Mizoram Sees Record Tourist Influx During Christmas Celebrations

Mizoram has recorded a significant rise in tourist arrivals this year, particularly during the Christmas festivities. The state's unique blend of culture and community life attracted both domestic and international visitors. Tourism Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar attributed this surge to improved connectivity, especially with the new railway line, and ongoing promotional efforts. Despite challenges posed by the reimposition of the Protected Area Permit, the state has successfully hosted various events, including a winter festival and its first Christmas parade. Looking ahead, additional tourism activities are planned, promising to enhance Mizoram's appeal as a travel destination.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 28, 2025, 13:35 IST

Surge in Tourist Arrivals

Aizawl, Dec 28: This year, Mizoram experienced a remarkable increase in tourist numbers as visitors flocked to the state to partake in its vibrant Christmas festivities, showcasing a rich tapestry of faith, culture, and community.

According to Tourism Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar, the influx of tourists during the holiday season reached unprecedented levels, largely due to enhanced connectivity and ongoing promotional efforts for tourism.

“The recent railway line opening has significantly reduced travel costs, and both the government and local communities have effectively highlighted the state's tourism potential,” Hmar stated.

He observed a notable rise in attendance at church services, zaikhawm (congregational singing), and community feasts organized by local churches, with both domestic and international tourists participating.

During the festive season, accommodation options across Mizoram were in high demand. Hmar noted that hotels and homestays had been fully booked since November, reflecting a consistent increase in tourist numbers.

Tourism Director R Lalrodingi mentioned that the demand peaked on Christmas Eve, resulting in all hotels and homestays in Aizawl being fully occupied. “We had to reach out to paying guest hostels and other facilities to accommodate the influx of visitors,” he added.

Emphasizing the government's commitment to tourism development, Hmar remarked, “Our joint efforts to promote tourism have yielded positive outcomes, with more tourists exploring our state. We are continuously monitoring hospitality standards in hotels and homestays, ensuring that the local community is well-prepared to welcome visitors. Our goal is to provide an exceptional experience for tourists and establish Mizoram as a premier travel destination.”

However, the Minister expressed disappointment that many international tourists were unable to visit due to the reintroduction of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) by the central government in December of the previous year.

To boost winter tourism, the Mizoram government, in partnership with the Union Ministry of Tourism, hosted a winter festival from December 15 to 20. Additionally, the state celebrated its inaugural Christmas parade on December 23, led by Chief Minister Lalduhoma.

Looking forward, the tourism department, along with the Sihphir local council, the Young Mizo Association (YMA), and the Sakawrhmuitual development committee, is set to organize a tourism event at Sakawrhmuitual hills, approximately 21 km from Aizawl, on December 31 to witness the last sunset of the year.

Further tourism activities, including mass angling, are planned for January 6 and 7 at the Tuivai river and Phuaibuang village in Saitual district, near the Manipur border, an area renowned for its cherry blossoms.

Officials reported that Mizoram welcomed around 520,000 tourists during the 2024–25 fiscal year, representing a 139.5% increase compared to the previous year. Between April and October of this year, over 400,000 tourists, including 7,346 international visitors, explored the state.

The inauguration of the Bairabi–Sairang railway line by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13 is considered a significant contributor to the rise in tourist arrivals.