Himachal: Forest Dept to auction eight eco-tourism sites in Kullu dist

The Forest Department has unveiled a plan to auction eight eco-tourism sites in Mandi district. These sites located in areas from Manali to Anni and Nirmand are set to be developed under the Eco-Tourism Society initiative. The aim of the move is to attract eco-conscious travellers while preserving the region’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

A Forest Department official says that as part of this initiative, the department will soon begin the auction process to lease these sites to private companies. The selected firms will be responsible for the development and and management of eco-tourism activities under strict environmental guidelines. Importantly, all tourism-related operations must be carried out using temporary structures to ensure minimal ecological impact. Permanent construction will not be permitted at any of the identified locations.

The sites earmarked for auction include Kothi and Gulaba in Manali, Gorudugh in the Lug valley (Kullu), Shoja in the Banjar constituency and the sacred Pandrik Rishi Lake in the Sainj valley. Besides, the Jalori Pass, Raghupur Garh and Baga Sarahan in the Anni and Nirmand regions are also on the list.

“These locations were carefully selected for their scenic beauty, cultural significance and potential to support nature-based tourism,” the officer says.

The Forest Department has emphasised that companies managing these sites will be required to uphold strict conservation practices. No activity harming the local flora and fauna or altering the natural landscape will be permitted.

The initiative is expected to open up new avenues of eco-tourism in the district, providing tourists with fresh destinations for exploration while also providing employment to the locals and ensuring community engagement.

By promoting tourism that is in harmony with nature, the department aims to establish the region as a model for responsible travel.

“The goal is to offer tourists unique, environmentally sensitive experiences while preserving the ecological balance of our forests,” says a senior Forest Department official. “These auctions will ensure that private operators are held accountable to high standards of sustainability,” he adds.

The auction process is at present underway and the department expects the sites to be operational under a new management in the coming months. Once active, these eco-tourism hubs will serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives in other parts of the state.