The following are the characteristics of tourism in the Himalayan region:
1. Tourism has emerged as a major growth industry in the Himalayas. Nearly 1 million visitors come to the Himalayas each year for pilgrimage, mountain trekking (climbing), and wildlife viewing and holidaying.
2. For the pilgrims, the Himalayas are the most sacred mountain ranges. They mostly visit the Char Dhams which include Kedarnath, Badarinath, Gangotri and Yamnotri.
3. The varied landscape of the Himalayas makes it one of the best places to visit n the earth.
4. Kashmir valley is called a 'paradise on the earth'. It springs, rivers, lakes, gardens, forests, hill stations attract lakhs of tourists every year.
5. Himachal Pradesh has tourist attractions like hill stations, such as Shimla and Kullu-Manali.
6. Darjiling and Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya are famous hill stations in India.
7. In the northeastern region, lush (lot) green vegetation, enchanting hills and valleys, picturesque (charming) landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries and reserve forests, natural parks, lakes .etc. are the main attractions for tourists.
8. Uttarakhand, titled as 'Devbhoomi'. Has many palces of pilgrimages like Char Dhams, famous hill stations like Mussoorie and Nainital and lofty mountain peaks like Nandadevi and Kamet.
