GANGTOK- In a groundbreaking move to blend rural charm with modern work culture, Yakten, a serene village in Sikkim’s Pakyong district, has been officially declared India’s first Digital Nomad Village.
The initiative, launched under the ‘Nomad Sikkim’ project, is a collaborative effort between the Pakyong District Administration and the NGO Sarvahitey, aiming to transform this Himalayan hamlet into a sustainable hub for remote workers from India and beyond.
The inauguration ceremony, held on July 14, 2025. The event marked a significant step toward addressing seasonal income gaps faced by local homestay operators, particularly during the off-season from April to October, as highlighted by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang’s vision of “One Family, One Entrepreneur.”
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Yakten, located just 35 km from Gangtok and 10 km from Pakyong Airport, now boasts robust digital infrastructure, including dual high-speed internet lines, village-wide Wi-Fi, and power backup systems to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
Eight eco-friendly homestays, developed in partnership with local families, offer dedicated workspaces, organic home-cooked meals, and immersive cultural experiences such as cooking classes, folk music, and dance performances.
Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like the Jhandi Dara View Point, monasteries, and nature trails, blending work with the tranquility of Himalayan life. “This initiative is a game-changer for rural tourism and entrepreneurship,” said District Collector Rohan Agawane. “By ensuring stable internet and electricity, we’re creating year-round opportunities for homestay owners while offering digital nomads a unique work-life balance.”
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The project aligns with Sikkim’s commitment to sustainable tourism, promoting zero-waste practices and cultural preservation while reducing dependency on seasonal tourism.
Local activist Ebo Mili, known for his environmental advocacy, praised the initiative for its eco-conscious approach but cautioned against overdevelopment, urging authorities to maintain Yakten’s natural and cultural integrity.
“This could be a model for sustainable rural development, but we must ensure it doesn’t harm our fragile ecosystem,” Mili stated.
The ‘Nomad Sikkim’ initiative is already attracting remote workers, with early visitors lauding the village’s serene environment and reliable infrastructure. Experts believe Yakten’s model could inspire similar projects across India, fostering decentralized work and sustainable livelihoods in rural areas.
