Himachal Pradesh News
Winter Wows: Kullu Welcomes Over 2 Lakh Tourists in December
Kullu district witnessed a sharp surge in tourist arrivals in December 2025, with nearly two lakh visitors from across the country thronging the valley, reaffirming its position as one of Himachal Pradesh’s most favoured winter destinations.
Kullu district witnessed a sharp surge in tourist arrivals in December 2025, with nearly two lakh visitors from across the country thronging the valley, reaffirming its position as one of Himachal Pradesh’s most favoured winter destinations.
District Tourism Development Officer Rohit Sharma said around two lakh tourists visited Kullu during the month, drawn by its scenic landscapes, snowfall, winter adventure sports and spiritual sites. He added that the final, consolidated figures were still being compiled and would be released shortly.
Reflecting the scale of tourist movement, Sharma said nearly 43,000 vehicles were registered at the Green Tax Barrier in Manali alone during December 2025. This was about 1,000 vehicles more than in December 2024, indicating rising tourist interest despite challenging winter conditions.
Manali remained the biggest attraction, luring visitors with snowfall, skiing and other winter adventure activities. Kasol and Manikaran continued to draw tourists for their natural beauty, trekking routes, hot springs and religious significance. Offbeat destinations such as Banjar Valley, Jibhi and the Tirthan Valley also recorded increased footfall, particularly from nature lovers and eco-tourists seeking quieter escapes.
Tourism department officials said hotels, homestays and allied businesses reported healthy occupancy during the peak winter season, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Taxi operators, shopkeepers and adventure service providers also benefited from the steady tourist inflow.
Sharma said the tourism department, in coordination with the district administration and other line departments, had made adequate arrangements to ensure the safety and convenience of tourists, especially in view of snowfall and fluctuating weather conditions. He urged visitors to follow official advisories and adhere to environmental guidelines.
With winter holidays continuing in several states, officials expect the tourist momentum to continue in the coming weeks, further boosting employment and economic activity while reinforcing the emphasis on responsible and sustainable tourism in Kullu.
