Tourist footfall at Tripura’s Neermahal drops sharply despite improved facilities, safety measures, and promotional events. New Year boat revenue falls by half, raising concerns over tourism strategy, visitor trends, and economic impact on the state’s heritage destination.
Neermahal, one of Tripura’s most iconic tourist destinations, has recorded a sharp decline in visitor numbers despite enhanced infrastructure, safety arrangements, and aggressive promotional campaigns. The drop in tourist footfall, particularly during the New Year period, has raised serious concerns among tourism officials, local stakeholders, and businesses dependent on seasonal tourism.
Traditionally, tourist inflow to Neermahal begins to rise from November and reaches its peak during December and early January. The New Year period, in particular, is considered one of the most profitable times for tourism-related revenue generation at the historic site. However, this year’s figures present a contrasting picture.
On January 1 last year, boat fare collections at Neermahal reached approximately Rs. 2.58 lakh, reflecting a strong tourist presence. In contrast, on January 1 this year, collections fell dramatically to around Rs. 1.26 lakh—less than half of the previous year’s earnings. Officials have also confirmed that tourist arrivals throughout December 2025 were significantly lower than expected, marking a clear downward trend during what is usually the busiest season.
Located at Melaghar in Sepahijala district, Neermahal is widely regarded as one of Tripura’s most prominent tourist attractions and holds national significance. Tourists from across the state, other parts of India, and even from abroad regularly visit the site to experience its unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Neermahal stands majestically on the north-western edge of Rudrasagar Lake, one of the largest natural lakes in India. The palace was constructed by the last ruling monarch of Tripura, Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya, and remains a symbol of royal heritage set against a scenic aquatic landscape. The boat journey across the lake to reach the palace is considered a major attraction for visitors.
The decline in tourist footfall is particularly puzzling because it comes despite sustained promotional efforts by the authorities. Events such as the ‘United Promo Fest’ were introduced to attract more visitors. While the festival was held for a single day in 2025, it was expanded to a two-day event in December 2026 in an attempt to boost tourism visibility.
In addition to promotions, significant improvements have been made to infrastructure and visitor amenities. The surroundings have been cleaned and beautified, picnic-friendly areas have been developed, parking facilities expanded, and National Disaster Response Force volunteers are stationed daily at strategic points to ensure tourist safety.
Despite these initiatives, visitor turnout remains unexpectedly low. Tourism experts suggest that factors such as rising travel costs, changing tourist preferences, lack of sustained digital outreach, or broader economic conditions may be contributing to the decline. However, no official explanation has yet been provided.
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The continued fall in tourist numbers at Neermahal highlights the urgent need for a deeper assessment of tourism strategies, better year-round engagement, and stronger national-level promotion to restore the site’s popularity and protect the livelihoods linked to Tripura’s tourism economy.
