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%u201cTawang%u2019s pristine landscapes and cultural richness uniquely position it as a rising star in India%u2019s tourism landscape,%u201d says Sandeep Makroo, General Manager, Vivanta Tawang. While destinations like Leh and Ladakh have long dominated border tourism, Makroo believes Tawang is set to emerge as a compelling alternative.%u201cIndia%u2019s border regions remain largely untapped compared to established destinations,%u201d he explains. %u201cTawang, with its breathtaking beauty, strategic location, and cultural depth, offers an unmatched experience for travelers seeking adventure and serenity. This makes it an ideal destination for a luxury brand like Taj to pioneer and transform into a must-visit location.%u201dMakroo believes that Tawang aligns perfectly with evolving travel preferences in India. %u201cAs disposable incomes rise and travelers seek exotic locations to create unforgettable memories, Vivanta Tawang stands out. It offers the perfect blend of adventure and serenity, catering to the desires of today%u2019s discerning tourists.%u201dVivanta tawangRunning a luxury hotel in such a remote area comes with its own set of obstacles. %u201cTransportation, staffing, and sourcing supplies are some of the key challenges,%u201d Makroo acknowledges. %u201cHowever, our commitment to quality and creativity allows us to overcome these hurdles.%u201dHe elaborates, %u201cFinding the right people is vital, especially in a remote location. We%u2019ve built a team of dedicated professionals passionate about delivering the true upper-upscale experience Vivanta is known for. Additionally, we%u2019ve forged strong relationships with trusted suppliers to ensure high-quality materials are always available. We%u2019ve also embraced sustainable practices, minimizing our environmental footprint while respecting the local ecosystem.%u201dDespite the challenges, Makroo remains optimistic. %u201cThe remoteness of Tawang allows us to offer a truly unique and exclusive experience. This is a rare privilege, and we wouldn%u2019t trade it for anything.%u201dWhile Tawang%u2019s proximity to the China border often raises concerns, Makroo paints a different picture. %u201cTawang is one of the most peaceful areas in the country. Border posts like Bumla, Zimithang, and the Holy Waterfalls are not only safe but also offer picturesque landscapes that attract travelers.%u201dMakroo points out that while logistics can be a hurdle today, improvements are underway. %u201cInfrastructure development is a game-changer. The recently opened Sela Tunnel, the world%u2019s longest two-tube tunnel at 4,000 meters, has %u2018Vivanta Tawang is not just a destinationit%u2019s a journey into serenity%u2019HOSPITALITY BIZ n JANUARY, 2025WWW.HOSPITALITYBIZINDIA.COM10 GM SPEAKIn the heart of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is emerging as one of India%u2019s most sought-after border tourism destinations. Spearheading this transformation is Vivanta Tawang, a luxury property managed by the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL). Under the leadership of Sandeep Makroo, General Manager, the hotel is setting new benchmarks in luxury, sustainability, and community engagement while showcasing the untouched beauty of the region. In an exclusive conversation with Asmita Mukherjee, Makroo outlines the challenges, opportunities, and vision behind this groundbreaking project.