Atal Tunnel gives Lahaul-Spiti a new identity in development and tourism: Governor

SHIMLA 07 May, 2026

· Visits Sissu and Hidimba Temple

Governor Kavinder Gupta, visited the world-famous Atal Tunnel on Thursday during his tour of Lahaul-Spiti and Manali. He praised the tunnel’s technical excellence, strategic importance and contribution to regional development.

The Governor said that the Atal Tunnel, built by the Border Roads Organization (BRO), is a remarkable example of modern engineering and advanced technology, which has opened new opportunities for development and connectivity in the Himalayan region.

He travelled through the tunnel from the South Portal to the North Portal and received detailed information from BRO officials about its construction, safety systems and operations. Officials also briefed him on the arrangements made to ensure smooth traffic movement throughout the year.

The Governor said the project reflects the strong determination and visionary leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The tunnel is not merely an engineering structure, but also a symbol of India’s strategic strength, the development of border areas and improved public convenience.

He said that the construction of the tunnel has connected the district of Lahaul-Spiti with the rest of the state throughout the year, bringing major benefits to local residents in transport, healthcare, education and essential services. He said that tourism in the region has also grown significantly after the opening of the tunnel and has also strengthened local employment and the economy.

During the visit, the Governor also toured Sissu Lake and Sissu Waterfall. He praised the natural beauty of the Lahaul Valley and said that Sissu has now emerged as one of the major tourist attractions in the state. He said that the increased tourist footfall after the opening of the Atal Tunnel has greatly benefited tourism and local businesses in the area.

Sh. Gupta also visited the temple of Raja Ghepan Temple, the revered deity of Lahaul and prayed for the prosperity and well-being of the people of the state and the country. On his arrival in Lahaul-Spiti, Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana and other officials welcomed him at the North Portal.

Later, the Governor visited the famous Hidimba Devi Temple and offered prayers and sought blessings. He also interacted with devotees in the temple complex and appreciated the rich religious and cultural heritage of the state.

The Governor said that Himachal Pradesh is globally recognized as ‘Devbhoomi’ and that the deep faith and devotion of the people towards local deities form an integral part of the state’s culture. He said that thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit the state every year to seek blessings which gives wider recognition to the spiritual and cultural traditions of the state.

He said that Himachal Pradesh’s religious heritage, natural beauty and cultural diversity are priceless treasures of the nation and must be preserved and promoted collectively.

Deputy Commissioner Kullu Anurag Chandra Sharma, Superintendent of Police Madan Lal and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.