Since May 3, 2023, ethnic conflicts in Manipur have caused a sharp drop in tourism to Tharon Cave in Tamenglong district. About 2,500 members of the Liangmai tribe reside in Tharon Village, which is located about 30 kilometers from Tamenglong District Headquarters. Because to its intricate network of tunnels and caverns, it was the most popular among many. Tourists who came to see the cave and the village’s natural beauty helped to strengthen the local economy until the ethnic crisis began on May 3, 2023.
Local Guimachang Marenmai reports that volunteers from the youth club are guiding visitors to the Tharon Cave, offering entry for Rs 50 and admission to the nearby waterfall for Rs 20. The village offers eco-friendly bungalows and campers for Rs 1,000 and Rs 300 per day. Despite limited tourists due to Manipur conflict, they were able to make some money by selling seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Guimachang faced difficulty entering Tharon Village due to poor unmade road and three-hour journey to Tamenglong District Headquarters, with only 4×4 pickup trucks available for transportation. Residents of Tharon Village are dissatisfied with erratic electricity supply and mobile connections, and are calling for authorities to address the situation. They suggest building a route between Tamenglong and Tharon Village.
