Manali: Manali and surrounding hill destinations witnessed a sharp revival in tourism during the Christmas holidays, as thousands of visitors flocked to the region for snowfall, winter adventures and festive celebrations. The surge has come as a welcome boost for the local tourism industry, which had struggled for months following weather-related disruptions earlier this year.
Industry representatives said accommodation demand has risen steeply, with hotel occupancy in Manali touching nearly 80 per cent. Travel operators reported a steady stream of last-minute enquiries and advance bookings, suggesting that the upward trend is likely to continue through the New Year period.
Tourism stakeholders described the festive rush as a turning point after a prolonged lull. Hoteliers noted that visitor numbers had dropped significantly after heavy rains and floods in parts of Himachal Pradesh during the monsoon season, affecting livelihoods across the sector. The current turnout, they said, has restored confidence and raised expectations of full occupancy as New Year celebrations approach.
Adding to the holiday atmosphere, the local administration arranged cultural programmes and music events along Mall Road, creating a lively setting for tourists. The rise in arrivals was also evident on the roads, with a large number of tourist vehicles entering Manali over the past two days.
Police teams were deployed at key locations, including the Kiratpur–Manali National Highway and routes leading to the Atal Tunnel, to manage traffic and ensure safety. Officials confirmed that additional personnel had been stationed across Kullu district to maintain smooth vehicular movement and public order.
Authorities have urged visitors to follow traffic advisories and safety instructions, assuring that arrangements are in place to facilitate a pleasant and secure holiday experience for travellers during the peak season.
