Himachal Pradesh targets global tourism hub status with ₹2,350 crore ADB-backed investment: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the state aims to build a global tourism brand with Rs 2,350 crore ADB-supported investment focusing on infrastructure, connectivity and employment generation.

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday said the state government is working towards establishing “Himachal Tourism” as a premier global brand, with tourism development projects worth Rs 2,350 crore being implemented across the state.

Chairing a high-level review meeting on tourism initiatives, the Chief Minister said the projects are being executed with financial support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Of the total outlay, Rs 1,620 crore has been allocated under Tranche-1, while Rs 730 crore is earmarked under Tranche-2.

Sukhu stressed the importance of world-class construction standards and directed officials to ensure that all projects are completed within stipulated timelines.

“This vision is being realised through a comprehensive set of schemes aimed at strengthening the state’s economy while creating large-scale employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth,” the Chief Minister said.

Focus on connectivity and infrastructure

To enhance the overall visitor experience, the government is giving priority to improving connectivity and tourism infrastructure, including the construction of multiple heliports and the expansion of Kangra airport, Sukhu said.

A key element of the tourism roadmap is the plan to develop Kangra district as the ‘tourism capital’ of Himachal Pradesh. Projects worth Rs 77.70 crore are currently underway in Palampur and Nagrota Bagwan.

In Palampur, the initiatives include the development of multi-level parking facilities, renovation of the iconic Neugal Café, and the creation of modern amenities such as a library-integrated café.

Statewide tourism projects

Tourism development efforts are also underway across other districts, covering spiritual, adventure and wellness tourism.

In Hamirpur, projects worth Rs 51.09 crore are being implemented at the Shree Baba Balak Nath Temple complex. Dharamsala will soon get ice-skating and roller-skating rinks at a cost of Rs 33.78 crore.

The state is also investing in wellness tourism, with centres worth over Rs 56 crore coming up in Kullu and Manali. Meanwhile, the historic Naggar Castle is undergoing specialised conservation and renovation to preserve its cultural heritage.

Officials present

The meeting concluded with a detailed presentation by RS Bali, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. Principal Secretary (Finance) Devesh Kumar and Director Tourism Vivek Bhatia were also present.

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