The Uttarakhand government is set to introduce comprehensive regulations to govern trekking activities across the state, marking a major shift in how adventure tourism is managed. Officials confirmed that a draft policy has been prepared and will be implemented once it receives government approval. The move is expected to make trekking safer and more organised, though compliance requirements will become more stringent for agencies and trekkers alike.

Until now, trekking in Uttarakhand operated with minimal regulation, allowing agencies to run expeditions without formal oversight. The proposed rules will introduce mandatory standards for tour operators, trekking companies, guides, and trekkers. Once enforced, only registered agencies will be permitted to conduct trekking activities, bringing greater accountability to the sector.

Uttarakhand, a globally recognised destination for trekking and mountaineering, attracts thousands of domestic and international adventure enthusiasts each year. According to PK Patro, Chief Conservator of Forests (Eco-Tourism), this is the first time the state has developed such detailed trekking guidelines. He said the Uttarakhand Trekking Guidelines 2026 will enhance tourist safety while strengthening the credibility of adventure tourism in the state.

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Under the draft regulations, all trekking agencies and tour operators must register for a five-year period, with existing operators required to comply within 60 days of implementation. The rules also lay down strict qualification and age criteria for trekking guides at both low and high altitudes, including mandatory mountaineering courses, experience certificates, and annual medical fitness clearances for older guides.

The policy places strong emphasis on safety and local employment. Trekkers will be required to submit medical certificates and insurance details, while agencies must ensure weather monitoring and provide insurance cover of at least ₹5 lakh for their staff. Additionally, tour operators must employ at least 60% local residents, a step aimed at boosting employment and curbing migration.

To ensure enforcement, district-level monitoring and technical committees will be constituted, and trekking routes will be regulated based on carrying capacity. Violations could attract fines of up to ₹10,000 and lead to suspension or cancellation of registration. The government’s move follows a series of recent trekking and mountaineering accidents, underscoring the urgent need for stricter regulation to protect lives and preserve Uttarakhand’s fragile mountain ecosystem.

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