Ecotourism –A Sustainable Way for The Development of Local Community: A Study of Ecotourism in Janjehli, Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

From the last few decades, it has been realized by the global bodies that sustainable development is required in every step of planning, development and operations of global activities. Even the tourism industry is emphasizing on the sustainable practices. Ecotourism as a form of sustainable tourism is identified as a panacea to deal with environmental problems. It also focuses on welfare of the locals through tourism by promoting their culture and local products. The present study is an attempt to understand the importance of ecotourism in the development of local community. The study has taken into consideration the mixed approach for data collection started from secondary data and ends with collecting primary data from the study area. The Janjehli, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh has been taken as study area for the research work. The results of the study indicates that Ecotourism provides platform for the locals to generate revenues and benefits from tourist activities and services taking place in their area. Additionally, it helps to conserve their local ecosystem. However, it is also evident that locals are not getting due credit and benefits from ecotourism that they deserve. Lack of facilities like training program for locals, effective marketing of sites, and a weak PPP model are some of the points to be mentioned from the list of reasons pointed out in the findings of this study. This study is an attempt to provide insight to the government and stakeholders about the scope of betterment for the development of Ecotourism in the area.