Core issues neglected, Kangra’s tourism capital dream falters
Stray cattle roaming freely in busy public spaces, litter piling up in market areas and pothole-ridden roads together paint a grim picture, especially at a time when the region is witnessing peak tourist season
The plan of the state government to develop Kangra as the tourism capital of the state continues to remain elusive as basic civic issues in the district have been neglected. Stray cattle roaming freely in busy public spaces, litter piling up in market areas and pothole-ridden roads together paint a grim picture, especially at a time when the region is witnessing peak tourist season.
“The approach road to McLeodganj, one of Kangra’s flagship destinations, remains crippled, causing undue inconvenience to thousands of visitors. Pathways leading to Bhagsunag and Dharamkot, frequented by trekkers and global travellers, have been neglected for years,” local residents complain.
“IPL matches are scheduled to be played here later this month and these areas are likely to become epicentres of tourism activity, yet there seems to be no plan to improve access,” says Pawan, a manager at a premier hospitality property in McLeodganj.
Bottlenecks at Karmu Mod.
The residents are also questioning the priorities of the local authorities. “There is an unusual craze for creating selfie points and decorative gates by spending a huge amount of public money, but these efforts hold no meaning unless core issues are addressed,” says senior citizens of McLeodganj. Many believe that Kangra’s cultural vibrancy, once showcased through local fairs, festivals and community-led events, has diminished as these occasions have turned into formal, official functions with little space for native participation.
Though crores of rupees have been spent on building concrete structures, the district has struggled to develop truly engaging tourist spaces. In stark contrast, Tibetan community initiatives such as Norbulingka Institute and the TIPA continue to attract high-end travellers for their authenticity, aesthetics and thoughtful curation.
Observers say that the lack of vision, misplaced priorities and the absence of basic infrastructure are steadily eroding Kangra’s tourism potential, turning a long-cherished dream into a distant reality.
