On June 5, 2025, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Mr Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the sleek Meghalinor sailing yacht at Umiam Lake in a ceremony that underscored the state’s twin focus on tourism and water-based adventure sports.
“Today’s programme is a very meaningful one,” said the Hon’ble Chief Minister at the event. “Today brings together two critical verticals—tourism and sports. By integrating these sectors, we aim to create a much greater impact for Meghalaya.”
The Meghalinor marks the beginning of a broader plan to turn Umiam into a premier destination for water sports and high-end tourism. The Chief Minister announced that a luxury resort is already in the pipeline at the lakefront, with developers expected to come on board within a month. The resort, he said, aims to be “one of the best in the entire eastern region, and maybe the country.”
Plans are also underway to introduce sea planes linking Umiam with iconic northeastern destinations such as Kaziranga, creating an interlinked tourism circuit across the region. In addition, the government is exploring larger yachts and overnight cruise experiences, with onboard entertainment and accommodation options to cater to both tourists and locals.
The launch also ties in with preparations for the upcoming National Games, which Meghalaya will host. The Hon’ble Chief Minister emphasized the importance of water sports such as rowing, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing, expressing hope that Meghalaya could secure up to 50% of the medals in these categories.
Hon’ble Tourism Minister Bah Paul Lyngdoh echoed the excitement, calling the launch “another remarkable chapter in the success story of Meghalaya Tourism.” Explaining the name Meghalinor, he said it blends ‘Meghalaya’ with ‘Valinor’—a mythical land from Tolkien’s legendarium—symbolizing a magical and majestic experience on water. “We want Meghalinor to offer not just a sail, but a voyage into the extraordinary.”
Bah Lyngdoh also announced that nearly 300 acres of land, including the popular Nehru Park, are being transferred from the Forest Department to the Tourism Department to create a more cohesive and immersive lakefront experience. Cruise services at Umiam are expected to be operational within a year.
Commissioner and Secretary for Tourism, Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, added that the state was engaging actively with national sports bodies, and noted that water sports associations have already been brought on board for collaborative development. He pointed out that at the last National Games, water sports brought in 27 medals—showcasing their potential for Meghalaya’s young athletes.
The inaugural sail aboard Meghalinor saw both the Chief Minister and Tourism Minister take to the waters of Umiam Lake, offering a glimpse of what could become one of India’s most unique and scenic water experiences.
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