Sikkim Hosts First-Ever ‘Butterthon’ to Mark 50th Statehood Anniversary

These passionate watchers are currently traversing Sikkim’s biodiverse landscapes in search of the state’s vibrant winged wonders.

In a historic celebration blending conservation and community spirit, the Butterfly Society of Sikkim TPCF has launched the state’s inaugural ‘Butterthon’  a butterfly-watching marathon running from May 1 to 16, to commemorate Sikkim’s 50th year as a state.

This first-of-its-kind event has already made history by drawing international participation, reflecting Sikkim’s growing status as a global biodiversity hotspot.

Renowned Indian ornithologist Dr. Peter Lobo, along with Joseph Coleman Thompson Jr. from the United States and Indika Upul Jayatissa from Sri Lanka, are among the international guests who have arrived in Sikkim specifically for this event, marking a significant milestone for the state’s emerging eco-tourism sector.

National participants have also added to the enthusiasm, with prominent butterfly enthusiasts like Fahim Khan, Savita, and Sarpita Bose from Maharashtra and Pune, as well as Subhajit Roy, Bias Chakraborty, Aaratrik Pal, and Amit Chakraborty from Kolkata and Cooch Behar, joining the marathon. These passionate watchers are currently traversing Sikkim’s biodiverse landscapes in search of the state’s vibrant winged wonders.

“Sikkim is home to nearly 60% of India’s butterfly species, despite its small size of just 7,086 square kilometres. This Butterthon celebrates both our natural heritage and our identity as a state,” said a spokesperson for the Butterfly Society of Sikkim TPCF.

Organisers aim to spotlight Sikkim’s immense potential for butterfly-watching tourism, an often overlooked yet ecologically significant avenue for sustainable development. They hope this initiative will inspire local youth to consider butterfly conservation and eco-tourism as viable career options, as Sikkim cements its role as a haven for nature lovers and lepidopterists alike.

Also Read: Sikkim: NH-10 to Remain Closed on May 15, 17, and 19 Due to Emergency Repairs

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