Dharmshala, the winter seat of the Himachal Pradesh government, is eagerly awaiting its opportunity to revel in the extravaganza of twenty20 cricket after it got an opportunity to host two matches of the ongoing third edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The two IPL matches — between Kings XI Punjab and Deccan Chargers, and between Kings XI Punjab and Chennai Super Kings — are scheduled to be organised on April 16 and April 18, respectively.
IPL is likely to give a fillip to tourism not only in Dharmshala, also known for being the abode of Tibetan spiritual guru Dalai Lama, but also to the overall tourism industry of the state.
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association president Anurag Thakur adds it is not possible for the state government to spend crores of rupees in promoting tourism in the state. With activities like IPL coming to Dharamshala, it not only would lead to increase the footfall of tourists during the matches, but millions of viewers glued on screens would also get an opportunity to know about the place that would have positive impact on the tourism industry. Thakur said they were planning to invite Tibetan spiritual guru Dalai Lama as special guest for the IPL matches at Dharamshala.
According to the HPCA president, over 500 rooms have already been booked for the officials, players and other guests during the IPL matches and there is additional requirement of 300-400 rooms.
