Arunachal celebrates World Tourism Day 2025; Thembang named best tourism destination

Arunachal Pradesh marked World Tourism Day 2025 with the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation” at DK Convention Hall, Itanagar. 

The state-level celebrations brought together government officials, tourism stakeholders, academia, and civil society representatives. 

Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation Minister Balo Raja attended as the Chief Guest, while Tourism, Education, and RWD Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona was the Guest of Honour.

The event also saw the presentation of the Annual Tourism Awards 2025, recognising individuals and communities for their exemplary contributions in advancing sustainable, responsible, and community-driven tourism in the state. Awardees included:

Best Homestay Host – Lempia Ude Homestay, Lower Subansiri

Best Tour Operator – Yomjum Yongam, Yomgam Tour & Travel

Best Tour Guide – Ohey Tayam, Pakké Kessang

Female Personality in Adventure Tourism – Tashi Yangjom, West Kameng

Best Tourism Village – Kaimoi Village, Longding

Best Tourism Destination based on “Preservation of Traditional and Cultural Heritage” – Thembang and Adjacent Villages, West Kameng

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The celebrations featured cultural performances, competitions, and experience-sharing sessions by leading homestay hosts and tour operators, highlighting the state’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

Speaking to India Today, Tourism Minister PD Sona stated, “Tourism is not just about leisure; it is a powerful instrument for economic transformation, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion. Globally, it has been shown that sustainable tourism can preserve biodiversity while generating livelihoods. India has the same potential, but we must embed sustainability at the core of our strategy, not at the margins. To unlock this potential, we need convergence: transport, urban development, digital technology, and infrastructure must work hand in hand. Seamless connectivity across road, rail, air, and waterways can make destinations more accessible, spread benefits beyond major hubs, and reduce pressure on overcrowded sites. Public-private collaboration is essential, linking industry investment with community participation and environmental safeguards.”

He further highlighted the benefits of the new  GST slab, saying, “The new GST slab will benefit tourism in the state, as hotel room rents have come down to 5%, and transport GST charges have also decreased, which will benefit common middle-class people.”

The event underscored Arunachal Pradesh’s vision of promoting sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and inclusive economic growth across the state.