Thai team to boost tourism in Northeast

Guwahati, Apr 13 (UNI) A ten-member delegation from Thailand today arrived for a six-day visit to Asom in a bid to promote tourist flow from the South Asian countries to the North East.

The Industry and Trade Fair Association of Asom (ITFAA) has initiated the tour in collaboration with the Thailand embassy.

Interacting with mediapersons here, SPK Travels of Thailand general manager Vorawan Kanlyansukho, a member of the delegation, said the Horn Bill Festival in Nagaland witnessed a good flow of tourists from the South Asian countries, including Thailand, last year.

''But the people in other countries lack information about the northeastern states like Asom, its culture, tradition, tourism potential and festivals. Once they come to know of the Bihu festival, the Kaziranga National Park, I am sure the tourist flow would increase,'' she said.

The delegation, which visited India during Holi, was impressed by the festival of colours.

ITFAA vice-president Rajesh Das said the invitation to the delegation was a part of attempts to boost the flow of foreign tourists.

Mr Das informed that the delegation has sought an increase in the frequency of Guwahati-Bangkok flights.

Another member of the delegation, executive editor of the journal 'Travel Guide' Somsak Amonrattanasareegul said such promotional programmes would help boost the tourism industry of the region.

The delegation will be visiting Shillong, Kaziranga, tea gardens of Jorhat in upper Asom and the historic monuments of Sivasagar before flying to Kolkata.

UNI