Eco-tourism and Sustainable Development: A Geographical Study of Bastar District

Abstract

  Bastar district is a region of significant historical and cultural importance located in the southern part of Chhattisgarh State, India. The district is rich in dense forests, high hills, waterfalls, caves, and wild animals, contributing to its scenic beauty. Bastar is home to 70% of tribal communities, including the Gond, Maria, Muriya, Bhatra, Halba, and Dhruva communities. Bastar has been a tourist attraction for its rich diversity of flora and fauna. This study explores the impact of ecotourism on the livelihood and well-being of the rural people and the environment in Bastar district, which is home to numerous rare and endangered species and rich in biodiversity and tribal culture. It demonstrates that ecotourism has helped to minimize the local people's excessive reliance on forest resources and that tourism officials should take additional steps to educate and empower locals so that they might get benefit from the development of tourism. Bastar region is an eco-tourism hub that aims to promote personal growth, environmental sustainability, and socially responsible travel. The tourism hub will offer various facilities and services to cater to the needs and interests of the tourists, such as accommodation, food, recreation, education, and adventure.