The Prime Minister promoted winter tourism in Uttarakhand by branding it as “Gham Taapo” and urged the corporate world, film industry, yoga practitioners, and youth to experience winter tourism. He emphasized that year-round tourism activities are essential for Uttarakhand’s economy.
Uttarkashi/ Dehradun: On a one-day winter tour to Uttarkashi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong pitch for winter pilgrimages and tourism in Uttarakhand from Mukhwa and Harsil. He invited everyone—from pilgrims and tourists to the corporate and film industries—to visit Uttarakhand during the winter season.
The Prime Minister has branded Uttarakhand’s winter tourism as “Gham Taapo Tourism (Winter Sunbathing Tourism).”
While addressing a gathering in Harsil today, Prime Minister Modi first expressed his condolences for the victims of the recent avalanche in Mana. He then remarked that the land of Uttarakhand is filled with spiritual energy. Expressing his deep connection to Uttarakhand, the Prime Minister shared that he feels blessed to be at the winter seat of the life-giving Ganga with his family. He said that he has had the privilege of serving Uttarakhand for decades, thanks to the blessings of Maa Ganga. He also mentioned that Maa Ganga’s grace has taken him to Kashi, where he now serves as a Member of Parliament. Reflecting philosophically, he mentioned that recently he felt as if Maa Ganga had taken him in her embrace, and it was through her affection that he could visit Mukhwa village.
The Prime Minister shared that a few years ago, during his visit to Baba Kedarnath, he had a sudden realization that this would be the decade of Uttarakhand. Though the sentiment originated from him, it was the strength of Baba Kedarnath that made it possible. Now, with Baba’s blessings, this decade is indeed becoming Uttarakhand’s, as the state progresses and continues to fulfill its aspirations with new goals and resolutions.
The Prime Minister praised the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, for his initiative to promote winter pilgrimages and tourism. He said this innovation would significantly help realize the economic potential of Uttarakhand. He also emphasized the importance of making the tourism sector of Uttarakhand multi-dimensional or year-round, noting that tourism must remain active throughout the year. He pointed out that currently, most tourism to the mountains occurs from March to June, with a significant drop in visitors afterward. The winter season sees hotels, resorts, and homestays lying empty, causing an economic imbalance. He expressed his desire for tourists to come during the winter season, allowing them to experience the true beauty of the “Devbhoomi” (Land of Gods).
The Prime Minister noted that the winter season is especially important for religious tourism in Uttarakhand. Several special rituals take place during this period at various pilgrimages in the state. The rituals performed in Mukhwa are part of the ancient tradition, which aligns with the Uttarakhand government’s vision of year-round tourism, connecting people with divine experiences. This will also create employment opportunities throughout the year.
The Prime Minister mentioned that the “double-engine government” is working together to develop Uttarakhand, with initiatives like Char Dham, the all-weather road, modern expressways, railways, and helicopter services expanding across the state. He also noted that the central government has recently approved the ropeway projects for Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib, which will make pilgrimages easier and more accessible, especially for the elderly, women, and children.
The Prime Minister highlighted the growing number of tourists in Uttarakhand, noting that before 2014, around 1.8 million visitors came for the Char Dham pilgrimage. Now, more than 5 million people visit annually. He also mentioned the government’s plan to develop 50 tourist destinations through the budget, with a focus on the border areas of Uttarakhand. The Vibrant Villages Scheme is being implemented to re-settle and develop villages such as Nelang and Jadung, which had been evacuated during the 1962 China war. Additionally, basic facilities are being provided in villages like Timmarsain, Mahadevsain, Mana, and Jadung to promote tourism.
The Prime Minister urged people, especially the youth, to visit Uttarakhand during the winter season. He explained that while much of the country is covered in fog, the mountains of Uttarakhand offer beautiful sunshine. In the Garhwali language, this is called “Gham Taapo Paryatan” (sunbathing tourism). He appealed to the corporate sector to host their meetings, conferences, and seminars in Uttarakhand, highlighting its potential as an ideal destination for yoga, Ayurveda, and relaxation. Similarly, college and university students can enjoy a winter trip to Uttarakhand.
The Prime Minister mentioned that India has a multi-billion-dollar wedding economy and urged citizens to hold weddings in India, specifically in Uttarakhand, during the winter season. Uttarakhand is also becoming a top destination for film shooting, with excellent facilities being developed. The state has even received the “Most Film-Friendly State” award. He also noted that Uttarakhand can learn from other countries famous for winter tourism and suggested that stakeholders in the tourism sector collaborate for research and development. Uttarakhand has many hot springs that could be developed as wellness spas, and spiritual and yoga camps could also be held during the winter season.
The Prime Minister emphasized the role of content creators in spreading awareness about Uttarakhand’s winter tourism. He suggested organizing a competition to involve content creators in promoting the state’s tourism.
Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, welcomed Prime Minister Modi on behalf of the people of Uttarakhand. He expressed gratitude for the continuous guidance and support from the Prime Minister in advancing the state’s spiritual and cultural heritage, as well as its economic development. He also thanked the Prime Minister for approving the construction of the ropeways from Gaurikund to Kedarnath and from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib, which will make religious tourism more accessible. The Chief Minister emphasized that the winter pilgrimage initiative will boost tourism in the state, along with promoting trekking, mountain biking, and other adventure activities in the border areas.
Several prominent leaders, including Union Minister Ajay Tamta, Cabinet Minister Satpal Maharaj, BJP State President and Rajya Sabha MP Mahendra Bhatt, MP Mala Rajlakshmi Shah, and Uttarkashi, MLA Suresh Chauhan were also present on this occasion.
