Mandatory guide rule for treks in Sohra following tourist deaths

The East Khasi Hills district administration in Meghalaya has made it compulsory for all visitors to avail the services of licensed tourist guides for outdoor activities, including treks, in the Sohra region.

The directive, issued over a month after the death of Indore-based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi during his honeymoon trip on May 23, seeks to improve tourist safety in the area. Mr. Raghuvanshi was allegedly murdered by his wife and her associates. A month earlier, a Hungarian national, Puskás Zsolt, died during a solo trek in the Sohra-Shella area in April.

“In view of safety reasons, it is now mandatory for all tourists to take the services of a registered tourist guide, while undertaking treks and outdoor activities in the area,” East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Rosetta M. Kurbah stated in an order issued on July 1.

Ms. Kurbah, who also chairs the District Tourism Promotion Society, said the decision is intended not only to ensure the safety of visitors but also to prevent incidents such as tourists getting lost, injured, or being susceptible to criminal acts in isolated areas.

She added that violators may face penalties or be denied access to trekking routes.

To ensure the effective implementation of the directive, the district administration plans to deploy additional trained guides and work closely with local communities.

The Sohra region, also known as Cherrapunjee, is one of the most frequented tourist destinations in Meghalaya. It is known for its scenic trekking trails, waterfalls, root bridges - including the famous double-decker bridge -caves, and rolling meadows.