Tamil Nadu State Planning Commission

The State Planning Commission was constituted in Tamil Nadu on 25th May 1971 under the Chairmanship
of the Hon’ble Chief Minister as an Advisory body to make recommendations to the Government on various
matters pertaining to the development of the State. The Chairman of the Commission is assisted by a team
of Members, Consisting of Vice Chairman, Full Time Member & Part Time Members who are experts in
various fields. The Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Planning, Development and Special Initiatives
and the Principal Secretary to Government, Finance Department are the ex-officio members. The Member
Secretary is responsible for administration in the Commission.

The Commission has the following technical divisions:

1. Agricultural Policy and Planning

2. Industries, Power and Transport
3. Land Use
4. Education and Employment
5. Health and Social Welfare
6. District Planning and Rural Development
7. Plan Co-ordination.

Main activities of SPC:

The Major Functions of the State Planning Commission are as follows:

1. Preparation of Five Year and Annual Plans based on the policies and priorities of the Government;

2. Undertake Mid Term review of the Five Year Plan, other special reviews on the Economy and advise the
Government on appropriate modification and restructuring of the schemes;

3. Monitor development indicators that influence the Human Development Index, Gender Development
Index, etc., at a disaggregated level and suggest correctional measures;

4. Undertake special studies as required for formulation and implementation of plan projects and
programmes;

5. Tamil Nadu State Land Use Research Board (TNSLURB) is functioning under the chairmanship of Vice
Chairman, State Planning Commission as a permanent body in the State Planning Commission. This
Board is intended to promote interaction and study in the vital areas of land use. The State Planning
Commission organizes seminars/workshops and undertakes studies.

6. Human Development Reports (HDRs) were prepared for Dindigul, Sivagangai, Tiruvannamalai,
Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, the Nilgiris, Kanyakumari and Dharmapuri districts. The concept of Human
Development has been disseminated to all districts through workshops organized in the concerned
districts. Proposal for preparation of District Human Development Reports (DHDR) for the remaining
districts is under process.

7. State Balanced Growth Fund (SBGF) is operated to bridge the regional imbalances among the districts.

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
S.No Details Page No.

1 Workshop Team 4

2 Workshop Session 5

3 Executive Summary 6

4 Introduction 8

5 Session I – “Eco-Tourism potential in Tamil Nadu Forest 15

Department by Thiru.Limotoshi, I.F.S., Conservator of
Forests (Bio Diversity Conservation), Tamil Nadu.

Session II – “Karnataka State Forest Department share in 31

Promoting the Eco-Tourism in Forest Areas” by Mr.Yuvaraj,
General Manager, Karnataka State.

Session III – “Eco-Tourism Initiatives in Andhra Pradesh” 37

by Thiru P.V. Ramana Reddy, IFS, CCF, Hyderabad

6 Recommendations / Outcomes 43

7 List of Participants 47

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Workshop Team

State Planning Commission Departments

Tmt Santha Sheela Nair, I.A.S., (Retd.)
Vice Chairperson, SPC
Dr. Sugato Dutt, IFS.
Member-Secretary, SPC
Thiru. Ao. Limatoshi, I.F.S.,
Chief Conservator of Forests
(Biodiversity Conservation) and
Member Secretary - Tamil Nadu
Biodiversity Board.

Thiru K. Kumaresan,
Mr.Yuvaraj,
Head of Division, Education and
General Manager,
Employment Division.
Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd.
Thiru A.Ramaiah, (A Govt. of Karnataka Undertaking)
Planning Officer.
P.V. Ramana Reddy, IFS,
Education and Employment Division.
Chief Conservator of Forests,
Thiru S. Boopathy Mohan Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
System Analyst

Thiru M. Paramasivan
Librarian

Dr. S.S. Ravichander,

Technical Assistant,
Education and Employment Division.

K. Ayyachami,
Planning Assistant,
Education and Employment Division.

Tmt. Dharmasamvardhani,
Private Secretary,
Education and Employment Division

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Workshop Session

State Planning Commission Departments

Welcome Address Dr. Sugato Dutt, IFS.,

Member-Secretary,
State Planning Commission

Presidential Address Tmt. Santha Sheela Nair, I.A.S., (Retd.)

