The Himachal Pradesh government has temporarily suspended the recently introduced entry fee at Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary, following widespread public criticism and opposition from locals and visitors alike.
Earlier this month, the state’s Forest Department had announced a user charge of INR 200 per visitor to access the sanctuary, a popular pilgrimage and trekking destination known for its natural beauty and the revered Churdhar temple. The move was intended to generate revenue for the maintenance and preservation of the sanctuary.
However, the announcement met with significant backlash from local communities, environmental activists, pilgrims, and tourists, who argued that the fee could discourage visitors and impact the local economy. Many also raised concerns over the transparency and necessity of the charge, urging the government to reconsider.
In response to the mounting criticism, the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department issued an official letter suspending the implementation of the user fee. The department stated that the suspension would remain in effect until further review and consultations with relevant stakeholders are conducted.
Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Sirmaur district, is the highest peak in the outer Himalayas and attracts thousands of nature enthusiasts and devotees every year. Spread over 56 sq km, this sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including various species of flora and fauna endemic to the region. Think wildlife such as Himalayan black bear, barking deer, musk deer, langur, and leopards, to name a few.
Beyond wildlife, the sanctuary is a famed religious destination, owing to the presence of sacred sites within the area. Most famously, Churdhar is a holy place related to Shirgul Maharaj (Chureshwar Maharaj), a deity widely worshipped in Sirmour and Chaupal. During the nine days of Navratri, the temple also organises a fair where one can see pilgrims singing and dancing in fervor. Trekkers tend to visit the site to explore the glaciers en route to Churdhar summit. During winters, the Srigul Temple, located at the summit, gets snowed in. The removal of the entry fee to the park could help lure more travellers to the destination.
