Sun Turism an Emerging Trend

By Our Correspondent 

The Human civilization on earth revolves around one more planet –Sun after of course the Earth where all of us live. But now Sun, to be precise sunshine has become a tourist drawing visitors in thousands specially in the hill areas. Earlier hill stations in North and North East were attracting visitors for snow in winter and rain in monsoon seasons. Now climate change has made the travel to hill areas risky in both the seasons due to landslides, road blockades, heavy rush besides many other factors. Sun tourism is a popular form of tourism and is often associated with summer vacation when schools and colleges remain closed. It is a growing trend in which solo travellers and families from the plains travel to destinations with high levels of sunshine in the hills and enjoy the cold weather. Most parts of north India shiver during these months owing to foggy weather and lack of sunshine.

At this critical juncture, Sun tourism is becoming increasingly popular among mountain enthusiasts who are seeking a mixture of scenic landscapes teamed with the invigorating warmth of the sun. It allows mountain lovers to not only enjoy outdoor activities but also embrace the sun-kissed aura of the hills. So, by bringing tourists to locations where mountains co- exist with sunny weather, sun tourism is a departure from the conventional mountain tourism paradigm, which has been traditionally associated with activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and trekking. The rise of sun tourism among mountain tourists has several benefits for visitors as well as the local populations. It contributes to the local economy by extending the tourism season, yielding income for businesses, accommodations, and service providers who earlier depended heavily on winter activities.

This facilitates growth and development, which helps sustain local communities. Sun tourism fosters sustainable practices such as conservation efforts, eco-friendly infrastructure, and responsible tourism practices, guaranteeing the long-term preservation of natural resources. It also drives infrastructure development in mountainous areas, leading to improved transportation, accessibility, and amenities. The trend helps expand the array of activities available in mountainous regions beyond winter sports. This diversification draws travellers with varying interests, allowing them to immerse in a broader range of experiences. Sun tourism promotes a profound connection with nature as one of its main attractions is the opportunity to witness sunrise and sunset views from mountain summits. This enriching experience is  vital for mental well-being too.

Tour operators in Himalayan  region have realized the new found potential to attract tourists beyond the traditional winter season by promoting their picturesque landscapes, outdoor activities, and pleasant weather conditions during the summer months. Organising any tour during the summer is also easy and hassle free and immune from many risks like winter or rains. People are lapping up every opportunity to travel, especially when they get introduced to anything which is unexplored and new. Hence, Sun Tourism is in demand in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kashmir and other hill areas. There is a sudden rise in the number of tourists to the hills during winters in recent times. In recent years, Sun Tourism is  becoming a rage at hill stations like Manali, Shimla, Dalhousie, Srinagar, Ladakh, Mussoorie, Dehradun. The whole hospitality industry which was laying low in the summer season is not buzzing with activities. Hotels and resorts are flooded with demands like having a sun facing balcony, having a room that receives direct sunlight and so on.

Best Sunrise and Sunset Points in Himalayas.

KASAULI IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

Kasauli is a perfect destination that cherishes its visitors with an amazing and lifetime experience. Thus, for all the tourists who are seeking the mirth of heaven on the bosom of the Himalayas, Kasauli is the perfect place to visit ornamented by the perfect Sunset Point at any time of the year barring monsoon season.

TIGER HILL, DARJEELING

The first ray of the Sun is said to bathe the twin peaks a shade of pink and then turn into a bright shade of orange. It is best enjoyed with a steaming cup of Darjeeling tea in hand with a view of majestic Kanchenjunga mountains.

NUBRA VALLEY, JAMMU & KASHMIR is a naturally beautiful place to witness a breathtaking sunset. The Diskit village in Ladakh is especially magical during sunset, as the mountains shine in shades of yellow and orange, creating a beautiful atmosphere. The sun’s rays bring life to the cold desert during this time, making it a stunning destination.
Every view in the valley is unique and creates a beautiful sunset experience that should
not be missed.

BRAHMAPUTRA RIVER, DIBRUGARH

A sunset that is as inspiring as it is beautiful. With its unique blend of luscious red and crimson yellow colors bursting forth in the sky at dusk, and the dark grey clouds providing seamless company, the scene is acutely ecstatic. The water of River Brahmaputra plays its part by shining like a sea of blessed crystals. It cannot get better than this.

UMIAM LAKE SHILLONG

Umiam lake in Meghalaya on the way from Guwahati o Shillong is by far one of the most splendid spots to come across. Its spell bounding scenic beauty grasps visitors from all the parts of India. It is located 15 km away from Shillong ​​​​mesmerizing views of sunrise near the bank of the Umiam River.

MAJULI ASSAM

The bank of the mighty River Brahmaputra also offers some of the best sunrise views to its visitors in Majuli, the largest river island in the world. This vast and seamless water body is a grand old river of peninsular India. In addition to enjoying the traditional culture and customs of Assam, where visitors can catch the perfect glimpses of the rising sun.

DONG VILLAGE IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH, which is known as the easternmost village in India, witnessed the earliest sunrise in the country. At about 1,240 metres above sea-level, Dong is located between China and Myanmar. On  average,  the sun rises at around 5:00 AM and sets at around 5:00 PM in Dong. It is a tourist spot to see the first sun rise.

RANIKHET IN UTTARAKHAND

Ranikhet is home to many Sunset Points that offer amazing views of the Himalayas. The best sunset point in Ranikhet  is  near Jhula Devi Temple. Ranikhet has a number of nightfall viewpoints that provide views of the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains and the setting sun. The most noticeable of these is Machkhali, which is located near the Woodville point between Transit Camp and Ganiadeoli. Similarly, on the site located between Jhoola Devi Temple and Bhargaon.