History
Ancient history and settlement.
Till 19th century, Tourism in Himachal Pradesh was restricted only to a limited movement of pilgrims to a few spiritual destinations in around the hills. Only when the British established their chain of hill stations did tourism receive recognition in the State. Tourism activity received a shot in the arm when British declared Shimla “The Summer Capital of India” in 1864. Post independence, more investment in the infrastructure sector led to opening up of Tourism in the State. However the biggest boost to tourism occurred in the mid 80s and 90s.


The Beautiful State
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. Himachal Pradesh is one of the most popular and easily accessible Hill State of India. People from all parts of the country as well from different parts of the world visit this beautiful State to enjoy its natural beauty. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation has acted as a catalyst, trendsetter and a prime mover for the promotion of domestic and foreign tourism in Himachal Pradesh. We have wide network of accommodation that comprises of Hotels, Restaurants and Cafeterias serving varied cuisine, including Himachali delicacies. All these properties are in superb locations in the lap of nature.
What Does Himachal Tourism have for Nature Lovers?
Himachal Pradesh is among the most visited top mountain tourist places in North India, Himalayas region. It gifts you with memories that last for a lifetime. Its landscape has a lot to do with it: valleys, mountains, ancient monasteries, historical sites, lakes, mountain passes! A Himachal Pradesh tour satisfies the wanderlust in you, whatever it is you may be looking for. Pick up any Himachal travel guide, chances are you will be hooked on to it within a few minutes. The state has so much to offer, no wonder it’s a top tourist attraction in North India!
Himachal Pradesh tourism has something in store for nature lovers, honeymooners, adventure lovers, history buffs and spiritual seekers. The contrast in its diversity is to be seen to be believed. You have lush valleys like Kinnaur, Kullu and Kangra & barren terrains of Lahaul & Spiti. Tales of Malana fascinate tourists as much as the Buddhist culture in Mcleodganj. Exploring Dalhousie, with its rich colonial past, is sheer delight. The famous Hill stations like Shimla, Kullu & Manali are dotted with meadows, orchards, quaint villages & rich colonial past.
Any sightseeing tour of Himachal should include its wonderful lakes. Quiet and still, they reflect the surroundings, both literally and symbolically. A few of the famous lakes are Renuka, Rewalsar, Prashar, Suraj Tal & Chandratal. The views of the Himalayan Ranges fill you with excitement, from head to toe.
