Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India has significant potential to become a major destination for winter tourism and noted the rising popularity of Uttarakhand among travellers. He made the remarks during the 128th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’.
PM Modi said that several countries have built successful tourism models around winter sports and activities such as skiing, snowboarding, trekking and ice climbing. He added that India, with its diverse landscapes and mountain regions, is well positioned to develop similar opportunities.
He highlighted that destinations including Auli, Munsyari, Chopta and Deyara in Uttarakhand have seen increasing tourist interest. The state recently hosted its first High Altitude Ultra Run Marathon at Adi Kailash, held at over 14,500 feet in Pithoragarh district, where more than 750 athletes from 18 states participated. PM Modi said that tourist numbers at Adi Kailash have risen from fewer than 2,000 three years ago to more than 30,000.
The Prime Minister noted that Uttarakhand will also host Winter Games in the coming weeks, with preparations for snow-based sports such as skiing and snowboarding already underway. He said that improvements in connectivity, infrastructure and the introduction of a new homestay policy have supported the growth of winter tourism in the state.
PM Modi also referred to the growing trend of destination weddings in hill states, particularly on the banks of the Ganga, as part of the broader appeal of winter travel.
Encouraging citizens to consider the Himalayas when planning vacations, he said that the region offers memorable experiences during the winter season.