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Key Points

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has launched border tourism at Shipki-La, easing restrictions for visitors. The government aims to promote Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through this route while reviving historic trade ties with Tibet. Plans include better infrastructure, an airport, and improved road connectivity in the region. The move is expected to boost local economy and tourism in Kinnaur district.

Key Points: Himachal CM Sukhu Opens Shipki-La for Tourism Near Tibet Border

  • Shipki-La tourism now open without restrictions
  • Push for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Shipki-La
  • Proposal to revive India-Tibet trade route
  • Plans for airport and improved border connectivity
2 min read

Now, tourists can travel to Shipki-La in Himachal without restrictions

Himachal Pradesh eases restrictions for tourists at Shipki-La, boosting border tourism and reviving trade links with Tibet.

"Shipki-La will be the easiest route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra – CM Sukhvinder Sukhu"

Shimla, June 10

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Tuesday launched border tourism activities at Shipki-La in Kinnaur district located at an altitude of 3,930 meters bordering Tibet.

Addressing a public meeting, the Chief Minister said at the border “we have eased restrictions for the tourists to enjoy the beauty of Shipki-La and tourism activities would strengthen the economy of the local people along with boosting tourism in the region”.

He said the government had requested the Ministry of Defence to grant permission for starting tourism activities in the border areas of Lepcha, Shipki-La, Giu and Rani Kanda.

After getting the approval, the border tourism initiative has been launched. The Chief Minister said the government would raise the issue of starting Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Shipki-La with the Centre.

“I would meet the Prime Minister and present this matter before him. Shipki-La will be the easiest route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra,” the Chief Minister said.

The centuries-old trade route between India and Tibet via Shipki-La was closed in 2020.

“There are immense possibilities of trade and cultural exchange through this pass and the matter of restarting it would also be raised before the Central government.”

Sukhu said the government has also urged the Centre to establish Himachal Scout Battalion, which would have a special quota for the local people.

“The matter of setting up an airport to promote tourism in the border areas would also be pursued before the Union government. The state government would urge the Centre to abolish the Inner Line Check Post of the military and paramilitary forces, which currently creates permit-related obstacles for tourists,” he said.

He said the Wangtu-Atargu-Mud-Bhaba road connecting Lahaul-Spiti district with Kinnaur has been approved by the National Wildlife Board, paving the way for its construction, which would reduce the distance between Shimla and Kaza by approximately 100 km.

The Chief Minister said border roads are not only of strategic importance, but their purpose is to provide benefits to the people by increasing connectivity in remote border regions.

Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, who belongs to Kinnaur, thanked the Chief Minister for inaugurating border tourism activities. He said more basic facilities would be increased at Shipki-La in the future. He also urged to start on-demand bus route in the area.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is fantastic news! Shipki-La is one of the most beautiful places in Himachal. Opening it for tourism will create jobs and help local businesses. But I hope they maintain strict security protocols given it's a border area with China. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
P
Priya S.
As someone who's been to Kinnaur, this region desperately needs tourism boost. The landscapes are breathtaking! But the government must ensure proper infrastructure - clean toilets, medical facilities and waste management before inviting more tourists. Don't want another Manali-like situation.
A
Arjun M.
Kailash Mansarovar via Shipki-La would be a game changer! Currently the route through Nepal is too expensive for middle-class pilgrims. Hope PM Modi approves this soon. 🙏 But security shouldn't be compromised for tourism - China border is sensitive.
N
Neha T.
Good initiative but I'm concerned about environmental impact. These fragile Himalayan ecosystems can't handle mass tourism. Government should implement strict carrying capacity limits and eco-tourism guidelines. Saw what happened to Rohtang Pass - don't repeat those mistakes!
V
Vikram J.
Reopening trade with Tibet would be economically beneficial, but given current tensions with China, we must proceed cautiously. Tourism first is a smart approach. The Himachal Scout Battalion idea is excellent - locals know the terrain best and it creates employment.
S
Sunita R.
As a travel blogger, I'm excited about this! But please improve mobile connectivity in these areas first. Last time I visited Kinnaur, network was patchy making it difficult to share our beautiful culture with the world. Also need better homestay facilities for authentic experience.

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