
The tiny northeastern state of Sikkim is all set to roll its roulette and is gearing up to give Nepal a run for its money, literally. Along with its virgin forests, lofty mountains, mystic valleys, lush green landscapes and spectacular mountain rivers, the state is now all set to welcome visitors with state-of-the-art world class casinos.
8220;The state Government has given nod to Park Sarovar Plaza Group of Hotels to set up a five-star hotel-cum-casino in Gangtok. The project is likely to be completed in this year,8221; says G P Upadhyaya, Commissioner-cum-secretary of the Department of Tourism, Sikkim.
Set against the backdrop of scenic mountains, the casino would become a major tourist attraction in the northeastern state. 8220;We are very excited about the project,8221; says Pankaj Saxena, general manager, The Royal Plaza, Sikkim
In a major boost to tourism, Sikkim Government had passed Sikkim Casino Games Act in 2004 and the rules regulating their operation were framed last year through the Sikkim Casino Games Control and Tax Rules, 2007 paving a way to set up casinos in the state. The Act has created ripples in the State8217;s hospitality industry. 8220;The legalisation of casinos is definitely a major boost to the tourism sector. It would give impetus to high-end tourism. The state can expect tourists who would not mind spending big moolahs,8221; says Upadhyaya.