Uttarakhand's Nelong Valley to Welcome Tourists in Winter Months
In a significant development for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, the Nelong Valley in Uttarakhand, often referred to as the 'Ladakh of Uttarakhand' due to its distinctive arid and rocky landscape, will now remain accessible to tourists throughout the winter season. This marks a departure from the previous practice of closing the area from November to March due to harsh winter conditions.
Forest Department Implements New Winter Tourism Plan
Acting on directives from the state administration, the forest department has formulated a comprehensive strategy to promote winter tourism in the region. Harish Negi, Deputy Director of Gangotri National Park, announced on Saturday, "A decision has been taken to keep Nelong valley open during the winter season. All activities will be conducted in a safe and regulated manner as per standard operating procedures."
Daily Limits and Entry Regulations for Visitors
To manage tourism sustainably, winter entry will be restricted to a maximum of 100 tourists and 20 vehicles per day. Visitors will be permitted entry between 8 AM and 11 AM and must exit by 5 PM. The valley, situated along the China border within Gangotri National Park—India's third-largest national park—offers breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau, opportunities to spot rare snow leopards, and access to the historic 150-year-old Gartang Gali, a wooden cliff-hanging bridge built by Pathans from Peshawar during the colonial era for trade with Tibet.
Accessible Routes and Environmental Measures
A 30-kilometer stretch, comprising the 23 km route from Bhaironghati to Nelong and the 7 km route from Nelong to Naga, will now be open year-round, whereas gates previously closed annually on November 30. To preserve the pristine environment, a 'carry in-carry out' mechanism will be strictly enforced. Each visiting group must deposit a security amount of Rs 100, refundable only upon returning with their generated waste. A dedicated 'waste log book' will be maintained at the entry barrier to facilitate this process.
Fee Structure and Photography Guidelines
For day visits, an entry fee of Rs 300 will apply to Indian tourists, while foreign nationals will be charged Rs 1,200. Additional fees based on vehicle categories and photography will be levied, with the use of drones for photography or videography strictly prohibited to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