Vice Chairperson,
State Planning Commission

Session I – “Eco-Tourism potential in Thiru. Ao. Limatoshi, I.F.S.,

Tamil Nadu Forest Department” by Chief Conservator of Forests (Biodiversity
Conservator of Forests (Bio Diversity Conservation) and Member Secretary
Conservation), Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu Biodiversity Board.

Session II - “Karnataka State Forest Mr.Yuvaraj,

Department share in Promoting the General Manager,
Eco-Tourism in Forest Areas” by Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd.
Jungle Lodges and Resorts ltd, (A Govt. of Karnataka Undertaking)
Karnataka State.

Session III - “Eco-Tourism Initiatives in P.V. Ramana Reddy, IFS,

Andhra Pradesh” by Conservator of Chief Conservator of Forests,
Forests, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Executive Summary
Tamil Nadu has a Forest cover of about
23,625 sq. km, constituting 18.10% of its
geographical area. It comprises of Protected
Areas and Reserved Forests with
enchanting ecotourism assets like
Waterfalls, Rivers, Lakes, Grass Land,
Shola Forest, Hill Station, Western Ghats,
Eastern Ghats, Mangrove Forest, Coral
Reef Island, Sea back Water etc. Existing
potential areas in Tamil Nadu are 10 Wildlife
Sanctuaries, 14 Bird Sanctuaries,5 National
Parks,4 Tiger Reserves,4 Elephant
Reserves,3 Biosphere Reserves,1
Conservation Reserve. They present an
attractive calling to tourist. These areas also
provide a unique opportunity to tourist for a
life changing experiences on perception
about the need to conserve Forest.
The Vision Tamil Nadu – 2023
document targets fast growth in all the
sectors including tourism. It envisages an
investment of Rs. 10,000 cr in tourism and
hospitality sectors through Government and
Private investments by 2023. The foreign
tourist arrivals targeted for 2023 and 2017
is 15 and 7 million tourists respectively from
the present 4 million tourists. Infrastructure
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
for tourism includes development of hotels
and resorts, theme parks, entertainment
complexes, improvements to heritage and
archaeological monuments, development of
places of tourist interest and connectivity
to places of tourist interest. To achieve this,
a new tourism policy is being formulated. It
aims to attract higher spending tourist and
also investments in tourism and hospitality
related infrastructure.
The objectives of eco tourism Policy
of Tamil Nadu is to secure involvement of
local communities without adversely
affecting their cultural ethos, activities and
facilities are developed in consultation with
the communities without transgression into
community’s cultural sovereignty. Main
strategy is to involve the local communities
by way of employment in all tourism related
activities and priority will be given for areas
close to the existing popular destinations
and less known eco tourism spots.
World Bank Report (2006) estimated
that eco-tourism and other ecological
benefits from Joint Forest Management
areas alone in India could yield about $1.7
billion annually by 2020. It further adds,
benefits will be about $6.00 billion for all
forest areas of India. With billions of dollars
in annual sales, eco-tourism is a real
industry that needs to be tapped. The
potential is enormous, when development
of eco-tourism destinations, eco-tourism
assets and eco-tourism services are taken
into account. It will also enhance
employment opportunities related to travel
and tourism. Scope for revenue generation
in eco-tourism is high but our response to
utilize them effectively in an eco-friendly
manner is important. Otherwise it has a
potential to destroy natural and cultural
resources. Generally to generate
substantial revenue in eco-tourism the
number of tourist visiting such areas has to
be large, which means more pressure on
eco system. Our Endeavour should be to
improve quality rather than quantity. Eco-
Tourism at limited level has the potential to
become a major driver of local economies.
Secondly it is said that a State monopoly in
ecotourism is not efficient. However, if
replaced by a more ruthless and efficient
private sector monopoly with short term aim
of profits and to satisfy investors will be
dangerous to ecosystem. With this back
ground, State Planning Commission has
conducted a seminar / Workshop on
“Revenue Generation through
Ecotourism - Potential and prospects
from Forestry Sector in Tamil Nadu” on
22.04.2014 at 11.00 AM in the State
Planning Commission Conference Hall.
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 Introduction
Promotion of sustainable eco-tourism
by integrating facilities at the Hill Stations,
Waterfalls, Forests, Bird Sanctuaries, Wild
Life Sanctuaries and National Parks for the
benefit of tourists. Various packages will be
developed to promote Eco-tourism in the
State on sustainable basis without causing
damage to environment and wild life. While
promoting eco-friendly destinations, the
carrying capacity of the destinations will be
taken in to consideration. The tourist
interpretation centres at each destination
will sensitize the tourists about cleanliness
and eco-friendliness. In eco-sensitive
destinations, green hotels / resorts will be
encouraged. Litter free zones and Waste
management will be the priority to keep the
tourist destinations clean. In all
developmental activities, the local
