Vision :“TO MAKE TOURISM THE PRIME ENGINE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH IN THE STATE BY POSITIONING IT AS A LEADING GLOBAL DESTINATION BY THE YEAR 2020”.
objectives :
(1) To establish Himachal Pradesh as a leading tourist destination in the country and abroad.
(2) To make tourism a prime engine for economic development and prosperity of the State and as a major means for providing employment.
(3) To encourage a strong and sustainable private sector participation in creation of tourism infrastructure especially through public private partnerships.
(4) To promote sustainable tourism, which is not only environmentally compatible but also leads to economic betterment of the rural people.
(5) To attract quality tourist and to increase their stay in the State.
(6) To safeguard the State’s natural and manmade heritage .
(7) To encourage civil societies & non-governmental organizations for promotion & the conducting of tourism related activities.
(8) To position Himachal Pradesh as a one stop destination for adventure tourism.
Strategy to harness the harness the tourism potential in Himachal Pradesh :
Tourism sub- Plan : There is no denying the fact that the total budget with the Department of Tourism is less in comparison to the other tourism-oriented States in the country. Tourism is one industry, which is linked with all development departments. Under their normal programmes, they are required to meet the infrastructure demands for promotion of tourism. What is needed to mechanise and accelerate the activities of the tourism department is to integrate and coordinate with the departments like PWD, Urban Development, I&PH, Health, Horticulture, Forest, Power etc, If properly coordinated, this is likely to yield good results and the deficiency of budget can be surmounted. The government would take steps to manage the funds in such a way that the tourism related departments will be asked to pool their resources with regard to such schemes which will be monitored at the level of Chief Minister through the Tourism Department Board.
Infrastructure development : Demand driven tourism Infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh has come up in some of the major tourist destinations like Shimla, Manali, Dalhousie, Mcleodganj, Kasauli and Chail. With rapid increasing tourist influx and expending hotel accommodation in these areas, the civic infrastructures are under serious strain. The State Government therefore proposes to upgrade the civic infrastructure in the above towns on priority. The funds raised by the Tourism Department/TDB through GOI under their various schemes will also be used to strengthen this area. Private investment in infrastructure will be welcomed with open arms. Priority areas will include setting up of hill stations, spas and resorts , ski slopes, airports, tourist centres, multiplexes, parking areas, entertainment centres, amusement parks ,ropeway , golf course, 4/5 Star Hotels, standardized budget accommodation etc.
Human resource development : In service like tourism, availability of skilled work force is essential for delivery of professional services of the highest order. The Government will invest in human resource development so that the managerial and technical skill is made available with the State. Presently the State has one Food Craft Institute cum Hotel Management Institute at Kufri. The Department will endeavor to open FCI’s one in Kangra District and another in Kullu.
New Marketing Strategy : In order to bring the State on to the international tourist map and to increase the inflow of the tourists the following actions will be taken up for strengthening the marketing strategy of the State:
i. Creation of ‘Destination Himachal Funds’ which will be a joint effort of Tourism Development Board, the major Temple Trusts and the private sector
ii. Printing of new brochures, posters and other tourist literature.
iii Developing 10 minutes, 20 minutes tourism films in order to telecast in the electronic channels and also display during the tourism fairs/ marts.
iv. Up-gradation of Information Centres. These centers will not only provide information but also provide booking facilities for HPTDC & Private Hotels for reservation of accommodation/ transportation, cloakroom etc.
v. Installation of touch screen kiosks with full information about the State at important international airports/national airports and railway stations of the country.
vi Participation in leading national and international tourism fairs. In this the private sector will also be involved so put up a unified ‘Destination Himachal’ campaign’.
vii. Organization of tourism events in the State particularly during the off season in order to attract the large number of tourists.
viii Providing information about the state through modern means like website, e-mail, around the clock toll free tourist assistance, and helpline etc.
ix. Release of advertisements in the electronic and print media.
x Organize familiarization tours of the leading tour operators of the country and overseas in the State.
xi. Conduct of buyer- seller meets.
xii Professional guides to be trained and encouraged .
xiii. Signage’s of the international class will be installed on the national, state and at the important tourist highways and stations.
Film city Hub : Himachal, because of its natural scenic beauty attracts several film makers for shooting of films, TV serials, and now these days growing youtubers want to shoot in hilly areas.Presently they have to seek permission for shooting from various departments. The government proposes to declare Commissionercum-Director Tourism as the sole authority for granting all type of permissions related to film shootings and the fee thus be collected by the Tourism department could be further remitted to the concerned department. In addition to this the department will invite investment from private parties for setting up of the film cities, studios and hiring of filming equipment etc. for which govt. land could be provided on ppp basis. Pro active action would also be taken to attract film shooting parties to Himachal.
