Sikkim Opens Historic Cho La and Dok La Passes for Battlefield Tourism Along India-China Border

Cho La gained historical significance during the Indo-China military confrontations in 1967.

Gangtok:

On Monday, Sikkim initiated battlefield tourism by opening the strategic Cho La and Dok La passes situated along the India-China border.

The official opening was marked by Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, who flagged off 25 motorcycles and tourist vehicles from the Ridge Park in Gangtok to these frontier areas.

Dok La, positioned at an elevation of 15,600 feet, was the site of a significant standoff between Indian and Chinese military forces in 2017. Meanwhile, Cho La became historically important during the Indo-China military conflicts of 1967.

According to Chief Minister Tamang, the primary objectives behind opening Cho La and Dok La include enhancing tourism in border regions and generating livelihood opportunities for local populations.

He explained that the central government's 'Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan' initiative aims to make strategically important border areas accessible through regulated tourism, helping citizens understand their historical significance.

The Chief Minister added that this initiative would raise awareness about the courage and sacrifices of the armed forces while promoting patriotic sentiment among visitors.

CS Rao, Additional Chief Secretary of the Tourism Department, mentioned that the state government had been coordinating with the Army and central authorities for two months to prepare these passes for safe tourist access.

While comprehensive infrastructure development continues, essential facilities have already been established for visitors.

Tourists can now experience these historic areas through a two-day package that includes affordable homestay accommodations and standardized vehicle rates.