Adventure and nature enthusiasts take note. A new destination is emerging in Himachal Pradesh. The delightful village of Bhohat Kasol in the Bilaspur district is gearing up to become a premier tourist spot. Efforts are underway to introduce more than 20 adventure experiences to provide urban folks with a taste of rustic living and the beauty of nature.
Officials have initiated an action plan to transform Bhohat Kasol into a vibrant tourist destination. A team of administrative officials recently inspected the area near Kol Dam, highlighting the untapped potential for year-round tourism. Deputy Commissioner of Bilaspur district, Abid Hussain Sadiq, noted the consistent water level in Kol Dam, which will ensure continuous tourist influx and offer diverse activities and attractions throughout the year. “Once developed into a tourism hub, tourists will have the chance to enjoy over 20 adventure activities,” he said.
Sadiq explained that the area will be transformed into a rural tourist hotspot, allowing urban visitors to experience the rural lifestyle. He also mentioned maximising all potential tourism opportunities in the area. “Bhohat Kasol will be developed as a comprehensive tourist destination,” he reiterated, noting the importance of leveraging the area’s natural beauty and resources to attract visitors.
The latest trends show a growing interest in exploring offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh, with Solan surpassing Shimla as a beloved tourist spot. This shift highlights an increasing appreciation for the state's hidden gems. The tourism industry is in fact thriving in the state, with over 7.4 million tourists visiting the state by May of this year. This marks a 3.5% increase compared to last year.
Solan district has emerged as the top destination, surpassing even the famous hill station of Shimla, the capital of Himachal. Popular destinations such as Kasauli and Chail are experiencing a surge in popularity, while lesser-known spots like Reva Waterfall are drawing travellers. The increase in numbers can be attributed to the expansion of homestay options and improved accessibility in erstwhile remote areas. Read more about it in our report here.
Efforts are underway to enhance both inter and intra-state connectivity by building heliports. There is a significant emphasis on infrastructure development, such as establishing wayside amenities, establishing wellness centers, building ice skating rinks, and promoting eco and adventure tourism with funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).