Our Bureau
Gangtok
A small, picturesque village in eastern Sikkim is now at the forefront of India’s digital nomad revolution. Yakten, nestled in the Pakyong district and just 10 kilometers from Gangtok’s Pakyong Airport, has officially been declared a digital nomad village—the state’s first, and India’s second after Jungli in Goa.
Yakten offers remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs a unique blend of breathtaking scenery and modern amenities. Set against the backdrop of ancient alpine forests and commanding views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Yakten is designed for those seeking both productivity and tranquility. The village is well-connected by road, with Gangtok only 33 kilometers away, and accessible by train via New Jalpaiguri station in West Bengal, about 115 kilometers distant.
The concept of a digital nomad village is relatively new in India. Unlike traditional homestays or resorts, these communities are specifically curated for digital professionals, offering high-speed internet, co-living spaces, and opportunities for social engagement. Local homestays currently provide a glimpse into the village’s life, but with its new status, co-living spaces dedicated to digital nomads are expected to emerge soon.
The initiative is the result of state-level vision and grassroots participation, reflecting a broader shift in how tourism and livelihoods are being imagined in Sikkim, especially in the post-pandemic era. Previously overlooked in favor of the more tourist-heavy regions of west and north Sikkim, the Pakyong district is now stepping into the spotlight.
Yakten’s appeal lies not only in its connectivity and infrastructure but also in its natural beauty. The village is surrounded by lush vegetation, rare Himalayan orchids, and offers access to adventure activities such as the Jhandi Dara and Budaang Dari treks, which provide panoramic views of the Himalayas and ancient ruins. The climate is pleasant for most of the year, though monsoon rains can make travel challenging.
