Rajasthan has established itself as a significant tourist destination on the domestic as well as international tourist map. The state is known for its diversity in terms of natural resources, cultural heritage, historical as well as archaeological wonders and rare wild life. Consequently, there is tremendous potential for eco-tourism in Rajasthan.
What is Eco-Tourism ?
Eco-Tourism has been broadly defined as tourism which is ecologically sustainable. As per international ecotourism society, Ecotourism is now defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education” (TIES, 2015)
Eco-Tourism Sites in Rajasthan
Government Support
Rajasthan Government’s emphasis has been on community-based ecotourism, encouraging public–private sector participation, and infrastructural development.
Sunda Mata temple in Jalore district, Bassi in Chittorgarh district, Kumbhalgarh in Rajsamand district, Hamirgarh and Menal, both in Bhilwara district have been developed as per guidelines of eco-tourism.
Eco-Tourism Policy
The Government of Rajasthan released new Rajasthan’s Eco-tourism policy in 2021. This policy has been framed with an aim to generate economic benefits after conserving natural areas and attracting tourism in Rajasthan
Eco-Tourism Circuit
In 2018, department of tourism has submitted the proposal to include
- Sariska (Alwar),
- Kaila Devi wildlife sanctuary (Karauli),
- Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary &
- Todgarh Raoli wildlife sanctuary (Rajsamand),
- Mount Abu wildlife sanctuary (Sirohi) and
- Jhalana Safari Park (Jaipur)
for development under the centre’s eco-circuit theme.