Meghalaya govt plans new Christmas tourism policy with special focus on Garo Hills

Shillong: The Meghalaya government is preparing a pioneering ‘Christmas Tourism Policy’ to turn the state’s indigenous festive celebrations into an organised global attraction, with special attention on the Garo Hills.

Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira said on Saturday that the policy aims to leverage the significant tourist influx seen during the Christmas and New Year period, ensuring a more structured approach to festive tourism.

According to the minister, last year’s festive season was highly successful, with multiple events held across the state drawing large crowds.

With several tourism projects and destinations nearing completion, the government anticipates even higher tourist arrivals in 2026.

The proposed policy is designed to reinforce Meghalaya’s reputation as a top destination for Christmas celebrations, focusing on enhanced promotion and better management of visitors during peak holiday periods.

Shira added that tourist interest is gradually spreading to the Garo Hills, aided by improvements in infrastructure.

Destinations in the region that were previously difficult to reach are now attracting more visitors.

To further boost tourism in the Garo Hills, the government is prioritising upgrades to road networks and communication facilities, addressing the poor connectivity that had previously deterred travellers.

Improved roads will make key sites in the region more accessible.

The government also plans to offer easier access to loans for individuals building homestays, which will increase accommodation options and support the growth of tourism in the area.

The initiatives aim to ensure steady growth in Meghalaya’s tourism industry and help spread economic gains to more regions of the state.