The Uttarakhand government has officially opened 83 prominent Himalayan peaks for mountaineering, a move aimed at boosting adventure tourism in the state. These peaks, located across the Garhwal and Kumaon regions, range between 5,700 meters and 7,756 meters in altitude. The decision reflects the state’s strategy to attract global climbers while also encouraging domestic mountaineers to explore new challenges in India’s northern frontier.
The peaks now accessible include some of the most iconic names in Indian mountaineering such as Kamet, Nanda Devi East, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Shivling, Satopanth, Changabang, Panchachuli, and Neelkanth. By opening these summits, the government hopes to position Uttarakhand as a premier destination for adventure sports, complementing its reputation for spiritual tourism and natural beauty. The initiative is being coordinated by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Council in partnership with the Forest Department to ensure safety and sustainability.
Officials believe the move will have a significant impact on the local economy. Increased footfall from international and domestic expeditions is expected to generate employment opportunities for guides, porters, and hospitality providers. It will also encourage collaborations with local communities, universities, and adventure organizations, strengthening the state’s adventure tourism ecosystem.
For climbers, the opening of these peaks represents a rare opportunity to attempt some of the Himalayas’ most celebrated summits under a regulated framework. With expedition fees waived for Indian climbers and standardized charges for foreign expeditions, accessibility has been improved while maintaining oversight. This landmark decision is set to elevate Uttarakhand’s profile on the global adventure tourism map, ensuring that the grandeur of the Himalayas continues to inspire exploration and discovery.
