Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, is embarking on an ambitious plan to triple the number of tourists visiting the state.
Spokesperson of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department said that the set a target set to attract five crore tourists, the government is leaving no stone unturned to enhance the state’s tourism infrastructure.
Currently, the state witnesses a footfall of around 1.75 crore tourists annually, but recent data from the Department of Tourism indicates a promising trend, with 1.08 crore tourists visiting in just the first six months of this year.
This surge in tourism underscores the potential for Himachal Pradesh to break all previous records.
Adventure tourism is at the heart of this strategic push. Recognising the immense appeal of thrilling experiences, the state government has set its sights on transforming Himachal Pradesh into a premier destination for adventure seekers.
One of the marquee events in this endeavour is the Paragliding Pre-World Cup, scheduled to be hosted in November at the globally renowned paragliding site in Bir Billing.
This event is expected to draw a significant number of adventure enthusiasts from around the world, further cementing Himachal Pradesh’s reputation as a leading adventure tourism hub.
In addition to paragliding, several other major projects are underway to diversify the adventure tourism offerings in the state. Notable among these is the development of a skywalk in the picturesque Hassan Valley.
This project aims to provide tourists with a unique and exhilarating experience, combining the breathtaking beauty of the valley with the thrill of walking high above the ground.
Another exciting initiative is the installation of hot-air ballooning facilities in Pong and Govind Sagar. These installations are expected to attract tourists seeking serene yet adventurous experiences, offering them a chance to enjoy panoramic views of the state’s stunning landscapes from the sky.
Hot air ballooning in Pong, in particular, is anticipated to become a major attraction, boosting the local economy by drawing visitors and encouraging longer stays.
Furthermore, the government is focusing on creating new trekking routes across various parts of the state.
These routes will cater to both novice trekkers and seasoned hikers, offering them opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh while engaging in healthy outdoor activities.
To accommodate the anticipated influx of tourists, the government has also decided to allow shops to remain open 24 hours a day a day during peak tourism seasons.
This move is part of a broader strategy to ensure that visitors have access to round-the-clock hospitality, enhancing their overall experience and satisfaction.
In conclusion, the Himachal Pradesh government’s concerted efforts to boost adventure tourism reflect a visionary approach to economic growth.
By developing infrastructure and promoting a variety of adventure activities, the state is poised to attract a larger number of tourists, thereby significantly contributing to the local economy.
With these initiatives, Himachal Pradesh is well on its way to becoming a top destination for adventure tourism in India.
