitors an authentic and culturally enriching experience.

Furthermore, the advisory emphasizes the importance of homestay owners adhering to these regulations. Any reports of violations will be dealt with strictly by the department. This stern approach underscores the government's determination to enforce these rules and maintain the integrity of the homestay experience.

The Homestay Association of Sikkim (HAS) has been a proponent of this ban on leasing and renting homestay establishments to third parties. Their support for this policy change is in line with the broader goal of protecting the local identity and character of homestays, which are an integral part of Sikkim's tourism industry.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the Sikkim government has been actively promoting homestays as a means of boosting entrepreneurship among local stakeholders in the tourism sector. To facilitate this, the government provides subsidized loans to individuals interested in establishing homestays in the state. This financial support is part of a broader strategy to encourage local participation in the tourism industry and ensure that the benefits of tourism are distributed within the local community.

In conclusion, Sikkim's decision to ban homestay owners from leasing or renting their establishments to third parties represents a significant policy shift aimed at preserving the authenticity and local character of these accommodations. By mandating that only local entrepreneurs who own the properties can operate homestays, the government seeks to protect the unique experience these accommodations offer to tourists. This move also aligns with the government's broader efforts to promote local entrepreneurship within the tourism sector, as evidenced by the provision of subsidized loans to those interested in establishing homestays. Ultimately, this policy change is designed to benefit the local community and ensure that tourism contributes to the economic and cultural development of Sikkim.

Next (BoB's Festival Deal: 8.4 percent home loans, 80 bps off personal loans)

Preserving Authenticity: Sikkim's move to restrict third-party rentals of homestays

This Month

Overview

Explore

Join Us