Monday, September 16, 2024 The Shimla Tourism Industry along with Kufri Tourism is facing a significant downturn in visitor numbers, prompting a call for strategic revival. Once renowned as premier tourist destinations, these regions are now grappling with challenges such as poor air connectivity, deteriorating road conditions, traffic congestion, limited parking, and water shortages, which were highlighted during the recent “Tourism and Travel Meet” in New Kufri. Tourism stakeholders are advocating for innovative, experience-driven strategies and immediate infrastructure improvements to restore the area’s appeal.
Without swift and effective action, Shimla and Kufri risk losing their status as must-visit travel destinations. Shimla and Kufri, now facing stiff competition from other popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh like Manali and Dharamshala, need joint efforts from both the government and the tourism sector to reclaim their status as top tourist spots. Stakeholders emphasized the necessity of introducing new attractions and enhancing the visitor experience to thrive in today’s competitive tourism landscape.
Adventure Resort, Kufri, has already taken steps toward innovation by launching Himachal Pradesh’s first indoor snow park. This new attraction offers year-round snow experiences and has quickly become a key draw for tourists seeking unique activities. However, despite such individual efforts, many visitors—both domestic and international—find the overall facilities in the region lacking.
A significant gap exists in the form of infrastructure and effective communication between private tourism businesses and the government. Stakeholders stressed the need for a collaborative approach to address these issues and to transform Himachal Pradesh into a leading tourist destination. Additionally, with the arrival of major hotel chains in Shimla, Kufri, and nearby areas, there is a growing need for professional training institutes to provide the skilled manpower required by the expanding hospitality industry.
While private businesses are striving to innovate and improve services, they argue that government support is crucial. Enhancing infrastructure, improving connectivity, and streamlining regulatory processes are essential to reinvigorate tourism. The urgency is clear: a comprehensive, cooperative effort from both the government and the private sector is needed to restore Shimla and Kufri to their former glory, positioning the region as a model tourist destination both nationally and globally.
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