HPTDC Headquarters Moving from Shimla to Kangra to Boost Operations

In a major shift for Himachal Pradesh’s tourism landscape, the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has decided to relocate its headquarters from Shimla to Kangra district. The decision, taken during a recent Board of Directors (BOD) meeting, marks a strategic move aimed at strengthening tourism infrastructure and operations in the region.

HPTDC Chairman RS Bali shared the announcement during a press conference, noting that the move has been long overdue. He pointed out that the current office in Shimla has been functioning from a rented building and has been facing repeated eviction notices over the years. After thorough discussions, the board concluded that relocating to a more permanent and suitable space in Kangra—possibly outside Dharamshala—was the most viable option.

To facilitate the transition, HPTDC Managing Director Dr. Rajiv Kumar has been tasked with identifying the ideal location for the new headquarters. Once finalized, the majority of the staff, including senior officials and the MD himself, will operate from the new site.

However, the move doesn’t mean Shimla will lose its importance in the tourism network. The zonal office will continue to function from the state capital, and essential personnel will remain stationed there based on operational needs.

Bali also emphasized HPTDC’s renewed focus on revitalizing tourism across Himachal. He revealed that steps are being taken to reopen several closed HPTDC hotels, while renovation work on existing properties will roll out in phases. Official guidelines have already been issued to begin the process.

Adding a positive note, Bali shared that HPTDC’s turnover has climbed to Rs 107 crore in the 2024–25 financial year—a sign of recovery and growing momentum in the tourism sector. Relocating the headquarters to Kangra is seen not just as an administrative decision, but as a forward-looking step to better serve tourists in lower Himachal, especially in and around Dharamshala, which continues to gain popularity as a key travel destination.