The eight North Eastern states have one thing in common: breathtaking beauty. Amazing, in fact, is a word too less said. Tucked away amidst foreign nations, this part of India has a specially designed security system in place – a system so strict that even Indian nationals cannot enter most of North East without permits. Obtaining tourist permits is no easy task either; providing shrewd tourist companies an excuse to charge incredible fees for just an entry permit, that too for pre-determined sizes of groups and limited duration of stay. Add a guide to your team, and your tour budget shall sky rocket instantly. Thankfully, not any more.
As a step to boost tourism to North Eastern States, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India has relaxed the need of a permit to visit Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland since January 01, 2011 for all Indian nationals and foreigners, except those of Pakistani and Chinese origin. However, all foreigners visiting these states are required to register themselves with Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the destination district within 24 hours of their arrival. This relief has been enforced for an initial trial period of one year only.
Need for a permit had been waived for Assam, Meghalaya and Sikkim previously. Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh, being located along sensitive inter-country borders, are now the only states left in the north-east where foreigners are required to take prior permission before arrival.
This effort is envisaged to bring about a paradigm shift in the economy of this region banking mainly on tourism, especially from residents of other countries, especially Japan. This would also curb unsocial activities such as political insurgencies and bring about welfare for the local people, including tribals. The market for indigenous craft and cottage industries would widen up immensely.
The paradise carries a sobriquet of Eight Sisters which includes the famous eight states – Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram,Sikkim, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh
As the limelight slides on the North Eastern states, it opens up a myriad of opportunities. Cultural tourism, tribe visits, festivals and wildlife tourism could showcase the mystery held back by rich history and culture, excitement of wildlife and beauty of nature to the visitor.
The list of places to visit is endless, in capital letters and to the tee. There are a number of religious centres, temples and monasteries, cottage industries, parks and lakes.Kaziranga National Park is also a major attraction. There is no particular tourist season; and the beauty of nature has distinct dimensions of its own round the year.
So what are you thinking of? Plan your visit to this region right away!! You might be wondering where to put up during your stay. We (The Other Home) offer you a comfortable accommodation in Khonoma Homestay in Kohima, Nagaland. You can easily organize various short trips to the rest of the region from here.
Swagatam to the North East..
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