Kashmir House: New Heartbeat of Kangra Tourism?
The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has shifted its headquarters to the iconic Kashmir House in Dharamsala, effective July 29, 2025. This move, in line with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s vision, aims to revitalise tourism in Kangra district.
The decision has, however, elicited mixed reactions from stakeholders. While some welcome the potential boost to the region’s economy, others express concerns.
Experts suggest a more impactful strategy would involve relocating the entire Department of Tourism to Dharamsala, not just the HPTDC. This would centralise operations and enhance efficiency.
Kashmir House, a building steeped in history since its construction in 1935, has served various purposes over the decades. This latest transformation signifies a renewed focus on leveraging its heritage for economic growth.
The success of this initiative will depend on effective implementation and a holistic approach to tourism development. Its impact on Kangra’s economy and the overall tourism sector in Himachal Pradesh remains to be seen, but the move signals a significant shift in the state’s tourism policy.