community will be actively involved to
ensure inclusive development.
Development of tourism in Forest
areas has always been a challenge to
Foresters, since such areas are ecologically
fragile and sensitive where forest dwellers
and tribal resides. Foresters are criticized
for being too restrictive to eco-tourism at
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
the same time civil society organizations
accused them of too liberal. It is critical to
note that such areas are protected at the
cost of local communities for conservation.
Nevertheless wildlife and forest tourism
have become increasingly popular among
the tourist. It gives a chance to the people
to see plants and animals in their natural
habitat and is a source of income to local
people and improves State economy.
Scope and Prospects
Tamil Nadu has a Forest cover of about
23,625 sqkm, constituting 18.10% of its
geographical area. It comprises of
Protected Areas and Reserved Forests with
enchanting ecotourism assets like
Waterfalls, Rivers, Lakes, Grass Land,
Shola Forest, Hill Station, Western Ghats,
Eastern Ghats, Mangrove Forest, Coral
Reef Island, Sea back Water etc. They
present an attractive calling to tourist. These
areas also provide a unique opportunity to
tourist for a life changing experiences on
perception about the need to conserve
Forest.
The State is promoted as “Enchanting
Tamil Nadu” and has several tourist
attractions such as beaches, forests, hill
stations, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries,
pilgrimage and heritage locations as well
as the long and biodiverse coastline. The
Government of Tamil Nadu has its tourist
offices at several key tourist centres
including other state capitals such as
Mumbai, Kolkata, Goa and New Delhi. In
addition, there are tourist information
centres at Hyderabad, Thiruvanan
thapuram, Bengaluru and important railway
stations and airports. The key contributor
to Tamil Nadu’s tourism success is the
development of niche tourism segments.
For example, Tamil Nadu is associated with
three major segments: pilgrimage, heritage
and hill station holidays. The other important
segments are eco-tourism, adventure and
wildlife tourism. The state has a number of
attractions such as a long shoreline with
excellent beaches, temples and
monuments with ancient architecture,
popular hill resorts and sanctuaries, and
United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organizations’ (UNESCO)
declared world heritage sites. The State is
also South India’s gateway to leading
pilgrim towns such as Tirupati, Madurai,
Rameswaram and Tanjore. The following
are some of the key tourist destinations in
Tamil Nadu
 Pilgrim centres: Kancheepuram,
Madurai, Rameswaram, Tanjore,
Srirangam, Chidambaram,
Kanyakumari, Velankanni and
Nagore Durgah
 Hill Stations: Udagamandalam
(Ooty), Kodaikanal, Coonoor,
Yercaud, Yelagiri, Valparai, Javadu
hills, Kolli hills and Kothagiri
 Beaches: Chennai, Mahabalipuram,
Kanyakumari
 Wildlife sanctuaries: Vedanthangal
Water Birds Sanctuary, Point
Calimere Bird Sanctuary, Crocodile
Bank, Indira Gandhi Wildlife
Sanctuary, Guindy National Park,
Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary,
Pichavaram mangrove coast.
Tamil Nadu’s tourism industry is among
the largest in India. Tourism has the
potential to provide high level of local
employment. Tamil Nadu has considerable
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 natural endowments that enable tourism as
an industry to flourish. Attractive segments
include beaches, hill resorts, architecture,
and heritage sites. Vision 2023 gives
significant thrust to the development of this
sector. Given that both Tourism and
Healthcare are thrust areas in the Vision
2023, medical tourism is a natural outcome
for Tamil Nadu. The Vision also envisages
attracting 15 million foreign tourists by the
year 2023. The investment is required for
Infrastructure for tourism includes
development of hotels and resorts, theme
parks, entertainment complexes,
improvements to heritage and
archaeological monuments, development of
places of tourist interest and connectivity
to places of tourist interest. The estimated
total investment in various projects amounts
to Rs. 10,000 crore.
World Bank Report (2006) estimated
that eco-tourism and other ecological
benefits from Joint Forest Management
areas alone in India could yield about $1.7
billion annually by 2020. It further adds,
benefits will be about $6.00 billion for all
forest areas of India. With billions of dollars
10
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
in annual sales, eco-tourism is a real
industry that needs to be tapped. The
potential is enormous, when development
of eco-tourism destinations, eco-tourism
assets and eco-tourism services are taken
into account. It will also enhance
employment opportunities related to travel
and tourism. Scope for revenue generation
in eco-tourism is high but our response to
utilize them effectively in an eco-friendly
manner is important. Otherwise it has a
potential to destroy natural and cultural
resources. Generally to generate
substantial revenue in eco-tourism the
number of tourist visiting such areas has to
be large, which means more pressure on
eco system. Our Endeavour should be to
improve quality rather than quantity. Eco-
Tourism at limited level has the potential to
become a major driver of local economies.
