Longewala to Siachen: Explore iconic battlefields with new tourism drive
New Delhi: Longewala, a site forever etched in Indian history due to the Battle of 1971 and immortalised in JP Dutta’s classic film Border, has long been a focal point for tourists visiting the sand dunes of Jaisalmer. Visitors at Longewala War Memorial are offered a poignant experience as they watch documentaries about the iconic battle, honour the sacrifices of Indian soldiers, and purchase memorabilia from an Army-run store. Building on the appeal of such historic destinations, the government is now broadening the concept of battlefield tourism through the ambitious Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan initiative, transforming battlefields and border areas across the country into tourist destinations.
The initiative was launched by the Ministry of Defence on January 15, Army Day, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.
This project seeks to make India’s military history more accessible while also creating economic opportunities in border regions. The effort is grounded in a multifaceted vision that aims to promote historical awareness, patriotism, and economic development in remote and often neglected areas.
According to Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, the transformation of battlegrounds into tourism hubs will contribute significantly to the development of border areas. By attracting visitors to these remote regions, the initiative is expected to improve local infrastructure, enhance communication networks, and stimulate economic activity, ultimately helping to curb migration from these areas. Speaking at a press briefing, General Dwivedi emphasised that the project is a key part of the Army’s broader strategy for the holistic development of India’s border zones.
The Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan initiative will include 75 sites across the country, each holding a unique place in India’s military history. Among the prominent locations is Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield, where Indian and Pakistani forces have clashed intermittently since 1984. Opened to tourists in 2023, the glacier offers a rare glimpse into the harsh conditions endured by soldiers. Visitors can explore the area from the Siachen Base Camp, located at 12,000 feet, and even venture up to 15,000 feet, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges faced by Indian troops.
Another key destination is Kargil in Ladakh, the site of the 1999 Indo-Pak conflict. The Dras War Memorial, built to honour the soldiers who fought valiantly during the war, will now serve as a central attraction for visitors. Similarly, Galwan Valley in Ladakh, where a deadly skirmish between Indian and Chinese forces occurred in 2020, has been included in the list of destinations. This clash, which resulted in the loss of 20 Indian soldiers, underscored the strategic importance of the region and its enduring role in modern military history.
Longewala, the site of the famous 1971 battle, will also be a significant highlight of the initiative. Here, a small contingent of 120 Indian soldiers successfully held off an invading Pakistani force of 2,000 to 3,000 troops, supported by tanks and artillery. The battle, fought in the harsh desert terrain, is a testament to the courage and ingenuity of Indian forces. Visitors to this site will gain a deeper appreciation of the extraordinary efforts that went into defending the nation’s borders.
Other noteworthy locations include Kibithoo and Bum-La in Arunachal Pradesh, both of which played pivotal roles during the 1962 India-China war. Additionally, the initiative covers Doklam, the site of a tense standoff between Indian and Chinese forces in 2017, and the Cho-La clash in Sikkim in 1967, where Indian soldiers inflicted significant losses on the Chinese.
The project is supported by a dedicated website that provides visitors with a wealth of resources, including historical narratives, detailed battle accounts, permit applications for restricted areas, and information on war memorials and museums. The website aims to make planning trips to these historic locations seamless while offering an educational and immersive experience.with agency inputs
