Shimla, May 30 (PTI) In a bid to promote tourism and showcase the adventure activities available in the popular hill resort, Shimla is set to host the International Summer Festival from June 8-12, featuring
a hot air balloon among other attractions, officials said on Saturday.
Officials said a final decision on whether tourists will be allowed to experience hot air balloon rides during the festival, is yet to be taken. “The matter is currently under consideration and will be decided by the concerned committee in the coming days.”.
The festival is scheduled to be held at the Ridge and the Mall, two of the most prominent tourist spots in the state capital.
As part of the preparations, officials conducted a successful trial of the hot air balloon in Shimla on Saturday. The initiative is aimed at highlighting the district’s growing adventure-tourism prospects, and attracting more tourists.
A district administration official said hot air balloon ride is gaining popularity in the region, though many tourists remain unaware of the experience. “Therefore, it has been decided to showcase it during the summer festival, providing a bigger platform for tourism promotion, as well as to encourage youth to opt for new alternatives to earn their livelihood.” PTI COR ARB ARB
