Shimla, June 10: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today launched border tourism activities at Shipki-La, a strategic location in Kinnaur district near the Indo-China border.
Addressing a public gathering on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that initiating border tourism will not only boost tourism but also strengthen the local economy. He shared that the state government had earlier requested the Ministry of Defence to permit tourism activities in the border areas of Lepcha, Shipki-La, Giu, and Rani Kanda. Following the Centre’s approval, these activities have now been officially launched.
The Chief Minister further announced that the state government would urge the Centre to allow the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to commence via the Shipki-La route, which, according to him, is the most accessible path for the pilgrimage. He added that he would personally meet the Prime Minister to raise this demand.
Highlighting the region’s significance, the Chief Minister pointed out that trade through the Shipki-La pass with China has been suspended since 2020. The route holds immense potential for trade and cultural exchange, and the state will also request the Centre to resume this trade.
He also mentioned that the state has sought approval from the Centre to establish a Himachal Scouts Battalion with special recruitment provisions for residents of border areas.
In efforts to further boost border tourism, the state will push for the establishment of an airport in the region. The Chief Minister added that the government will also request the removal of Inner Line Check Posts maintained by military and paramilitary forces, which currently act as a barrier for tourists due to permit requirements. He emphasized the state’s intent to work in close coordination with the Indian Army and paramilitary forces to simplify the travel process and enhance the visitor experience.
The Chief Minister also revealed that the National Wildlife Board has granted clearance for the Wangtoo-Atragu-Mudh-Bhaba Pass road, which will connect Lahaul-Spiti with Kinnaur. Once constructed, the route will reduce the travel distance between Shimla and Kaza by nearly 100 kilometers.
He emphasized that border roads serve not just strategic purposes but also play a vital role in enhancing connectivity and improving the lives of local communities. In this regard, he said discussions have been held with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) about a detailed roadmap to promote tourism in frontier regions. These include leveraging ITBP’s health facilities for public healthcare and utilizing their helipads to improve access to remote tourist locations.
CM Sukhu also expressed pride in the valor of India’s armed and paramilitary forces. As part of the visit, he inaugurated the “Sarhad Van Udyan” (Border Forest Park) at Shipki-La and visited the Indira Gandhi Point.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi welcomed the Chief Minister and thanked him for launching the border tourism initiative. He announced plans to enhance tourism infrastructure in Shipki-La and requested the start of an on-demand HRTC bus service for the area. He also discussed several local development issues, crediting the Chief Minister’s leadership for accelerating progress in the region.
