Tourist destinations across Himachal Pradesh are witnessing a strong surge in visitor numbers ahead of the New Year, with hotel occupancy levels rising to around 80 to 90 per cent in key hill stations. Popular destinations such as Shimla and Manali are seeing most hotels operating close to full capacity, bringing renewed optimism to the state’s tourism industry.

Despite dry weather conditions so far, tourism stakeholders remain upbeat, largely due to forecasts predicting snowfall around the New Year period. Industry players believe snowfall could further boost tourist inflow, especially in areas surrounding the main towns, where occupancy levels are also expected to rise.

“The room occupancy is about 80–90 percent in Manali which is further expected to rise by Wednesday evening and we are pinning hopes that the MeT office forecast of snowfall on New Year eve keeps date, it would be a boon for tourism,” President, Federation of Himachal Hotels and Restaurant Associations, Gajender Thakur said. He added that Manali remains one of the most accessible hill destinations, offering a wide range of tourist attractions and activities.

Similar trends are being reported in Shimla, where hotels are already seeing high occupancy. Prince Kukreja, Vice President of Shimla Hotels and Restaurants, said the occupancy levels are currently around 80 per cent and expected to increase further with snowfall forecasts. He noted that pleasant weather conditions and carnivals organised by authorities are drawing tourists, while snowfall would be a welcome gift for both visitors and locals.

To mark the New Year celebrations, several hotels across the state capital and other tourist hubs have planned gala nights, adding to the festive atmosphere and enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The local Meteorological Department has forecast rain and snowfall across various parts of the state, along with warnings of thunderstorms, lightning and cold wave conditions in several districts. Tourism stakeholders believe favourable weather conditions could help offset the impact of an unusually dry December, which has recorded a significant rainfall deficit across most districts in Himachal Pradesh.