Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh has been selected to host the 14th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) 2026, scheduled for the last week of October 2026. Jointly organised by Union Ministry of Tourism, and the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the event marks the return of ITM to Tawang after more than a decade.
Preparations have already begun, with coordination between central and state authorities. The event is expected to serve as a major catalyst for tourism development in Northeast India by attracting international buyers, travel trade representatives, media, and other stakeholders.
International Tourism Mart (ITM) 2026
Objectives
- Promote Northeast India as a global tourism destination.
- Showcase the unique cultural, spiritual, and natural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Boost high-altitude and sustainable tourism.
- Encourage business interactions between regional tourism stakeholders and international tour operators.
- Improve accessibility and visibility of remote destinations.
Key Features
Tourism Promotion
- Highlights the tourism potential of Northeast India.
- Positions Tawang as a premier high-altitude tourism destination.
- Integrates remote destinations into the global tourism circuit.
Business & Trade Platform
- Facilitates interaction between: International tour operators, Investors, Travel trade representatives, Global media, Regional tourism service providers
Government Coordination
- A coordination meeting was held at the Circuit House to prepare a comprehensive roadmap.
- Local and central authorities are working jointly to ensure smooth execution.
New Policy Shift in Tourism Development
The selection of Tawang reflects a significant change in India’s tourism strategy. The 2026 edition shifts the focus towards remote Himalayan destinations, emphasizing decentralized and sustainable tourism development.
Earlier editions of the International Tourism Mart were generally organized in large, easily accessible cities.
Major Attractions to be Showcased
Spiritual Heritage & Monpa Culture
- Tawang Monastery
- Largest monastery in India.
- Second-largest monastery in the world.
- Buddhist heritage and spiritual tourism.
- Monpa handicrafts.
- Traditional textiles.
- Sacred cultural traditions.
Himalayan Landscapes
Promotion of Tawang’s scenic destinations including: PT Tso Lake and Sangetsar (Madhuri) Lake. These will be showcased as premium eco-tourism attractions.
Adventure & Eco-Tourism
Focus on:
- Trekking and mountain expeditions.
- Adventure activities around Gorichen Peak.
- River-based tourism.
- Low-impact, sustainable adventure tourism.