Nagaland launches unique initiative to promote off-road tourism

Nagaland is all set to become one of the leading off-roading destination of India. Nagaland Tourism has started a first-of-its-kind initiative to promote off-road tourism, and has roped in Wander Beyond Boundaries (WBB) to launch a novel project called ‘Nagaland off-road’ as part of the ongoing 23rd Hornbill Edition “Cultural Connect”, at Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s residence.

In view of spreading the tourism footprint and capturing the unique culture and dramatic landscape in the interiors, ‘Nagaland Offroad’ will become the one-stop-shop for the discerning traveller who is keen to explore and gain experience in the unadulterated truth of remote area travel.

WBB and Nagaland Tourism have jointly announced this expedition by providing new opportunities for travellers to explore the area.

The trails and routes curated have been thoroughly mapped out, which will offer travellers a unique way to experience the land, the people, and their lifestyle.

Speaking on the launch program, Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio lauded the team for taking up the challenge and making it happen. He encourages the travellers to travel to the interiors of Nagaland and says, “It is worth facing difficulties to experience the rich heritage, traditions, arts, food, and culture because unless you go to the interior and most remote parts of the state, you will not know Nagaland.”.

H Khehovi Yepthomi, Advisor of Tourism Art & Culture, stated that the state is ready to do things differently and is gradually positioning itself at the forefront of change by being bold in offering new products and experiences to reinvent travel.

Yepthomi said, “Tourism is integral to Nagaland’s position as a vibrant and connected hub that enables not just the exchange of goods and services, but also the exchange of ideas, experiences, and talent.”

Yepthomi also commended the core team, who have shown great tenacity amidst many adversities, and acknowledged the partners of Wander Beyond Boundaries (WBB) for all the hard work and efforts in making it happen on time. He announced that the tangible results of his efforts have taken the form of an interactive and impressive first-of-its-kind off-roading app and the delivery of a robust information powerhouse guidebook.

He said, the state will remain committed to supporting the project, and to everyone engaged in building new capabilities and breaking new ground.

Despite the fact that the state’s geography limits its ability to enable effective connectivity, ideas like Nagaland Off-road effectively help in turning shortcomings into larger benefits, he added.

He proclaimed that the state has a vision to position itself as a top sustainable and innovative destination in terms of the abundance of land and natural landscapes and asserted, the value proposition of the state comes from intangibles such as naturally gifted terrain conducive to exploring the state at one’s own pace, an unmatched abundance of culture, and a vibrant ecosystem that facilitates effective partnerships empowering the local villages.

Nidhi Salgame, the founder and director of Wander Beyond Boundaries (WBB), stated that it is the people of remote areas who have inspired them to be committed to the project, and that there has been a gap between “Nahi Sake Ka Sake Ka.”She expressed her gratitude to the state and its people, particularly those in remote areas, for making Nagaland Off-Road a reality.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio flags off the off-road adventure.