Dehradun: Seeing the increasing number of people interested in bird-watching, Uttarakhand Forest department is set to recognise it as an industry to boost the tourist sector.
Currently, the state forest department is busy assessing the growing popularity of bird watching within the state which already has over 15 bird watching destinations. With the aim of promoting additional sites, the department anticipates that this initiative will invigorate the local tourism economy.
Many countries integrated bird-watching into tourism sector
Bird watching has indeed become a significant industry worldwide, with the United States market valued at around $8 billion annually. Countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands have successfully incorporated bird watching into their tourism sectors, fostering vibrant communities of enthusiasts. This trend highlights the economic potential of bird watching and its appeal to nature lovers globally.
Uttarakhand is home to 268 bird species
Bird watching in India is gaining significant traction, with projections estimating that the current 45,000 bird watchers could grow to 2 crores by 2025. Uttarakhand, home to 268 bird species, is second only to Maharashtra in bird diversity. The state’s varied landscapes provide numerous prime bird-watching spots, including:
Munsiyari-Askot (Pithoragarh)
Pangot-Sattaal-Nainital (Nainital)
Marchula-Mohan-Kumeria (Ramnagar)
Pawalgarh-Kotabagh-Sitabani (Nainital)
Asan-Timli (Dehradun)
Maheshkhan (Nainital)
Chakrata-Koti Kanasar (Dehradun)
Devalsari-Magra (Tehri Garhwal)
Chopta (Rudraprayag)
Agora-Barsu-Dayara (Uttarkashi District)
Awareness through bird festivals
Recognizing the potential of these areas, the Forest Department is working to make bird watching a key part of Uttarakhand’s tourism strategy. This initiative aims to attract more enthusiasts, boost the state’s economy, and promote environmental conservation. In addition to developing infrastructure, the state has hosted bird festivals over the past several years to promote lesser-known destinations and educate locals and tourists about the importance of bird watching. Recently, a three-day bird festival at Binog in Mussoorie Sanctuary from October 18-20 drew participants from across the nation. According to Principal chief conservator of forest (PCCF) Dhananjay Mohan, “Bird-watching has immense potential to draw the tourists towards Uttarakhand. We have seen the people’s enthusiasm during recently held bird festival in Mussoorie.”
