Nearly 2 Lakh Tourists Visited Mizoram In 2023

The picturesque state of Mizoram has reported close to two lakh tourists in the bygone year. According to the state tourism department, the northeastern region received a total of 1,96,880 tourists in the year 2023, out of which 1,93,445 were domestic and 3,435 were foreigners. Among the foreigners, Americans were the highest, with 1,162 tourists, while tourists from other countries like Japan, Australia, Israel, Canada, and the United Kingdom also visited Mizoram. 

The tourist footfall in 2022-23 was over 2.22 lakh, with 2.18 lakh domestic tourists and 3,551 foreigners. However, due to the pandemic, the tourist footfall was minimal in the previous years, with 20,564 tourists in 2020-21 and 1.32 lakh tourists in 2021-22. It is worth noting that in the past, foreigners had to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) from the Union Home Ministry to travel to Mizoram. However, the Home Ministry has suspended PAP, and all foreigners except from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China are now exempted from PAP. Although PAP is no longer required for foreign tourists, every foreigner has to report themselves at the Foreigner Registration Office in Aizawl within 24 hours of their arrival in Mizoram.

About Mizoram

Mizoram is famous for its rolling hills and rich flora and fauna. The state has several tourist destinations and attractions, with the most famous being Reiek Tlang (the highest hilltop in the state), Vantawng Falls, Phawngpui peak, Hmuifang Tlang (hill station), Dampa Wildlife Sanctuary, Murlen National Park, Tamdil or Tam lake (largest natural lake in the state), and Mizo heritage villages in Falkawn and Reiek (model village depicting the lifestyle of the Mizo people).

Mizoram tourism is making headway with a 'responsible' tourism policy that came into force in August 2020. The policy focuses on sustainable development strategy, coordination, strengthening institutional framework, and skill development. It also aims to make tourism a tool for developing villages and local communities, eradicating poverty, and providing a livelihood for the local population while upholding the principles of economic, social, and environmental responsibilities.

(With inputs from PTI)