Surge in tourist footfall in Himachal Pradesh: 1 cr arrivals in 6 months

Shimla, July 25

Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a significant surge in tourism as over one crore tourists visited the state in first six months of 2024.

Kullu, Shimla top attractions

• By the end of June, 1,00,87,440 tourists visited various tourist locations across the state.
• Kullu and Shimla districts emerged top attractions, drawing 4,73,737 and 4,48,392 tourists, respectively.

According to an official spokesperson, by the end of June, the state received 1,00,87,440 tourists at various tourist locations across the state. Key destinations such as Shimla, Manali, Dharamsala, Dalhousie, Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti remained popular while Kullu and Shimla districts emerged top attractions, drawing 4,73,737 and 4,48,392 tourists, respectively.

This trend has continued in July, aided by favourable weather conditions and open roads, allowing tourists to escape the sticky summer heat of the plains and enjoy the scenic beauty of Himachal Pradesh, he added.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu pointed out that despite monsoons a majority of the roads remain accessible and safe for travel. “Despite recent weather conditions affecting some roads, most of the roads across the state are open and accessible to tourists and the general public. Himachal is also witnessing a huge influx of tourists even in July. These numbers are promising and we expect to surpass two crore visitors by the end of this year,” he said.

Sukhu emphasised the importance of tourists staying informed by checking the latest travel advisories and road conditions with the help lines of the district administration, police department and social media handles. “Tourist’s safety and pleasure are our top priorities,” he added.