Tourism: A source of Economic development in Uttarakhand

Tourism: A source of Economic development in Uttarakhand Suman joshi Research Scholar D. S. B. Campus, Department of History, Kumaun University, Nainital Introduction According to Gandhi ji, “After having been three weeks in hills I am amazed why people need to go Europe in search of health.” Uttaranchal now called Uttrakhand was formed in 2000, which was earlier part of northern Uttar Pradesh. This 27th state of India has a peculiar socio economic conditions prevailing because of the geographical conditions have and also the states have both hills as well as planes. Hilly region makes the economic conditions more challenging. The state makes boundaries with Uttar Pradesh in South, Nepal on the East, Himachal Pradesh on the west and China on the northeast. Geographically, it is situated in the central Himalayan zone. The high Himalayan ranges and glaciers cover most of the northern parts of the state, while the lower reaches are densely forested. The Ganga and the Yamuna take birth in the glaciers of Uttarakhand. The topography of Uttaranchal is characterized by hilly terrain, rugged and Rocky Mountains, deep valleys, high peaks, sharp streams and rivulets, rapid soil erosion, frequent landslides and widely scattered habitations. Uttaranchal has traditionally been divided into two parts, the eastern region going by the name of Kumaon and the western half known as Garhwal. Tourism plays an important role in employment generation and economic growth of the country. It is accepted as the potent engine for inclusive social economic progressive at universal level through its forward and backward linkage and ability to create employment in the economy. The modes of tourism are discussed broadly and suggestions are given appropriately for sustainable development of tourism. It reveals that the pilgrimage tourism has been practicing here for centuries. Presently, mass tourism as mountaineering, trekking, skiing and river rafting is being common. The practices of tourism have a significant impact on the economy as many of the small towns emerged as the major service provider centers and the economy of the region grew tremendously. But, at the same time, its impact fell badly on the environment and the tourist places and pilgrimages have received severe environmental implications. Kedarnath tragedy is a recent example. Major tourist destination in Uttarakhand Economics Dimensions of tourism In Uttarakhand The state has ample scope of religious, spiritual, leisure, health, adventure tourism to be integrated economic development. There is a lot of dimension in the economic sector in tourism in Uttarakhand through different types of tourism or activities. Pilgrimage Tourism Uttarakhand Popularly known as abode of gods is studded with places of pilgrimage and magnificent shrines. Here, the gods are with us every step of the way. Infact the state is a treasure trove of holy destinations and thus boon for the pilgrim tourists. This is the land where the Vedas and shastras were composed and great Indian epic ‘The Mahabharata’ was written. Also, it a land of fairs, festivals and legends. Nestling in the lofty peaks are the four most holy pilgrimages of Uttarakhand Yamunotri, Gangotri, Sri Kedarnath and Sri Badrinath collectively referred to as the Char-Dham of Hinduism. For Centuries, saints and pilgrims in their search for the divine have walked these mystical vales known in ancient Hindu scriptures as ‘Kedarkhand’. Wild Life Tourism Wildlife Tourism is an important part of the tourism. In simplest sense, watching wild animals in their natural habitat. Uttarakhand is fortunate to be blessed with incredible range of wild life. It’s a nature’s gift that makes Uttarakhand an ideal location for wildlife tourism. Wildlife tourism, a subset of ecotourism has witnessed a massive growth in the recent years. Adventure Tourism “Life is either a great adventure or nothing” - Helen Keller Uttarakhand offers plenty of exciting and unusual experiences of lifetime to the daring and the ones roaring to go beyond limits. Of course, this state is paradise for adventurous activities. The wide spectrum of adventures activities from mountaineering, skating, water sports to aero sports make Uttarakhand one of the most attractive destinations for adventurous sports not only in India but over the world. The main and famous adventure activities of the state are as under: Trekking Uttarakhand with splendid mountains in the north and plains in the south promises an unforgettable experience. The presence of Himalaya is the greatest asset that made Uttarakhand, a perfect destination for trekking. Trekking is different from mountaineering because it does not require special skills and equipment to do the same. Infact, trekking means to walk on trails. Most of the trails in the state are without litter and crowds. Uttarakhand offers the most challenging hikes such as high altitude glacial regions for seasoned trekkers or should not be attempted without guidance of local Sherpa’s and climbers and the gentle slopes with most scenic trails for beginners can be done in groups with friends and family. Various trekking paths are ready with challenges to sharpen one’s skills and boost one’s confidence. Skiing Skiing is a mode of transport, recreational activity and competitive winter sport in which the participant uses skis to glide on snow. In Uttarakhand Auli, Mundali, Dayara Bugyal, Munsyari and many more less known places are full of potential of skiing where one can feel the thrill. These are some of the world's most popular winter playgrounds known for their interesting undulations and fine gradients. When the white mantle of snow covers the lush green meadows and the firs and pines are sprinkled with silver, its skiing time in the Himalayas. Rafting Rafting is the most popular adventure sport in Uttarakhand. River rafting have both thrill and exploration. Fast moving rivers offers a thrilling experience for white water rafters. The term white water refers to foamy and whitish appearance of fast flowing water. During summer