Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh to Launch Chopper Services from Dharamsala, Palampur and Chamba in June, Says CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced that helicopter services connecting key tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh will begin from June 2026. The move is aimed at strengthening air connectivity and promoting premium tourism across the hill state.
Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced that helicopter services connecting key tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh will begin from June 2026. The move is aimed at strengthening air connectivity and promoting premium tourism across the hill state.
Speaking at an event organised by the Shimla Hotel and Restaurant Association, the Chief Minister said that heliport operations in Dharamsala, Palampur, Hamirpur and Chamba are ready to commence next month.
According to Sukhu, the state government is actively developing heliport infrastructure in several regions to attract high-end domestic and international tourists. He added that helicopter services for Reckong Peo have already started as part of the government’s border tourism initiative.
Himachal Government Focuses on Tourism Connectivity
The Himachal Pradesh government believes improved air connectivity will significantly enhance tourism in remote and mountainous regions. The upcoming helicopter routes are expected to reduce travel time for tourists visiting popular destinations in Kangra, Chamba and surrounding areas.
The Chief Minister also revealed that the state government has requested the Union Civil Aviation Ministry to allow larger helicopter operations in Shimla. However, due to operational limitations at the Sanjauli heliport, authorities are currently identifying an alternative location for expanded services.
Kangra Declared Tourism Capital of Himachal Pradesh
Sukhu reiterated that Kangra district has been officially declared the tourism capital of Himachal Pradesh. To support long-term tourism growth, the government is acquiring land worth nearly Rs 3,500 crore for the expansion of Kangra Airport.
The airport expansion project is expected to improve tourist inflow to destinations such as Dharamsala, Bir Billing, Palampur and McLeodganj. The Chief Minister also announced plans for the Bhubhu-Jot tunnel from Jogindernagar, which will improve connectivity to Kullu, Manali and Lahaul-Spiti.
Government Plans Massive Investment in Religious and Wellness Tourism
The state government is also investing heavily in religious tourism infrastructure. Sukhu stated that around Rs 300 crore will be spent on the development of major Shaktipeeth temples, including Naina Devi Ji, Jwala Ji and Mata Chintpurni.
Additionally, nearly Rs 3,000 crore is being invested in hotels, wellness centres and roadside tourist amenities across Himachal Pradesh. The government aims to encourage visitors to stay in the state for at least eight to ten days instead of short weekend trips.
Tourism Sector Expected to Offset Revenue Losses
Highlighting the economic importance of tourism, Sukhu said Himachal Pradesh suffered major revenue losses after the implementation of GST, particularly from the Baddi-Barotiwala industrial belt.
He stated that the state earlier received nearly Rs 4,000 crore in revenue from the industrial area but now receives only around Rs 150 crore to Rs 200 crore. The government believes the tourism sector can play a crucial role in compensating for these financial losses.
