TOURISM SECTOR »
Mizoram, a mountainous State is situated at a height of 1131 metres above sea level. The tropic of cancer runs through the State and the climate in winter ranges from 9oC to 200C rising to a mximum of 310C in summer. Rainfall is at an average of 208 cm. The State is covered by ridges of verdant hills with an average height of 1200 metres, the highest peak Phawngpui rising to 2360 metres.
Though Mizoram has rich tourism wealth in terms of eco-tourism, health tourism, rural tourism and adventure tourism, these potentials could not be exploited to advantage because of two mental attitude that had taken roots sown by prolonged insurgency within the State. One was reluctance of potential visitors to cater Mizoram for security reasons haunted by tales of violence and random killings. While on the other hand people of Mizoram who had experienced insurgency and counter insurgency tactics all negative impact harboured animosity, hostility, suspision and strong anti Indian feeling that was nurtured and passed on to the next generation. However, with the passage of time, exposure to cities and towns outside the state, fast development of the State and gradual increase of visitors to the state a total positive change has ocurred and Mizoram is now ready to take up aggressive tourism promotion ventures to exploit its tourism wealth to the maximum.
1. Rural Tourism »
The tourism wealth of Mizoram lies in rural areas. Though development in the State has brought in some changes in lifestyle and living conditions, farming the predominant source of livelihood remains the same. Therefore, traditions and the quaint charm of rural life is preserved and maintained while environmental consciousness is now taking active role in preservation of the eco-system. It may be added here that the state possess unlimited destinations in the context of rural tourism. Priorities to tap these resource through promotion and development of rural tourism can be classified as below -I. Sensitisation of selected villages on -
a) Benifits to economy
b) Hygiene
c) Preservation of environment
d) Manners & Etiquette
II. Investment by public or private sectors for home stay facilities.
III. Investment in trekking trails around the selected villages that would also serve connectivity of the selected villages.
IV. Investment for construction of cultural and entertainment centre in each selected village for the visitors to get a glimpse of the culture and heritage through exhibit items and performing art.