PIONEE EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Uttarkashi
Once the hubs of the Indo-Tibetan trade, Gartang Gali and Nelang Valley are rapidly emerging as new attractions for adventure tourism in Uttarakhand. Since the Char Dham Yatra commenced, over 20,000 tourists have visited the Gangotri National Park area, Gartang Gali and Nelang Valley generating revenue to the tune of Rs 56 lakh for the park administration. This region, rich in snowy mountain ranges, rare wildlife and historical heritage, is becoming the first choice of tourists from India and abroad.
Speaking of the matter, the deputy director of Gangotri National Park, Harish Negi said that the number of tourists is steadily increasing on the Gaumukh-Tapovan trek, Gartang Gali, and Nelang Valley. The high Himalayan treks like Kedar Tal, Rudragaira, Sundarbans, Nandanvan, Vasukital, and Kalindi Pass are also attracting adventure enthusiasts in large numbers. The increasing tourist influx is creating employment opportunities for local youth, porters, guides, hoteliers, and others involved in tourism, Negi added.
Located approximately 11,000 feet above sea level, Gartang Gali was once an important trade route connecting the Indian subcontinent with Tibet and Central Asia. Traders used this route to exchange goods. Besides, the cultural and social ties among the various regions would thrive through them. The approximately 500-meter-long, historic wooden staircase structure, known as the Gartang Gali, built along the cliffs, still bears testimony to that glorious history.
This route was closed in the aftermath of the 1962 India-China War and remained deserted for nearly six decades. In 2015, recognising the potential for tourism, the administration and the Forest department reconstructed the wooden stairs and path using traditional techniques. After nearly 59 years, this historic route reopened to tourists in August 2021, and the number of visitors has been steadily increasing.
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, the Nelang Valley is also known as the ‘Ladakh of Uttarakhand’ for its stunning natural beauty and unique geographical conditions. Its rugged hills, deep gorges and serene atmosphere offer a unique experience for tourists. Gangotri National Park is also home to rare wildlife species such as the Himalayan Bharal, musk deer, Himalayan brown bear, black bear, leopard and Monal, the state bird,
Tourism experts believe that the development of Gartang Gali and the Nelang Valley is giving a new impetus to adventure and eco-tourism in Uttarkashi district. With the growing popularity of these destinations, combined with the Char Dham Yatra, Uttarkashi is establishing itself as one of the country’s leading nature and adventure tourism destinations.
