Mizoram Tourism Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, called for a decisive shift toward community-based tourism in Mizoram, arguing that visitor footfall must translate into direct economic benefits for local households rather than bypass them. His remarks came at the inauguration of the three-day Mizoram Travel Fest 2026 at Aijal Club in Aizawl.

What the Minister Said

Hmar urged tourism professionals, tour operators, accommodation providers, investors, and local communities to collaborate in unlocking the state's tourism potential. He stressed that the sector's growth must be anchored in preserving Mizoram's cultural heritage and community spirit, not simply increasing arrivals.

As a model, he cited a community-based festival held earlier this year at Phuaibuang village — known for its cherry blossoms — where visitors, including government officials, were encouraged to purchase food directly from local residents. 'Such initiatives provide direct economic benefits to communities while allowing visitors to experience authentic Mizo food and culture,' Hmar said.

Homestays and Hospitality Skills in Focus

The minister underscored the importance of homestays as a cornerstone of community-based tourism, noting they allow visitors to engage with local culture, cuisine, and everyday life while generating income for households. The government, he said, would encourage both private households and communities to set up homestays alongside upgrading existing government-run tourist lodges.

Hmar also called for improvements in hospitality skills, hygiene, safety, and service quality, and asked for closer collaboration with the Association of Tour Operators Mizoram (ATOM), Homestays of India, and other sector stakeholders.

Decentralising Tourism Beyond Aizawl

A recurring theme was the need to spread tourism development to remote areas across the state, moving beyond Aizawl and well-established destinations. Hmar called on tour operators to actively promote lesser-known sites while building awareness of local customs, traditions, and environmental responsibility.

On sustainability, he pushed for a significant reduction in plastic waste at tourist destinations and festivals, including exploring the option of making future events plastic-free. Mizoram's hills, valleys, forests, and scenic landscapes — along with Dampa Tiger Reserve and its rich biodiversity — were cited as under-utilised natural assets that need to be formally identified, documented, and promoted.

Academia, Data and Nature Tourism

The minister called for greater institutional collaboration among the Tourism Department, the Environment, Forests and Climate Change Department, Mizoram University, and other academic bodies to advance nature-based tourism, educational visits, and research-related travel. He also highlighted the need for reliable data and evidence-based planning to accurately assess tourism's contribution to the state economy.

Young people, tourism professionals, and local communities were encouraged to explore lesser-known destinations and showcase them through social media to widen Mizoram's tourism reach.

What Happens Next

The Mizoram Travel Fest 2026 runs until 15 October 2026. Officials from the Tourism Department and ATOM, along with students from the Mass Communication and Tourism departments of Mizoram University, attended the inaugural session. Hmar expressed confidence that, through responsible investment and stronger community participation, Mizoram could emerge as a leading destination for culture, adventure, and nature-based tourism.