Spiti Valley is one of the major tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh but unfortunately, the beautiful destination doesn’t open its doors to tourists. Keeping in mind the spike in COVID-19 cases in Spiti Valley in harsh winters ahead, the residents unanimously decided to keep it closed till March 31, 2021. However, the step will cause the tourism of Himachal to lose a great amount of money. The decision of closing Spiti Valley has been taken by the Spiti Tourism Society even the Himachal government opened up the state for tourism and other activities. The rest of the state lifted up all the barriers and mandatory conditions of carrying an e-pass or registration for tourists. Interstate travel is also get started in the state and all tourist activities in major tourist places will resume soon.
A circular has been distributed by the Spiti Tourism Society says,” It is with great regret that we inform all travelers that Spiti Valley is closed for all kinds of tourism activities till March 31, 2021. Tourism in the valley will resume from 1 April. The decision has been taken unanimously after multiple meetings with the native population and stakeholders, including hoteliers, home-stay owners, guides, and travel associates to keep Spiti residents and tourists safe.” Earlier the residents were thinking to open Spiti Valley for tourism in November 2020 but with the rise in Corona Virus cases; they have decided to close till March 2021. Despite the strict guidelines and rules against COVID-19, Spiti Valley is badly affected by the pandemic and officials claim that community transmission has started.
The residents under the banner of Spiti Tourism Society said,” Considering the outbreak of Covid-19 among higher regions of Spiti, it will be impossible to contain the virus by maintaining social distancing and isolating among local people in extreme winters. The limited medical services, under-developed infrastructure, and adverse geographical conditions will only make the conditions worst. Any person who needs emergency medical assistance will need to be taken outside the valley for treatment which will not be possible.”
Spiti Valley is the fastest growing tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh, is closed for tourists since mid-March. The members of the tourism society said that the decision to close tourism in Spiti Valley is quite hard as the valley heavily depends on tourism but it is necessary to limit the spread of the virus. It is the coldest region of the state of Himachal Pradesh where temperature can go below 20 degrees Celsius. The circular also urges tourists to cancel their plans for Spiti Valley this year to make it a safe tourist destination for next year. According to the circular, it is the best way to save the community from the spread of coronavirus. The circular also mentions that no tourism activity will be allowed in the area such as trekking, camping, package tours, and jeep safaris. The community hopes for understanding and respect the decision of all tourists and travelers.