Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his day-long visit to Uttarkashi, strongly advocated for the promotion of winter pilgrimage and tourism in Uttarakhand, specifically from Mukhwa and Harsil. In a release, it was noted that the Prime Minister extended an open invitation to pilgrims, tourists, corporate professionals, and the film industry to visit Uttarakhand during the winter season. He branded Uttarakhand’s winter tourism as ‘Gham Tapo Tourism’ (Basking in the Sun Tourism).
Addressing a public gathering in Harsil on Thursday, the Prime Minister first expressed his condolences for the victims of the recent avalanche in Mana. He spoke about the profound spiritual aura of Uttarakhand and shared his emotional connection with the land. He described his visit to Mukhwa, the winter abode of Mother Ganga, as a blessed experience, recalling how Mother Ganga had allowed him to serve the state for decades and had led him to Kashi as a Member of Parliament.
The Prime Minister also fondly remembered the people of Harsil, especially his ‘Didi-Bhuli’ (sisters), who would send him the region’s famous Rajma beans and other local products. He reminisced about his visit to Kedarnath, recalling an inner voice that proclaimed the decade would belong to Uttarakhand—a realization he now believes is turning into reality. Modi emphasized that Uttarakhand is progressing on new paths, fulfilling the aspirations that led to the state’s formation.
The Prime Minister stressed the need for making Uttarakhand’s tourism sector year-round, ensuring that tourism remains active in every season. He pointed out the seasonal imbalance where most tourists visit the state between March and June, leaving hotels and resorts underutilized in winter. Modi urged people from across India and the world to visit Uttarakhand during winter, as they would experience the divine aura of Devbhoomi and have access to adventure activities such as trekking and skiing.
Highlighting the religious importance of winter tourism in Uttarakhand, Modi praised the state government’s vision for year-round tourism, which would provide visitors with a divine experience while creating employment opportunities throughout the year. He noted the strong coordination between the central and state governments in ensuring Uttarakhand’s progress, with infrastructure projects such as all-weather Char Dham roads, modern express ways, railways, and heli-services taking shape. He also mentioned the Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib ropeways, which will drastically reduce travel time.
Recalling the increase in tourist numbers, the Prime Minister pointed out that before 2014, only 18 lakh pilgrims visited Char Dham annually, whereas now over 50 lakh make the journey each year. Modi also mentioned the development of 50 major tourist destinations in this year’s Union Budget, with an emphasis on attracting visitors to border areas, and how the ‘Vibrant Villages’ Programme is revitalizing settlements like Nelang and Jadung.
Modi urged corporates to host meetings, conferences, and exhibitions in Uttarakhand, where they can rejuvenate through yoga and Ayurveda. He also encouraged the film industry to take advantage of the state’s stunning landscapes for shooting, as Uttarakhand has been recognized as the most film-friendly state. He suggested developing the state’s hot springs into wellness spas and highlighted the potential of spiritual and yoga retreats in the region.
The Prime Minister concluded his speech with resounding chants of ‘Ganga Maiya ki Jai’. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed Modi on behalf of all residents and expressed gratitude for his support in preserving the state’s spiritual and cultural heritage. He thanked Modi for the approval of Rs 4,081 crore for the Kedarnath rope way and Rs 2,730 crore for the Hemkund Sahib rope way, which will significantly benefit pilgrims and promote religious tourism.
Dhami highlighted the challenges the state had faced, including the Kedarnath disaster, Joshimath land subsidence, and the recent avalanche, and praised Modi for his unwavering support. He also emphasized that the successful Global Investors Summit, G20 meetings, and the hosting of the 38th National Games were significant milestones under Modi’s leadership.
Looking ahead, Uttarakhand is preparing for two major religious events—the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra and the Ardh Kumbh Mela (2027)—which, under Modi’s guidance, are expected to be grand successes.