Himachal CM Urges Centre to Explore Shipki-La Route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Shimla:
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has called upon the Central Government to explore the possibility of opening the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) via the historic Shipki-La route in the tribal district of Kinnaur. In a formal letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister made a strong case for the development of this alternative pilgrimage corridor, highlighting its strategic, cultural, and logistical advantages.
Shipki-La, an ancient Indo-Tibetan trade route, holds deep historical and spiritual significance. According to the Chief Minister, it has long served as a cultural corridor for Tibetan Buddhism and ancient pilgrimages, underscoring India’s civilizational ties to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. “This route not only offers a spiritual connection but also represents our heritage,” said Sukhu.
He further pointed out that the Kinnaur region, situated in a rain shadow zone like nearby Spiti, is less susceptible to monsoon-related disruptions. This geographical advantage ensures greater accessibility for most of the year, potentially making the route more reliable compared to others. Additionally, he noted that the path from Shipki-La through Gartok towards Darchen and Mansarovar is relatively shorter on the Tibetan side, which could reduce the duration and difficulty of the journey for pilgrims.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state already boasts road connectivity up to Shipki-La via Rampur and Pooh. With appropriate investment in base camps and supporting infrastructure, the route can be seamlessly integrated into the broader KMY framework. “With dedicated development and logistical support, Shipki-La could emerge as a sustainable and dependable corridor for both pilgrimage and cross-border connectivity,” he said.
Sukhu also underlined the socio-economic benefits that opening this route could bring to the remote tribal communities of Kinnaur. Aligning with the Centre’s Vibrant Village Programme, he stated that such a move would contribute to border area development, boost tourism, and generate livelihood opportunities in the region.
Reassuring the Centre of full cooperation, the Chief Minister concluded by stating that the State Government is ready to provide all necessary logistical and administrative support for the successful implementation of the project.
The proposal, if accepted, could mark a significant development in improving access to the revered pilgrimage site of Kailash Mansarovar, while simultaneously strengthening border infrastructure and regional development in Himachal Pradesh.
