Tourism on decline: Poor planning, neglect leave Himachal’s destinations deserted
In the absence of proper planning and amidst haphazard development, most tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh are now plagued by overcrowding, traffic congestion and a severe shortage of parking spaces. Navigating narrow, jam-packed roads has become a daily struggle — even for pedestrians.
While Uttarakhand government has offered a range of incentives to hoteliers and transport operators, Himachal has lagged behind. As a result, travel agencies based in metro cities made bulk bookings for Uttarakhand this season, leading to a sharp drop in tourist inflow to Himachal Pradesh.
Even though the peak tourist season is underway, popular destinations like Palampur, Bir-Billing, and McLeodganj are witnessing alarmingly low footfall. These once-bustling hubs now wear a deserted look.
Tourism has long been a major revenue generator and a valuable source of foreign exchange for the state. Yet, due to the indifference of successive governments, Himachal has failed to fully develop its rich potential. Basic infrastructure remains inadequate and the failure to extend municipal limits in key tourist spots has only worsened the problem.
Despite these persistent challenges, the CM has announced ambitious plans to make Kangra the tourism capital of Himachal Pradesh. The state government has repeatedly promised improved amenities for tourists, but little has materialised on the ground. Roads leading to various tourist spots remain in disrepair, especially those damaged during the last monsoon.
Visitors today are met with long traffic jams, unregulated hotel prices and chaotic parking arrangements. Inefficient traffic management, narrow and bumpy roads, exorbitant airfare and food costs and rampant overcharging by taxi operators further mar the image of this culturally and naturally rich state.
Hotel tariffs in Himachal remain significantly higher than in many other tourist destinations across India. On the transport front, the government’s failure to implement metered taxis continues to hurt both tourists and the state’s reputation.
Although state authorities frequently tout “master plans” for the holistic development of towns like Palampur, Dharamsala, Bir Billing and McLeodganj, these plans remain largely on paper.
With its rich heritage, biodiversity and scenic beauty, Himachal Pradesh holds immense potential for domestic and international tourism. Sadly, this potential remains untapped due to a lack of administrative efficiency and political will. Unless concrete action replaces empty announcements, the state risks losing its standing as a premier tourist destination.
