Identifying the need and potential of ecotourism in Nainital, India

Abstract

Nainital is a famous tourist destination of India, attracting hundreds of both domestic and foreign tourists every year. Some of the important places in the district are Nainital City, Hanumangarhi, Haldwani, Kaladhungi, Ramnagar, Bhowali, Ramgarh, Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal. However, Nainital also faces an unsure future, near-stripped of its natural heritage, invaded by vested interests. Moreover, it is converting into concrete jungles. There is an urgent need to embrace conservation of natural resources and to conserve and cherish the value of local traditions, customs and cultural heritage. Thus, ecotourism has a huge potential to attract tourists to Uttarakhand State without destroying or degrading the natural or cultural assets that the visitor has come to see. The primary data was collected using questioners filled mainly by tourists, chief executives, senior managers, mangers and other staff of the organizations. Statistical tools were used to analyze data. In addition, secondary data was taken from the various journals, books and research papers. It was revealed that ecotourism would provide employment and business opportunities to trained individuals of the state. Accordingly, conservation management and tourism activities may provide equitable, social and cultural benefits to men and women of Nainital community through education, training and creation of full time employment opportunities.