Meghalaya will be setting up glamping sites around the north eastern state’s famous cave and waterfalls to attract high-value tourists.

Informing this at the E-Tourism Summit, Cyril Diengdoh, Director – Tourism, Meghalaya, said that considering the unique nature and status of the state in the 6th schedule of the constitution, where indigenous people have a big say in many of the activities, Meghalaya would be promoting high-value tourism in the state which isn’t big in numbers, but add value to the destination its people.

Diengdoh said that the state will set up infrastructure and enhance capacity in terms of hospitality, guided tours, so that tourists stay longer in Meghalaya and spend more while enjoying nature and local experiences. He said that there are many destinations which are ideal for hi-end glamping. Glamping sites can be developed in quick time and they are eco-friendly as well, he said.

The Tourism Director said that Meghalaya is a perfect destination for ecotourism and adventure tourism lovers. The caving system of the state is quite famous with the longest one being as long as 24km, he said. The living root bridges are equally well known and attract a lot of nature lovers. The Shnongpdeng area is known for water sports activities like whitewater rafting, scuba diving and snorkelling.

The strategy is to bring the unexplored gems of the state into the forefront. With this objective, the State Tourism has also organised the Meghalayan Age Festival, informed Diengdoh.

Talking about the tourism infrastructure, Diengdoh said that Meghalaya is developing infrastructure at all important destinations related to tourism. However, he said that the carrying capacity of destinations is very important and therefore all development activities are in consonance with the sustainability of the place and the receptiveness of the local populace.