The landscape of Dzüleke village as captured on a pleasant winter day. Dzüleke village is located on the far outskirts of Kohima district, beyond Khonoma village. It is regarded as a traveler’s delight. (Morung file Photo)
Outlines infrastructure gaps and need for improved connectivity
Kohima, May 18 (MExN): The Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, presented an overview of its key initiatives, achievements, challenges and future plans during a review meeting held with the Governor of Nagaland, Nand Kishore Yadav, at the Naga Bhavan Conference Hall, Lok Bhavan, Kohima on May 18.
A press release issued by PRO Lok Bhavan Nagaland stated that during the meeting, Secretary Tourism, Nchumbemo Lotha, briefed the Governor on the progress of tourism development in the state and highlighted various initiatives aimed at strengthening Nagaland’s position as a leading destination for eco-tourism, cultural tourism and community-based tourism.
The department reiterated its vision of promoting sustainable tourism that preserves the state’s rich cultural heritage while protecting its natural environment. Nagaland, widely known as the “Land of Festivals,” offers unique tourism experiences ranging from vibrant tribal traditions to scenic landscapes and biodiversity.
Officials highlighted several major tourist attractions including Dzukou Valley, popularly known as the “Valley of Flowers,” Khonoma Green Village, recognised as India’s first green village, Mount Saramati, the highest peak in the state and Diezephe Craft Village, known for its traditional handloom and handicrafts.
The meeting also highlighted the success of community-driven tourism initiatives in villages such as Khonoma and Dzüleke, where conservation and sustainable tourism practices have created livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Officials informed the Governor that Nagaland receives approximately 2.25 lakh domestic tourists annually, while international tourist arrivals range between 2,000 and 5,000 visitors per year.
The Department also presented updates on key infrastructure development projects undertaken under State Plan, DoNER/NEC schemes and the Ministry of Tourism’s Swadesh Darshan initiatives. These include the upgradation of tourism facilities at Kisama Heritage Village, development of tourist amenity centres, eco-tourism projects and tourism infrastructure across several districts.
In addition, plans for major upcoming projects were discussed, including the development of iconic tourist centres, promotion of homestay programmes across districts and proposals for ropeway connectivity between Kisama Heritage Village and Dzukou Valley, as well as at Doyang Reservoir.
While acknowledging the vast tourism potential of the state, the department also highlighted certain challenges such as infrastructure gaps, the need for improved connectivity and the importance of stronger marketing and digital promotion strategies.
The Governor appreciated the efforts of the Department of Tourism in promoting sustainable and community-based tourism and encouraged continued initiatives to strengthen tourism infrastructure and showcase Nagaland’s unique cultural and natural heritage to visitors from across the country and abroad.
The meeting concluded with a discussion on future strategies to further enhance tourism development and ensure greater community participation in the sector.
