The World is Back: Kangra's Tourism Soars Post-Pandemic

Well, isn't this some wonderful news coming out of Himachal Pradesh? It seems Kangra, that absolutely stunning district nestled in the Dhauladhar range, is truly buzzing again! After a few rather quiet years, the international visitors are back, and they're arriving in numbers we haven't seen in quite a while. Last year, nearly 30,000 foreign tourists made their way to this beautiful part of the world, marking a really significant milestone in its post-pandemic recovery story.

To put that into perspective, reaching almost 30,000 international guests is the highest count we've witnessed since the dark clouds of the pandemic began to lift. It's a huge jump, frankly, from the mere 12,040 who visited in 2022, and light years ahead of the paltry 2,130 in 2021 when travel was still largely restricted. Of course, we're not quite back to the glorious pre-pandemic peak of over 60,000 arrivals in 2019, but goodness me, we're certainly heading in the right direction, aren't we?

So, where exactly are all these wonderful folks heading? Unsurprisingly, Dharamsala remains an absolute magnet for international travelers, encompassing the vibrant McLeodganj and the serene Bhagsunag. These areas, home to the Tibetan government-in-exile, hold a unique spiritual and cultural draw. But it's not just Dharamsala; other charming spots like Palampur, Baijnath, the revered Jwalamukhi, and the adventure hub of Bir-Billing are also seeing a delightful influx of global visitors, eager to soak in Kangra's diverse offerings.

What's behind this heartwarming surge? A few factors, really. Firstly, and perhaps most obviously, global travel restrictions have largely eased, allowing people to finally scratch that wanderlust itch. Beyond that, Kangra offers such a rich tapestry of experiences – from the spiritual solace found in its monasteries and temples, particularly for those drawn to Buddhist culture, to the adrenaline rush of paragliding in Bir-Billing. There's just so much to explore, to feel, to experience here, and word, it seems, is getting out again.

Officials from the State Tourism Department, who are meticulously tracking these figures, are naturally quite optimistic. And why shouldn't they be? The momentum is clearly building, and with each passing year, Kangra is reaffirming its place on the global tourism map. It's not just about the numbers; it's about the vibrant energy, the cultural exchange, and the shared joy of discovery that international tourism brings to this incredible corner of Himachal Pradesh. Here's to continued growth and many more smiling faces gracing its valleys!