In A Historic Move, The Shipki La Pass In Himachal Pradesh Is Now Open For Domestic Travellers

Himachal Pradesh has opened the Shipki La pass, a motorable mountain pass at an altitude of 3,930 m in the Kinnaur district, to domestic tourists. The move is a step towards revitalising border tourism and reviving hopes of resuming India-China trade through the route.

This historic opening now offers travellers a unique opportunity to explore one of India’s most sensitive and captivating Himalayan frontiers—an area steeped in culture, history and stunning natural beauty that has remained untouched for decades.

'Border Tourism' Initiative Sees Push With Shipki La Opening

On June 9, during a two-day visit to Kinnaur district, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made history by becoming only the second Himachal Pradesh leader after Yashwant Singh Parmar to reach the strategic Shipki La pass. During his landmark visit, Sukhu officially launched the “Border Tourism” initiative, aimed at opening up the enchanting high Himalayan frontier to adventurous travellers, while maintaining strict security measures to safeguard the sensitive region.

The initiative, launched in coordination with the Union government, will enable regulated tourist access to strategically important yet culturally vibrant locations such as Lepcha La, Shipki La, the Gue Monastery, Khana, Dumti, the Rani area of Sangla, and Chitkul in Kinnaur district, along with selected areas in Lahaul-Spiti.

Previously, access to these locations was heavily restricted, requiring special permissions from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Indian Army due to their proximity to the India-China border and strategic importance. However, under revised guidelines, local residents and tourists can now visit these locations by presenting valid identity documents. The ITBP and the army will continue to facilitate smooth and secure movement in alignment with prescribed protocols.

Speaking on the occasion, Sukhu said, “The centuries-old trade route between India and Tibet, Shipki La, was closed for trade in the year 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.

“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.”

Travelling To Shipki La

Under new guidelines, Indian tourists and local residents can now access Shipki La and several adjoining restricted areas by presenting valid identification like Aadhaar (UIDAI). Though overnight stays remain prohibited, visitors can trek to iconic spots like Indira Point—the vantage point overlooking the actual Line of Control—and explore remote villages such as Chitkul, India’s last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibet highway.

The "Border Tourism" program aims to responsibly showcase the region’s unique tribal cultures and fragile ecosystems. Local communities stand to benefit through increased employment and business opportunities tied to tourism, all while preserving the ecological balance through sustainable practices promoted by authorities.

(With inputs from multiple news reports)