Himachal plans 50 eco-tourism sites to boost sustainable travel

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Nine more destinations finalised; 17 already allotted; 80% of jobs earmarked for locals

Dharamshala, September 5

Himachal Pradesh plans to develop and operate around 50 eco-tourism sites across the state to promote sustainable tourism, generate local employment and make better use of its natural resources, an official said.

A three-day workshop on eco-tourism began in Dharamshala on Friday and will continue till September 7, bringing together experts, officials and members of the public to discuss expansion of existing activities and development of new destinations.

Eco-Tourism Society CEO and IFS officer K Thirumal said one day of the workshop would focus specifically on eco-tourism development, with officials from the Forest Department and other departments, experts and society members participating.

Himachal had significant potential for eco-tourism, including Forest Department rest houses, parks, trekking routes and natural sites, he added.

Thirumal said 17 eco-tourism sites had already been allotted, while nine more had recently been finalised and would be sent to the government for approval. Once approved, the number of sites would rise to around 26.

He further said local communities would be given priority in developing the destinations, with local youth proposed to be engaged as nature guides on trekking routes. Around 80 per cent of employment opportunities at the eco-tourism sites were also planned to be reserved for locals, he added.

Experts and organisations from different states with experience in eco-tourism have been invited to the workshop to share their experiences and suggestions for developing low-impact, environment-friendly and community-based tourism in Himachal.