Problems and Prospects of Promoting Tourism in Meghalaya (original) (raw)

Meghalaya, the abode of clouds, is one of the smallest states in India having a geographical area of 22,429 sq km along with a forest cover of 9,496 km². The state is endowed with gift of nature such as lofty mountain ranges with interplay of lush green valley, cascading rivers, sprawling water bodies, waterfalls, caves, and living root bridges. Not only is the state having national parks and wildlife sanctuaries it is an ideal habitat for flora and fauna with a pleasant and bracing climate. The state has over 100 tourist spots. Because of her natural assets, ethnic diversity and the societal ethos, tourism holds high potential in the state. The state government though has taken a number of steps to improve the tourism sector yet it is at the nascent stage and has a long way to develop. Air and road connectivity, infrastructural facilities at tourist sites in terms of accommodation, transport, banking including credit card use, drinking water, sanitation, health care, etc is either lacking or not developed or deplorable. Over and above of all these, tourists do not often find themselves at ease with the local public. The workforce in the transportation and hospitality sector are yet to be sensitized regarding professional ethos, decorum and visitor-friendly courtesy.