SHIMLA: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said  the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed in principle to provide a sum of Rs. 1311.20 crore under phase-1 of the proposed infrastructure development investment programme  to strengthen the tourism infrastructure in the State.

The State Government has been laying special emphasis for making Himachal the best tourist destination in India by developing unexplored tourist places in a phased manner.

The Chief Minister said this would help in the sustainable development of the tourism sector. It has been as one of the priority of its flagship schemes.

The projects components to be covered under the first phase are beautification of Palampur, convention centre at Dharamshala, thematic cum green Park at Pragpur, wellness centre at Dharamshala, Shimla, Nadaun and Kullu-Manali, high end fountain tourist facility at Dharamshala etc. 

 Besides, wayside amenities at Mandi-Kullu National Highway, Nadaun and Kaleshwar Mahadev Kangra, rafting cum water park complex at Nadaun, Water sports equipments as  shikaras, house boats, jetties, water biking at Pong Dam, at Tattapani, Nadaun and  Bangana etc would be developed. 

Apart from this, to develop the religious places, way side amenities and facilities at Baba Balak Nath, development and beautification of Shiv Dham at Mandi, etc.

The total cost of the project is Rs. 2357 crore, stated a spokesperson of the Tourism department.

CM said It is a matter of pride for us that Himachal Pradesh has topped in the country in the tourism sector.

HP is adjudged as the Best Mountain destination, the Best Adventure destination and for its Best Scenic Roads in India, in the India Today Awards ceremony at New Delhi recently, said the Chief Minister.

He said that adventure, religious, rural, health, religious and weekend tourism would be promoted in big way in coming future.