Why in the News?

For the first time since India’s independence, the Shipki La pass in Himachal Pradesh has been opened to domestic tourists, marking a historic shift in India’s border tourism strategy.

About Shipki La Pass:

• It is a high-altitude mountain pass at 3,930 meters in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, on the India–Tibet (China) border.
• It is one of only 3 official border trading points between India and Tibet, along with Nathu La (Sikkim) and Lipulekh (Uttarakhand).
• The Sutlej River (called Langqen Zangbo in Tibet) enters India near Shipki La, adding geographical importance to the area.
• The pass lies along National Highway 5 (NH5) and is considered one of the highest motorable roads in India.
• Historically, it served as a major trade route, enabling exchange of salt, wool, spices, yak tails, and tea between India and Tibet.
• Trade was stopped in 1962 after the India-China war, resumed in 1992, but was halted again during COVID-19.
• On June 9, 2025, Himachal Pradesh opened the pass to Indian tourists for the first time since Independence.
• The initiative is part of a “Border Tourism” strategy, which includes the launch of the Sarhad Van Udyan (Border Forest Park).
• It is also being considered as an alternate route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Other Important Himalayan Passes:

• Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir:
  • Khardung La (5,359 m) – Among the highest motorable passes; connects Leh with Nubra Valley.
  • Zoji La – Links Srinagar with Leh; vital for year-round Ladakh access.
  • Chang La, Baralacha La, Umling La (5,798 m) – Crucial for Leh connectivity and defense.
  • Rezang La – Famous for the 1962 India-China war battle.
  • Karakoram Pass, Aghil Pass, Demchok Pass – Strategic India-China border passes.
• Himachal Pradesh:
  • Rohtang Pass – Connects Kullu with Lahaul-Spiti; key for tourism and logistics.
  • Parang La – Links Spiti Valley and Parvati Valley; used by trekkers and herders.
  • Shipki La – Now open to tourists; historical Indo-Tibetan trade route.
• Uttarakhand:
  • Lipulekh Pass (5,632 m) – Used for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
  • Mana Pass – One of the highest vehicle-accessible passes; connects to Tibet.
  • Niti Pass, Milam Pass, Kuthi Pass – Historical trade and pilgrimage routes.
• Sikkim:
  • Nathu La – Major border trade route; part of the ancient Silk Route.
  • Jelep La – Historical route linking Sikkim with Lhasa via Chumbi Valley.
• Arunachal Pradesh:
  • Se La, Bum La – Connect to Tawang and Bhutan border.
  • Pangsau Pass, Diphu Pass – Connect Arunachal with Myanmar; important for WWII history and connectivity.

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