Ice climbing getting popular near Keylong

Dipender Manta

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Tribune News Service

Mandi, January 2

Commander Nullah near Keylong in tribal district Lahaul and Spiti has emerged as a key hotspot for ice climbing. Ice climbing enthusiasts are thronging the Nullah to enjoy the activity. This place is situated 4 km away from the district headquarters of Keylong.

The Himalayan outdoor climbing initiative foundation of Uttarakhand is organizing the activity in collaboration with the Himalayan Escapade Keylong.

Sunil Bodh, a resident of Lahaul, who is involved in ice climbing training at Commander Nullah, told The Tribune that “this place has emerged as a major attraction for tourists as well as ice climbing lovers in Lahaul valley. We are providing training to youth about ice climbing at the nullah, which is a suitable place for the activity.”

He said that tourists were visiting this place to enjoy the ice climbing.

Tashi Barongpa, Secretary of Hoteliers Association, Lahaul, said that “ice climbing has opened doors of self-employment to the local youths. Around eight local youths are involved in ice climbing. After the opening of Atal tunnel on the Manali-Leh highway, tourists from Manali can access Lahaul round the year.”

“We are mulling promoting winter sports in Lahaul for which there is vast potential in the valley. During winter, Lahaul receives heavy snow, which is essential for the promotion of winter sports,” he added.