CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Invites Tourism Sector to Develop Himachal Destinations

VARANASI — Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu addressed national hospitality leaders at the 56th Annual Convention of the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) on Sunday, August 23, 2026, urging tour operators and hoteliers to incorporate emerging destinations into their travel packages.

Speaking to industry delegates in Varanasi, Chief Minister Sukhu presented state initiatives designed to broaden tourism beyond traditional hill stations. The plans include expanding regional air infrastructure, developing Kangra as the official tourism capital, introducing a "She Travel" safety policy, and encouraging rural homestays under the Home Stay Rules, 2025.

Infrastructure and Policy Roadmap for Tourism Development

The state government outlined multiple structural initiatives aimed at boosting visitor accessibility and encouraging sustainable experiential travel:

• Aviation Infrastructure Expansion: Land acquisition and operational processes for expanding Kangra Airport have commenced alongside plans for an adjacent Aerocity, positioning Kangra as the state's central tourism hub.

• Heliport Network Construction: Development of heliports across or near all district headquarters to strengthen regional connectivity, emergency medical services, and disaster response.

• Targeted Safety Policies: Formulation of a dedicated "She Travel" policy to establish the state as a secure destination for solo and group women travelers.

• Rural Homestays and Entrepreneurship: Implementation of the Home Stay Rules, 2025, promoting local community employment and supporting women-led ventures in regional food, handicrafts, and startups.

• Adventure and Religious Tourism: Continued promotion of paragliding at Bir-Billing alongside adventure sports and spiritual circuits spanning historical Shakti Peeths and Buddhist monasteries.

Tourist Inflow and Policy Metrics

Official Sources Section

Official statements and statistical metrics were released by the Department of Information and Public Relations, Himachal Pradesh, coverage by the Press Trust of India (PTI), and recorded proceedings from the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI).

Official Statements

"We call upon the hotel and hospitality industry, travel agents, tour operators, and all other stakeholders to partner with the state government in exploring Himachal's vast tourism potential," stated Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. "Through collective efforts, Himachal Pradesh can be established as a safe, clean, and memorable destination for travelers from across the globe."

Why It Matters

Expanding infrastructure beyond overcrowded urban centers distributes tourism revenue directly to rural communities. Upgrading regional airports and establishing district heliports improves accessibility for high-value domestic and international travelers while providing key logistics support during weather emergencies.

Key Facts at a Glance

• State Target: Redirecting tourist traffic to emerging and lesser-known destinations across Himachal Pradesh.

• Visitor Statistics: Recorded 3.11 crore tourists in 2025 and 1.06 crore through July 2026.

• Capital Infrastructure: Developing Kangra as the state tourism capital with airport expansion and an Aerocity.

• Women-Led Initiatives: Introducing a "She Travel" policy alongside incentives for female-led homestays and local enterprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where did Chief Minister Sukhu make the announcement?

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu delivered the speech at the 56th Annual Convention of the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) in Varanasi.

What is Himachal Pradesh's 'She Travel' policy?

The 'She Travel' policy is an upcoming state framework designed to ensure enhanced safety and accessible infrastructure for female travelers while encouraging women-led tourism startups.

Which city is being developed as Himachal's tourism capital?

Kangra is being developed as the state's official tourism capital, backed by regional airport expansion projects and planned heliport networks.

Source: Official releases from the Department of Information and Public Relations, Himachal Pradesh, conference records of the FHRAI, and reporting by the Press Trust of India.