Moreh, a small town in the Tengnoupal district of Manipur, India, is known as the commercial hub on the India-Myanmar border. Situated on the grand historic route from India to Southeast Asia, it has played a pivotal role in trade for many decades. However, its evolution into a tourist destination is a less prominent feature of its identity.
Tourism in Moreh has always been overshadowed by its trade activities, but in recent years there has been a significant shift. Earlier, visitors primarily comprised traders and businesspersons. It wasn't until the late 20th and early 21st centuries that Moreh began to witness an increase in the number of tourists who recognized the town's potential as a gateway to Southeast Asia, enclosing rich cultural exchanges and experiences.
With the establishment of the Moreh Trade Centre, the town became a focal point for opportunities and cross-border interactions. Although not explicitly designed as a tourist attraction, the Trade Centre has become an incidental spot for visitors intrigued by the dynamics of cross-border trade.
The latest tourism trend in Moreh revolves around the concept of border tourism. Tourists not only from India but from neighboring Myanmar and beyond are increasingly interested in experiencing the unique culture of border towns. Moreh, in this regard, offers an insight into the profound blend of Indian and Myanmar cultures, cuisines, and traditions.
Another growing trend is the interest in overland expeditions. Adventure enthusiasts use Moreh as the starting point for road trips that extend into Myanmar and onwards to other Southeast Asian countries, capitalizing on the town's strategic geographical position.
In addition, the Indian government's Act East policy seeks to revitalize the economic potential of the northeastern states by improving relations with Southeast Asia. This policy has led to the improvement of infrastructures, such as the construction of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which goes through Moreh, potentially boosting tourism in the region.
Recognizing the potential for tourism, initiatives have also been taken to promote Moreh as a cultural hotspot. Festivals showcasing the region's cultural richness and the simplicity of life in Moreh have been organized to attract more visitors.
The future of tourism in Moreh appears promising, with several developmental projects in the pipeline. With the ongoing efforts to streamline border trade formalities, the hope is that the resulting easier access will make Moreh even more attractive to tourists.
Enhancements to the physical infrastructure, like better roads and more efficient border management systems, are expected to facilitate smoother tourist flows. Moreover, the prospect of visa-on-arrival facilities and other such liberalizations could further the town's appeal as a tourist hub.
As connectivity improves and awareness grows, Moreh is likely to emerge as a prime example of how trade and tourism can coexist and bolster each other, offering unique experiences to international travelers while contributing to the local economy.
