From January 20 to February 28, all tourism activities will remain suspended in the Lahaul–Spiti village as locals prioritise religious observances and cultural sanctity over seasonal footfall
Shimla: The gram panchayat of Sissu in Lahaul–Spiti has decided to temporarily stop all tourism activities for 40 days, from January 20 to February 28, 2026, in order to protect local religious traditions and maintain the sanctity of an important spiritual period.
This decision was taken collectively by the panchayat along with respected religious bodies such as the Raja Ghepan Committee, Devi Bhoti Committee, and Labrang Gompa Committee, as well as women’s and youth groups from the village. Residents say that the increasing presence of tourists during winter—especially around adventure activities—has made it difficult to observe age-old customs that require peace and discipline, often described locally as dev-samay di maryada.
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Since the opening of the Atal Tunnel, Sissu has seen a sharp rise in winter visitors. While tourism has brought livelihood opportunities, locals feel that unchecked crowds, loud music, and commercial activities have started to interfere with sacred occasions like the Halda and Poonha festivals, and with the worship of village deities.
During the restriction period, no hotel, homestay, or guesthouse will accept bookings. Food stalls near Sissu Lake will remain closed, and all adventure and recreational activities—including ATV rides and snow sports—will be stopped. The ban applies to the entire panchayat area, from Pagal Nullah to Ropsang, including the helipad surroundings.
The panchayat has informed the district administration in Keylong and requested cooperation to ensure the decision is respected. Locals have also appealed to visitors and tour operators to understand that Sissu is not just a tourist spot, but a living village with deep cultural roots.
As many residents say, tourism should bring mutual respect—not disturbance. The temporary closure reflects a growing feeling across Himachal that development should move forward without pushing aside traditions that have shaped mountain communities for generations.
Other nearby areas such as Keylong or Koksar may remain open to visitors, depending on weather and road conditions.
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