Improving connectivity: Connectivity whether by road, rail of air is of essence if tourism has to grow. 5.4.2. Presently the State has three existing airports at Jubbar Hatti, Bhuntar and at Gaggal. These airports are being upgraded for landing of a larger capacity aircrafts. The airport at Pathankot is also being opened for the use of civilians where Boeing will land. This will give a big boost to tourism to the State especially to Kangra and Chamba regions. The Government has also taken up the matter regarding setting up of an International airport near Sundernagar. Operating more affordable flights into Himachal would not only promote travel tourism but also make viability for the aviation companies to start heli-taxies services in the State. Helicopter taxi services would extend the reach of higher end tourists to soak in the delights of culturally and geographically rich hinterland of Himachal. The State has 55 helipads available for the services. The State Government is also making efforts for the introduction of more special trains from various destinations in the country upto Kalka and Pathankot. The network of national and state highways is also being strengthened for all tourist destinations. The state government shall also seek to provide safe, economical and reliable transport within the state as well as across state boarders. The government shall also evolve a mechanism to simplify the collection of taxes and levies so as to facilitate the unhindered movement of tourist in the state.
Strengthening of Tourism Development Board: The State Government has set up a Tourism Development Board under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Chief Minister to formulate policy guidelines for development and promotion of Tourism Industry in the State and to advise the State Government on matters regarding regulation and licensing in the Tourism Industry. Efforts will be made to increase the resources of the Board so that the Board can carry out various developmental and other tourism promotional activities. The income of the Board will be built up through the user changes levied being level by Tourism Deptt., income from PPP projects, lease money, income from Tourism Councils etc. The Board will generally undertake improvements in the tourist areas, provide assistance to the Department of Tourism and to the Tourism Development Councils.
Green Tax : The Manali model of collection of green fee from tourists will be replicated in other major tourism destinations. The funds so clleected will be scrutinized for 10/15 years and sizeable Tourism Master Plans created and implemented in time bound manner.
Private sector investment: In order to attract investors, it is necessary to simplify the procedures to facilitate genuine investors. The projects where forest/revenue clearances are needed will be dealt on priority within a specified time not exceeding 90. 5.6.2. In order to promote rural tourism and to give incentive to the entrepreneurs, luxury tax will be exempted for units up to five rooms. In addition to this, the electricity and water charges will also be reduced to give fillip to investment in tourism projects in rural areas. This incentive will be provided to the promoters for a period of 10 years from the date of their commercial operation.
Ease of doing Buisness : Single window clearances for tourism projects on the pattern of the single system .Industries Department has been made applicable. The suitable Government land either through land bank or otherwise available in the State will be transferred to the Tourism Department, which will be further leased out to the private entrepreneurs strictly on the on competitive bidding basis.
Effective regulation: The State Government has passed the H.P. Registration Tourist Trade Act, 2002. It calls for inspection and checking of the hotels, travel agencies against over charging sub standard service etc. The Government proposes to carry out the inspection work by delegating necessary powers and also by involving the Hotel Associations.
The Tourist Police in the State will be strengthened concept of by placing a cadre of 500 police and home guards personnel who will be trained for regulating tourism related activities. They will be provided with special uniforms/distinguishing mark and will assist the tourist.
The Tourist Information Centres will be manned apart from the Deptt./TDB ( tourism development board ) staff by the students of Hotel Management Institute and MTA( University). The State government will take steps to ensure proper hygienic conditions and to prevent the exploitation of tourists on national and state highways and at tourist places. The Government proposes to classify the dhabbas situated on the National and State highways. The classification will be done on the basis of facilities provided, hygienic condition, quality of the food, availability of toilets, parkings etc.
Thrust areas:
In order to achieve the policy objectives indicated above the Department / Board has identified thrust areas for action and follow up some of which are as follows:
Rural Tourism : The fruits of tourism must percolate down to the rural areas in order that it is truly sustainable and responsible. For this the Dept. Board proposes that o Rural Tourism villages are identified and notified by the Dept. The precondition for declaring these as Rural Tourism villages would be that they must predominantly have traditional architecture and an MOU would be signed with the Panchayat that this would be maintained .The villagers may modify their houses internally but they must maintain their traditional outer façade. The State has a number of old palaces, forts, havelies and other beautiful buildings in rural areas which if properly developed could become important tourist destinations themselves. The Government shall encourage the development of such sites for use as tourist accommodation and such new heritage hotels located in rural areas shall be exempted from the luxury tax for a period of five years. The Government would endeavour to associate the Archaeological Survey of India and private sector in the development of such sites.
