Below Par Tourism Performance

Himachal This Week, Shimla

A survey conducted by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department through a renowned Delhi based agency has brought to the fore startling revelations. Contrary to the claims, the stay of tourists in Himachal has not witnessed an increasing trend. Local tourists stay in this hilly state for one day whereas foreign tourists on an average stay for about two days. While the tourists from across the country spend an average of Rs. 8230 per day during stay in Himachal, foreign tourists’ expenditure per day stands at Rs. 17,564. Interesting part is that local tourist spend 24.5% of total exopenditure on accomodation, 17.3% on food, 27% on transport, 28.5% on shopping and only 1.4% for entertainment. Foreign tourists spends 10.7% of total expenditure on accomodation, 10.7% on food, 50.7% on transportation, 19.4% on shopping and only 1% for fun and frolic. 80% of tourists from India visit Himachal to enjoy their holidays while the same rate in case of foreign tourists is 97%. Out of the total tourists visiting Himachal, 48% return to their native land after paying obeisance at famous religious spots located in Himachal Pradesh. Tourism is adding 7.82% to the gross state domestic product and generating 5.59% employment opportunities. How road network is important for tourism in the state can be gauged from the fact that 93% of tourists visiting Himachal come by road. It seems Himachal is a favourite destination for honeymoon couples and married people if figures are any indication. About 82% of tourists from across the country and 78% foreign tourists who visited Himachal were married. Most of the people visiting this hilly state either serve in private sector or are self employed.

Una On Top

Highest occupancy rate in Himachal Pradesh was recorded at Una (51%) followed by Shimla, Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi, Chamba and Kullu.

Problem Areas

The occupancy rate was recorded less than average in Hamirpur, Kinnaur, Lahaul Spiti, Sirmour and Solan. Average occupancy rate over year in hotels of Himachal Pradesh was recorded at 39.8%.

Good Behaviour Of Himachalis

It was found in the survey that most of the tourist places of Himachal Pradesh lack souvenir shops. In fact many places lack internet and first aid facilities too. It is only good behaviour of local people that tourists take away as memory.

Major Tourist Destinations

Out of total number of tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh, 22% come from Delhi, 18.5% from Punjab, 11.5% from Himachal, 11% from Haryana, 6.6% from Chandigarh, 4.2% from Uttar Pradesh, 4.1% from Maharashtra and 2.1% tourists come from West Bengal. As far as foreign tourists visit to Himachal is concerned, 25.3% come from Britain, 7.3% from America, 6.9% from Israel, 5% from Germany, 2.3% from France, 1.7% from Nepal, 1.4% from Singapore and 1.2% tourists comes from South Africa.

Suggestions To Boost Tourism

There are immense possibilities for adventure tourism, white water and river rafting activities in Hamirpur, Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti. These places are closer to Shimla, Kangra and Kullu- Manali. These spots should be developed with regard to their immense potential in respect of tourism development. Besides clean drinking water and toilet facility, ample parking facility should also be ensured in all tourist spots.

Employment Status

Accomodation Units:    21,328

Tour/Travel Units:         7,127

Restaurants:      3,934

Souvenir Shops:            266

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