The Meghalaya government has showcased a tourism infrastructure investment plan worth more than Rs 2,100 crore to leading tour operators from across the country as it seeks to strengthen its position as a premier travel destination and attract a larger share of domestic and international visitors.
The outreach was conducted by the state Tourism Department in collaboration with the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) during a three-day familiarisation tour in Shillong.
Addressing an interactive session, Meghalaya Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira said the government is making substantial investments in key tourism circuits to improve connectivity, visitor facilities and tourism experiences.
According to the department, over Rs 683 crore has been earmarked for the Umiam circuit, more than Rs 673 crore for the Sohra circuit, over Rs 538 crore for the New Shillong circuit and more than Rs 244 crore for the Tura circuit. Additional tourism projects are also being implemented in the Garo Hills region.
“Tour operators have been among our strongest partners in promoting Meghalaya to travellers across India and beyond,” Shira said.
Also read: Meghalaya govt steps up measures to contain African Swine Fever
Tourism Commissioner and Secretary Vijay Kumar D. said the government is focusing on increasing the average duration of tourist stays through experiential travel and community-based tourism initiatives.
He said Meghalaya has introduced a 70 per cent government subsidy for rural homestays and is expanding hospitality infrastructure through several luxury hotel projects currently under construction. The state aims to have 10 five-star hotels within the next five years.
The official also outlined plans to develop niche tourism segments, including fruit-wine tourism, structured cave exploration and village-based tourism experiences.
The familiarisation tour covered major tourist destinations such as Shillong, Sohra, Mawkdok Dympep Valley, Nohkalikai Falls, Arwah Cave, Nohsngithiang Falls, Mawphlang Sacred Grove, Laitlum Canyon, Umiam Lake and Smit. Delegates interacted with local tourism stakeholders and experienced community tourism initiatives, traditional cuisine and cultural programmes.
IATO President Ravi Gosain said the association would work closely with the Meghalaya government to promote the state's tourism products through its network and help position Meghalaya as a leading destination in the Northeast.
The state government said the initiative is aimed at encouraging new travel packages, extending visitor stays and strengthening Meghalaya’s presence in national and international tourism markets.
Follow us
