Mizoram witnessed an increase in tourists visiting the northeastern state this year to take part in the Christmas celebrations involving traditional feasts at different local churches, a minister said. The tourist footfall in this year-end festivities has surged more than ever before, most apparently due to the railway link, which made travel more affordable, and several tourism promotional initiatives collectively taken by the government and the people, Mizoram Tourism minister Lalnghinglova Hmar said. He said that, unlike before, more foreign and domestic tourists were seen participating in several church services, zaikhawm (congregational singing services) and community feasts organised by local churches to witness the rich culture of Mizos in celebrating Christmas, which is a blend of religious and traditional fervour. He said that hotels and homestays were packed with tourists since November, which indicated the surge in tourists during these festivities. State Tourism Directo