Winter brings business to Manali shopkeepers

Shopkeepers in Bang Marhi, 2 kilometers from India's hill resort of Manali in northern Himachal Pradesh are cashing on the chill in the weather - by renting woolens to the tourists. Situated at an altitude of 2,050 metres, Manali is located on the banks of river Beas.

Right from adventure sports like paragliding, river rafting, skiing, trekking, mountaineering, ice-skating to relaxing and sightseeing, tourists have a wide range of options to choose from.

Tourists visiting the picturesque destination often find themselves unable to beat the cold, something that has triggered a business in itself.

"We give woolens on rent to tourists. We charge 100 rupees for a set that includes a boot, coat, gloves and caps. These are specially required for the tourists heading to Rohtang Pass where the temperature drops below zero degree," said Hemaraj, a shopkeeper.

With no fixed earning and resort remaining close for six months due to heavy snowfall, the shopkeepers remain in business only for rest of the six months.

"In a day sometimes we earn 500, sometimes 200 rupees. During peak season, we even make a thousand. But our earnings is just for six months as for the other six months our business really suffers as the roads get closed due to heavy snowfall," added Renu Devi, another shopkeeper.

The tourists too do not mind doling out a little extra, as it help them beat the climate, while enjoying the beauty of the resort.

"The arrangement here is good. It is beneficial for those who is ill equipped to handle the chill," said Rohitaksh, a tourist.

Nestled in the Himalayas, Manali has always been a favourite destination of tourists and filmmakers because of its pristine beauty.

Blessed with some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes anywhere, Manali is a traveller's paradise with lofty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fast flowing rivers, enchanting mountain lakes, flower bedecked meadows, beautiful temples and monasteries steeped in time.

Nearly four million tourists visit the state every year and the figure has been increasing by about 15 percent annually.

Tourism, which generates about $100 million annually, is the mainstay of the Himachal Pradesh's economy.

Bureau Report