Sissu Panchayat Bans Tourists for 40 Days to Preserve Ancient Traditions

• Sissu Gram Panchayat in Lahaul-Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, has suspended all tourism activities from January 20 to February 28.
• The 40-day ban aims to safeguard religious customs and cultural sanctity during sacred winter festivals like Losar and Halda.
• The advisory covers hotels, homestays, sightseeing, and adventure sports within the panchayat's jurisdiction.
• Locals believe the presence of outsiders during this period can disturb spiritual energy required for rituals dedicated to deities like Raja Ghepan and Goddess Bhoti.
• The ban, enforced by village authorities and youth groups, highlights a growing tension between tourism and the preservation of ancient traditions in the region.

Why It Matters: Sissu Panchayat prioritizes ancient traditions over tourism, implementing a 40-day ban for spiritual observance.