Summary:
Shillong, Sep 9 (PTI) Meghalaya’s whistling village – Kongthong – in East Khasi Hills district has been selected as one of three India entries for the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) "Best Tourism Village" contest, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said.
Kongthong a small village nestled in the Khat-ar Shnong area about 60 km to the south of Shillong, is famous for its panoramic view, unique culture and virgin beauty.
"#Meghalaya"s whistling village Kongthong is selected for entry to the @UNWTO "Best Tourism Village" along with 2 other villages in the country," the chief minister tweeted.
The UNWTO is looking for the best examples of rural villages which harness the power of tourism to safeguard communities, local traditions and heritage, an official here told PTI.
He said the UNWTO wants to identify villages taking innovative and transformative approaches to tourism in rural areas in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
"Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO" aims to maximise contribution of the sector to reducing regional inequalities and fighting against rural depopulation.