Yakten becomes India’s first digital 'Nomad Village', offers remote workers a slice of Himalayan life

In a Himalayan village once known only to locals, a new chapter in India’s digital story began. The small village of Yakten, nestled in Sikkim’s Pakyong district, was officially declared India’s first digital nomad village on Monday, July 14, 2025. This ambitious initiative, called "Nomad Sikkim", is a collaboration between the Pakyong District Administration and the social development NGO Sarvahitey.

The grand opening ceremony was held at Yakten Village in the presence of dignitaries and community members. Smt Pamin Lepcha, MLA of Gnathang Machong and Advisor to the Social Welfare and WCSC & Divyangjan Department, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Smt Laden Lhamu Bhutia, Zilla Adhyaksha of Pakyong District, was the Guest of Honour. The gathering was filled with a sense of excitement, pride, and a hopeful vision for the future.

Once a remote hamlet tucked away in the hills, Yakten has undergone a complete transformation. Today, it boasts high-speed internet with backup connectivity, uninterrupted power supply, and homestays equipped with work-friendly setups, all while retaining its pristine natural beauty. The snow-clad peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga stand tall in the backdrop, offering a daily reminder of the serene yet powerful landscape that now plays host to a global workforce.

The idea behind "Nomad Sikkim" is simple but powerful: to create a sustainable model where digital professionals from around the world can live and work in rural India. This not only brings global exposure to remote locations but also offers a new economic avenue for the local population. The homestay owners, taxi operators, local artisans, and food suppliers are all set to benefit from this initiative.

Early adopters; remote workers from cities like Bangalore, Mumbai and even a few international freelancers have already arrived and settled into their new mountain offices. Most say they are drawn not just by the peaceful surroundings but also by the sense of purpose. Many spoke of the unique experience of sipping organic Sikkimese tea while working with the sound of birds and the rustle of bamboo leaves in the background.

Transport arrangements have also been made smoother, with tie-ups for local pickups from major towns and the nearest airport. More facilities are expected to be added gradually, depending on feedback from residents and visitors.

Nomad Sikkim is being viewed as a pilot project that could set a new benchmark for rural development. The fusion of digital opportunity and rural potential may very well redefine how people live and work in India. If successful, this model may be replicated in other parts of the state and even across the country.

What makes Nomad Sikkim stand out is that it is not just about offering beautiful views and Wi-Fi. It is about reviving communities, creating jobs, and giving people a reason to stay in their roots. It’s about reimagining the future of work, not from corporate offices in glass towers, but from cozy village homes with wooden roofs and the sound of prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.