Gangtok and Leh Showcase Himalayan Leadership on Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Tourism

The International Urban and Regional Cooperation (IURC) Programme successfully convened the fifth Deep Dive Online Technical Session ao abrigo do Community of Practice (CoP) 3 ? Sustainable Smart Tourism, bringing together partner cities and experts to explore climate resilience, organic ecosystems, and sustainable tourism in the Himalayan region.

The session featured presentations from Gangtok (Sikkim) e Leh, highlighting innovative approaches to balancing environmental conservation with sustainable economic development.

Dr. S. Anbalagan from the Department of Agriculture, Government of Sikkim, presented the remarkable journey of Sikkim becoming the world’s first fully organic-certified state. He explained how the state’s long-term vision has combined environmental conservation with improved livelihoods for farmers through the certification of more than 76,000 hectares of agricultural land and the establishment of nearly 190 organic grower groups. The presentation also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen value chains for key crops including cardamom, ginger, turmeric and buckwheat.

Sr. Prashant Pakran Tamang from the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation showcased Sikkim’s sustainable tourism strategy, including nature-based tourism, eco-tourism, rural homestays and adventure tourism that supports local communities while preserving the state’s exceptional biodiversity.

Representação Município de Leh, Mr. Stenzin Rabgais shared Leh’s vision for climate-resilient smart tourism, highlighting initiatives that promote responsible tourism, community participation, plastic-free tourism, electric mobility and the protection of the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

The session concluded with a presentation by Han de Jeonju, Republic of Korea, introducing the upcoming Future Cities Forum. The Forum will provide an opportunity for participating cities to exchange good practices, present innovative solutions, and jointly identify micro-pilot cooperation projects to advance sustainable tourism and urban resilience.

The Deep Dive demonstrated how cities across Asia and Europe can learn from each other to address common challenges while promoting sustainable tourism that protects natural ecosystems, strengthens local economies and enhances climate resilience.

Próximas etapas

Following the session:

• Meeting presentations and summary will be shared with all participants.
• Jeonju will circulate the latest agenda and keynote requirements for the Future Cities Forum.
• Participating cities will nominate keynote speakers and submit their presentation topics ahead of the Forum.