Kaziranga Tourism Mart is set to put Assam and the wider Northeast in the global tourism spotlight as the region prepares to host the 12th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) at Kaziranga National Park. The event, organised by the Union Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Assam government, is aimed at showcasing the Northeast’s rich natural, cultural and tourism potential to domestic and international visitors.
The four-day event was scheduled from November 26 to 29, 2024, with the formal inauguration taking place on November 27. Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated the event in the presence of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
Kaziranga Tourism Mart brings Northeast states together
The Kaziranga Tourism Mart brings together representatives from all eight northeastern states — Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. The event provides a platform for tourism businesses, tour operators, hoteliers, homestay owners, government agencies, media representatives and other stakeholders to interact and explore new opportunities.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the International Tourism Mart has been organised since 2013 in association with the northeastern states. Its primary objective is to promote the region as an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. The 2024 edition marked the 12th edition of the initiative.
The event is particularly significant for Assam because Kaziranga offers a strong combination of wildlife, biodiversity, culture and hospitality. The national park is globally recognised for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros and is also home to elephants, tigers, wild water buffalo and other species.
Strong focus on sustainable tourism
A key theme of the Kaziranga Tourism Mart is sustainable tourism. The Northeast has increasingly emerged as a destination for nature-based travel, but tourism growth also brings the need for responsible management of fragile ecosystems.
The Ministry of Tourism has highlighted the region’s biodiversity, traditional crafts, cuisine and cultural heritage as major attractions. The event therefore provides an opportunity to promote tourism while encouraging practices that protect the environment and support local communities.
Kaziranga itself remains an important example of the balance between conservation and tourism. The Assam Tourism Department promotes jeep and elephant safaris across the park’s major ranges, giving visitors opportunities to experience its wildlife and landscapes.
Kaziranga Tourism Mart to showcase local culture
Beyond wildlife, the Kaziranga Tourism Mart is expected to highlight the cultural diversity of the Northeast. The region is known for its traditional textiles, handicrafts, indigenous communities, festivals, food and distinctive heritage.
The tourism platform also allows buyers and sellers from different parts of the country and overseas markets to build direct connections. Such interactions can help local tourism operators gain visibility, develop partnerships and attract new visitors.
Around 400 participants, including domestic and international tour operators, hoteliers, homestay owners, tourism service providers, influencers, officials and media representatives, were expected to attend the inauguration and related activities.
Kaziranga strengthens Assam’s tourism profile
The choice of Kaziranga as the venue also underlines Assam’s growing importance in Northeast tourism. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the state’s most recognised tourism destinations and serves as a gateway for visitors exploring other parts of Assam and the region.
Recent tourism initiatives have further expanded the destination’s appeal. In March 2026, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the Kaziranga Orchid Park at Kohora, with the project aimed at supporting both horticulture and tourism.
The state has also continued to explore ways to improve tourism infrastructure and promote sustainable visitor experiences around Kaziranga. In July 2026, Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah held discussions with tourism stakeholders on preparations for the upcoming wildlife tourism season and sought recommendations for improving visitor facilities and conservation efforts.
The Kaziranga Tourism Mart consequently represents more than a single tourism event. It reflects a broader effort to position Northeast India as a competitive destination while creating opportunities for local businesses and communities.
As international and domestic tourism interest in the Northeast continues to grow, platforms such as the International Tourism Mart can help connect the region’s natural and cultural assets with new markets. For Assam, hosting the event at Kaziranga offers an especially powerful opportunity to showcase wildlife, heritage and sustainable tourism on a national and international stage.