Yakten Village in Pakyong district, Sikkim, has been officially declared India’s first Digital Nomad Village. This was part of state government’s ‘Nomad Sikkim’ initiative.
Location & Context
- Geography: Located in the foothills of Eastern Himalayas, about 32 km from Gangtok.
- Known For: Scenic landscapes and peaceful environment ideal for remote work.
- Objective: To develop a community-driven, sustainable destination for digital professionals from India and abroad.
About ‘Nomad Sikkim’ Initiative
| Feature | Details |
| Initiated By | Pakyong District Administration & Sarvahitey NGO |
| Target Beneficiaries | Remote-working professionals and local homestay owners |
| Vision | Create year-round hubs for digital nomads in Sikkim |
| Government Alignment | Linked to ‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’ vision of Sikkim Govt |
| Connectivity | Two internet lines, village-wide Wi-Fi |
| Sustainability Measures | Use of eco-friendly practices, power backup (inverters) |
| Social Purpose | Tackle income instability of homestay operators in off-season |
| Water Supply Solution | Long-term plan under Jal Jeevan Mission |
Socio-Economic Rationale
- The region sees a six-month off-season (April–September) affecting tourism and homestay income.
- Many homestay owners are dependent on loans during this period.
- The Digital Nomad Village model ensures consistent income through long-stay professionals, beyond tourist cycles.
Key Features of Yakten’s Transformation
- High-speed internet and continuous power supply with inverters.
- Designed workspaces that enable remote working in a natural setting.
- Promotion of sustainable tourism and lifestyle.
- Model already operational – first digital nomads hosted.
Significance
- National First: Sets a precedent as India’s first officially recognized digital nomad village.
- Sustainable Development Model: Merges tourism, technology, and rural entrepreneurship.
- Boost to Rural Economy: Diversifies income sources for remote Himalayan communities.
- Digital Infrastructure in Remote Areas: Demonstrates feasibility of high-tech rural hubs.
Key Facts
- Digital nomads are individuals who work remotely while traveling or living in different locations, often relying on digital technologies.
- Pakyong is also home to Pakyong Airport, one of the highest-altitude airports in India.
- Sikkim was the first Indian state to become fully organic in 2016.
- Sikkim’s capital: Gangtok
- Governor of Sikkim (as of 2025): Lakshman Prasad Acharya
- Chief Minister(as of 2025): Prem Singh Tamang (P.S. Golay)