Himachal Focuses on Eco-Friendly Tourism, Boosts Infrastructure to Attract Visitors Year-Round
Himachal Pradesh is steadily strengthening its position as one of India’s top tourist destinations, with the state government rolling out a series of initiatives to enhance infrastructure and promote sustainable tourism. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, efforts are being made to ensure that the state attracts visitors in every season, not just during peak travel times.
The government’s forward-looking policies are already showing results, as scenic valleys across Himachal are witnessing a surge in both domestic and international tourists. Along with improving basic facilities, the state is also diversifying its tourism offerings. While Himachal has long been known for its religious destinations, it is now emerging as a hub for adventure tourism as well.
A major focus has been placed on developing water-based tourism. Gobind Sagar Lake, for instance, has been transformed into a new attraction with the introduction of cruise services, shikaras, houseboats, jet skis, and water scooters—facilities being offered here for the first time. Plans are also underway to develop a 30-kilometre cruise route connecting Harnauda in Bilaspur to Tattapani in Shimla district.
Adventure tourism is also getting a significant push through international sporting events. The successful hosting of the Asian Rafting Championship on the Beas and Sutlej rivers has brought global attention to the state. Bir Billing in Kangra, already famous worldwide for paragliding, continues to attract enthusiasts, while new sites are being explored. Recently, Junga in Shimla district hosted a Paragliding World Cup event, further strengthening Himachal’s reputation in this segment.
Recognizing the potential of nature-based tourism, the state has introduced a new Eco-Tourism Policy aimed at generating employment and self-employment opportunities for rural youth. Adding to this, border tourism has been opened at Shipki La, giving visitors a unique experience of reaching the frontier areas. The state is also venturing into niche tourism, with Kaza in Lahaul-Spiti now offering a dedicated astro-tourism facility for star gazing.
Kangra district is being developed as the tourism capital of Himachal Pradesh. Expansion of Kangra Airport is underway to improve connectivity, while heliports are being constructed across district headquarters. Meanwhile, the ambitious Durgesh Aranya Wildlife Park project in Dehra, with an estimated cost of ₹619 crore, is expected to become a major attraction for both tourists and locals.
To encourage entrepreneurship, the government has introduced the Chief Minister Tourism Start-up Scheme. The scheme offers interest subsidies on loans—3 percent in urban areas, 4 percent in rural areas, and 5 percent in tribal areas—helping individuals set up new tourism ventures or expand homestay facilities. This initiative is opening new avenues of income and employment for the youth.
In the state capital Shimla, where tourist footfall continues to rise, several development projects are in progress. One of the key initiatives is the ₹246-crore underground utility duct project aimed at improving urban infrastructure and enhancing the city’s appearance. The project is expected to modernize essential services, improve civic amenities, and make the city more visitor-friendly.
With a clear focus on sustainability, infrastructure development, and innovation, Himachal Pradesh is steadily moving towards a more diversified and eco-friendly tourism model, ensuring long-term growth and better opportunities for its people.
