Shimla: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today chaired a high-level review of various tourism development initiatives currently underway across Himachal Pradesh. Supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), these projects represent a total investment of Rs. 2350 crore, with Rs. 1620 crore allocated under Tranche-1 and Rs. 730 crore earmarked for Tranche-2.
During the session, the Chief Minister underscored the necessity of maintaining world-class construction standards and issued strict directives to officials to ensure that development works are completed within their respective timelines.
The primary objective of the State Government is to establish “Himachal Tourism” as a premier global brand. This vision is being realized through a comprehensive suite of schemes designed to fortify the state’s economy while generating significant employment and self-employment opportunities for the local youth. To improve the overall visitor experience, the government is prioritizing connectivity and infrastructure, which includes the ongoing construction of several heliports and expansion of the Kangra airport.
Central to this master plan is the transformation of Kangra district into the state’s “Tourism Capital.” Significant investments are being directed toward Palampur and Nagrota Bagwan, where projects worth Rs. 77.70 crore were already in progress. In Palampur, focus areas include multi-level parking facilities, the renovation of Neugal Café, and the creation of modern amenities such as a library-integrated café. Meanwhile, Nagrota Bagwan is seeing extensive beautification of its bus stands, temples and public grounds, alongside essential infrastructure upgrades like drainage and road improvements.
Development extends across the state with diverse projects catering to both spiritual and adventure tourism. In Hamirpur, Rs.51.09 crore is being spent on the Shree Baba Balak Nath Temple complex, while Dharamshala is set to receive new ice-skating and roller-skating rinks costing Rs.33.78 crore. The government is also investing in wellness, with centers totaling over Rs. 56 crore being established in Kullu and Manali. Additionally, the historic Naggar Castle is undergoing specialized conservation and renovation to preserve its cultural heritage.
Future phases under the ADB partnership will introduce further recreational facilities, including a rafting complex in Nadaun and adventure sports centers equipped with hostels. The meeting concluded with detailed insights from R. S. Bali, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, alongside contributions from senior officials including Principal Secretary Devesh Kumar and Director Tourism Vivek Bhatia, all of whom are coordinating to ensure these ambitious targets are met.
