📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Original: Samudra Bikash Hazarika
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Travel
Manipur gears up for tourism revival, but PAP rule still blocks foreign visitors
✍️ Travel Trends Today
🗓 24 Sep 2026, 11:40 PM
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Manipur is preparing to welcome tourists again after a period of disruption, but the Protected Area Permit requirement continues to restrict inbound foreign travel to the state.
Manipur is taking steps to revive its tourism sector as the state looks to recover from recent challenges that had kept visitors away. Authorities and local stakeholders are working to restore confidence among domestic travellers and rebuild infrastructure that supports tourism activities.
However, the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime remains a significant obstacle for inbound international tourists. The requirement, which applies to several northeastern states, means foreign nationals must obtain special permission before entering Manipur, slowing the pace of foreign arrivals.
Industry observers note that while domestic tourism can rebound relatively quickly, a full-scale comeback will depend on easing permit-related restrictions and ensuring a stable environment for visitors. The state's cultural and natural attractions continue to draw interest, but the PAP hurdle remains a key issue for travel operators targeting foreign tourists.
However, the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime remains a significant obstacle for inbound international tourists. The requirement, which applies to several northeastern states, means foreign nationals must obtain special permission before entering Manipur, slowing the pace of foreign arrivals.
Industry observers note that while domestic tourism can rebound relatively quickly, a full-scale comeback will depend on easing permit-related restrictions and ensuring a stable environment for visitors. The state's cultural and natural attractions continue to draw interest, but the PAP hurdle remains a key issue for travel operators targeting foreign tourists.