×
Get latest travel news
The allure of India’s breathtaking natural landscapes is set to deepen with an exciting new partnership aimed at fostering sustainable adventure travel. Nestled in the picturesque Shivalik foothills near Chandigarh, Forest Hill Resort (FHR) is collaborating with the internationally acclaimed ecological restoration organization Afforestt. This groundbreaking initiative aims to rejuvenate nearly 2,000 acres adjoining the sprawling 10,000-acre Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, creating a pioneering model for eco-tourism in the region. This collaboration promises a distinctive fusion of exceptional hospitality and ecological restoration, focusing on enhancing biodiversity and enriching travelers’ experiences.
The partnership between Forest Hill Resort and Afforestt, recognized for its innovative ecological projects, is set to redefine the norms of responsible travel in the Shivalik landscape. Director of Forest Hill Resort, Devinder Sandhu, emphasizes that this venture embodies a long-term dedication to preserving the unique ecological character of the area while providing travelers with an immersive and eco-conscious hospitality experience. At its core, the project encompasses science-based ecological restoration, which includes conducting audits, soil assessments, water movement studies, eradicating invasive species, and large-scale planting of native plants.
At the heart of this initiative lies the mission to restore mixed deciduous forests—an essential component for biodiversity and the eco-tourism experience. According to Afforestt Designer Varsha Gurjar, native plants such as Jhingan, Phulai, Surteli, Dhavda, Kaim, and Khair, alongside indigenous grasses and shrubs, will be central to the restoration efforts. This strategic focus not only improves habitats for local wildlife but significantly augments eco-tourism opportunities for visitors eager to engage with authentic, unspoiled landscapes.
The initiative goes beyond tree planting, placing significant emphasis on hydrological regeneration, which is critical for climate resilience and sustainable tourism success. The plan incorporates the construction of lakes, trenches, and natural irrigation channels to facilitate organic rainwater absorption, recharge groundwater reserves, and foster flourishing habitats for birds, insects, and wildlife. This engineering of a holistic water ecosystem promotes landscape vitality and enriches the scenic travel experiences throughout the Shivalik foothills.
Currently, over 60 species of birds flourish across the diverse habitats of the Shivalik region, and as restoration progresses, this number is anticipated to grow. This makes the area a hotspot for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Eco-tourists seeking profound nature experiences—ranging from birdwatching to guided forest excursions—will discover a revitalized ecosystem bursting with life, inviting them to explore responsibly while contributing to conservation ambitions.
Aligning with India’s national tourism strategy, which encourages sustainable travel, the Ministry of Tourism’s Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme actively promotes eco-tourism initiatives in lesser-known destinations, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. This strategy aims to improve tourist facilities and generate employment opportunities within local communities, aligning closely with the objectives of the Shivalik project.
The Shivalik foothills are home to a biodiverse and ecologically sensitive environment crucial to the Himalayan ecosystem. Their strategic location within a significant wildlife corridor underscores the potential for successful eco-tourism. Afforestt Director Gaurav Gurjar highlights the site’s “maximum ecological advantage,” citing seasonal streams, rich biodiversity, and favorable geography—key attributes for eco-conscious travelers in search of genuine nature experiences.
This collaboration is more than just about conservation; it aims to elevate the overall travel experience. Eco-conscious tourists seeking luxurious, sustainable options will find Forest Hill Resort an exemplary destination, harmonizing comfort with ecological responsibility. Concurrently, local communities will reap benefits through job creation, training programs, and tourism-derived services—aligning with government initiatives that promote infrastructure development and responsible tourism growth.
The partnership between Forest Hill Resort and Afforestt serves as a template demonstrating that exceptional hospitality and environmental care can thrive together. It offers a scalable model for other natural regions in India eager to advance sustainable eco-tourism—from the Himalayan foothills to coastal biodiversity zones under governmental support. As travelers increasingly prioritize nature-focused experiences, such pioneering initiatives are vital to cater to the burgeoning demand for eco-tourism, both domestically and globally.
This landmark initiative marks a significant turning point in India’s travel and tourism landscape, merging ecological restoration with responsible travel engagement. For eco-travelers, birdwatchers, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike, the Shivalik foothills now stand as a rejuvenated, biodiverse, and sustainably nurtured destination. As national tourism frameworks continue to support eco-tourism, projects like this are likely to set the benchmarks for the future of travel in India, fostering conservation, community advancement, and unforgettable experiences.
Source: The post Eco-Tourism in India Surges as Forest Hill Resort Joins Hands with Afforestt to Restore Shivalik Forests, Enhance Biodiversity, and Deliver Unique Nature Travel Adventures first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
Leave a Reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *