Meghalaya has witnessed an unprecedented surge in tourism, with approximately 16 lakh visitors exploring the state in 2024. Director of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, Cyril V. Darlong Diengdoh, revealed this milestone while announcing a series of transformative projects aimed at enhancing the state’s tourism infrastructure.
The Government of India has sanctioned a substantial fund of Rs 50 crore for the construction of two major Tourist Information Centres—one at Mawphlang and another at Nartiang. “We have received a sanction of Rs 25 crore for each project,” said Diengdoh, emphasizing the Centre’s commitment to boosting Meghalaya’s tourism landscape.
Diengdoh further disclosed that additional projects have been greenlit under the Swadesh Darshan Challenge Scheme. “In fact, we have received sanctions for two other projects from the Government of India under the Swadesh Darshan Challenge Scheme, with Rs 25 crore allocated for each. These funds will be used to develop Tourist Information Centres, restaurants, and a gallery at Mawphlang’s sacred groves, as well as at Nartiang, where the famed monoliths and the revered Durga Shakti Peeth are located,” he stated.
The projects are now in the crucial phase of execution. “We are in the process of tendering them and developing them. The DPR is ready, and based on that, we submitted it to the Ministry of Tourism. The Ministry sanctioned these projects just before the end of the financial year—Rs 25 crore each—so we will be moving ahead with the tendering process soon,” he added.
Diengdoh also provided clarity on the visitor statistics, stating, “Sixteen lakh tourists came to Meghalaya in 2024. This figure accounts for those who stayed at least one night in the state.”
With these strategic investments, Meghalaya is set to redefine its position as a premier travel destination, offering a seamless blend of cultural heritage, natural wonders, and improved visitor facilities.