Doklam: From India-China Standoff Site to Emerging Tourist Destination

Quick Summary

• Event: Doklam,the site of an India-China stand-off in 2017,will open for tourists starting September during Sikkim’s tourism season.
• Location: doklam is located at 13,780 feet in Chumbi Valley at the tri-junction of Bhutan, China, and India.
• History: In June 2017, china attempted road construction in territory claimed by Bhutan; this led to a two-month India-China standoff.
• Tourism Initiative:

– Planned as part of India’s battlefield tourism circuit proposed by the Defense Ministry.
– Construction includes amenities like cafeterias, restrooms, parking spaces near Cho La and Doklam.

• Other Sites in Sikkim:

– Nathu La (existing tourist spot), Cho La (clash site accessible via Tamzey), Gurudongmar Lake (altitude ~17,800 feet) included as Shaurya Gantavya destinations.

• Other Northeast Locations:

– Arunachal Pradesh features similar Shaurya Gantavya sites like Tawang and Walong from the Indo-China war era.

Images attached:

1. Photo of Kupup village en route to Doklam.
2. A view of Nathula Pass.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The planned opening of Doklam and other conflict-related sites for battlefield tourism reflects an evolving strategy to use historical narratives for cultural engagement while promoting regional development through tourism investments. This initiative may enhance public understanding of critical geopolitical events like the standoff with China while strengthening connections between citizens and military history.

From a broader outlook, such efforts signal India’s intent to reassert its territorial narratives amidst lingering border tensions with China. While increasing infrastructure at high-altitude locations poses logistical challenges due to rugged terrain and extreme conditions, it could further integrate remote regions into mainstream tourism economies-boosting local livelihoods around historically significant areas.

As these developments progress thoughtfully balancing security risks with civilian access will be crucial given their proximity to sensitive borders before deploying similar initiatives across other northeastern states or disputed areas.

Link for read more: The Hindu