Sikkim Showcases Birding Hotspots at International Texas Fair

Gangtok: Sikkim brought its birdlife to the global stage. The state displayed its new Birding Hotspot Map at the four-day International Birding Fair in Texas. Tracy Zervos, an organizer of the Texas event, officially presented the guide to participants from across the United States and abroad. The map serves as a practical tool to showcase the region's diverse species and wildlife destinations.

Dr. Peter Lobo is leading the push. He chairs the Sikkim and North Bengal chapter of the Indian Association of Tour Operators and runs All India Birding Tours. He is currently pitching the Sikkim-North Bengal circuit to visitors. He wants more nature enthusiasts in the Eastern Himalayas. Dr. Lobo noted, "The response from international participants at the Texas event has been encouraging."

Chewang R. Bonpo created the map. He heads the Sikkim Ornithological Society and owns Sikkim Birding Tours, which works with the state tourism department. The project aims to drive high-value, low-impact tourism. It creates jobs for local guides and supports rural homestays. Government officials T.T. Bhutia and Hondala Gyaltsen previously coordinated this strategy at the International Tourism Mart in Tawang. The state now hopes to see a rise in overseas photographers and travelers.