Nagaland’s tourism sector continues to record limited international visitor arrivals despite sustained efforts to position the state as a leading eco-tourism and cultural destination, official data presented during a review meeting with Governor Nand Kishore Yadav showed.
The Department of Tourism presented an overview of its initiatives, achievements, challenges and future plans during the meeting held at the Naga Bhavan Conference Hall, Lok Bhavan, Kohima on May 18.
According to the department, Nagaland receives around 2.25 lakh domestic tourists annually, while international tourist arrivals remain between 2,000 and 5,000 per year, indicating a significant gap in global tourism reach compared to domestic inflow.
Secretary Tourism Nchumbemo Lotha briefed the Governor on ongoing efforts to strengthen eco-tourism, cultural tourism and community-based tourism in the state. He reiterated the department’s focus on sustainable tourism that preserves cultural heritage while protecting the environment.
The department said Nagaland continues to be promoted as the “Land of Festivals,” with key destinations including Dzukou Valley, Khonoma Green Village, Mount Saramati and Diezephe Craft Village.
The meeting also highlighted community-based tourism initiatives in villages such as Khonoma and Dzuleke, where conservation-linked tourism has contributed to local livelihoods.
However, it was pointed out that the sector continues to face structural challenges, including infrastructure gaps, connectivity issues and the need for stronger marketing and digital promotion strategies.
The department informed that tourism development projects are being implemented under State Plan, DoNER/NEC schemes and the Ministry of Tourism’s Swadesh Darshan programme, including upgradation of facilities at Kisama Heritage Village and development of tourist amenity centres across districts.
Plans for future projects were also placed before the Governor, including development of iconic tourist centres, expansion of homestay programmes across districts, and proposed ropeway connectivity between Kisama Heritage Village and Dzukou Valley, as well as at Doyang Reservoir.
Governor Nand Kishore Yadav appreciated the efforts of the Tourism Department and encouraged continued initiatives to strengthen infrastructure and promote Nagaland’s cultural and natural heritage to visitors from across the country and abroad.
The meeting concluded with discussions on improving tourism strategies and enhancing community participation in the sector.