Tripura Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury on Tuesday announced plans to recruit tourist guides and seek additional central funds to accelerate the state’s tourism development.

Speaking at the inauguration of upgraded facilities at Chotta Khola Park in South District, the Minister said the state has invested over ₹4 crore to renovate the park, which symbolises the cultural and historical ties between India and Bangladesh.

“We are pursuing a two-phase approach—creating new tourist destinations with assistance from the Government of India while upgrading existing sites to enhance the visitor experience,” Chowdhury said.

The renovated Chotta Khola Park now features paved roads, a cafeteria, a children’s playground, parking facilities, and public toilets. Chowdhury also revealed plans for a tourist circuit linking Ludhua Tea Estate, Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary, Dham Dhipa, Pilak, and Chotta Khola Park. Around ₹30 crore will be invested in the Ludhua project alone.

Highlighting the growing influx of visitors, the Minister said Tripura welcomed over seven lakh tourists last year, including an increased number of foreigners. He encouraged local youths to open homestays around Chotta Khola and announced plans to add log huts and cottages for extended stays.

Chowdhury further stated that the beautification of the Tripura Sundari Temple is complete and awaiting inauguration, while ₹162 crore has been allocated for a new park in the Jirania Assembly Constituency to create local employment opportunities.

“We aim to ensure tourists have a seamless experience and understand the heritage of each destination,” he added, reaffirming efforts to secure more central funding for the sector’s growth.