In a significant development for border tourism, the Shipki-La Pass, positioned at 3,930 meters in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district near the India-China border, has officially been opened to tourists for the first time. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the initiative on Tuesday, aiming to enhance the local economy and highlight the cultural richness of this remote region.
Tourists wishing to visit Shipki-La now only need an Aadhaar card and a travel token. This marks a shift from previous regulations that mandated special permissions from both the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) due to the area’s proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC). With newly established guidelines, movement in this strategically sensitive region will be permitted under the supervision of security forces.
The opening of Shipki-La is the result of collaborative efforts between the Himachal Pradesh government and the Union Defence Ministry. In addition to Shipki-La, the initiative will also promote tourism in other scenic yet sensitive locations, including Lepcha-La, Gue Monastery, Rani Kanda, Dumti, Chitkul, and certain areas in Lahaul-Spiti.
During the launch event, CM Sukhu articulated the dual aims of the initiative: fostering economic development and promoting national integration. He stated, “We have eased restrictions for travellers to enjoy the beauty of Shipki-La. The tourism activities here will strengthen the economy of the local people while boosting tourism in the region.”
Looking towards future possibilities, the chief minister expressed intentions to negotiate with the central government to facilitate the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route through Shipki-La. He described this route as “the easiest and most feasible” for pilgrims, emphasizing his commitment to raise the issue directly with the Prime Minister.
Highlighting the historical importance of Shipki-La as a crucial trade route between India and Tibet, which was closed in 2020, he underlined the significant opportunities for trade and cultural exchange that the pass holds. “There are immense possibilities for trade and cultural exchange through this pass,” he said, emphasizing the state’s efforts to reopen it for cross-border trade.
In support of broader infrastructural improvements in the region, CM Sukhu announced plans to propose the establishment of an airport near the border area. He also suggested the removal of the Inner Line Check Post, regarded as an impediment for tourists.
Further, the state is in discussions with the ITBP to utilize their existing helipads to aid tourism and enhance medical services in remote regions through ITBP health facilities.
The opening of Shipki-La represents a landmark moment in Himachal Pradesh’s strategy to promote tourism in its border areas while simultaneously upholding national security.
