Shimla Experiences Rise in Tourists Over the Weekend

As the mercury rises in most North Indian destinations, a wave of relief and joy is sweeping over many individuals who are heading to hill stations such as Shimla.

Recently, Shimla experienced a surge in tourist influx. Heat waves are engulfing several regions in India, making the scorching heat unbearable. To escape the sweltering heat, many people are visiting Shimla, which has become one of India's most bustling hill stations.

Shimla's picturesque landscapes offer an ideal setting for exploration, making it a refreshing holiday destination for visitors. The tourism industry is brimming with optimism this year, buoyed by the influx of visitors from both within India and abroad. The surge in demand and bookings signals an upcoming increase in visitors, promising to breathe new life into various businesses and the hospitality sector as a whole. This remarkable surge in tourism serves as a beacon of hope, promising to rejuvenate revenues after a lacklustre two-year period.

Every year, more than 1000 tourists visit Himachal Pradesh, according to data from the state's tourism department. In 2019, the state welcomed nearly 1,720,000 tourists, including almost 400,000 foreign visitors. This marked a significant increase of almost 5% compared to the previous year, underscoring the enduring popularity and resilience of Himachal Pradesh as a tourist destination.

Although tourist arrivals in Shimla witnessed a decline between 21-22 due to the pandemic, they are gradually picking up again. However, recent bouts of rain and floods have posed fresh challenges.

The tourism sector in the state of Himachal Pradesh, a key driver of the economy, generates over 11,000 crore rupees. It is widely regarded as the backbone of the state's economy, contributing approximately 7.3% to the state's GDP.