Longewala to Siachen: Explore iconic battlefields with new tourism drive

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

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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.