The tourism industry of Kullu and Manali, as well as the other districts of Himachal Pradesh, is growing steadily with the focus of the Central Government on the development of sustainable tourism. It has been clearly indicated by the Union Ministry of Tourism that though the responsibility for the development of tourism lies with the state governments, the Central Government plays a vital role in providing financial assistance.
In this context, the tourism industry of Himachal Pradesh, including the districts of Kullu and Manali, which are being developed as a year-round tourism destination with a focus on MICE tourism and wellness tourism, is changing with a focus on sustainability.
Swadesh Darshan Scheme: Boosting Infrastructure for Sustainable Tourism
Under the Swadesh Darshan 1.0 scheme, the Union Ministry of Tourism sanctioned Rs 17.265 crore in 2022 for the integrated development of the Kiarighat-Shimla-Hatkoti-Manali-Kangra-Dharamsala-Bir-Palampur-Chamba circuit. This project focuses on creating sustainable tourism infrastructure such as convention centres and eco-friendly facilities. These efforts are pivotal for regions like Kullu and Manali, which traditionally depended on seasonal leisure tourism. The development of MICE tourism infrastructure, alongside investments in wellness tourism, positions Himachal Pradesh as a key player in India’s sustainable tourism landscape.
By incorporating sustainable building practices and eco-friendly tourism facilities, the state ensures that tourism growth does not come at the cost of its natural resources. This infrastructure also supports year-round tourism, reducing the over-reliance on peak seasons and spreading the economic benefits of tourism throughout the year, thus promoting a balanced and sustainable tourism model.
