Uttarakhand Opens 83 Himalayan Peaks for Mountaineering

Dehradun: In a major push to promote adventure tourism, the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB), in coordination with the state Forest Department, has opened 83 prominent peaks in the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayas for mountaineering expeditions. The decision, taken under the directives of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, aims to position Uttarakhand as a global mountaineering destination and give fresh momentum to adventure tourism.

Peaks Notified for Expeditions

The newly opened peaks range from 5,700 meters to 7,756 meters in altitude and include some of the Himalayas’ most iconic summits such as Kamet, Nanda Devi (East), the Chaukhamba group, Trishul group, Shivling, Satopanth, Changabang, Panchachuli, and Neelkanth, among others.

Key Provisions for Climbers

• For Indian climbers: No expedition fees—including peak, camping, or environmental charges—will be levied by the state government. The move is designed to encourage young mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts across the country.
• For foreign climbers: All expedition fees previously charged by the Forest Department have been abolished. Foreign climbers will only need to pay the fees prescribed by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF), New Delhi.

Applications will be processed through the Uttarakhand Mountaineering Permission System (UKMPS), ensuring transparency, faster approvals, and streamlined coordination.

Boost to Adventure Tourism and Local Economy

Officials said the initiative will not only promote mountaineering but also strengthen tourism activities in border regions, generate employment and livelihood opportunities for local communities, and enhance Uttarakhand’s profile on the international adventure tourism map.

Tourism Secretary Dheeraj Singh Garbyal remarked:

“The Uttarakhand Himalayas are not just symbols of natural beauty, but living centers of courage, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Opening 83 major peaks for mountaineering will give global recognition to the state’s adventure tourism. This milestone will inspire youth, empower the local economy, and promote environmentally balanced tourism. The government is committed to responsible, safe, and sustainable mountaineering.”

Disclaimer: This news is written on the basis of information received from different authentic sources.

Disclaimer: This news is written on the basis of information received from different authentic sources.