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Key Points

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Sukhu has written to PM Modi, proposing Shipki-La as a new route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. He emphasized its historical trade and cultural ties, along with year-round accessibility. The shorter Tibetan route via Gartok makes it a viable alternative. The move aims to boost tourism and uplift tribal communities in Kinnaur.

Key Points: Himachal CM Sukhu Seeks Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Via Shipki-La Route

  • CM Sukhu highlights Shipki-La's historical trade and cultural significance
  • Route is less prone to monsoon disruptions due to semi-arid conditions
  • Shorter path via Gartok to Mansarovar compared to other routes
  • Proposal aligns with Vibrant Village Programme for tribal upliftment
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Himachal CM asks Centre to start Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Shipki-La

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Sukhu urges PM Modi to open Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Shipki-La, citing shorter Tibetan route and year-round accessibility.

"Shipki-La offers a stable, unambiguous corridor for pilgrimage and cross-border connectivity. - Sukhvinder Sukhu"

Shimla, July 6

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has urged the Central government to explore the feasibility of opening Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via the Shipki-La route in the state.

In a letter written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister said that the Shipki-La region has served as a vital Indo-Tibetan trade route, predating modern borders. He said that it has also been a cultural corridor for Tibetan Buddhism and ancient pilgrimage paths reflecting India's enduring civilizational ties to Kailash and Mansarovar.

He said that the Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh, being semi-arid and situated in a rain shadow zone like Spiti, is less prone to monsoon disruptions, which keeps the route accessible for most of the year. He said that the path from Shipki-La via Gartok towards Darchen and Mansarovar is comparatively shorter on the Tibetan side. He said that Shipki-La also offered a more stable and unambiguous corridor, making it well-suited as a long-term, dependable corridor for pilgrimage and cross-border connectivity.

The Chief Minister said that Himachal Pradesh already has road connectivity up to Shipki-La via Rampur and Pooh. He said that with the focused development of base camps and supporting infrastructure, this route can be seamlessly integrated into the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra framework.

He emphasised that the opening of this route would significantly contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of the tribal people of Kinnaur, aligning with the government's vision for border development and tourism promotion under the Vibrant Village Programme. The Chief Minister said that the state government would extend all logistical and administrative coordination to the Central government if the Shipki-La route is opened for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I appreciate the thought, I'm concerned about the environmental impact. The fragile Himalayan ecosystem in Kinnaur is already under stress. We need proper environmental assessments before opening new routes.
A
Arjun K
As someone who did the yatra last year via Lipulekh, I can say a shorter route would be a blessing! The current journey is exhausting. Shipki-La seems perfect with better weather conditions too. Hope PM Modi approves this soon.
S
Sarah B
Interesting proposal! I visited Kinnaur last summer and the roads were surprisingly good. The local communities are so warm and welcoming. This could be a game-changer for tourism in the region.
V
Vikram M
We must also consider security aspects. Shipki-La is close to the China border. The government should ensure proper security arrangements before opening this route for pilgrims. Safety first!
K
Kavya N
My grandparents did this yatra 40 years ago and always talked about the spiritual significance. Having more routes means more people can experience this sacred journey. Hope the infrastructure is developed properly though - basic facilities are must for elderly pilgrims.
M
Michael C
The cultural and historical aspects mentioned are fascinating. India's ancient connections with Tibet through these mountain passes deserve more attention. This could be great for cultural tourism too!

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