Eco Tourism : Himachal offers a new era of nature enjoyment and learning. It also provides visitors an excellent exposure to the temperate forests. This makes it an ideal area for developing eco-tourism activities like jungle safaris, trekking, rock climbing, forest trails, nature walks, angling (esp. golden mahaseer and brown trout), camping etc.. All these activities are to be conducted in a manner that promotes awareness of the environment and helps maintain the ecological balance.
Development of Lakes and wetlands is also part of eco tourism : The State Government will make special efforts to make natural and man made lakes as important tourist destinations. Steps will be taken to maintain and enhance their beauty by undertaking development in an integrated manner. Facilities for water sports in Maharana Pratap Sagar, Chamera and Gobind sagar will be developed to International standard and national and international level events will also be organised to popularize these destinations. Maharana Pratap sagar will be developed as a world class water sports destination with the financial assistance of the Central Government in order to develop activities like water sports, angling, bird watching, setting up of house boats, development of artificial beaches etc.. The Government will also encourage the private sector to set up houseboats and operate shikaras in the Maharana Pratap Sagar. Improvement of the forest rest houses will also be carried out in the area and will also be made available to the tourists in order to accommodate them.
Wildlife Tourism : is an integral part of Eco Tourism . Himachal Pradesh has a varied topography, climate and forest cover and is endowed with a vast variety of flora and fauna. At present there are 32 Sanctuaries, 2 National Parks and 3 Game Reserves. The Tourism Deptt proposes to work actively with the Wild life Wing of the Forest Deptt to further develop and improve wild life parks/zoos, bird watching towers and other public utility services for the facility of the tourists. A reasonable fee shall be determined by the Government for use of such parks/zoos for its maintenance.
Religious Tourism : Himachal has emerged as an important pilgrim destination. A large number of religious tourists visit sacred shrines of Himachal Pradesh through out the year. A large number of religious places for people of almost all religions are situated in the State. The State Government propose to develop wayside/civic amenities, parkings, landscaping and beautification around the temple, Sulabh Shauchalyas, drinking water, garbage disposal etc. at these religious places in coordination with the temple trusts on the lines of Vaishnoo Devi Trust. During important festivals special measures will be taken up for the safety and security of the tourists like setting up of information centres, tented colonies to accommodate tourists and to deploy special Tourist Police Force on the lines of Vaisno Devi.
Adventure Tourism :The Tourism Deptt./ Board will make comprehensive adventure tourism promotion plan for the State and shall lay down the regulatory framework for enforcement of safety standards. For the promotion of adventure sports, the department/Board will impart training in different sports in Paragliding, Rafting, WaterSports, Angling, Sking, Mountaineering, Motor Sports, heli-skiing etc. to the youths. International competitions in such sports will be organised for attracting participants not only from the country but also from the abroad in coordination with the Deptt. of Sports. The Chanshal range beyond Rohru which has great potential will specially be explored in heli- skiing. Ever since the opening-up of tribal/border areas of Himachal Pradesh to foreigners, the number of domestic and foreign tourists visiting these tribal areas has increased manifold.
Tourism Councils will be set up under the Tourism Act 2000 in these areas so that some fee is charged from the trekkers /tourists the proceeds of which will go to the local Panchayats for the maintenance and upkeep of the tourism related infrastructure and for regulating tourism on sustainable basis.
Heritage Tourism : Himachal has an enormous range of Heritage properties. These range from ancient forts that breathe of tumultuous past, colonial mansions that speak of an age of leisure and graciousness. There are palaces that belong to a time when opulence marked the lifestyles of India's princes - and there are century old hotels that are maintained in a pristine glory, which have been painstakingly restored. This spectrum offers a range of decor and ambience - and a richly varied experience. From time-worn battlements, where the very stones speak of glory and courage, you can move to a lush countryside and savor the traditions of 'haveli' life. Just as easily, you can slip into distinctive mansions where time seems to have stood still for decades and where an easy elegance wafts under the watchful weave of priceless tapestries. Then there are hotels that justly pride themselves for years of tradition and service .
Shimla, the state capital of Himachal Pradesh has some of the world's finest examples of British-colonial architecture. There is the English renaissance-inspired grey-stone former Viceregal Lodge (now the Indian Institute of Advanced study), the neo-Gothic structures of the Gaiety Theatre and the former Imperial Civil Secretariat (now the Accountant General's Office), The Tudor-framed 'Barnes Court' (now the Raj Bhavan), the Vidhan Sabha and the Secretariat of the Government of Himachal Pradesh. Colonial buildings can be found elsewhere in the state, especially in the 'hill stations' of Kasauli and Dalhousie.
