Travel Ban Lifted on Three India States

The Indian government has waived travel requirements for foreign nationals to the states of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. The ban, which has been in place for 52 years has been curbed in an effort to boost tourism in these North-east Indian states.

Previously foreign visitors were restricted to travelling in groups of four over a limited number of days and had to pay US$50 for a permit to enter the states.

"The permit system was seen as an impediment," said resident commissioner of Manipur Bhawan Rakesh Ranjan. "Now that it has been lifted, we expect to see many tourists."

These states in north-eastern India are steeped in history and ethnicity, and possess some breathtaking natural beauty.

Monday, 10th January 2011 at 11:52am