Secondly it is said that a State monopoly in
ecotourism is not efficient. However, if
replaced by a more ruthless and efficient
private sector monopoly with short term aim
of profits and to satisfy investors will be
dangerous to ecosystem.
Eco tourism- term coined by Ceballos
Lascurian in 1983. It is nature-based
travel, Emphasis on conservation education
and development and management of
sustainable tourism product and activity.
World Tourism Organization defines
tourism that involves “travelling to relatively
undisturbed natural areas with specified
objective of studying, admiring and enjoying
the scenery and its wild plants and animals
as well as any existing cultural aspects
(both past and present) found in these
areas” The Eco tourism Society (TES)
defines Eco tourism is “responsible travel
to natural areas that conserves the
environment and sustains the well being of
the local people”
Desirable characteristics of Eco - tourism
 Site/destination development near
existing and known destinations.
 Focus on quality of visitor experience
and level of satisfaction rather than
actual numbers.
 Stipulation of certain standards in
terms of quality and safety.
 Least impact on environment and
local culture.
 Supply driven rather than demand
driven and small group oriented.
 Provide for learning for a visitor.
 Activities and facilities in consultation
with local communities.
 Multi stakeholder partnership and
coordination between agencies.
Strategies of Eco tourism
 Balance between viability and
affordability
 Focus on levels of Carrying capacity
 Stricter conformance to existing
environmental laws
 Technologically efficient systems and
clean development mechanism
 Close and careful monitoring
 Economic benefit to accrue to local
community.
Requirements of Eco Tourism
 Adequate, attractive and easy to
operate physical facilities blending
with nature.
 Locating roads, nature trails,
signage, observation towers,
reception centres, interpretation
centres to enhance visitor
experience.
 Eco techniques for supplementing
facilities – Solar energy, Rain water
harvest, Grey water recycling
Garbage recycling etc.
11
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
  Pumping tourism revenue back into
area management.
Strength of Tamil Nadu for initiating Eco
Tourism ventures
 Diverse forest types with rich
biodiversity in Western and Eastern
Ghats landscapes.
 Large number of national parks,
sanctuaries, bird sanctuaries with
abundant wildlife population. (5 NP,
13 WLS and 14 BS)
 Long coast line with many unique
coastal formations like mangroves,
corals, coastal sand dunes,
backwaters. (1076 km)
 Well developed air and rail
connectivity besides extensive road
network.
Destinations for Eco Tourism
 Beaches, backwaters
 Hill stations, valleys, meadows,
forests
 Waterfalls, water bodies, rivers
 Wildlife sanctuaries, national parks,
safaris, nature trails
 Urban eco parks and Culture
including festivals
12
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
Activities / Products
 Rides- Vehicles, Elephants
 Trekking and Bird watching
 Boat, Coracle rides
 Cycling and mountain biking
 Adventure activities like rock climbing,
hang gliding, river crossing etc
 Bathing and Water sports like river
rafting and angling
 Any other activity that may be
specifically permitted
Eco tourism Policy of Tamil Nadu
 Objective is to secure involvement
of local communities without
adversely affecting their cultural
ethos.
 Activities and facilities are developed
in consultation with the communities
without transgression into
community’s cultural sovereignty.
 Main strategy is to involve the local
communities by way of employment
in all tourism related activities.
 Priority will be given for areas close
to the existing popular destinations
and less known eco tourism spots.
Eco tourism guidelines for PAs
 Announced in June 2011.
 Contains a detailed set of framework
guidelines on selection, planning,
development, implementation and
monitoring of eco tourism in and
around PAs.
 States to develop State specific Eco
tourism strategies and Eco tourism
plans.
 Roles and responsibilities for
different stakeholders- State
Governments, PA management,
tourist facilities/tour operators, local
communities, temple boards and
general public.
 Dos and Don’ts
Investments required
 Development of necessary
infrastructure in selected sites.
 Publicity, Awareness creation,
Interpretation and documentation.
 Capacity Building and skill
development for stakeholders.
 Monitoring and Evaluation of the
Project outputs Administrative Costs.
Expected Outputs
 Tourist destinations and sites will be
developed with the required
infrastructure to initiate and sustain
eco tourism ventures
 Tourism- related activities will be
implemented through LEMCs
comprising of thousands of
households
 Women empowerment will be
catalyzed by promoting Self Help
Groups, to participate in the catering
related activities in the tourist
locations.
 Will boost the livelihoods of the local
communities.
 Forest Department will develop the
required integration and synergy
between the communities and
various other stakeholders to
achieve long-term sustainability of
the programme.
 Enhanced visitor satisfaction, which
would go for developing positive
orientation for forests and wildlife will
accrue.
13
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 14

