The picturesque hills of Shillong came alive as Meghalaya hosted the groundbreaking Adventure Tourism Meet 2025, setting a new benchmark for sustainable travel in India's northeastern region. The two-day summit, held from February 24-25, brought together global experts, local stakeholders, and government officials to shape the future of adventure tourism.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma Champions Sustainable Growth
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the event, emphasizing Meghalaya's unique position as an adventure tourism hub. "We are not just promoting tourism; we are building a legacy of responsible travel that benefits local communities while preserving our natural heritage," he declared during his keynote address.
Key Initiatives Launched
The summit witnessed several landmark announcements that will transform Meghalaya's adventure tourism landscape:
- Adventure Tourism Guidelines 2025: Comprehensive framework ensuring safety and sustainability across all adventure activities
- Community Partnership Program: Empowering local entrepreneurs through training and financial support
- Digital Tourism Platform: State-of-the-art booking and information system for adventure enthusiasts
- Eco-Certification Scheme: Recognizing tourism operators committed to environmental conservation
Global Partnerships Forged
Tourism Director Cyril V Darlong Diengdoh revealed that Meghalaya has secured partnerships with international adventure tourism bodies from Switzerland, New Zealand, and Nepal. These collaborations will bring world-class expertise in mountain safety, sustainable practices, and adventure sports management.
Showcasing Meghalaya's Adventure Potential
The event featured thrilling demonstrations and workshops highlighting the state's diverse adventure offerings:
- Caving Expeditions: Exploring Meghalaya's extensive limestone cave systems
- Water Sports: River rafting and kayaking in pristine waterways
- Trekking Routes: Developing new trails through lush forests and living root bridges
- Rock Climbing: Establishing certified climbing sites across the state
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The Tourism Department projects that these initiatives will create over 5,000 direct employment opportunities in the next three years, particularly benefiting youth in rural areas. The focus remains on community-led tourism that preserves cultural authenticity while driving economic growth.
As the summit concluded, participants expressed confidence that Meghalaya is poised to become India's answer to global adventure destinations like Interlaken and Queenstown, offering world-class experiences rooted in sustainability and local empowerment.
