CM Neiphiu Rio launches Nagaland off-road app in Kohima on December 7. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | December 8
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio launched Nagaland Off-road mobile app, website and guidebook on December 7 at his official residence, Kohima.
Nagaland Off-road is initiated by Nagaland Tourism to promote off-road based tourism in the state.
The project has been executed by Wander Beyond Boundaries.
Nagaland off-road aim to facilitate end-to-end process for interested offroaders and travellers.
Blessed with incredibly beautiful but challenging terrain, a land that is steeped in authentic tribal culture, Nagaland is all set to emerge as the offroading capital of India, according to available source
With an aim to spread the tourism footprint beyond the known hubs of Kohima and Dimapur and capture the vibrant landscape and unique culture in the interiors, Nagaland Off-road is the one-stop-shop for the discerning traveller who relishes exploration and the sheer experience and unadulterated truth of remote area travel, it stated.
Nagaland Off-road has curated unique off-road trails district wise to enable the travellers to plan their independent travel in the hinterlands, it stated.
“Nagaland is blessed with abundant natural beauty. Some of the warmest and most welcoming people inhabit remote corners of this state. Our culture is unique, and our folk performances have captivated the attention of tourists and travellers for many years. We would now like to enable people to explore the remote corners of the state, experience the culture and hospitality by mingling with the locals,” stated Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio in the website of Nagaland Off-road; www.nagalandoffroad.com.
Speaking at the launching programme, H Khehovi Yeputhomi, advisor tourism, art & culture, Nagaland, acknowledged its partners Wander Beyond Boundaries for investing time, effort and hard work to the fruition of Nagaland Off-road.
“When I flagged off the WBB 4.4 expedition in Dimapur on 12th Oct 2021, I did not realize how impactful it would be. When I saw the pictures and read what the participants had to say about the state, that's when it hit me about how much this medium has to offer. I am extremely happy that travellers were able to reach some of remotest pockets in the state,” he said.
We, as Nagas do not lack in any aspect when it comes to culture and hospitality. Yes, connectivity and roads have been an issue. But by promoting such niche off-road-based travel, we have come a long way. This medium will help serious travellers reach far-flung areas with ease, he 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,” he said.
Tourists today are more environmentally conscious, and are looking for sustainable travel options, he said.
Our vision is to position the state as a top sustainable and innovative destination. In terms of the abundance of land and natural landscapes, we can very well compete directly with other eco-destinations, he said.
“Our Mobile application is now as good as a tour guide, will provide maps, and provide services that used to be provided by travel agents,” Yeputhomi said.