Source :NEWS18 NEWS
Last Updated:January 15, 2025, 16:55 IST
Domestic and international tourists will not be able to visit Sissu from January 16 to February 28. However, areas like Koksar and Keylong in Lahaul Spiti will remain open to visitors
All forms of tourist activities, including thrilling rides, hot air ballooning, zip-lining, skiing, and tube sliding, will be suspended in Sissu. (PTI File)
Sissu, the renowned tourist destination in Lahaul Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, will observe 44 days of silence. From January 16 to February 28, tourist activities will be halted in Sissu village and its surrounding five-kilometre radius.
Consequently, domestic and international tourists will be unable to visit Sissu during this period. However, there are no restrictions on visiting other areas of Lahaul Spiti, such as Koksar and Keylong.
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This decision stems from a religious decree (Dev Aadesh) in Sissu village. Based on religious beliefs and customs, the Panchayat proposed this measure to the DC of Lahaul Spiti.
Every year, Sissu observes a 44-day closure of tourist activities. Consequently, from January 16 to February 28, all forms of tourist activities, including thrilling rides, hot air ballooning, zip-lining, skiing, and tube sliding, will be entirely suspended in Sissu.
The Belief Behind the Silence
The restriction on noise and tourist movement in Sissu has a significant underlying reason. It is believed that since ancient times, the Lahaul Valley has served as a place of penance for gods and goddesses. Numerous deities, including the revered Raja Ghepan and Goddess Bhoti, reside here.
According to local beliefs, after January 15, these deities depart for Devlok (the abode of gods). In their absence, evil forces become dominant, posing a threat to humans in rivers, streams, and deserted areas. To honour the gods and goddesses, people conduct religious rituals during this period, leading to reduced human activity.
Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana clarified on social media that the tourist activity ban in Sissu will only be in effect for 44 days, starting from January 16. All other areas of Lahaul Spiti remain open to tourists without restrictions. Tourists can still visit nearby destinations like Yangla and Koksar, situated ten kilometres away from Sissu and near the Atal Tunnel.
- Location :
Himachal Pradesh, India
SOURCE : NEWS 18
