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Foreign tourists flock to Dharamshala

    Dharamshala: A number of tourists from different parts of the world visited Dharamshala, the seat of holy Dalai Lama, to usher in the New Year. A number of tourists, visiting Himachal Pradesh from across the country and various parts of the world flocked here to usher into the New Year with hopes of peaceful and prosperous times ahead. Most of the visitors arriving from different countries were of the belief that the event of New Year is a time not to ruminate over the past but envision a bright future.

     And, the holy place known as the home of Dalai Lama, felt an ideal venue to those who wished to welcome the year in serenity. It was evident from the presence of a large number of tourists in the mini-Lhasa despite the freezing temperature in the foothills of Himalayas during winters. On normal days, Dharamshala attracts a lot of tourists who are generally drawn towards Tibetan culture that persists here, largely due a huge presence of Tibetan refugees. Tourists visit Dharamshala to experience the ancient and fascinating Tibetan culture. "On this New Year we went to the temple of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. To rejuvenate peace of mind and to take New Year's resolutions there cannot be a better place. It's a place where you can sit and introspect," said Gorvin, a tourist. For a couple of tourists from abroad, Dharamshala lent an apt ambience to experience the ethos of Orient. "This is a wonderful place where one can get to see Tibetan culture everywhere. Far from our home, from our loved ones, I had a special experience and this place made me realise the value of my freedom and my home," said Brock Gill, a tourist from Canada. The cultural life in Dharamshala is colourful and rich in tradition. Almost round the year fairs and festivals provide a glimpse of a real Tibet to the onlookers. To tap a good business a good business during seasonal festivities like bonfire parties and cultural nights are organised by the revellers. According to the tour operators and travel agents, the number of varieties of New Year bonanzas could be enhanced to boost Dharamshala's tourism-based economy. "Businessmen must make plans for this time of the season when New Year's Eve is on the cards. The organisations should carry promotional campaigns and should provide better accommodations besides organising cultural festivals to attract more tourists," said Dawa, a Tibetan travel agent. Ever since the fourteenth Dalai Lama of Tibet left Lhasa on March 17, 1959 and crossed over to India a fortnight later seeking asylum, Dharamshala has been the second home for Tibetans and got its nickname 'little Tibet.' In Goa, ushering into New Year meant revelry all around. For long the Goans have been known for their gala spirit and the special way the celebrate any festival whether it's Christmas of New Year eve. And, this year was no different when youngsters, elders and families enjoyed the spirit of New Year eve in their specially chosen way. Most of the youngsters enjoyed at nightclubs and beaches, the elders attended the midnight Masses at different churches whereas the families had a nice time together in specially decorated restaurants. Many Goan families opted to spend time in restaurants where traditional dance parties playing local and popular tunes were arranged for them. "We'll go to discotheque. We'll join all the happening every where. It's a fun day. We are already on. The party is on and it will continue till 2008," said Sonali and Rohit, a couple.

     The churches were brightly lit on the occasion and the long queue of devotees continued till the wee hours to enter the year with God's blessings. "I think this is the right way to start a year. Coming to the Mass, being with Him (God) at the early moment of a year. That way I feel the year would go well for all of us," said Mario, a devotee. Thousands of tourists also ventured into beach parties, various cruises, pubs and discos to welcome the New Year. Dancing with booze at roadside pavements became the favourite resort for those individuals who could not get any place to party.
-Jan 1,  2007

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