From Siachen to Galwan: Govt launches app to promote battlefield tourism in India

Dras War Memorial (Kargil War, 1999) (Image: PTI)

In a historic move to showcase India’s military heritage, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app on January 15, 2025, during the 77th Army Day celebrations in Pune. Developed by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, this app opens the doors to India’s most iconic battlefields, offering citizens a chance to explore the country’s wartime history like never before.

A New Era of Battlefield Tourism
The Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app is a revolutionary digital tool for history enthusiasts and travelers alike. It provides detailed insights into key historical sites, including:

Siachen, the world’s highest battlefield.
Galwan, the site of the 2020 India-China clash.Longewala, where the Indian Army triumphed during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

In addition to these, the app highlights Rezang La, Bum La Pass, Pangong Tso, and Doklam, key locations in India’s military history. These sites, often difficult to access, are now available for exploration through historical narratives, and interactive content.

Features of the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan App
The Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app connects to an extensive website designed as a one-stop resource for military tourism. It offers in-depth historical narratives of 77 battlefield locations, providing visitors with a detailed understanding of India’s wartime history. The platform also includes virtual tours and engaging multimedia content, allowing users to explore iconic sites from the comfort of their homes. For those planning physical visits, the website provides comprehensive travel details, including information about permits required for accessing restricted areas.

Promoting Military Heritage under ‘Incredible India’
This initiative aligns with the Incredible India campaign, blending tourism with education. By allowing civilians access to locations like Kibithoo and Rezang La (linked to the 1962 Sino-Indian war), the app provides a firsthand connection to India’s wartime history.

The initiative also integrates existing war memorials into the tourism circuit, including:

Dras War Memorial (Kargil War, 1999)
Walong War Memorial (Battle of Walong, 1962)
Tawang War Memorial
Longewala War Memorial
Operation Meghdoot War Memorial

Economic and Educational Benefits
The Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app does more than just highlight historical sites. It promotes economic growth in border areas by increasing tourism demand for local services such as accommodations and guided tours. Moreover, it ensures that India’s military heritage and sacrifices are preserved and passed down to future generations.

The launch of the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app marks a significant step in promoting military tourism in India. With its interactive features, historical insights, and virtual tours, this initiative invites citizens to explore the country’s rich military heritage. As part of India’s broader tourism strategy, it seeks to increase awareness about the sacrifices made by the Indian Armed Forces while boosting tourism in strategically important regions.

(With inputs from agencies)