Interface of Geodiversity, Geomorphosites, Geotourism and Seasonal Economy in Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

Interface of Geodiversity with human response can be understood simply as, the natural range (diversity) of geological (rocks, minerals, fossils), geomorphological (landforms, topography, physical processes), soil and hydrological features including their assemblages, structures, systems and contributions to landscapes together with the anthropogenic amalgamation in the landscape system. Geomorphosites are those components of geodiversity that have acquired a scientific, cultural/historical, aesthetic and socio-economic value due to human perception or exploitation (Panizza, 2001). The trans-Himalayan district of Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India is a landlocked district in trans-Himalaya accessible seasonally through high mountain passes; where the interface is manifested though human response to the geodiversity elements. The abiotic factors play a significant role in generating stimuli and the human response varies accordingly in the study area. It is also known as the Tethyan Himalayan region, where the interface (interactive zone/crossing point/edge) of Geomorphosites and human response in terms of geotourism has been analysed and mapped. The data has been collected through extensive field work using structured questionnaire survey and field observations at geomorphosites having unique characteristics. The field work has been done in May–June 2017 and June 2018. The assessment of human response in terms of seasonal economy and geotourism has been done using GIS environment, GPS and SWOT analysis. The study highlights that potential geotourism sites have to be further identified, explored and developed in the region and the existing sites have to be conserved in order to harness the tremendous geotourism potential of the region and thereby boosting the seasonal economy.