PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Uttarkashi
The scenic Harsil Valley is currently attracting tourists in large numbers not just for its natural beauty but also a new attraction added to it. Amid the dense pine woods, serene surroundings, snow-capped peaks and enchanting meadows, yaks roaming around the valleys are now fascinating tourists. They say that the yaks in this beautiful valley of Harsil have made the experience even more special for them.
In fact, the yaks, known locally as “jonis,” once found in the Harshil region, are once again becoming a cynosure of the tourists. A local youth, Sunil Rautla, who had brought the yaks to Harshil this time, said that the tourists are immensely enjoying the presence of yaks. “They are enthusiastically taking their photos and clicking videos. This adds to their travelling pleasure,” he added.
For the tourists visiting Harsil, this experience is not limited to entertainment; it also offers a glimpse into the traditional mountain culture, ancient animal husbandry and Himalayan lifestyle. The children get particularly delighted with the yaks they see,” added Rautla.
At the same time, the ever-growing tourism in Harsil Valley is also opening up new employment opportunities for the local youth. The region’s youth are adding to their incomes as they operate homestays, become trekking guides, sell local products and engage in traditional cuisine.
Locals say that such initiatives not only promote tourism but also help preserve the mountain’s age-old traditions and cultural heritage. They believe that integrating local culture and traditional animal husbandry with tourism could further strengthen the region’s economic prospects.
With the increasing tourist influx to Harsil Valley during the Char Dham Yatra season, the yak is now becoming a new identity for the region.
