The Mawkynrew Tourism Sociable Society (MTSS) along with the Tourism Department organised the “Escape To Nongjrong” festival on February 16 and 17 to sell the area as a tourist destination.
The festival was held at the banks of Umngot river.
Apart from Nongjrong which falls under Mawkynrew Community and Rural Development Block and known for its sunrise point where during early sunrise the valley is covered with clouds, the other tourist sites in the area are Laitlum, Syntung, Kshaid Pdem at Khlieh- A- Sem.
During the two-day festival locals showcased their products like organic vegetables, local cuisines, wines and the famous Nongjrong orange.
During the festival local musicians like – Bahun Marwein, Gracyl Ropmay, Banjop Nongbri, Wanjop Sohkhlet and Mar Local performed.
Apart from music which kept the visitors enthralled, there were activities like kayaking, paragliding and zip lining.
On the concluding day of the festival, a beauty pageant was held, wherein the Mrs Mawkynrew 2024 contest was won by Kyntulang Rynjah of Synñiasya, the first runners up was Shembhalin Mynsong and the second runners up was Ailibon Khriam of Jongksha.
The Mr Mawkynrew 2024 contest was won by Banpyndaplang Ryndong of Thangsning, first runners up was won by Willborn Mynsong of Mawleiñ and second runners up was won by Kyrshanborlang Kharumnuid of Rapleng.
Meanwhile, in the Miss Mawkynrew 2024 the winner was Dabisharbha Mylliemngap, the first runners up was Deibyntalang Mylliemngap of Laitkyrhong and the second runners up was Jesica Nongpluh of Kharang.
The winners pocketed Rs 25,000 the first runners up got Rs 15,000 and the second runners up Rs 10,000.
The festival was witnessed by thousands of locals and also tourists from various parts of the country.
Speaking on the opening day, local MLA and chairman of the MTSS, Banteidor Lyngdoh said that the locals should take advantage of such events in order to uplift their economy through tourism.
Lyngdoh also said that a few years ago the area was not known as a tourist destination but today the area has seven home stays which are occupied all the year round.
