GANGTOK, Sept. 27: Several programmes were organised in various parts of the state today to celebrate World Tourism Day.In an attempt to promote adventure tourism in the state, Sikkim Mountaineering Asso- ciation organised free rock climbing course for the handful of tourists, including locals today. Twelve domestic tourists were given free training on rock climbing at Selep Tanki on the outskirts of Gangtok to mark the World Tourism Day. "The cost for entire course is Rs 4,000 per package per person at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling. However, we imparted training to the prospective rock climbers free of cost," said Mr Kazi Sherpa, general secretary of the SMA."The main reason behind organising free course is to promote adventure tourism in the state," he added. "I really love adventure but in Delhi we only have artificial rock where we don't find natural thrill like here," said Anupama Das Gupta, one of the tourists who took part in the training programme today. "Sikkim can really do well in adventure sports and adventure tourism as it has natural resources in plenty," she added. The SMA is also introducing other adventure sports in Sikkim. "We are planning to introduce skiing in Sikkim for the first time at Kupup near Nathula in winter season," said Mr Palden T Sherpa, vice president of the SMA."Another location for skiing in Sikkim would be Yumthang in North Sikkim," he added. "Tourism invites women participants globally. Women know how to give hospitality service to their guests," said Mr PK Dong, director of Sikkim Tourism Development Cor-poration
