NEW DELHI, Dec 2: The Indian government is investing Rs 800 crore to transform eight iconic tourist destinations across six Northeastern states, including Meghalaya, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Sikkim, and Tripura, into world-class travel experiences, according to official reports released on Sunday.
This transformative tourism initiative aims to spotlight the region’s untapped potential, enhance local economies, and alleviate the pressure on overcrowded tourist spots. The project, funded by the Centre, promises to redefine the tourism landscape of Northeast India and contribute to a more balanced development of the region’s travel infrastructure.
The ambitious development plan, with a budget of Rs 800 crore, will focus on the enhancement of eight specific destinations in the Northeast. The Department of Expenditure has already released 66% of the funds to the states, marking the beginning of what could become a game-changing effort for the region’s tourism industry. The entire project is slated for completion within two years, with the final phase expected to conclude before March 2026.
The chosen sites include a variety of unique experiences meant to showcase the diverse culture and natural beauty of the region. Notably, Nathu La in Sikkim will be developed as a unique border experience, while Tripura will highlight its rich cultural heritage with the creation of the 51 Shakti Peethas Park. Loktak Lake in Manipur, renowned as the “floating lake,” will also receive a major facelift, aiming to attract eco-tourism enthusiasts. Other sites set to undergo significant development include Umiam Lake in Shillong, the Assam State Zoo in Guwahati, and the Siang Eco-retreat in Arunachal Pradesh, all of which will be enhanced to elevate the overall tourist experience.
The initiative is part of a broader national scheme that spans 23 states across India. A total of 40 destinations have been approved for development, with an overall budget of Rs 3,295 crore. The government received an overwhelming 87 proposals, worth over Rs 8,000 crore, during the October 2024 submission deadline. Following a rigorous evaluation process, the Ministry of Tourism selected the 40 most impactful projects, including the eight from the Northeast.
This scheme reflects the government’s commitment to revitalizing the tourism sector by offering interest-free, long-term loans to these projects. The Ministry of Tourism will oversee the progress of each destination to ensure the projects meet their deadlines and goals.
As part of the initiative, the government will prioritize global branding and marketing to promote these lesser-known destinations, positioning them as must-visit spots for international tourists. The projects will not only improve infrastructure but also focus on creating memorable and immersive tourism experiences that attract travelers from around the world.
Furthermore, these developments are expected to provide significant economic benefits to the local communities, generating employment opportunities and boosting the regional economy. The government is also encouraging collaboration with private investors to ensure a sustainable approach to the region’s tourism development.
With the aim of redefining the appeal of Northeast India, this initiative seeks to shine a spotlight on these hidden gems, offering both tourists and locals a new chapter of growth and recognition for the region. The development of these iconic sites will allow Northeastern India to emerge as a prime travel destination, catering to those seeking unique and enriching experiences.
