Himachal Pradesh News
24×7 Tourist Helpline and Dedicated Tourist Police Rolled Out for Safer Travel in Kullu and Manali
Travelers heading to the breathtaking valleys of Kullu and Manali can now feel even more secure, as the Central Government has introduced round-the-clock safety measures aimed at protecting visitors and strengthening confidence in Himachal Pradesh’s tourism sector.
Travelers heading to the breathtaking valleys of Kullu and Manali can now feel even more secure, as the Central Government has introduced round-the-clock safety measures aimed at protecting visitors and strengthening confidence in Himachal Pradesh’s tourism sector.
Tourism has always been the lifeline of Himachal Pradesh, with destinations like Kullu and Manali attracting millions of domestic and international tourists every year. From snow-covered mountains and lush green valleys to adventure sports like paragliding, river rafting, and trekking, the region offers unforgettable experiences. However, with rising tourist footfall, safety has become an equally important priority.
24×7 Multilingual Tourist Helpline Now Active
To ensure immediate assistance for travellers, the Union Ministry of Tourism has operationalised a 24×7 multilingual tourist helpline. Visitors can dial the toll-free number 1800111363 or short code 1363 for real-time support.
The helpline functions in 12 languages, including 10 international languages, making it particularly useful for foreign travellers. Whether someone needs travel-related information or urgent help during distress, assistance is now just a phone call away. For adventure hotspots like Kullu and Manali, where tourists actively participate in outdoor activities, this initiative provides an added layer of reassurance.
Focus on Women’s Safety Under Nirbhaya Fund
The Central Government has also encouraged states to adopt the ‘Safe Tourism Destination for Women’ initiative under the Nirbhaya Fund. The scheme allows states to implement infrastructure upgrades and safety measures specifically aimed at protecting women travellers.
In Himachal Pradesh, where solo female travel and women-led trekking groups are steadily increasing, such initiatives help create a more inclusive and gender-sensitive tourism environment. The move is being seen as a significant step toward making popular hill destinations safer for everyone.
Code of Conduct for Safe and Honourable Tourism
In collaboration with state tourism departments, the Union Ministry has also promoted the ‘Code of Conduct for Safe and Honourable Tourism.’ The framework sets clear guidelines to ensure dignity, safety, and protection from exploitation—especially for women and children.
These structured guidelines aim to strengthen accountability across tourism stakeholders, including tour operators, hotel owners, and local service providers.
Deployment of Tourist Police Units
Although tourism safety falls primarily under state jurisdiction, coordinated efforts between the Centre and the state government have led to the deployment of dedicated Tourist Police units in key tourist areas across Himachal Pradesh.
Trained personnel are now stationed at major tourist hubs, transit points, and high-footfall areas in Kullu and Manali. Their presence not only improves emergency response but also builds trust among visitors.
A Boost to Traveller Confidence
With the introduction of a 24×7 helpline, women-focused safety initiatives, a formal code of conduct, and Tourist Police deployment, the government aims to position Kullu and Manali as safer and more visitor-friendly destinations.
As travel continues to rebound and adventure tourism gains momentum, these measures signal a strong commitment to ensuring that every tourist’s journey to the hills of Himachal Pradesh is not just memorable—but secure as well.
