📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Laishram Ashakiran
Travel
Manipur tourism set for revival as Protected Area Permit remains a barrier
✍️ traveltrendstoday.in
🗓 25 Sep 2026, 11:33 AM
👁 22
The northeastern state of Manipur is preparing for a surge in visitor numbers, though the mandatory Protected Area Permit continues to restrict inbound travel.
Manipur's tourism department has announced a series of promotional campaigns and infrastructure upgrades aimed at attracting domestic and international travelers after a prolonged slump caused by pandemic restrictions. New homestay incentives, improved road connectivity to popular sites such as Loktak Lake and the Kangla Fort, and a refreshed digital marketing push are part of the revival plan.
Despite these efforts, the Protected Area Permit (PAP) – a clearance required for foreigners and certain Indian tourists to enter designated zones – remains a significant hurdle. Officials say the permit process is often lengthy and lacks clear guidelines, discouraging potential visitors and limiting the state's ability to tap into the growing adventure‑tourism market.
Industry analysts suggest that easing PAP regulations could unlock substantial economic benefits, estimating a rise in tourist spend and job creation across hospitality, transport and local crafts. The state government has signaled willingness to review the policy, but no concrete timeline has been announced yet.
Despite these efforts, the Protected Area Permit (PAP) – a clearance required for foreigners and certain Indian tourists to enter designated zones – remains a significant hurdle. Officials say the permit process is often lengthy and lacks clear guidelines, discouraging potential visitors and limiting the state's ability to tap into the growing adventure‑tourism market.
Industry analysts suggest that easing PAP regulations could unlock substantial economic benefits, estimating a rise in tourist spend and job creation across hospitality, transport and local crafts. The state government has signaled willingness to review the policy, but no concrete timeline has been announced yet.