104 peaks in Jammu and Kashmir to be opened for trekkers

The Indian government has given a go-ahead to open 104 peaks in Jammu and Kashmir bordering Pakistan and China with the aim of promoting adventure tourism and mountaineering activities in the state.

The clearance was given by the defence ministry after the tourism ministry had backed the proposal to open these peaks for the tourists, official sources said here.

According to sources, the tourism ministry had taken up the matter after the recommendation of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF), which is the apex national body that organises and provides a base for expeditions for mountaineering, skiing, rock climbing, trekking at high altitudes.

It also promotes, encourages and execute schemes for related adventure activities and environmental protection work in the Himalaya.

Most of these peaks are in the restricted areas located close to the borders of China and Pakistan in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir.

"The opening up of 104 peaks will boost mountaineering activities in the Laddakh region and reinforce India's standing in this specialised outdoor activity," the official sources told IANS.

However, the defence ministry's approval for opening up of these peaks is with some stipulations, they added.

"Only routes approved by the army will be used for approach to these peaks. No filming or installation of equipment will be done without prior permission from the army," thy said.

Also, the expedition team would be accompanied by a liasion officer either from government organisation or from a vetted panel.

"They will also have to get clearances from the state government and other agencies wherever such clearances are required," the official said, adding that the home ministry will further process the proposal.

Last updated on Jan 5^th, 2010 at 22:14 pm IST--IANS