Nelong Valley Opens for Tourists After 53 Years

At an altitude of 11,000 feet, Nelong Valley is considered to be one of the most beautiful regions in the Uttarkashi district. Situated in the Gangotri National Park, Nelong Valley is a scenic delight with a mountain desert landscape complemented by rich wildlife of endangered species like Himalayan Blue Sheep, Snow Leopard and Musk Deer. Besides this, snow-capped mountains and various trekking routes make it a must-visit place for travel enthusiasts. 

Nelong Valley not only offers rich flora and fauna, but also provides visitors with stunning views of the Tibetan plateau. Before the onset of the Indo-China war, Nelong Valley was part of a popular trade route between India and China. The old infrastructure still exists, and includes the Lal Devta Temple and Garstang Galion.

Scenic beauty, clear blue night sky, friendly locals and relaxing atmosphere make this place a must visit for every tourist. Don’t forget to carry your camera to capture the beauty of the place, and some rare wildlife you witness. A camping site allows you to relax under the clear blue night sky, and enjoy dinner with friends. 

Nelong Valley will once again be open for tourists after a period of 53 years. Post the 1962 Indo-China war travelling to the region was out of bounds and subsequently tourism in the region suffered.

In the first week of May, the first batch of tourists covered a distance of 25 kilometres to visit Nelong Valley. Gypsies were provided by the forest department from Bhairon Ghati to Nelong Valley. Tourism has always been the primary source of income for locals in the region. With regulated tourism, the state will be able to generate more revenue and employment opportunities.

Some Imposed Restrictions

As per restrictions imposed by the State, the entry to Nelong Valley will be permitted to only 6 forest vehicles carrying 4 tourists each on a daily basis. Overnight stay won’t be permitted for tourists. Due to the close proximity of Nelong Valley to Indo-China border, the Government has opened the region to only Indian tourists for now. 

Though the forest department of the state would be facilitating tourism in the region, tourists would require a fitness certificate along with a permit from the sub-divisional magistrate.