Domestic tourist arrivals in Lahaul-Spiti district plummeted by more than 53% in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to official tourism department data. The district recorded 4,88,705 domestic tourists in 2025, down from 10,55,239 in 2024. Foreign tourist numbers remained largely stable, with 7,456 international visitors in 2025 versus 7,504 in 2024.
Sharp decline in summer months
Summer continued to be the peak season, but figures were significantly lower than in 2024. June 2025 saw 1,75,952 domestic tourists, compared to 2,91,486 in June 2024. May recorded 81,512 domestic visitors in 2025 against 1,79,840 in 2024. April 2025 attracted 59,398 domestic tourists, less than half the 1,47,711 recorded in April 2024.
Factors behind the slump
Tourism stakeholders attribute the decline to changing travel trends, weather disruptions, and shifting preferences toward alternative destinations. Industry observers note that while Lahaul-Spiti remains a sought-after Himalayan destination, fluctuating road conditions and infrastructure concerns may have deterred visitors.
Foreign tourism holds steady
International tourist arrivals remained resilient. June 2025 recorded the highest foreign footfall at 2,249, followed by July and October, indicating sustained global interest in the high-altitude desert region.
Economic impact
Tourism is a vital economic driver for Lahaul-Spiti, supporting hotels, homestays, transport operators, and local businesses. The sharp drop in domestic visitors has raised concerns among stakeholders who depend on tourism for their livelihoods.
Officials and industry representatives remain optimistic that improved road connectivity, better tourism infrastructure, and targeted promotional campaigns will help revive arrivals and restore the district's tourism growth trajectory in the coming years.
