Rooplekha Das
Ecologically sensitive mountain trails are set to expand trekking opportunities while emphasising conservation. The goal is to move away from pilgrim crowds and make the area known for eco-friendly outdoor trips.
The proposed mountain trail network aims to channel trekking into regulated routes. This will promote nature-based tourism all year and ease the strain on the popular pilgrimage routes through the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayas.
New, eco-friendly hiking projects hope to spread tourism to different times of the year and to less crowded spots. They want to shine a light on some of the lesser-known valleys while ensuring nature stays in balance and local people are involved in outdoor activities.
Araku Valley, located in the Eastern Ghats, might become a well-known place for responsible hiking. It mixes local tribal culture, coffee farms, and well-maintained nature trails.
Pothigai Malai, which is part of the Western Ghats, shows that there's new interest in mountain areas with lots of different plant and animal life. The hope is to encourage slower, more eco-conscious trips that respect the area's ecology, mythology, and controlled access.
Along Odisha's coast, they want to start turtle trails near the nesting beaches. This is to formalise tourism that helps protect these animals. They're creating organised tours for visitors while also boosting the income of people involved in saving marine life.
Kerala's turtle trails are building on its image of responsible tourism. They'll offer guided tours to see coastal ecosystems, which will help local groups continue to protect the fragile nesting areas.
The birdwatching trails around Pulicat Lake are going to help transform this area into a top spot for bird lovers. The idea is to connect the area's birdlife with carefully planned tours that don't disturb the environment.
Dholavira, an old archaeological site, is scheduled for improvements. Its excavated Harappan landscape will be opened up with walking paths that immerse the visitors, giving people a better understanding of one of the world's ancient urban societies.
The planned improvements at Sarnath are aimed at giving travellers a better experience using stories to show why this place is so important to India's spiritual and Buddhist heritage.