In a bid to protect tourists from being overcharged by tour operators, the Sikkim Government has established fixed taxi fares for the route between Gangtok and Nathula.
According to an official order from Principal Secretary CS Rao of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, the fare for a round trip between Gangtok and Nathula is now set at ₹7,000 for luxury vehicles and ₹6,500 for standard vehicles, inclusive of the permit charge. This regulation is effective immediately.
To assist tourists who might face overcharging, the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department has provided contact numbers for reporting such incidents. Visitors can reach out to the department at 9434182178, the Police Check Post at 7908081127, or the Transport Department at 9434126851 for any issues related to fare disputes.
The order emphasises strict enforcement, stating that anyone found charging above the fixed rates will face penalties as per the Central Motor Vehicle Act 1988, CMV Rules 1989, and Sikkim Motor Vehicles Rules 1991.
Additionally, the department has capped the issuance of permits for Nathula at 800 vehicles until June 30 to manage traffic and maintain order.
This decision follows a high-level meeting led by Chief Secretary VB Pathak, with attendance from DGP AK Singh, and other senior officials from the Home, Tourism and Civil Aviation, and Transport Departments.
The move comes after the Central Government criticised the State for allowing excessive taxi fares and travel permit fees, which had been a major concern for tourists visiting Sikkim.
