IPL Matches in Dharamshala Have Given a New Momentum to Himachal’s Economy: Anurag Thakur
Former Union Minister and MP Anurag Singh Thakur said that the IPL 2026 matches held in Dharamshala have provided a major boost to the local economy of Himachal Pradesh, especially Dharamshala, Kangra, McLeodganj, Palampur and surrounding areas. He stated that the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) has done historic work by giving cricket a new identity in the small hill state of Himachal, while also taking sports tourism to new heights.
Anurag Singh Thakur expressed gratitude to IPL Chairman Shri Arun Dhumal and the BCCI, saying, “Thanks to the efforts of IPL Chairman Shri Arun Dhumal, Himachal Pradesh got the opportunity to host four matches this time. People from every corner of the country and every part of Himachal enjoyed these matches. Such events not only strengthen Himachal’s economy but also promote the spread of Himachali culture. I also congratulate the BCCI and HPCA officials for the successful organization of these matches and express my thanks to all the officers and employees.”
Appreciating the district administration, police department, traffic management, health services, and all other statutory and administrative bodies for the successful conduct of the IPL matches, he said that all agencies made this international-level event a success with utmost efficiency, coordination, and smart management.
Anurag Thakur said that due to the four matches held in Dharamshala during IPL 2026, economic activity worth crores of rupees took place in hotels, home-stays, taxis, restaurants, local trade, handicrafts, transport, and the tourism sector. According to data from various tourism and hotel industry sources, hotel bookings in Dharamshala increased nearly six-fold during the IPL matches, and the arrival of thousands of cricket fans led to extensive economic activity across the region.
Anurag Thakur said that the HPCA Stadium is counted among the most beautiful cricket stadiums in the world, and today Dharamshala has become a major sports tourism destination for cricket lovers from across the country and abroad. He said that the proposed India-Afghanistan ODI match in the coming month will further strengthen the region’s economy and give new expansion to tourism and trade activities.
