New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday encouraged people across the country to include the Himalayan valleys in their winter travel plans, saying the region offers unforgettable experiences and has the potential to emerge as a major hub for winter tourism in India.

In his monthly Mann ki Baat address, the prime minister said India's mountain regions are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, trekking and other winter sports, similar to popular destinations abroad.

“During these winter days, the Himalayan valleys become a part of an experience that lasts a lifetime. If you are planning a trip this winter, keep the Himalayan valleys in mind,” he said.

He praised Uttarakhand for expanding its tourism infrastructure and noted the sharp rise in visitors to Adi Kailash, where the annual footfall has grown from fewer than 2,000 tourists three years ago to more than 30,000 now.

Modi said places such as Auli, Munsyari, Chopta and Deyara are seeing increasing interest from winter travellers. He also highlighted Uttarakhand's first High Altitude Ultra Run Marathon, held at more than 14,500 feet in Pithoragarh, which saw participation from over 750 athletes representing 18 states, despite sub-zero temperatures.

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