DISCOVER UTTARAKHAND’S UNDISCOVERED FOREST TRAILS
More than 15 sites have been identified to develop short as well as long-distance trails, including some that explore uncharted territories
The Uttarakhand Forest Department recently announced that it is gearing up to offer unique trekking experiences to travellers, starting April. As many as 15 routes have been identified in the state’s lesser-known dense forests and visitors will be allowed to choose trails based on the duration of their stay.
“We are looking at destination development, that is to put India on a higher pedestal of ecotourism, balancing out factors such as sustainability, social development and conservation goals,” says colonel Ashvini Pundir, additional chief executive officer, Adventure Wing, Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board.
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR TREKKERS?
Nine of the finalised trails are located in dense forests, where trekkers can get a feel of staying in British-era forest resthouses. The new routes will offer treks through the dense jungle of Chakrata, stargazing in Molta and geological excursions at 1,000 feet in Kharamba, the highest point of Doon valley. The first part of this project will be the modification of the Thadiyar March — a 65km trail lined by oaks, maples and hazels — which will be modified and opened in April. The route will take one through the Chakrata area of Dehradun. From some viewpoints, one can catch a glimpse of the stunning, snow-clad Himalayas as well.
IMPETUS FOR TOURISM
Putting Uttarakhand on the tourism map remains one of the key motives behind the initiative, says a representative of the Environment and Forests Department. But, the official adds, “Since the infrastructure was not suited for such a peak in footfall, natural and human erosion left some trails in dire need of repair.”
Trekkers, on their part, feel the initiative can help reduce overcrowding. “There’s an overwhelming demand for trails that lead to waterfalls like Kempty and Corbett. This new initiative will surely help offload some of the footfall on these trails and allow for an opportunity to explore some undiscovered woodlands that call Uttarakhand home,” shares trekking expert Mihir Ketan Sangani.