In addition, there are forts, palaces, temples, monasteries and residences that follow a much older tradition, to be found all over the state. The thousand year old Buddhist Padam Palace monastery of Tabo in Spiti with its fine wall-paintings and stucco statues, Kangra fort, kandaghat railway station has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The village of Pragpur with its age-old and well preserved architecture and cobbled streets has been declared a 'Heritage village'. Many of Himachal's forts, palaces and residences are privately owned, and naturally, the discretion of their use rests with their owners. Yet, we are proud to have them as a part of our rich heritage. Some remarkable places within or easily accessible from the main holiday stations are - Padam Palace, Rampur, The Palace Sarahan, Jandrighat Dalhousie, The Palace, Jubbal. The Palace, Sunni. The Palace, Nahan. Many traditional farmhouses all over Himachal, are also making accommodation available on their premises. These will provide visitors an insight into local lifestyles, cuisine and culture.
Spirtual tourism : Himachal Pradesh is acknowledged as the 'Dev Bhoomi' (or the abode of Gods and Goddesses), probably one of those states which possess the power to make anyone meet their spiritual and enigmatic side. The aura surrounding the celestial land takes every tourist back to an era where Dharma, Karma and forgiveness where the three main maxims of life. Himachal Pradesh is a deified land of god's saints, preachers, devotees and goddesses. The state is famous for its delightful temples and serene monasteries. Right from Hindu temples to Christian churches, from Sikh Gurudwaras to Buddhist monasteries, all these things define the religious side of the people of Himachal Pradesh. temples dedicated to Goddess Durga namely Mata Chamunda Devi, Mata Jwala Ji, Maa Kangra Devi, Maa Chintpurni Devi / Mata Chhinnamastika Dham, Mata Naina Devi, Mata Mansa Devi, and Mata Kalika Devi. All these temples are considered as important identities of Goddess Durga. Presence of Sikhism in Himachal Pradesh since 1695, Paonta Sahib in Sirmour, Rewalsar in Mandi, Manikaran in Kullu are the three main Gurudwaras in Himachal Pradesh.
Other important temples located in the vicinity of Himachal Pradesh are Baba Balak Nath Temple, Brijeshwari Temple, Bijli Mahadev Temple, Shringi Rishi Temple, Rewalsar Temple, Shikari Devi Temple, Jakhu Temple, Bhagsu Nag Shiva Temple. Even the Manimahesh Lake attracts devotees from around the world. The place is considered as the abode of Tridev i.e., Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma.
One can see traces of Buddhism dating back to the early 8th century in Himachal Pradesh. The land is home to the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, who is the spiritual leader of Tibet. He has his "capital in exile" at McLeod Ganj in close vicinity to Dharamshala. The calm and serene monasteries of Himachal represent the origin of Buddhism. Lahaul, Spiti and Kinnaur are some of the other places where one can see a huge chunk of the Buddhist community.
Health Tourism : There is tremendous scope to set up spas, health resorts, recuperative centres etc. all over the State. Himachal Pradesh has an enormous wealth of medicinal plants. Herbal Gardens, Herbal Trails will be developed as tourist attractions The Tourism Department /Board in collaboration with Department of Indian System of Medicine, Department of Ayurveda and Forests will organize such tours which will further develop awareness and interest about medicinal plants amongst the school children and tourists. Training the youth in Panchkarma will be undertaken through the Deptt .of Ayurveda who will then be employed in spas and health resorts.
Arts Crafts and Souviner : Promotion of local art and culture and generation of income of employment through it is a major component of tourism policy. The State Government shall endeavour to encourage the development of souvenir industry linked to local crafts, events and places which would promote a distinctive image of the State both within and without the State. The private sector will also be encouraged to patronize and promote local folk, culture and crafts for the visiting tourists. Development of souvenir industry including standardised packaging is of utmost importance for which leading institutions and voluntary organisations in the country like NID, NIFT , Auroville , Tilonia etc will be actively engaged .
Conclusion : While traditionally Himachal was known as a summer destination, the Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation has taken special efforts to break the seasonality factor and has developed diversified tourism products to attract tourists in other seasons too. Now Himachal is known as “A Destination for All Seasons and All Reasons”. In fact, the Department has laid a special emphasis on the development of activity-based tourism and opening up of new sub destinations. To promote tourism in the countryside and to unexplored areas, appropriate infrastructure is being developed within available resources. By focussing on quality tourists, the Department aims at promoting sustainable tourism and encouraging private sector to develop tourism related infrastructure in the State without disturbing the existing ecology and environment.