The Northeast region has the potential to become the adventure tourism capital of the country, said Adventure and Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI).

ATOAI honorary secretary Vinayak Koul said this while speaking at a panel discussion on “Rafting, trekking and road expeditions” at Naga Heritage Village Kisama in Nagaland on Sunday.

The discussion was organized during the 9th International Tourism Mart for the Northeast.

Economically it makes sense as it helps bring the fun to the last mile, he said while calling upon the gathering to explore the country first and then move on to other places.

Advisor to Chief Minister of Nagaland, Abu Metha stressed the need for a combined effort from the eight North Eastern states to make the region a global tourism destination.

Talking on “Potential of fairs and festivals for tourism in the NorthEast region”, he said that a combined effort is required to push the tourism industry forward in the region.

He maintained that tourism would fetch a positive economic impact and employment generation, thereby enabling the region to enhance its contribution in the nation building process.

Metha said that experiential tourism is today one of the biggest demands and aspirations of the tourists who travel all around the world.

Sharing the role of fairs and festivals in promoting tourism, he said the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland exemplifies the energy, innovation and creativity of the people and promotes Nagas beyond India.

Sharing the role of fairs and festivals in promoting tourism, he said the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland exemplifies the energy, innovation and creativity of the people and promotes Nagas beyond India.

Director India Trails and Nagaland Tourism Association president David Angami said that Nagaland needs to upgrade the Tourism policy in order to create better opportunities.