Himachal Pradesh Tourism Corporation Partners with Make My Trip to Revolutionize Hotel Booking Services

Shimla, 04 December – In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing the state’s tourism sector, the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has entered into a strategic partnership with leading travel platform Make My Trip (MMT). This collaboration is set to transform hotel booking services across the state, providing HPTDC with the competitive edge needed to rival private hotel groups and attract a larger share of the tourism market.

HPTDC and Make My Trip: A Game-Changing Partnership

Under this partnership, Make My Trip will pay an advance of ₹2 crore to HPTDC in exchange for securing booking rights for the corporation’s properties. HPTDC Chairman, RS Bali, officially announced this landmark collaboration during a press conference, emphasizing its potential to significantly boost the corporation’s revenues and increase its market presence. The partnership is poised to streamline bookings and expand the corporation’s reach through the digital platforms of one of India’s largest travel agencies.

“The collaboration with Make My Trip is expected to revolutionize the way HPTDC properties are marketed and booked, opening up new revenue avenues and giving us a strong foothold in the competitive travel industry,” said RS Bali.

Targeting ₹300 Crore Revenue with Strategic Investments and Renovations

As part of its vision to grow its business, HPTDC has set an ambitious target to achieve a turnover of ₹300 crore in the next six months. To achieve this, the corporation has earmarked ₹16 crore for the renovation of key properties, including the iconic Hotel Holiday Home and Peterhoff in Shimla, and Hotel Hamir in Hamirpur. These upgrades are intended to elevate the overall customer experience and make HPTDC properties more attractive to tourists, both domestic and international.

Bali also reported that HPTDC’s revenue has already exceeded last year’s figures by ₹2.67 crore, signaling a positive trajectory for the corporation’s financial growth.

Improving Service Quality with Skilled Personnel and Operational Efficiency

Recognizing the importance of maintaining high service standards, HPTDC has taken steps to enhance the quality of its offerings. The state government has approved the recruitment of skilled personnel, including technically trained cooks and experienced managers, to improve service delivery at HPTDC’s properties. Additionally, to overcome staff shortages, the corporation will transfer employees to the locations where their services are most needed.

“We are committed to improving our operational efficiency and providing our guests with exceptional services. Weekly reviews of income and expenditure across our properties will ensure financial discipline and help us achieve our goals,” added Bali.

Expanding Online Presence and Partnerships for Maximum Visibility

To further boost its online presence and booking capacity, HPTDC has appointed General Manager Anil Taneja as the nodal officer for managing online booking collaborations. The partnership with Make My Trip is just the beginning; HPTDC is exploring additional collaborations with other online travel platforms to maximize visibility and bookings for its properties.

Private partners will also play a key role in promoting HPTDC properties, with the added responsibility of providing dedicated staff, including a channel manager, to handle bookings and ensure smooth operations.

Clearing Financial Liabilities and Ensuring Employee Welfare

As part of its commitment to transparency and financial responsibility, HPTDC has cleared ₹1.89 crore in liabilities owed to pensioners, in compliance with a court directive. Bali assured that issues raised by the Corporation Employees Federation would be addressed swiftly, ensuring a harmonious working environment and resolving any employee concerns.

Major Government Projects to Boost Tourism Infrastructure

In a significant development, Bali highlighted the approval of a ₹2,500 crore project under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment Scheme. This funding will be directed toward improving tourism infrastructure across Himachal Pradesh, further bolstering the state’s status as a top destination for travelers.

Additionally, a ₹36 crore “Challenging Destination” project has been sanctioned for the remote areas of Kaza and Chitkul, which are expected to attract adventure tourism and offbeat travelers looking for unique experiences in Himachal Pradesh.

Bali expressed optimism about securing more tourism projects following productive discussions with Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

Clarification on Wild Flower Hall Ownership Dispute

On the controversial issue of the ownership of Wild Flower Hall, RS Bali clarified that HPTDC does not currently hold any claim over the property. However, he assured that the state government is actively working on a resolution to address the ownership dispute, providing clarity on the matter in the near future.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Himachal Tourism

With these strategic initiatives, HPTDC is poised to revitalize its tourism offerings, improve infrastructure, and generate substantial revenue for the state. The partnership with Make My Trip, along with ongoing renovations and government backing, sets the stage for a prosperous future for Himachal Pradesh’s tourism sector, benefiting both the local economy and the millions of visitors flocking to this picturesque state.