Uttarakhand to Boost Tourism with 12 New Eco-Tourism Destinations Amidst Forests

• Uttarakhand's Forest Department is developing 12 new eco-tourism destinations to promote sustainable tourism away from crowded hill stations.
• These destinations will transform existing Forest Department rest houses into hubs offering nature trails, bird watching, and jungle safaris.
• Key locations include Timli-Asharodi-Kadwapani (Dehradun), Dewalsari (Mussoorie), Kanasar (Chakrata), Binsar (Almora), Kilbury (Nainital), and Munsyari (Pithoragarh).
• The plan focuses on creating destination clusters, connecting surrounding areas to offer multiple attractions and boost local economies through homestays and handicrafts.
• A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan has discussed the proposal, with official approval expected soon.

Why It Matters: Uttarakhand is set to become a model for eco-tourism, balancing conservation, development, and local employment.