MANALI: The Manali Winter Carnival was inaugurated by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday.
The event has given a much-needed boost to the sagging winter tourism season. Hundreds of locals and tourists attended the opening ceremony.
The Chief Minister flagged off nearly 300 colourful tableaux. These showcased development works of various government departments. The parade drew huge crowds along the Mall Road.
He announced a Rs 250 crore riverfront project for Manali. The project aims to strengthen tourism infrastructure. It will also beautify the riverbanks.
Sukhu also announced five new rooms at the Circuit House. Protective walls will be built at seven flood-prone locations. A parking facility will come up in Old Manali at Rs 2 crore cost.
Financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh each was announced for Solang and Karal villages. The funds will help prevent landslides. Local residents welcomed the move.
The Chief Minister said Himachal attracts tourists from across the world. He cited natural beauty, culture and warm hospitality as key reasons. Crores of tourists visit the state every year.
He said grand events like Winter Carnival are being encouraged. Such festivals make tourist experiences memorable. They also extend the tourism season.
Sukhu called tourism the backbone of Himachal’s economy. The state aims to become a global tourism hub. Nature, wellness and adventure tourism are priorities.
He said Green Biodiversity Parks and riverside parks are being developed. These are coming up in urban and rural areas. The focus is on sustainable tourism.
A new eco-tourism policy has been implemented. Eleven sites were allotted by November 2025. Allotment for 27 more sites is in the final stage.
The policy is generating local employment. It is also boosting village-level tourism. Youth are benefiting through self-employment.
For trekking, 245 routes have been identified. A mobile app is being developed for tourists. Ropeway projects are also being fast-tracked.
Home stay rules have been amended. An interest subsidy scheme has been launched. Subsidy is available up to Rs 5 crore investment.
Urban areas will get 3 percent subsidy. Rural areas will get 4 percent. Tribal areas will receive 5 percent subsidy.
An online portal for home stay registration has started. This will simplify the process. More locals are expected to join.
Sixteen new heliports are planned across the state. Nine are being developed in the first phase. These will ensure year-round connectivity.
Heliports are coming up in Hamirpur, Kangra and Chamba. Manali and Kullu are also included. Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur will benefit too.
The expansion of Kangra Airport is underway. It will improve air connectivity. Tourism flow is expected to rise.
Kangra is being developed as tourism capital. A zoological park is coming up at Bankhandi. The project cost is Rs 619 crore.
Himachal’s first skywalk bridge will be built at Kufri. It will be located in Hassan Valley. The project will attract thrill seekers.
Horticulture tourism is also being explored. Large orchards will be opened to tourists. This will support rural tourism.
Adventure tourism is another focus area. Reservoirs are being developed for water sports. Govind Sagar Lake now offers cruises and jet skis.
Facilities like shikaras and houseboats have started. High-tech motorboats are also available. More reservoirs will be developed soon.
Border tourism has started at Shipki-La. Infrastructure is being upgraded in border areas. This will boost local economy.
The Chief Minister stressed eco-friendly development. Natural resources must be protected, he said. Sustainability is the top priority.
MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur thanked the Chief Minister. He said Rs 500 crore projects are underway in Manali. Flood control works are a major focus.
Deputy Commissioner Torul S Ravish welcomed the CM. She briefed about carnival activities. Cultural and adventure events are lined up.
