Spiti Valley To Reopen Doors To Tourists From Feb 17; Here Are The Guidelines

Himachal’s gorgeous Spiti Valley is reopening doors to tourists on February 17, 2021.  Initially, the local administration had decided to suspend all tourism-related activities in the Lahaul-Spiti region till April 2021. But now Spiti Valley is finally opening to tourists with certain guidelines. Tourists will not be allowed entry to the Kibber Village and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. Also, they need to undergo RAT/RT-PCR tests done from an authorised laboratory or hospital. It is mandatory for everyone to wear face masks. As the coronavirus isn’t completely eliminated yet.

Spiti Valley To Reopen To Tourists; COVID Tests And Masks Mandatory

The most beautiful part of Himachal Pradesh, the Spiti Valley, will finally reopen to tourists on February 17, 2021. However, tourists visiting the valley need to follow certain guidelines, which are as follows:

• Tourists need to undergo RAT/RT-PCR tests from an authorised laboratory or hospital. The test has to be done between 72 and 96 hours before reaching the valley. Even the drivers of independent cars need to report to a government hospital for the rapid test.
• Homestays and hotels must make sure that tourists going out on tours have been tested.
• Tourists need to put on face masks in public.
• Social distancing must be maintained.
• Entry to the Kibber village and the Kibber wildlife sanctuary will continue to remain prohibited.

Also Read: Need Mobile Connectivity In The Remote Spiti Valley? Here Are Some Tips And Tricks

Lahaul-Spiti And Rohtang Pass of Himachal Pradesh Was Decided To Be Shut Till April 2021

Earlier, it was decided that the Lahaul-Spiti valley and Rohtang Pass would remain closed to tourists till April 2021. The high-altitude, the freezing weather and lack of medical facilities can pose major challenges if coronavirus cases rise in the valley.  According to an Outlook India report,  deputy commissioner Lahaul-Spiti, Pankaj Rai, has said,  “The locals adopt a different lifestyle during winters, and with temperatures dropping, chances of the virus spreading are very high.” The Spiti Tourism Society had admitted that the closedown would have adverse effects on the economy, but it was a necessary step to curb the spread of coronavirus. Now, the valley is finally reopening with precautions. Meanwhile, these are the top 10 places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Also Read: Diwali-Like Halda Festival Begins At Lahaul-Spiti; Exotic Cocktails & Good Food Part Of Celebrations

In the rest of Himachal Pradesh, the hoteliers had already resumed their operations. The government also allowed bars and restaurants to open subject to strict regulations on social distancing. The lifting of these restrictions saw a massive rush of people driving to Himachal Pradesh and Shimla.