SHIMLA, 03.04.26-Chairman Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC), R. S. Bali, while addressing the press conference today here said that several decisions were taken to promote tourism and strengthen tourism infrastructure across the state.

He said that a five-star hotel would be constructed at Nagrota Bagwan in Kangra district near Baner Khad at an estimated cost of Rs. 180 crores under the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The project would include the state’s first musical fountain and offer world-class facilities amidst the scenic Dhauladhar mountain range. The tender for this project would be finalized soon.

He said that HPTDC has recorded consistent growth in its turnover over the past few years. The turnover of the corporation was increased from Rs. 78 crore in 2021-22 to Rs. 109 crore in 2022-23. It stood at Rs. 105 crore in 2023-24 and has reached Rs. 107 crore in 2024-25.

He further said that approximately Rs. 2000 crore was being spent on the expansion of Kangra Airport to enhance connectivity and boost tourism. Additionally, Rs. 45 crore has been approved by the Central Government for the renovation of the iconic ‘Holiday Home’ hotel in Shimla.

He said that renovation work of three hotels in Manali is currently in progress. Apart from this, Rs. 20 crore will be spent on Hamir Hotel and Rs. 35 crore on Hotel Jawalamukhi for their up-gradation.

He said that the corporation has also decided to establish a round the clock call centre to provide better services to tourists. A flying squad would also be constituted to ensure transparency, proper management and regular inspection of hotels.

He added that there may be a temporary impact on income during the renovation period. However, the government’s support would be taken to ensure uninterrupted payment of salaries to employees and adjustments in project-related expenditure were also being considered.

He further said that around Rs. 250 crore was being spent on the development of tourism destinations across the state. Helipads in Palampur and Hamirpur have been approved with a budget of Rs. 10 crore each. In addition, Rs. 15 crores have been sanctioned for the Nadaun tourism complex and Rs. 10 crores for the Dehra tourism complex by the Central Government.

He said that these initiatives will play a significant role in developing Himachal Pradesh as one of the most favourable tourist destinations and will further strengthen the economy of the state. -0-