From News Desk
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Himachal Pradesh has taken a significant step in modernizing eco-tourism by moving its services online. Over one hundred forest rest houses and camping sites across the state are now accessible for booking through the Himachal Pradesh Eco-Tourism Society (HPECOSOC) website. In addition, a comprehensive trekking management system has been introduced, cataloging more than two hundred forty-five trekking routes according to difficulty levels. A mobile application is also under development to provide trekkers with real-time guidance, maps, and essential information, further enhancing the visitor experience.
The state government has directed that the newly implemented Eco-Tourism Policy 2024 should adhere to the guidelines of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change as well as the amended Forest Conservation Act (Van Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan Adhiniyam, 2023). This alignment reflects Himachal Pradesh’s commitment to promoting tourism while strictly following environmental regulations.
Tourism in Himachal Pradesh continues to witness strong growth. In 2024, the state welcomed more than two lakh visitors, including approximately eighty-two thousand international tourists, marking an increase of over thirteen per cent compared to the previous year. Tourism accounts for 7.78 percent of the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and the new eco-tourism initiatives are expected to provide a substantial boost to the local economy.
The Eco-Tourism Policy aims to develop seventy-seven eco-tourism sites across the state, with projected revenue of two hundred crore rupees within five years. The strategy focuses on attracting visitors in a manner that preserves natural resources, generates employment for local communities and fosters sustainable economic growth. Key locations earmarked for development include Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Bilaspur, Rampur, Solan, Nahan, Hamirpur, Nalagarh, Dharamsala, Palampur, Chamba, Dalhousie, Nurpur and Rekong Peo.
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