Dainik Nation News Portal
DAINIK NATION BUREAU/UTTARKASHI
A day long visit to Uttarkashi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly promoted winter tourism and pilgrimage in Uttarakhand. From Mukhwa and Harshil, he extended an open invitation to pilgrims, tourists, corporate professionals, and the film industry, branding Uttarakhand’s winter tourism as ‘Gham Tapo Tourism’ (Basking in the Sun Tourism).
Addressing a gathering in Harshil, the Prime Minister first expressed condolences for the recent avalanche victims in Mana. He spoke about Uttarakhand’s deep spiritual aura and his emotional connection with the land. Recalling his journey, he shared that Mother Ganga’s blessings had led him to serve Uttarakhand for decades and later to Kashi as a Member of Parliament. His visit to Mukhwa, the winter abode of Mother Ganga, was an emotional and spiritual moment for him.
Uttarakhand’s Decade of Growth
PM Modi reminisced about his Kedarnath visit, where he felt a divine inspiration that this decade would belong to Uttarakhand. Today, he said, that vision is becoming a reality as the state progresses with new infrastructure and tourism initiatives.
Lauding Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s efforts in promoting winter tourism, the Prime Minister stressed the need for year-round tourism to ensure economic stability. Currently, most tourists visit between March and June, leaving hotels and homestays empty in winter. However, Uttarakhand’s divine aura, adventure activities like trekking and skiing, and its rich cultural heritage make it an ideal winter destination.
Infrastructure & Border Development
The Prime Minister highlighted Uttarakhand’s rapid infrastructure development, including Char Dham all-weather roads, expressways, railways, and expanded heli-services. He announced that the Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib ropeways, recently approved by the Centre, will significantly ease travel for pilgrims. The Kedarnath ropeway will reduce an 8-9 hour trek to just 30 minutes.
Emphasizing the importance of border villages, he spoke about the Vibrant Villages Programme, which is revitalizing settlements like Nelang and Jadung, abandoned since the 1962 war. Tourist facilities are also being developed in areas like Mana, Timmersain, and Mahadevsain.
A Call for Corporate and Film Industry Participation
The Prime Minister urged corporates to organize conferences and retreats in Uttarakhand, combining work with rejuvenation through yoga and Ayurveda. He also encouraged students to explore Uttarakhand in winter. Additionally, he invited filmmakers to shoot in Uttarakhand, highlighting its recognition as India’s Most Film-Friendly State.
Winter Tourism and the Role of Content Creators
PM Modi stressed that global destinations thrive on winter tourism, and Uttarakhand can follow their success. He suggested developing hot springs into wellness spas and organizing spiritual and yoga retreats. He also emphasized the role of content creators in promoting winter tourism and proposed a national-level competition to highlight Uttarakhand’s unique experiences.
Chief Minister’s Gratitude
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed the Prime Minister and thanked him for his unwavering support in preserving Uttarakhand’s cultural and spiritual heritage. He cited major milestones, including the Global Investors Summit, G20 meetings, implementation of the UCC law, and hosting of the National Games.
He also expressed gratitude for the ₹4,081 crore Kedarnath ropeway project and ₹2,730 crore Hemkund Sahib ropeway, which will boost pilgrimage tourism. Dhami reiterated that Char Dham Yatra is a key pillar of Uttarakhand’s economy, supporting thousands of local businesses and workers.
With Uttarakhand preparing for the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra and the Kumbh Mela, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that, under PM Modi’s leadership, these events will be grand successes.
A Historic Boost for Uttarakhand
PM Modi’s visit has ignited fresh enthusiasm for winter tourism, pilgrimage, and adventure activities in Uttarakhand. With the state now focusing on year-round tourism, his call to visitors is expected to bring long-term benefits.
Prominent dignitaries present at the event included Union Minister Ajay Tamta, Cabinet Minister Satpal Maharaj, BJP State President Mahendra Bhatt, MP Mala Rajyalakshmi Shah, and MLA Suresh Chauhan.
