Shimla, Dec. 26 -- With New Year celebrations around the corner, the district administration in Himachal Pradesh's capital Shimla has stepped up preparations to manage tourist arrivals, with lakhs of visitors expected to arrive during the festive period.

Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap said the hill town is witnessing a strong tourism revival, driven by the festive season and the ongoing Winter Carnival. He said hotel occupancy has already reached 80 to 90 per cent and is expected to rise further in the coming days.

"From December 25 to 31, we will witness a heavy tourist rush. Hotel occupancy is between 80 and 90 per cent and is likely to increase further. The weather is pleasant, and any snowfall will further boost tourism. ...