Tripura marked World Tourism Day on September 27 by showcasing its natural landscapes, cultural heritage and religious destinations while drawing attention to rising tourist visits and emerging economic opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- Tripura highlighted its natural beauty, cultural heritage and religious tourism destinations on World Tourism Day.
- The Matabari Tourism Circuit has seen increased visitor interest and is opening new avenues for economic activity.
- Tripura recorded 3,84,453 domestic and 9,424 foreign tourist visits between January and June 2026.
Tripura used World Tourism Day to highlight the state’s diverse tourism attractions and its potential to draw more visitors.
Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha invited travellers to experience Tripura’s natural beauty, heritage and vibrant culture. He pointed to the serene waters around Neermahal and the hills of Jampui as examples of the state’s varied tourism offerings.
Saha also encouraged visitors to discover lesser-known destinations across Tripura.
The message placed the state’s natural and cultural attractions at the centre of its World Tourism Day observance.
Tourism Linked to Culture and Heritage
Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury also extended greetings to people on World Tourism Day.
Chowdhury referred to two enduring principles of Indian culture while highlighting the importance of tourism. These are “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, which conveys the idea of the world as one family, and “Atithi Devo Bhava”, which reflects the traditional respect accorded to guests.
The Tourism Minister called for collective efforts to present Tripura’s culture, heritage and natural beauty to visitors.
His message underlined tourism not only as a means of attracting travellers but also as a way to showcase the state’s identity and traditions.
Matabari Circuit Opens New Opportunities
Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, highlighted the emerging opportunities around the Matabari Tourism Circuit.
Katikithala described the area around the circuit as both spiritually important and naturally pristine. He said devotees from different parts of the country have started visiting the destination.
Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, Ministry of DoNER, shares his experiences on the Matabari Tourism Circuit.#MDoNERIndia #Matabari #Tripura pic.twitter.com/tnzbv0m8B2
— MDoNER India (@MDoNER_India) September 18, 2026
He attributed the increased footfall to the inauguration of the circuit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to Katikithala, the rise in visitors has also generated greater economic activity. He said the increase in tourist movement is creating new opportunities linked to the local economy.
A major hotel chain is also developing a hotel near the Maa Tripura Sundari Temple, he said.
Katikithala said the project is being taken forward following the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who also chairs the North Eastern Council.
The proposed hospitality development is among the new opportunities emerging around the Matabari tourism circuit.
Tourism Seen as a Livelihood Generator
Katikithala also stressed the wider economic importance of tourism.
He described tourism as a sector capable of creating substantial livelihood opportunities. He also referred to it as “smokeless production”, highlighting its potential to generate economic activity without the industrial character associated with conventional production.
The official said the tourism sector presents a major opportunity for the region and expressed optimism about the possibilities emerging from increased visitor activity.
The focus on Matabari comes alongside efforts to showcase other destinations across Tripura.
Lakes in Tripura Add to Natural Appeal
The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region also highlighted Tripura’s lakes in a World Tourism Day message.
In an X post, the ministry drew attention to the state’s tranquil water bodies and surrounding greenery. It presented the lakes as places where visitors can experience Tripura’s natural environment in a peaceful setting.
The message added another dimension to the state’s tourism profile, alongside its religious, cultural and hill destinations.
Tourist Footfall in First Half of 2026
Tourism data shared by the Union Ministry of Tourism in the Lok Sabha provides a broader picture of visitor movement in Tripura.
Between January and June 2026, the state recorded 3,84,453 domestic tourist visits. It also registered 9,424 foreign tourist visits during the same six-month period.
Among the eight Northeastern states, Tripura ranked sixth in domestic tourist visits during the period.
The state recorded a stronger position in foreign tourist visits, ranking third among the eight Northeastern states.
The figures come as Tripura continues to highlight destinations such as Neermahal, Jampui and the Matabari Tourism Circuit.
With natural attractions, cultural heritage and religious destinations forming key elements of its tourism profile, Tripura is placing greater emphasis on attracting visitors and expanding the economic opportunities associated with tourism.
