DHARAMSHALA: Himachal Pradesh is buzzing with excitement as it gears up to welcome the New Year.
The recent heavy snowfall has turned the hill state into a winter wonderland, drawing thousands of tourists to popular destinations like Shimla, Manali, Kasauli, Chail, Dalhousie and Dharamshala.
Most hotels in these areas are fully booked, with special events and celebrations planned to mark the occasion.
The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation and private hotels have organised New Year parties featuring dance, dining and various competitions.
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Unique events such as the selection of “New Year Queen” in Manali, Dharamshala and Chail Palace hotels are set to add to the festivities.
Over the past week, all trains arriving in Shimla have been packed, along with luxury and regular buses operated by HRTC and the Tourism Development Corporation. Thousands of taxis have also entered the hill stations, reflecting a significant increase in tourist influx.
Snowfall adds to winter charm
An official of the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations said that the snowfall had significantly boosted enthusiasm for New Year celebrations in Himachal.
Hotels have made special preparations and the tourist influx is expected to remain high until the first week of January.
Devotees to begin New Year with temple visits
After New Year celebrations, many tourists and locals will visit Himachal’s revered temples to seek blessings. Key temples like Shri Naina Devi, Shri Chintpurni and Baba Balak Nath in Deotsidh have made robust arrangements for devotees.
Shri Naina Devi Temple will remain open for 22 hours on December 31, closing briefly from midnight to 2 am. At Chintpurni Temple, the doors will close for only an hour at midnight on December 31, ensuring continuous access for worshippers.
Baba Balak Nath Temple will remain open for two consecutive days, with additional facilities like milk for children during the night.