Lockdown in NCR gives hope to Kullu hoteliers

Abhinav Vashisht

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KULLU, NOVember 18

As Delhi and its neighbouring regions go into partial lockdown because of the rising levels of pollution, stakeholders of the tourism industry are expecting a rise in the tourist influx in Kullu district.

Manali hoteliers said tourists could enjoy a wonderful environment in the region and also visit the mighty Rohtang Pass by taking online permits. They could also visit the Lahaul valley through the Atal Tunnel. Various packages were already being offered by travel agents.

Manali Hoteliers Association (MHA) president Mukesh Thakur said the average occupancy in hotels was around 20 per cent on weekdays and about 30 per cent on weekends. Due to the partial lockdown in the National Capital Region (NCR) because of pollution, the footfall might increase in a couple of days. Also, there were a good number of booking for the New Year season from December 15 onwards.

Stakeholders of the hospitality industry in Banjar valley said queries had increased in the past couple of days. Aditya Sood, owner of a homestay, said the tourists could enjoy pollution-free environment here and visit serene spots, including world heritage The Great Himalayan National Park. Facilities of camping and trekking were also available.

In the Parbati valley, tourist arrival has started gaining pace as the stressful Covid era is subsiding. Manikaran valley hotel association president Kishan Thakur said hoteliers were offering up to 50 per cent discount to attract tourists. There were about 300 hospitality units in the valley. Visitors were enjoying bathing in the hot water ponds at Kasol and Manikaran, besides wandering the serene spots.

The hoteliers who suffered heavy losses due to Covid-19 were hopeful that their business would gain pace. The occupancy in hotels was expected to improve due to partial lockdown in NCR.

Caption: Tourists enjoy the snow at Rohtang Pass. File Photo