Heat wave across country boosts tourism in Himachal Pradesh

MANALI - The early onset of summer and scorching temperatures across India has forced people to move to higher altitudes.

With maximum temperatures reaching up to 40 degree Celsius in most parts of the country, many are being compelled to take early holidays to various hill stations in Himachal Pradesh.

The month of March has seen a heavy influx of tourists to Manali, where tourism has increased by up to 30- 35 percent in comparison to previous years.

“Pune right now is quite hot. Summer has already started there. But it is very cold here. The snow peaks are very beautiful. It is worth the trip, I enjoyed coming here,” said Rahul, a visitor from Pune.

A visible amount of snow in Manali has made it a haven, especially for visitors from the southern parts of India where rising temperatures are accompanied with extreme humidity.

“I have enjoyed a lot here. In Andhra Pradesh the temperature touches 40 degree Celsius, here I am enjoying zero degree temperature. I did some trekking and skating too,” said Salman, a tourist from Andhra Pradesh.

Local tour organisers, are a happy lot as business has increased over the past few weeks.

The economy of this picturesque state is heavily dependent on tourism.

Over three million domestic and foreign tourists visit the state annually and enjoy a variety of winter-sports like skiing, snow scooter riding and sledging, etc. By Prem Thakur (ANI)