Private parties to operate, maintain 27 eco-tourism sites

The state government has decided to hand over the operation and maintenance of 27 eco-tourism sites in the state to private operators. While 77 sites were initially advertised, these 27 sites have been shortlisted and re-advertised under the operations-maintenance-design model as per the Himachal Pradesh Eco Policy, 2024.

Of the 27 eco-sites, 10 fall in Kangra district, including popular destinations such as Triund-1 and Dharamkot, which have already attracted private operators. Bidding is now open for eight sites, namely Triund-2 and Triund-3, Bir-Billing, Boh’’s Khabru Waterfall, Kareri’s hostel site, Saurabh Van Vihar, Multhan and Neugal.

Each operator will receive up to one hectare per site, strictly for eco-friendly development. The operation tenure is 10 years, extendable by five years based on performance. Importantly, no permanent construction will be allowed, with an aim to preserve the ecological integrity of these scenic destinations.

The base bidding price for these 27 sites has been pegged at Rs 1.40 crore collectively. The Triund-2, Triund-3 and Bir-Billing sites have a base price of Rs 40 lakh, while Boh’s Khabru and Kareri hostel sites are listed at Rs 30 lakh. Saurabh Van Vihar and Alha Camping start at Rs 25 lakh. Sites like Nature Park Banikhet, Shaheed Ashok Kumar Jot Park and others are priced lower, ranging from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 10 lakh depending on the location and potential.

To promote local participation, the state has relaxed eligibility norms for Himachali bidders, requiring a minimum annual turnover of Rs 1 crore, compared to Rs 3 crore for outside bidders. Divisional Forest Officer, Dharamsala, Rahul said that applications were open until September 26, with a pre-bid meeting scheduled in both online and offline formats to clarify queries.

This initiative aims at boosting eco-tourism, generate employment and preserve Himachal’s natural beauty while ensuring that development remains sustainable and non-invasive.