Shillong, Sept 1: Tourists flocked to the tourism spots across Meghalaya on Wednesday as the State opened its borders to allow tourists to visits the state after 4 months.
Meghalaya government has allowed tourism sites to be opened to the public from September 1, as long as they are vaccinated. For fully vaccinated, no test is required but for those having gotten the first jab or yet to be vaccinated need to show RTPCR negative report at the state border. For local tourists, no such tests is required if they have been vaccinated even if with the first jab. However, a negative RTPCR report is required for those that have not taken the vaccine at all.
Tourism department said that a total of 145 visitors arrived in the State today.
Popular tourism sites such as Ward’s Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Dawki among others came alive with people visiting them on Wednesday.
Extensive measures have been put in place to ensure that Covid-19 transmission doesn’t take place with the tourists coming in from inside and outside the State.
One tourist at Ward’s Lake said she was happy to hear about the reopening of tourist spots.
“I am very happy to enjoy the beautiful environment and the breathtaking places of Meghalaya after such a long time. There is a requirement for a vaccination certificate and it is a good provision to follow as this will keep all visitors safe,” she said.
Another tourist at Dawki said she has only seen the scenic beauty of Meghalaya on the internet. “Therefore, I am quite excited to feel the enchanting beauty of Meghalaya waterfalls and green hills,” she said.
Modalities for tourists
– Tourists from outside the state who have received a single vaccine dose will have to produce RTPCR, TRUNAAT, CBNAAT negative results, which would be valid if they have been tested 72 hours prior to their arrival at the entry point.
– Tourists will also have to generate e-invite for entry to Meghalaya through the App of the Meghalaya tourism department.
– It is also mandatory that the tourists who come in book at least one night’s stay in either hotel, home-stay or guest houses and declaration of the complete itinerary should be made.
– Local tourists from within the state will be allowed to visit any location for tourism related purposes if fully vaccinated or have taken a single dose, but those who are not vaccinated will have to produce negative test reports before checking into any hotel or visit any tourist spot.
