Dharamshala Cricket Stadium: A beacon of livelihood for local hawkers, a tourist delight 

By Saurabh Duggal 

Nestled amidst the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range, the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium stands as one of the most picturesque cricket arenas globally, drawing cricket enthusiasts and tourists alike to its captivating embrace. This stadium, managed by the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA), not only serves as a sporting hub but has also become a thriving hotspot for local vendors, providing them with a sustainable livelihood throughout the year.

On any given day, the stadium sees a steady influx of 1000-2000 visitors, a number that escalates dramatically to 5000-10000 on weekends. This surge in tourism has significantly impacted the lives of local hawkers stationed along the lane leading to gate number 2 of the stadium.

Madan Lal, 45, has been operating a Maggi stall adjacent to the stadium for the past 16 years. His business not only sustains his livelihood but also involves his 20-year-old son, Vishal, who operates a similar stall. "I earn decent money," says Madan.

Dharmvir Singh, another local vendor, has been selling sugar candy to stadium visitors since 2008. "From here I am able to support my family and provide education for my kids," says Dharamvir. 

Parveen Kumar, vending golgappas (water balls) for the past 14 years in the vicinity of the stadium, echoes the sentiment of improved earnings. 

The HPCA introduced an entry fee of for visitors since 2016. Currently it's priced Rs 30 and a ticket give access to a special visitors stand, providing tourists with a glimpse of the stadium’s beauty.

The stadium itself serves as the home ground for the Himachal cricket team and the Punjab Kings XI IPL team, hosting numerous international games since its construction in 2003.

While the stadium's allure has brought economic opportunities to local vendors, it has also mandated a contribution of Rs 50 per day to the municipal corporation for a license to sell food items.

"We are running better here as compared to our earlier stalls in Chowk," says Madan, encapsulating the sentiment of numerous hawkers whose livelihoods now thrive alongside the bustling tourist magnet that is the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium.