Harsil in Uttarkashi opened up for foreign tourists

In a major boost to tourism in Uttarkashi district of Garhwal region in Uttarakhand, the Union government has allowed foreign tourists to visit and stay at Harsil, one of the most beautiful and picturesque places and just 25 kms from Uttarkashi.

Ashish Shrivastava, District Magistrate, Uttarkashi, informed National Herald that a communication in this regard has been received from the Union government and that immediately necessary orders were issued to open Harsil to foreign tourists. Harsil is a small and serene place surrounded by dense deodar forests.

The town of Harsil is located at an altitude of around 2620 meters. The entry of foreigners in Harsil, housing Indian Army units, was banned following the Indo-China War of 1962. The entry to Harsil was regulated through inner line permits given by the district administration.

However, there was a demand from tourist operators, adventure sports enthusiasts and hoteliers to seek removal of the ban. Foreign tourists now can visit and stay in Harsil without permission.

Similar demands were being made for the past many years for Nelong valley of Uttarkashi district which is situated close to the China border. Entry of non-Indians was banned here since 1962.

The 1962 War put a ban on the entry of civilians into the Nelong valley, as Indian Army established their base there. Locals from Jaduhn and other villages of Nelong valley were moved out and relocated in Dunda and its nearby places in Uttarkashi. The Union government allowed the entry of Indian nationals to Nelong valley in 2015. Foreigners are also allowed to visit Nelong valley for day trips but in groups.

The move will attract tourists to Uttarkashi district, giving a boost to the local economy, the tourism department feels.