Opening of tunnel will boost winter tourism, says DC : The Tribune India

Kullu, January 31

Various events are being organised in Lahaul and Spiti during the snow festival and ‘Chholo’ sports competitions were organised in Tholang and Udaipur today. Locals practiced ice climbing at Keylong under the guidance of mountaineering experts.

Pankaj Rai, Deputy Commissioner, Lahaul and Spiti, said the possibility of winter tourism in the valley had increased after the opening of the Atal Tunnel. He said the topography of the area was adequate for adventure winter sports. He said the administration was making efforts to promote tribal culture and set a framework for adventure tourism through the snow festival so that tourists would have facilities to experience them.

“A mountaineering expert team is exploring spots to conduct ice climbing in Lahaul valley. The administration is planning to promote winter adventure sports through snow festival. The youth of the area are being motivated to promote adventure tourism,” he said.

Mountaineering expert Bharat Bhushan said the valley was suitable for ice climbing, ice hockey, skiing, sledding, winter camping etc. and these would provide employment opportunities to the youth. He said this would boost rural tourism in the valley and also inspire the youth to become professionals in winter sports.

Mountaineer Anil from Nainital said there was immense potential for adventure sports here. He said the youth could be trained to carry out ice-climbing to promote adventure tourism. — OC