Aizawl: Mizoram recorded around 7.37 lakh tourist visits till Sept 2026, reflecting the state’s growing potential as a tourism destination, tourism minister Lalnghinghlova Hmar said at the closing ceremony of the three-day Leitlangpui Music Festival 2026 at Serkawn in Lunglei.The festival concluded at Lena Stadium on Friday.Hmar stressed the need to promote Mizoram’s diverse destinations and urged people to explore its scenic landscapes and lesser-known places. He said festivals and cultural events play a key role in attracting visitors, creating livelihood opportunities and strengthening local economies.He announced a series of tourism and cultural events scheduled for the coming months. Winter Festival in Dec is expected to be larger than last year’s edition. Tlaizawng (cherry blossom) Festival will be held at Phuaibuang village in Aizawl district on Dec 17 and 18. Sakawrhmuituai Tlang Sunset Event is scheduled for Dec 30 and 31, with the main programme on Dec 31.Speaking about the Leitlangpui Music Festival, Hmar said tourism events should create benefits beyond attracting visitors. He said festivals can boost local economic activity by generating business for local entrepreneurs, vendors, hospitality providers, transport operators and other service-sector workers. He further stressed the need to ensure that local communities gain from the state’s tourism growth.Held from Nov 11 to 13 under the theme ‘Music Comes Home to Serkawn’, the festival returned to Serkawn, a place closely associated with the development of modern Mizo music. The festival brought together established and emerging Mizo artists, independent musicians and 10 finalist bands from Mizoram and neighbouring states.
