TBM Staff - Mumbai With a view to unlock the potential of Arunachal Pradesh as an adventure tourism destination, the ATOAI (Adventure Tour Operators Association of India) presented a detailed roadmap for the state.
The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has accepted this ambitious framework, and unveiled its at the ongoing ATOAI Convention in Tawang today.
This plan envisages sustainable development of Arunachal Pradesh, and position the state as a role model for responsible adventure tourism, globally. The report underscores eco-friendly practices, cultural preservation, and community empowerment as key pillars of the strategy.
Vision and Mission
The initiative envisions Arunachal Pradesh as a model of responsible adventure tourism. Dubbed the “Last Shangri-La,” the state seeks to balance ecological preservation with technological and cultural advancements. The mission focuses on offering immersive, low-impact tourism experiences underpinned by safety, cultural respect, and active community involvement.
Key Features of the Roadmap
Pre-Development and Planning:
Identification of adventure tourism zones, focusing on trekking, rafting, paragliding, and wildlife exploration.
Establishing a regulatory and monitoring framework with local community engagement.
Crafting a cultural and environmental preservation strategy.
Implementation:
Building eco-sensitive infrastructure, including roads, trails, and renewable energy facilities.
Launching skilling programs tailored to the region’s terrain and cultural heritage.
Promoting community empowerment through workshops and revenue-sharing models.
Operationalization:
Launching an international marketing campaign to highlight Arunachal’s pristine landscapes.
Setting up governance committees for continuous monitoring and adaptation.
Released at ATOAI Convention in Tawang
The roadmap was unveiled at the ATOAI convention, which brought together adventure tourism leaders, industry experts, and policymakers. The choice of Tawang as the venue reflects its growing prominence as a hub for eco-tourism and adventure activities. State officials highlighted Arunachal’s untapped potential and reiterated their commitment to sustainable development.
Sustainability at the Core
A specialised toolkit emphasizes sustainable practices, including environmental impact assessments, waste management protocols, and the use of vernacular materials for infrastructure. Adventure activities will adhere to strict ecological guidelines to protect the region’s fragile ecosystems.
Benefits to Local Communities
The roadmap includes training programs for guides and operators, financial incentives for adopting eco-friendly practices, and opportunities for local businesses to thrive through partnerships with tourism operators.
A Global Appeal
The plan includes strategies to attract international tourists through collaborations with global eco-tourism platforms, professional marketing campaigns, and the lifting of entry restrictions for short-term visits. Arunachal Pradesh aims to cater to niche markets that prioritize responsible travel and cultural immersion.
State officials believe the roadmap is a pivotal step in establishing Arunachal Pradesh as a high-value, low-impact adventure tourism destination. The convention attendees applauded the initiative for its comprehensive approach to sustainable tourism.
