Himachal to be Developed as Major Ecotourism Destination

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Government has identified 113 sites to be developed from eco- tourism point of view and out of these sites, 5 sites have been given on PPP mode, 16 to the State Forest Department and 47 to HP the State Forest Corporation for starting eco-tourism activities at these sites. This was stated by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur while inaugurating the two days International Conference on ‘Eco-Tourism Potential in Himachal Pradesh’ organized by the State Forest Department and Eco-Tourism Society of Himachal Pradesh at Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Manali in Kullu district.
He said that in addition 25 new destinations would be developed by constructing log huts for stay of tourists in the lap of nature. He said that three eco-tourism hubs would be developed during the current financial year. He said that 10 places would be developed from adventure tourism point of view with the close coordination of Eco Tourism Society, Tourism Department and Mountaineering Institute, Manali.
He said that 31 eco-tourism circuits has been prepared and would be sent for approval to the Centre. Jai Ram Thakur said that eco-tourism activities not only associate people with the nature but it can also prove a major employment and self-employment generator for the youth of the State. He said that efforts would be made to link eco-tourism with the rural life, culture and traditions. He said that this would not only give boost to the unexplored and virgin tourist destinations of the State, but also help in increasing economic activities in the rural areas of the State.