Himachal to launch 6 new eco-tourism sites to attract nature lovers

MANDI: Tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh from across the world will soon experience nature’s beauty more intimately as the state government is set to allocate six eco-tourism sites aimed at enhancing sustainable tourism.

The Forest Department has called an Executive Council (EC) meeting on November 12 to finalise these allocations, a step likely to benefit nearby states like Haryana and Punjab.

Sites selected for public-private partnership model

To encourage eco-tourism, the Forest Department has invited applications under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for establishing eco-tourism units at six select sites: Kesdhar, Kasol, Kheerganga, Sumaropa, Bindravan in Kullu district, and Bir Billing in Kangra district. Sixteen bidders have shown interest, hoping to create sustainable tourism hubs in these scenic locations.

The eco-tourism sites will provide lodging and dining options designed to be eco-friendly. In place of permanent structures, temporary, environmentally friendly accommodations, including tent houses, will be offered. Off-season room rates are expected to be between Rs 800 and 1,500, rising to Rs 1,500 to 3,000 during peak tourist seasons.

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Environmental safeguards a priority

Each eco-tourism site will span one hectare or less, with strict guidelines from the Ministry of Forest and Environment to prevent environmental disruption.

No permanent structures will be allowed within these forested areas, and local residents will be prioritised for employment opportunities at these sites. The sites will be leased to firms for a 10-year period.

Growing demand for nature retreats

Over the past decade, tourists seeking peace and tranquility have increasingly chosen to escape urban settings for natural getaways. These eco-tourism sites will allow them to fully immerse in green forests, listen to cascading waterfalls, explore high mountains, and relax by riverbanks.

In light of the rising demand for eco-friendly tourism, the state government is focused on promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable travel concept. Visitors to these proposed nature sites will also be able to enjoy activities like trekking.

While tenders for these sites were initially issued in February, applications were not received at that time. However, Shimla’s Potarhill and Shoghi sites were successfully allocated in March under the same initiative.

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Firms awarded the sites will be responsible for developing site infrastructure in compliance with forest laws, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The government has pledged strict oversight to prevent harm to Himachal’s forests and biodiversity.

This comes after the Central Forest and Environment Ministry had to close 11 eco-tourism sites in Himachal in 2020-21 due to environmental violations.