| It intends to promote religious places like Jwalamukhi, Chintpurni, Naina Devi, Srahan (Bhimakali temple in Rampur), Bilaspur, and Mandi for temple tourism. In order to attract people from European countries, it is documenting the churches and cemeteries in the state. |
| This tourism budget has been approved by the Himachal government in its cabinet meeting held last month. |
| "The interiors of the Himalayas lie unexplored so far," a spokesperson of the tourism department said. |
| Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Tarun Shridhar said, "The idea is to change transit destinations into tourist destinations. With this we will be able to divert the tourist flow to new destinations. Basic amenities at places like Shimla will not crumble. |
| "We have earmarked Rs 14-15 crore on promoting temple tourism in the state. At the same time, Rs 21 crore has been earmarked to upgrade the wayside amenities, forest destinations, and landscapes. We also intend to develop the transit destinations like Bilaspur and Mandi to be converted into the tourist destinations." |
| Besides promoting theme-based tourism, attempts will be made to strengthen civic amenities (sewerage, parking, and water supply) in Shimla, Dharamshala, and Dalhousie. |
| "In three years we want to develop places like Bharmor, Khiyar, and Bhandal as tourist destinations. The 'chansal' in Rohru is suitable for skiing and tracking. Pilgrimage will be promoted by improving infrastructure at places like Jwalamukhi, Naina Devi and Chamunda. Efforts are being made to have an integrated project for temple tourism." |
| Shridhar said, "This place has great nostalgic value for non-resident Indians and this will help us draw tourists." |
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