Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh Emphasizes Preserving Shillong’s Colonial Heritage

Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has underscored the importance of these preservation efforts, particularly the mapping of heritage sites.

Shillong, called the “Scotland of the East,” is home to multiple colonial-era heritage buildings that continue to exude timeless charm. The Meghalaya Tourism Department has made preserving these structures a top priority, with ongoing efforts to map and restore them. This initiative aims to protect the region’s rich history and ensure its legacy for future generations.

Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has underscored the importance of these preservation efforts, particularly the mapping of heritage sites across the state. He also highlighted that Meghalaya is in talks with UNESCO to secure world-class heritage status for its iconic living root bridges, a unique natural marvel. These efforts are set to intensify in the coming year, to further showcase Meghalaya’s cultural and ecological treasures.

Lyndoh while talking to Northeast Live stated, “Efforts are already on to try to map all such heritage sites. And we have already entered into negotiations with UNESCO, for instance, to declare our living route Bridges as a heritage property. So that effort will be intensified in the next year. We would like to ensure that the current impetus and the current popularity that Meghalaya has attained should be further solidified in the years ahead. And the footfalls have been really great.”

He added, stating, “Before the end of this year the fact that we have already inked an agreement for another five-star hotel in the heart of the city with Lemon Tree just shows where we have reached.”

“Meghalaya’s allure as a tourist destination has been steadily growing, with an influx of nearly 30 lakh visitors this year,” he added.

Minister Lyngdoh mentioned that the final figures would include attendees of major events like the Cherry Blossom Festival and the Bryan Adams concert. However, the total is expected to remain above the 30-lakh mark, reflecting the state’s burgeoning popularity among domestic and international travellers. 

Lyngdoh also confirmed plans for a new five-star hotel in Shillong, a move that will further elevate the region’s hospitality offerings. He said, “We have already inked an agreement for another five-star hotel in the heart of the city with Lemon Tree just shows where we have reached.”

As Meghalaya continues to balance the preservation of its historical heritage with modern developments, it is poised to strengthen its position as a premier tourist destination in India.

Also Read: Captain Williamson Sangma University to Launch Tribal Studies Department to Protect Meghalaya’s Endangered Languages

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