Explained: Why Himachal’s Sissu valley imposed a 40-day tourism ban

Tourism activities in the picturesque Sissu valley of Himachal Pradesh’s tribal Lahaul-Spiti district have been suspended for 40 days, from January 20 to February 28, after local bodies collectively decided to prioritise traditional religious observances over commercial tourism during a sensitive spiritual period.

The decision was taken by the Sissu gram panchayat in consultation with key religious and community organisations, reflecting the region’s long-standing practice of enforcing temporary closures to protect age-old customs and ritual discipline. The move comes despite a sharp increase in winter tourist arrivals, fuelled by improved access through the Atal Tunnel and growing interest in snow-based activities. 

Religious observances take precedence

Local leaders said the suspension is essential to ensure the uninterrupted performance of important religious festivals such as Halda and Poonha, which require calm, discipline and spiritual focus. According to panchayat members, increased tourist movement, noise and recreational activities during this period could interfere with what are locally known as “dev restrictions” – sacred norms associated with the worship of village deities.

Such closures, residents noted, are not unprecedented and are typically enforced when tourist footfall rises during periods of religious significance.

Community consensus behind the ban

The decision received unanimous backing from prominent local bodies, including the Raja Ghepan Committee, Devi Bhoti Committee, Labarang Gompa Committee, as well as the Mahila Mandal and Yuvak Mandal. Their collective endorsement underlined the community’s resolve to safeguard spiritual traditions even as the region grows as a popular tourism destination.

Entire panchayat area closed to tourists

All villages falling under the Sissu panchayat, including areas near the helipad, will remain off-limits to tourists throughout the 40-day period. Panchayat president Rajeev outlined the extent of the restrictions, saying, “The ban covers the entire stretch heading from Pagal Nullah to Ropsang. No tourism-linked operations will be allowed. All forms of adventure tourism will remain strictly prohibited. Activities such as all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding, hot air ballooning, zip-lining, skiing, bungee jumping and tube sliding have been completely barred during this period.”

Administration informed, support sought

The district administration has been formally notified of the decision. A delegation led by the panchayat president met the Additional Deputy Commissioner in Keylong to seek full administrative cooperation. Authorities were also requested to ensure that tourist traffic is not diverted towards the Sissu helipad during the restricted period.

Copies of the panchayat resolution were forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner, Sub-Divisional Magistrate and Superintendent of Police in Keylong.

Tourist surge amid extreme winter

Sissu, located in the Chandra valley, has seen a steady influx of visitors in recent weeks, even amid sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall. Snow-covered landscapes, winter photography and adventure sports have continued to draw tourists, with hundreds reaching Lahaul daily due to the all-weather Atal Tunnel.

While tourism remains a key source of livelihood for locals, community members say unchecked crowds and irresponsible behaviour can disturb both cultural harmony and the fragile mountain environment.

Viral video reignites debate on tourist conduct

The decision to suspend tourism has drawn renewed attention following a viral video on social media showing tourists engaging in what many users described as indecent behaviour in a sensitive hill region. The video, widely shared on X, shows three men standing through the sunroof of a moving car, dancing to loud music, with one appearing half-naked and holding a glass containing an alcohol-like liquid.

As an official approaches and photographs the vehicle’s number plate, the men are seen hastily putting on their shirts, while the driver folds his hands in an apparent apology. A voice in the background can be heard saying in Hindi, “Cut gaya, cut gayaa, lo gayee, gayaa challan,” implying that a traffic fine was being issued. The vehicle carried a Haryana registration number.

The footage sparked criticism over public nuisance and disrespect towards local culture, reopening a broader debate on unregulated tourism in Himalayan states such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Closure not linked to viral incident, say locals

Local authorities clarified that the tourism ban is not a reaction to the viral video but a routine annual measure tied to religious calendars. They stressed that such restrictions are imposed every year to ensure solemn rituals are carried out without disturbance.

Residents appealed to tourists and tour operators to respect the religious sentiments of the tribal community and comply fully with the restrictions. Panchayat representatives said the temporary suspension reflects the region’s effort to balance development with tradition, urging visitors to honour the dev orders for the larger cultural well-being of Sissu valley.