season, the melting snow of Himalayas fill the rivers with enough water and also provide them high speed that is suitable for taking up the river rafting expedition. River rafting has gained high popularity in the last few years in Uttarakhand. With the Intricate network of mountain rivers flowing through a myriad of different colours of rocky Gorges, forests, flowers and high mountain villages, the state offers the broadest possible option for river rafting in the world, from milder river rafting to wilder ones. Uttarakhand has in abundance rivers and terrains to suit all levels of river rafting. Camping In Uttarakhand Camping is perhaps the best way of enjoying the wonders of nature, especially when heat becomes intolerable in the plain areas. Uttarakhand with its idyllic mountain resort offers great camping opportunities for a visitor. Camping in Uttarakhand is an amazing experience amidst the snowy hills, and intermittent snowfall adds a new dimension to the camping expedition. Among the pine, fir, birch and rhododendron trees, one can relax and rejuvenate his senses. The Bedni Bugyal is one of the finest meadows is perfect for camping. Ali Bugyal and Dayara Bugyals are also best for camping. Summer Camps are usually concentrated in Lunagarh, Western Uttarakhand, but the principle attraction is Tons Valley in Jaunsar Bawar region of Garhwal in Uttarakhand. Camping is also delightful in Gangotri and Doonagiri Glacier. Camping in these two glaciers also provide the opportunity for the swimming, hiking, fishing etc. Rock Climbing Rock Climbing is the basic stage of mountaineering and it may also be considered as an independent sport, the most basic level is climbing a rock face, using only your hands and feet and a safety rope. The high peaks and rocky cliffs of Himalayas challenge the climbers to take a risk. Climbing in Uttarakhand is really a dream of every climber. Pithoragarh district of Kumaon region is an ideal place for beginners and qualified climbers because of various types of rocks. Apart from Pithoragarh, the rocky area around Gangotri is also a best place for climbing. Kaudiyal is paradise for the persons who love rafting as well as climbing. Paragliding Paragliding is a type of aero sport which is amongst the most popular adventure sports in the world. This thrilling aero sport allows to soar high in the air. Paragliding is a recreational and competitive flying sport, which is recently getting much popular. That makes paragliding one of the latest entrants in the list of adventure sports. The Himalayan mountain ranges of Uttarakhand offer a host of paragliding opportunities and are considered amongst some of the best in the world. The lofty mountain peaks of Uttarakhand make ideal locations for the sport of paragliding. Paragliding in Uttarankhand offers an opportunity of making the sky as playground. The unique topography of this beautiful hill state - Uttarakhand - with magnificent Himalayas in the north and plains of Tarai in the south, promises an unforgettable experience of paragliding. The state attracts enthusiasts from all corners of the world. The suitable time to enjoy paragliding is from September to May, because during rainy season it is being a little bit risky. Uttarakhand offers an ideal paragliding destination for both, the experienced and the beginner paragliders. Apart from the various private paragliding clubs and organizations, GMVN and KMVN offer joy rides as well as paragliding courses. Naukutchiyatal, Dhanaulti Ridge, Mussorie, Rishikesh, Dayara Bugyal, Pratap Nagar, Bedni Bugyal, Pithoragarh are some of the ideal paragliding sites in Uttarakhand. Conclusion Tourism is a major driver of economic growth and livelihood promotion in Uttarakhand, with the services sector contributing over 34% to GDP. Tourism is one of the important industries and plays a key role in achieving the economic goals of the development plans of a region. It is motivated by the natural urge of every human being for new experience, adventure, education, knowledge and entertainment. It is an important service-oriented sector which has made rapid strides globally in terms of gross revenue and foreign exchange earnings. Tourism meets the diverse interests and requirements of domestic and international tourists. It facilitates trade and commerce between different regions of a country and also between different countries. As a result, over the years, it has acquired the status of a service industry. In Uttarakhand, tourism industry holds a special position as it not only has potential to grow at a high rate, but also stimulate other economic sectors through its backward and forward linkages and cross-sectional synergies with sectors like agriculture, horticulture, poultry, handicrafts, transport, construction, etc. That is why; it has been regarded as the core sectors of the economy and endowments of biodiversity, forests, rivers, mountains, historical places, temples and pilgrims, caves, museums, monuments and culture, the industry holds immense strength for obtaining higher growth rate. Ministry of Tourism, Government of India initiated pilot surveys in ten states including Uttaranchal state on a plan to outsource collection activity of tourism statistics for the different states. Natural has blessed Uttarakhand with generous beauty. This magical beauty even tempted gods to have their abode here. That’s why it is universally known as “Abode of Gods” or “Dev Bhoomi.” Therefore Uttarakhand economy mainly relies on industry rather it is backbone of state economy. The industrial development financial corporation has declared Uttarakhand be a “Pure Tourism” state. The tourism industry is a major contributor to the economy of Uttarakhand, with the Raj era hillstations at Mussorie, Almora, Ranikhet and Nainital being some of the most frequented destinations. To this region also belong some of the holiest Hindu shrines, and for almost 2000years now pilgrims have been visiting the temples at Haridwar, Rishikesh, Badrinath and Kedarnath in the hope of salvation and purification from sin. 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