International Tourism Mart Returns to Tawang After a 13-Year Hiatus

The International Tourism Mart (ITM) has returned to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh after a gap of 13 years, bringing renewed attention to the tourism potential of Northeast India. The three-day event, scheduled from October 29 to 31, 2026, aims to promote the region’s cultural heritage, natural attractions and tourism businesses among domestic and international markets. Organised by the Union Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh government and other northeastern states, the event is expected to bring together more than 200 tourism stakeholders, including international buyers, tour operators, travel companies and representatives from the tourism industry.

Tawang last hosted the tourism mart in 2013. The latest edition provides an opportunity for the district to showcase its Himalayan landscapes, Buddhist heritage and traditional culture while encouraging greater investment and business partnerships in the region’s tourism sector. According to the event programme, 43 international buyers from 22 countries are expected to participate, alongside domestic tourism representatives. Business-to-business meetings scheduled for October 30 will allow tour operators and local tourism businesses to explore partnerships and develop travel packages for visitors from India and overseas.

The eight northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura—will showcase their destinations and tourism products. The programme will also feature the North East Bazaar, highlighting regional handicrafts, textiles, traditional cuisine and local cultural performances.

Tawang is among Arunachal Pradesh’s prominent tourist destinations, known for Tawang Monastery, its mountain scenery and the cultural traditions of the Monpa community. Delegates are scheduled to visit attractions including Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Jang Waterfall, Urgelling Gompa, Buddha Park, Pankang Teng Tso Lake and Shernup Village as part of the tourism promotion programme.

Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat is scheduled to chair a meeting of tourism ministers from northeastern states on October 30. Union Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu are also scheduled to attend the inaugural programme.

Discussions during the event are expected to cover regional tourism cooperation, live events and concerts, experience-based travel and arrangements for visitors travelling to protected and restricted areas. International delegates are also scheduled to participate in familiarisation tours beginning from Guwahati on November 1.

The return of the International Tourism Mart to Tawang comes as tourism authorities seek to expand the Northeast’s presence in domestic and international travel markets. Industry participation and promotional activities could create opportunities for local hotels, homestays, transport operators, tour guides and artisans.

Sustainable tourism development will remain important for the region’s long-term growth. Improved visitor facilities, responsible waste management and greater participation by local communities will be essential to ensure that increased tourism benefits residents while protecting the area’s natural environment and cultural heritage. The event is expected to strengthen connections between tourism businesses and travel markets, helping position Tawang and other northeastern destinations as attractive options for travellers seeking mountain landscapes, cultural experiences and nature-based holidays.

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