Kufri (Himachal Pradesh), Dec 15(ANI): Thousands of tourists are converging at Kufri near Himachal Pradesh's Shimla to witness the heavy snowfall that heralds a fortune for the tourism sector in the region.

Kufri is situated at an altitude of 8600 feet above sea level and located around 16 kilometres off Shimla.

Among the major attractions for the tourists here are the horse rides astride the sturdy local ponies. I have come here for first time and I think everyone should come here at least once, especially in December. No one should miss this place," said Dimple Gohil, a tourist from Mumbai.

On their part, the local people involved in tourism business and engaged in travel business are happy with the fresh snowfall.

The income earned by the locals involved in tourism business during snowfall season helps them to supplement their daily necessities for several months.

"Lot of people have got business due to the snowfall, be it the horse owners, photographers or hotels, all of them are benefited. The season brings happiness to everyone," said Santosh, a travel agent.

Shimla and Kufri regions receive around 50,000 tourists during the snowfall.

Local people involved in tourism business are expecting more snowfall and thereby capitalise on the season.

Snowfall augurs well for the local traders in Himachal Pradesh, as tourism is the backbone of the economy of the state. (ANI)