At the Adventure Tourism Meet 2025 in Shillong, Febronia Effie Pajat—owner of Cabana Serene—shared her enthusiasm for adventure travel and her belief that Meghalaya’s untapped potential is just beginning to be recognised. Through her company, Pajat curates immersive experiences that allow travellers to explore the state’s rugged terrain through off-road adventures and other outdoor pursuits. “The tours we organise usually take people off the beaten track,” she said. “They get to sit in an off-road car and experience the landscape in a very real, raw way.”
Pajat’s journey into adventure tourism began with her love for exploration and her desire to introduce others to Meghalaya’s diverse natural beauty. While the state is known for its waterfalls and living root bridges, she believes there is a new wave of interest building around adventure-based experiences such as caving, rock climbing, and bungee jumping. “Adventure tourism in Meghalaya hasn’t been around for very long,” she explained. “Earlier, it was mostly mainstream sightseeing. But now, adventure spots are developing, and people are eager to try new things.”
Reflecting on the Shillong meet, Pajat said the event had given her “a lot of new ideas” and renewed motivation to collaborate with others in the tourism sector. She particularly appreciated the presence of students and young professionals. “It was encouraging to meet so many young people and others working in tourism,” she said. “It’s events like this that inspire us to grow, learn, and innovate.”
However, she also acknowledged the challenges the sector faces, particularly when it comes to awareness and safety perceptions. “One of the biggest hurdles is getting people to understand what adventure tourism really is—and to show them that it’s safe,” she said. “Once visitors feel confident, they’re more willing to explore these new experiences.”
For Pajat, the path forward lies in consistent education, collaboration, and creativity. She envisions Meghalaya becoming a key adventure destination in the Northeast—where tourists not only chase thrills but also discover the spirit of the land and its people.