Spiritual Rush Fuels Nepal’s Hill Economy—Hotels, Flights, and Local Farms Thrive

Image Source : Adda247

Five years after it was closed, the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage route is back in business—and so is Nepal's mountain economy. Thousands of Indian pilgrims are now taking the Nepalgunj–Simkot–Hilsa route, infusing new energy into Humla district and surrounding areas.

Key Highlights

Over 2,500 Indian pilgrims have arrived in Tibet via Hilsa since June, and their daily arrivals range from 200 to 1,000
The road, although shorter than Kerung, is more costly and logistically difficult, with flights, helicopters, and jeeps involved
82 flights were recorded in Simkot Airport within a single day, with helicopters operating a maximum of 15 flights a day

Economic Impact

All 35 Simkot Hilsa hotels and dozens more in Simkot are reserved weeks in advance
Pilgrims are purchasing walnuts, hemp seeds, and beans as local agriculture thrives
In fact, tour packages and admission charges (Rs2,500 per head) are earning revenues for Namkha and Simkot municipalities
Locals are finding jobs as porters, guides, and hospitality staff

Challenges on the Ground

Simkot Airport is small, with only six aircraft parking spaces and a single airtraffic controller
The most basic amenities like toilets, water, and WiFi are stretched
Unpredictable weather and road conditions place a burden on helicopter operations

The revival of the pilgrimage comes after diplomatic negotiations between India and China, and in spite of logistical challenges, the atmosphere in Humla remains upbeat. For most locals, this is not tourism—it's a lifeline.

Sources: Kathmandu Post, MSN Nepal, Ekantipur, The Hindu, Kantipur Publications, Simkot Airport Authority, Humla District Police Office