The correct answer is: a) The maximum number of tourists an area can support.
Carrying capacity is the maximum number of people that an environment can sustain without causing damage to the environment or the people living there. In the context of Sikkim, carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of tourists that the state can support without causing damage to the environment, such as deforestation, pollution, and water shortages. It also refers to the impact that tourism has on the local people, such as increased prices, noise, and traffic congestion.
Option b) is incorrect because the weight of luggage tourists can bring does not have a direct impact on the environment or the local people. Option c) is incorrect because the strength of trekking trails and bridges is not a factor in determining carrying capacity. Option d) is incorrect because the availability of hotel rooms is not a factor in determining carrying capacity.
Carrying capacity is a complex issue that needs to be carefully considered when planning for tourism development. It is important to strike a balance between the needs of the tourists and the needs of the environment and the local people.