Northeast Desk, 29th April: Mizoram welcomed over 1,96,000 tourists, including foreigners, in 2023, marking a significant increase from previous years, according to the state Tourism department.
A total of 1,96,880 tourists explored the northeastern state last year, with 1,93,445 being domestic tourists and 3,435 foreigners, reported the state tourism department.
Americans led the foreign tourist influx with 1,162 visitors, followed by tourists from countries like Japan, Australia, Israel, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
The surge in tourist footfall reflects a positive trend compared to the minimal numbers during the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2020-21, only 20,564 tourists visited Mizoram, while the numbers rose to 1.32 lakh in 2021-22.
Mizoram’s tourism growth is attributed to its ‘responsible’ tourism policy, implemented in August 2020. This policy emphasizes sustainable development, community involvement, and economic, social, and environmental responsibility.
In a significant change, the Protected Area Permit (PAP) requirement for foreigners traveling to Mizoram has been suspended by the Home Ministry, except for citizens of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China. However, all foreign tourists are required to register at the Foreigner Registration Office in Aizawl within 24 hours of their arrival.