Himachal unveils eco-tourism policy to develop 77 sites

The Himachal Pradesh government has launched a new eco-tourism policy aimed at developing 77 eco-tourism sites across different forest circles in the state.

The initiative is expected to generate Rs 200 crore in revenue over the next five years, while creating jobs, boosting the rural economy, and ensuring the protection of the environment.

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Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the policy seeks to strike a balance between tourism and conservation.

“Our goal is to attract visitors in a manner that safeguards forests, rivers, and wildlife, while generating livelihood opportunities for local communities,” he stated.

Himachal Pradesh, known for its snow-capped peaks, lush forests, pristine rivers, and rich biodiversity, has always drawn nature lovers. The Eco-Tourism Policy 2024 has been framed to use this natural wealth responsibly by promoting activities such as trekking, bird watching, forest camping, jungle walks, homestays, and interpretation trails.

Of the 77 sites, eco-tourism operators have already been selected for seven popular locations, including Potter Hill and Shoghi in Shimla, Solang Nallah in Kullu, and Kasol in Parvati Valley. The remaining sites are being developed in phases across districts such as Mandi, Bilaspur, Rampur, Solan, Nahan, Hamirpur, Nalagarh, Dharamshala, Palampur, Chamba, Dalhousie, Nurpur, and Rekong Peo.

The government is linking eco-tourism with its larger biodiversity conservation goals. Under the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojna, saplings are being planted and maintained on 1,000 to 1,500 hectares of forest land this year, supported by a budget of Rs 20 crore. Local groups, including mahila mandals, yuvak mandals, and self-help groups, are participating in the programme, with Rs 1.2 lakh allocated per hectare for sapling maintenance. The state aims to increase its forest cover to 30 percent by 2030.

Local participation is central to the new policy. Committees have been formed in each forest circle to oversee projects, while more than 70 nature guides and 135 Multi-Purpose Workers have already been trained by the Himachal Pradesh Eco-Tourism Society. Over 100 forest rest houses and camping sites can now be booked online, and a trekking management system has been introduced with 245 trails mapped and categorised by difficulty.
The initiative is already showing results. In 2024, Himachal recorded over two lakh tourist arrivals, including 82,000 foreign visitors – a 13.24 percent rise compared to the previous year.

With tourism contributing 7.78 percent to the state’s Gross State Domestic Product, officials believe the new policy will give a further boost to the economy while setting an example of sustainable growth.