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
Session-1

The First presentation was Present status

delivered by Thiru.Ao.Limatoshi, I.F.S.,
Chief Conservator of Forests (Biodiversity
Conservation) and Member Secretary-Tamil
Nadu Biodiversity Board. This presentation
was highlighted about the Eco tourism
activities and revenue generation in detail
in Tamil Nadu.
Most of the Eco-tourism assets in Tamil
Nadu are under the control of Forest
Department. Eco-tourism assets may be
broadly classified under two categories.
I. Ex-situ ecotourism assets -
List of approved Zoos under Forest
Department.

Name of the
Sl. No Name of the Zoo District Reserved Forest

1. Arignar Anna Zoological Park Kanchipuram Vandalur

2. Kurumbapatti Zoological Park Salem Kurumbapatti
3. Amirdhi Zoo Vellore Amirdhi
4. Childrens Park Chennai Guindy
5. Trichy Zoo (Establishment stage) Trichy M.R Palayam

They are managed by Zoo Authority of Tamil Nadu (ZAT) with Chief Conservator of
Forests and Director, Arignar Anna Zoological Park as Member Secretary.

15

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Table -1
Number of Visitors in Tamil Nadu
No of visitors
Sl. Name of the Zoo 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14
No
(in lakhs) ( in lakhs) ( in lakhs)
1 Arignar Anna Zoological Park 20,02,545 22,12,131 23,75,053

2 Kurumbapatti Zoological Park 1,18,542 1,25,783 1,48,417

3 Amirdhi zoo 0 114941 1,03,391

4 Childrens Park 11,00,106 9,67,313 8,98,391

5 Trichy Zoo (Estt.Stage) 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total 32,21,193 34,20,168 35,25,252

Table-2
Revenue Generated in Tamil Nadu
Sl. Name of the Revenue realized
No Zoological Park 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14
(in lakhs) (in lakhs) (in lakhs)

1 Arignar Anna Zoological Park 423.17 673.95 747.51

2 Kurumbapatti Zoological Park 15.55 17.54 19.32

3 Amirdhi zoo 0 5.20 9.58
4 Childrens Park 88.42 112.56 151.19
5 Trichy zoo (Estt.Stage) 0.00 0.00 0.00
Total 527.14 899.25 927.60

II. In-situ eco-tourism assets

a. List of destinations identified by Forest Department for promotion of ecotourism
in Protected Area. (Also listed in Eco-tourism Policy of Tamil Nadu)

