Billing, Himachal Pradesh, India | Image:travelbirbilling
Tourist surge in HP: Himachal Pradesh’s tourism sector witnessed a commendable surge in 2023, bouncing back from the disruptions caused by heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides. Despite a temporary halt in tourist inflow during the monsoon, the state managed to record a 6 per cent overall increase in tourist arrivals, reaching an impressive 1.60 crore visitors, up from 1.51 crore in 2022.
The monsoon season presented significant challenges, resulting in losses amounting to a staggering Rs 9,905.77 crore and claiming more than 200 lives. In a dramatic episode, 75,000 stranded tourists had to be evacuated in July 2023 due to blocked roads, prompting swift relief and restoration efforts.
The revival of the tourism industry, marked by the Kullu International Dussehra, showcased the resilience of Himachal Pradesh. Notably, the surge in foreign tourists was remarkable, experiencing a remarkable 53% increase in 2023 compared to the…