Kullu, In a significant stride towards sustainable tourism and environmental conservation, the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department has unveiled an ambitious plan to auction eight pristine eco-tourism sites within the picturesque Kullu district. This strategic initiative aims to attract eco-conscious travelers, foster responsible tourism practices, and simultaneously safeguard the region’s rich biodiversity and unparalleled natural beauty, particularly in areas renowned for their ecological fragility.
The sites earmarked for development under this innovative eco-tourism model include highly sought-after locations such as Kothi and Gulaba in Manali, Gorudugh in the Lug valley (Kullu), Shoja in the Banjar constituency, and the sacred Pandrik Rishi Lake in the Sainj valley. Additionally, the list extends to the serene Jalori Pass, the historic Raghupur Garh, and Baga Sarahan in the Anni and Nirmand regions, diversifying the offerings and spreading the benefits of tourism across a wider geographical area. These locations have been meticulously selected not only for their breathtaking scenic beauty but also for their unique cultural significance and their inherent potential to support nature-based tourism activities without compromising ecological integrity.
According to a senior Forest Department official, the auction process for leasing these sites to private companies will commence shortly. The chosen firms will be entrusted with the design, development, and management of eco-tourism activities, operating under a stringent set of environmental guidelines. A cornerstone of this initiative is the strict prohibition of permanent construction at any of the identified sites. All tourism-related infrastructure, including accommodation and facilities, must be temporary in nature, ensuring minimal ecological impact and allowing for swift restoration of the landscape if required. This “temporary structures only” mandate is crucial for preserving the delicate balance of the Himalayan ecosystem.
The core objective of this eco-tourism development strategy is to offer tourists unique, environmentally sensitive experiences while concurrently generating local employment opportunities and ensuring robust community engagement. The Forest Department emphasizes that companies managing these sites will be held accountable to the highest standards of conservation practices. No activity that could harm local flora and fauna or alter the natural landscape will be permitted. This commitment extends to careful waste management, energy conservation, and the promotion of local culture and crafts, ensuring that tourism benefits the community and the environment symbiotically.
This initiative is a critical component of Himachal Pradesh’s broader vision for sustainable tourism, which seeks to establish the state as a model for responsible travel. The budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, for instance, has placed a significant emphasis on promoting both religious and eco-tourism, with plans to develop lesser-known destinations and even transform tea estates into eco-tourism hubs. The government anticipates generating substantial revenue, projected at ₹200 crore over the next five years, through these eco-tourism ventures. Such revenue will be reinvested into conservation efforts and local community development, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth and environmental preservation.
The auction process is currently underway, and the department expects these eco-tourism sites to be operational under new management in the coming months. Once active, these hubs are envisioned to serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives in other parts of the state, further solidifying Himachal Pradesh’s reputation as a leading destination for responsible and nature-friendly tourism. By engaging private operators while imposing strict sustainability standards, the state aims to strike a harmonious balance between tourism growth and the imperative of protecting its invaluable natural heritage for future generations. This strategic approach ensures that tourism in Himachal Pradesh not only thrives economically but also serves as a powerful tool for environmental stewardship and community empowerment.
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