Bangalore, 12 April, 2016

Himachal Pradesh Tourism is organizing the inaugural edition of 'Himachal Travel Mart', in Shimla from the 22nd – 24th April 2016. The Inaugural edition of ‘Himachal Travel Mart’, is set on a B2B platform with a large number of registered buyers and media from over five countries exploring business opportunities for discerning travel and tourism products, which will make the event one of the most sought after travel events in the country. Over 500 travel agents are expected to visit the Himachal Travel Mart.

Shri Mohan Chauhan, IAS, Commissioner, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh stated that Himachal has over the years been contributing immensely to the Indian Tourism portfolio with its diverse range of products. This is for the first time that the 'Himachal Travel Mart' is being organized in Shimla from the 22 – 24 April 2016. The event is an extension of our aggressive marketing strategy to introduce more tourism destinations and attractions to the tourists and reinforce the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Brand among the media, buyers and stake-holders.

The Commissioner (Tourism) further added that during the year 2015 tourist arrival in the state was 175.31 lakhs approximately, of which 4.06 lakhs were foreigners and 171.25 lakhs were domestic tourists. At present, the State has about 2600 registered hotels and has a bed capacity of about 70869. Currently, the state’s tourism sector contributes 9.75% (approximate) to the State Gross Domestic Product.

Tourism in Himachal Pradesh is a major contributor to the state's economy and growth. The state is endowed with a variety of landscape and vivid topographic features which attract tourists. The state is also known for its adventure activities which include paragliding destination at Bir-Billing, river-rafting in Kullu & Shimla districts, skiing, heli-skiing, trekking, and camping and water sports at Maharana Pratap Sagar etc. Spiti Valley in Lahaul & Spiti District provides breathtaking landscapes for adventure seekers. The region also has some of the oldest Buddhist Monasteries.

The event will seek support from all major travel – trade and hospitality associations in India such as ‘Association of Domestic Tour Operators Association of India (ADTOI), Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) and Indian Association of Tour Operators.