India Opens Strategic Doklam Trijunction For Tourists Under Battlefield Tourism Initiative
In a significant move, India is all set to allow tourism at the Doklam trijunction, a highly strategic region near the India-China-Bhutan border in Sikkim. The initiative is part of the Centre’s new battlefield tourism project, and aims to open previously restricted areas for public exploration. The tourism plan will include the Cho La pass and the Doklam trijunction, both key military zones that played crucial roles during the 2017 India-China standoff.
The first phase of Doklam trijunction tourism is likely to begin in late September, with entry restricted to 30 vehicles per day. Depending on road and security conditions, this may be increased to 50 vehicles. Visitors will need special permits to access these areas, and the permits will be monitored jointly by the Indian Army and the Ministry of External Affairs.
The Sikkim government, in coordination with the Indian Army, is currently upgrading infrastructure to support tourism in the sensitive zone. “We are in regular talks with the Army to finalize logistics for tourism around the Doklam and Cho La areas,” said Sikkim’s Additional Chief Secretary CS Rao.
Notably, Nathu La, another pass in Sikkim close to Doklam, is already a popular tourist spot. Officials say that tourists will be allowed to visit only the Indian side of the Doklam trijunction. The Bhutanese government has also been informed about the development, ensuring diplomatic transparency.
The battlefield tourism initiative covers around 30 locations across India, aiming to promote patriotism and awareness about strategic military zones. The Doklam trijunction, which overlooks the critical Siliguri Corridor (also known as Chicken’s Neck), holds immense strategic value as it connects mainland India to its northeastern states.
This move opens up a unique opportunity for history and defense enthusiasts to witness the landscapes that once echoed with geopolitical tension—now safely accessible under guided tours.
FAQs
Q: What is Doklam trijunction tourism?
A: Doklam trijunction tourism refers to the government’s new initiative to allow controlled tourist access to the strategic India-China-Bhutan border point in Sikkim.
Q: When will Doklam trijunction tourism start?
A: The tourism initiative is expected to launch in late September, starting with a 30-vehicle limit per day.
Q: Will tourists need a permit to visit Doklam?
A: Yes, visitors will need special permits to explore the Indian side of the Doklam trijunction.
Q: Why is Doklam trijunction tourism significant?
A: It opens up a historically sensitive military area, aiming to promote battlefield tourism while showcasing India’s strategic strength.
