Located around 6,500 feet above sea level, Linkhim Tar is about 45 kilometres from Gangtok. The department has chosen the site for its scenic mountain valleys and suitability for adventure tourism.

“The festival is the first of its kind in Sikkim. It will help boost the state’s economy and attract more visitors by showcasing its diverse outdoor experiences,” said Tenzing Geley, additional director (adventure) of the tourism and civil aviation department.

According to an official source, the festival aims to establish Sikkim as a leading destination for adventure tourism while promoting sustainable travel, encouraging local participation and creating livelihood opportunities.

What’s on the adventure list?

The programme will include zip-lining, river rafting, paragliding, hot-air ballooning and obstacle challenges, along with trekking expeditions and nature-based activities in different districts.

Manoj Chettri, deputy director (adventure) in the department, identified paragliding as one of the key attractions. He said team members taking part in the activity had been trained and registered under the ‘Sikkim INSPIRES’ programme and would receive insurance coverage.

The festival will also highlight cycling and trekking routes, including the Heart of Sikkim Trek and the Dzongri–Singalila Round Trek. As part of Tour de Sikkim, a mountain biking expedition will cover approximately 253km along the historic Silk Route, reaching an altitude of around 14,000 feet. Bicycle rentals will be available at nominal rates, an official said.

Birdwatching experiences in east and west Sikkim will also be promoted.

Namgyal Lepcha, undersecretary in the tourism and civil aviation department, outlined the plans for the Gangtok Adventure Relay. The participation fee for the event will be ₹7,500 per person.

Visitors can register through the official festival website, https://adventurefest.sikkimtourism.co.in . An offline ticket counter will also operate at MG Marg in Gangtok.