Uttarakhand to Keep Gangotri Park Open in Winter for Snow Leopard Tourism
TTU: Uttarakhand’s tourism department has proposed to keep Gangotri National Park open during winter. This move aims to support snow leopard tourism and attract visitors in the cold season.
The plan was submitted to the state’s eco-tourism council. It is now awaiting approval from the central government. Officials believe that this can help boost local income and protect wildlife.
Gangotri Park to Stay Open Year-Round for Snow Leopard Tourism
Currently, Gangotri National Park remains closed in peak winter. However, this is the time when snow leopards come to lower areas, increasing the chances of sightings. Officials say about 50 snow leopards live in the region. Keeping the park open could help more people see them.
The model follows what Ladakh has done with Hemis National Park. Hemis stays open year-round and brings in tourists from around the world for snow leopard tourism. Wildlife experts believe a similar approach in Uttarakhand will attract more visitors in winter.
Snow Leopard Tourism Could Support Jobs and Conservation
Officials believe that winter tourism can support the local economy. In Ladakh, local guides and homestays benefit from wildlife tourism. Uttarakhand wants to follow the same path. Locals can act as trackers, hosts, and guides. This will create jobs and promote conservation.
Tourism secretary Dhiraj Singh Garbyal said people want to visit the park in winter. But right now, it remains closed during the best time for spotting snow leopards. He said opening it year-round could be a big boost for the state.
Steps to Improve Adventure Tourism and Safety
Apart from promoting snow leopard tourism, the department also plans to manage trekking activities better. A list of trekking routes will be reviewed for carrying capacity. The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India has suggested limiting the number of trekkers. This will help improve safety and monitoring.
Officials are also looking at upgrading bridges in Uttarkashi, including Sandra and Bhojbasa bridges. The goal is to ensure these match the needs of tourists and locals.
Coordination for Better Safety in Tourism
The department has asked all tourism-related events to be reported in advance. This will help the district administration prepare safety measures in time. Quick response to incidents during treks or expeditions is also a priority.
Garbyal stressed that local staff should actively manage tourism and adventure activities. This will improve safety and efficiency.
Finally, he asked for a coordination system to be set up. This would involve the forest department, local people, tour operators, and the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. The goal is to ensure safe and smooth expeditions for all.
