The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) set the stage for its highly anticipated 16th Annual Convention with a vibrant Curtain Raiser event held at The Park Hotel, New Delhi. Co-hosted by the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the event highlighted the immense potential of Arunachal Pradesh as a global adventure tourism destination and emphasized the importance of sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
The upcoming convention, scheduled from December 3 to 8, 2024, in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, is poised to be a game-changer for India’s adventure tourism landscape.
In his keynote address, Mr. Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI, hailed Arunachal Pradesh as “India’s Last Shangri-La” and an untapped treasure for adventure enthusiasts. “This convention will spotlight responsible adventure tourism and place Arunachal Pradesh firmly on the global map as a leading destination. Sustainability is not just a priority; it is the future of our industry,” he stated.
Mr. Oken Tayeng, MLA and Convention Chairperson, described Arunachal Pradesh as a “playground of possibilities” and called for a sustainable roadmap to unlock its adventure tourism potential.
Adding to the discourse, Mr. Arun Srivastava, Joint Director General, Ministry of Tourism, emphasized India’s position as a global contender in adventure tourism. “Arunachal Pradesh is a shining gem with unparalleled natural assets. Collaborative efforts are key to realizing its potential,” he said.
Mr. Ranphoa Ngowa, Secretary of Tourism, Arunachal Pradesh, highlighted the state’s readiness to host global adventure seekers. He underscored the unique blend of pristine rivers, dense forests, and rich tribal culture that makes Arunachal an irresistible destination for adventure tourism.
The Hon’ble Tourism Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona, outlined a vision to position Arunachal as a global leader in adventure tourism. “This is not just about showcasing landscapes; it’s about sustainable development and responsible tourism,” he asserted. He also spotlighted the region’s potential for activities such as river rafting, paragliding, and trekking, supported by improving infrastructure and connectivity.
A short film, Exploring Arunachal – India’s Last Shangri-La captivated the audience, showcasing the state’s natural and cultural wealth. A lively Q&A session followed, where media and attendees discussed Arunachal’s adventure tourism offerings and the objectives of the upcoming convention.
Reflecting on the event’s success, Mr. Vaibhav Kala, Senior Vice President, ATOAI, expressed gratitude to all attendees and described the convention as a milestone event. “This is the beginning of Arunachal Pradesh’s journey to become a premier adventure travel destination, rivalling global hotspots like Peru and Costa Rica,” he remarked.
The Tawang convention promises to be a landmark event, uniting industry leaders, policymakers, and adventure enthusiasts to explore Arunachal’s untapped potential. With a focus on sustainability, knowledge-sharing, and immersive experiences, the convention is set to redefine India’s position in global adventure tourism.
