GUWAHATI: Raimona National Park has received two awards recognising its contribution to sustainable tourism and community-based ecotourism.
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The park was conferred the “Sustainable Tourist Destination of the Year 2026” award during the World Tourism Day 2026 celebrations held in Siliguri.
The event was organised by the Himalayan Hospitality & Tourism Development Network in association with the Department of Tourism, Government of West Bengal, with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and other partners, including the Association for Conservation and Tourism (ACT).
The Golden Langur Ecotourism Society, Raimona, also received the Aadhya Travel Awards 2026 in the Community Tourism category during the Kanchenjunga Tourism Festival 2026.
The award recognised the Society’s efforts to engage and empower local women in promoting ecotourism through homestays and hospitality. It was presented by Bhaichung Bhutia, Padma Shri awardee and Ambassador, Association for Conservation and Tourism (ACT).
Established in June 2021, Raimona National Park covers 422 sq km. The park shares its northern boundary with Pibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary of Bhutan and its western boundary with Buxa Tiger Reserve of West Bengal. Following the establishment of Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park, Raimona also shares its eastern boundary with another protected area.
The Golden Langur Ecotourism Society has supported the Forest Department in strengthening ties between the park and surrounding communities and promoting responsible tourism in Raimona.
The development of nature and community-based tourism in the park has involved the Golden Langur Ecotourism Society, ACT, WTI, nature guides, Gypsy drivers, homestay and tourist-lodge owners, Eco-Development Committees, local intellectuals, the Tourism Department and BTC, among others.
The contributions of Charanjit Basumatary and Probeswar Basumatary were also acknowledged for their role in advancing sustainable tourism initiatives in Raimona.
