A reconnaissance team from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS), Manali, has declared the trekking route from Phancha village in Rampur subdivision of Shimla district to the Shrikhand Mahadev shrine as technically feasible for pilgrims. The report has been forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner of Shimla for review and further directives.
Alternative Route for Devotees
Traditionally, the Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra begins from a village in Kullu district. This year, the yatra was suspended after an inspection team submitted an adverse report on the Kullu route. The newly assessed Phancha route offers an alternative path for devotees to reach the shrine. According to Harsh Amrender Singh, SDM of Rampur, the route has been a long-standing demand of local residents. “It is an old demand of the local people to explore this route. We sent a recce team to assess the route, and the report is positive. We have forwarded the report to the Deputy Commissioner, Shimla, for his perusal and further directions,” Singh stated.
Route Characteristics and Safety Recommendations
The recce team highlighted that the Phancha route is the shortest way to Shrikhand Mahadev, though it is steep. Singh noted, “It is the shortest route to Shrikhand Mahadev. Though it is steep, the recce team has found it to be safe.” The team’s report recommends allowing approximately 100 pilgrims per day, contingent on adequate infrastructure, safety arrangements, favorable weather, and trained manpower. Specific safety measures include manually widening narrow trails and installing fixed safety ropes and protective fencing along hazardous stretches.
Environmental and Cultural Safeguards
Since the route traverses a fragile Himalayan ecosystem, the report emphasizes strict environmental protection. Damage to vegetation is prohibited, collection of plants and flowers is not allowed, and wildlife must not be disturbed. Pilgrims are encouraged to respect local customs, maintain the religious sanctity of the yatra, and avoid activities that could harm the region’s cultural heritage.
Administrative Next Steps
The SDM confirmed that the report is now with the Deputy Commissioner, Shimla, who will decide on the route’s operationalization. Once approved, the Phancha route will provide an alternative pilgrimage path, potentially easing pressure on the traditional Kullu route and offering a shorter trek for devotees.
