Places in Sikkim fit as 'World Heritage Sites': Chamling

Siliguri, Apr 7 (UNI) Five places in Sikkim could be declared as 'world heritage sites', Chief Minister Pawan Chamling said.

''Dubti Gumpha (a Buddha Monestry), Khechiperi Lake, Naggyal Institute, Namchi secondary school and Nathula trade route were fit cases to be declared as world heritage sites,'' he told newspersons yesterday, adding that Sikkim had potential 'world tourism sites' but it has never been highlighted.

''Sikkim would be able to pull in more tourists from all across the globe if these sites were declared as heritage sites,'' he said.

The Chief Minister had met UNESCO representatives last month to discuss the issue.

To garner support for ''world heritage site'' demand, Mr Chamling visited Europe to highlight tourism spots in the state.

''I have gone to Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany and Netherlands to promote tourism in Sikkim,'' he said.

''Floriculture in Sikkim is a major source of income. A team from Netherlands would come to see the potential of floriculture in the state this month,'' Mr Chamling added.

UNI XC SP TJP SHB ND1030