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The Himachal Pradesh government has rolled out an ambitious eco-tourism initiative under its newly framed Eco Tourism Policy 2024, aiming to develop 77 eco-tourism sites across multiple forest circles within the next five years. The policy seeks to strike a balance between nature preservation and tourism, while boosting local employment and sustainable economic growth. Initial developments are already underway at selected sites in Shimla and Kullu, with activities like trekking, forest camping, and bird watching being promoted. Local youth are also being trained as guides and workers, and digital tools such as a trekking management system and an upcoming mobile app are being introduced to assist travellers.
As part of its recently enacted Eco Tourism Policy 2024, the government of Himachal Pradesh has set out on a bold mission to create 77 ecotourism destinations throughout its numerous forest circles over the course of the following five years. According to an official statement released earlier this week, the state aims to promote nature-friendly tourism that safeguards the environment while fuelling sustainable development. Advertisement
Eco-tourism, in essence, refers to travel that respects and preserves natural habitats. The recently launched policy has been tailored to align with this ethos, promoting a tourism model that nurtures ecological balance, empowers local communities, and strengthens the economy.
Himachal Pradesh, renowned for its snow-capped peaks, dense forests, pristine rivers and rich biodiversity, has long been a magnet for nature enthusiasts. The new policy intends to responsibly harness this natural appeal while fostering conservation.
The 77 sites are being developed across regions such as Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Bilaspur, Rampur, Solan, Nahan, Hamirpur, Nalagarh, Dharamshala, Palampur, Chamba, Dalhousie, Nurpur, and Reckong Peo. Some initial progress has already been achieved, with eco-tourism operators appointed for four sites - Potter Hill and Shoghi in Shimla, Solang Nallah in Kullu, and Kasol in the Parvati Valley. Development of the remaining sites is underway in a phased manner.
Tourists visiting these areas will have the opportunity to engage in low-impact, immersive activities like forest camping, trekking, jungle walks, bird watching, homestays, and nature interpretation trails.
A key focus of the policy is community participation. Dedicated eco-tourism committees have been established in each forest circle to oversee operations. Furthermore, the Himachal Pradesh Ecotourism Society (HPECOSOC) has already trained more than 70 nature guides and 135 multi-purpose workers (MPWs), many of whom are local youth, in an effort to build capacity and promote employment.
To enhance the convenience for travellers, the government has introduced online booking services for over 100 forest rest houses and camping facilities via the HPECOSOC portal. In addition, a structured trekking management system is now in place, cataloguing more than 245 trekking trails by difficulty level. A mobile application is also in development to improve guidance and overall tourist experience.
Earlier this year, the state witnessed an uptick in tourism, with more than 181.24 lakh visitors, including around 82,000 international travellers, marking a 13.24% rise compared to the previous year. Given that tourism accounts for 7.78% of Himachal Pradesh's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), the new eco-tourism policy is expected to further strengthen the state's economy through responsible and inclusive growth.
By targeting the creation of sustainable livelihoods, enhancing traveller experiences through digital platforms, and preserving the natural allure of the state, the policy reinforces the state's commitment to a greener future. As more sites open up and local communities become integral to the project's implementation, this eco-tourism push could redefine Himachal's tourism narrative - from passive sightseeing to participatory, conscious exploration.
Source - PTI
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