16

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
Sl. Circle District Division Destination Sites Activities
No. features
1. Mudumalai Nilgiris Mudumalai Western Forests, Wildlife
Tiger Tiger catchment Grass lands, viewing
Reserve reserve Mukurthi Water Falls, landscape
Mukurthi National Park, Rivers, Trekking,
National Park Mukurthi peak, Streams Forest stay,
fishing hut etc., vehicle ride
2. Mudumalai Nilgiris Mudumalai Theppakkadu, Forests, Landscape,
Tiger reserve Tiger reserve Masinagudi, Falls Rivers viewpoints
Moyar Singara, Trekking,
Vazaho- Wildlife
thottam, Sigur viewing,
Nature
camps,
vehicle ride.
3. Anamalai Coimbatore Indira Gandhi Sethumadai – Elephant Trekking,
Tiger Reserve Wildlife Top-slip- camp, Wildlife,
Sanctuary Kozhikamuthi Forests viewing,
and National wildlife
Park interpretation
center, eco
camp.
4. Annamalai Coimbatore Indira Gandhi Forest, Dams, Grass land, Trekking,
Tiger Reserve Wildlife Rivers, Grass Landscape Photography
Sanctuary hills Shekelmudi Discovering Nature camp,
and National Manamboly. and River nature trail
park course, etc., etc.,
5. Trichy Nagapat Nagapattinam Point Calimere Forest, back Bathing,
tinam WL Division sanctuary and water, wildlife safari,
wetland mang-rove Bird
complex watching,
Natural
camp.
6. Virudhu Virudhu Grizzled Shenbaga Forest falls Trekking,
nagar nagar Squirrel WLS thoppu - Bathing,
Alagarkoil - Wildlife,
Mudaliyaroothu viewing,
Forest stay
7. Kalakkadu Tirunelveli Kalakkadu Manimuthar Falls, Trekking,
Mundan and Mundan falls, Karayar forests, wildlife,
thurai Tiger thurai WLS Dam. dam, river viewing,
Reserve Banatheertham bathing,
falls. cultural
Mundanthurai tourism,
Nature camp

17

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 b. List of destinations identified by Forest Department for promotion of ecotourism in
Reserved Forest. (Also listed in “Eco-tourism Policy of Tamil Nadu”)
Sl.
Circle District Division Destination Sites features Activities
No
1. Vellore Vellore Vellore Amirthi/Kottaru Water falls, Trekking
Waterfalls in zoo Boating,
Thellai RF Nature walks,
Bird
watching,
Forest stay
2. Vellore Vellore Tirupattur Swamimalai in Highest Trekking
Mangalam RF point in Nature trial
Elagiri hills,
view tower,
trekking path
3. Vellore Vellore Tirupattur Jalagamparai Water falls Trekking,
falls in fort hills Boating
of Elagiri Cultural
tourism.
4. Vellore Tiruvanna Tiruvanna Javadhu Hills - Hill station, Trekking,
malai malai – Midhi in valleys, nature trial,
Patrakkadu RF rivers forest stay.
5. Villupuram Villupuram Kallakurichi Kariyalur Central Jungle Coracle ride,
Nursery Stream Stream Trekking
6. Villupuram Cuddalore Villupuram Pichavaram Mangroves Boat ride,
mangroves back waters Bird
watching,
Board walk,
Eco camps

18

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
7. Dharmapuri Dharmapuri Dharmapuri Hogenakkal Waterfalls, Bathing,
river, coracle ride,
Riverine trekking,
forest eco
awareness
camp.

8. Salem Salem Salem Yercaud Hills station Trekking,

Wildlife,
viewing, bird
watching,
nature camps.

9. Erode Namakkal Namakkal Kolli Hills Lake, Forest, Boating,

Waterfalls, Bathing,
temple Trekking,
Cultural
tourism,
Nature camps

10 Coimbatore Coimbatore Coimbatore Pillur Dam River, Back Coracle ride,

water, Bathing,
Forest Trekking

11 Coimbatore Nilgiris Nilgiris Anaikatty Forest Trekking,

North Forest Wildlife
viewing,
Forest stay,
Nature camps

19

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 12 Coimbatore Nilgiris Nilgiris Thengumarahada Forest, River Trekking,
North Kodanad and Coracle ride,
Kallampalayam eco
awareness
camp,
Wildlife
viewing,
view point

13 Coimbatore Nilgirils Nilgiris Avalanchi – Shola Trekking

South Koleri batta - forests, vehicle ride
Bhavaniamman temple, eco-camps,
Koil and landscape cultural
Korakundah tourism

14 Coimbatore Nilgiris Nilgiris Penstock near Forest, land Trekking

South Kundha scape Nature
camps,
view points

15 Dindigul Dindigul Kodaikka Gundar falls Falls, shola Landscape,

nal forests, falls view,
Grass lands Trekking
16 Madurai Theni Theni Suruli falls Forests falls Bathing,
Trekking,
Bird watching

17 Tirunelveli Tirunelveli Tirunelveli Courtallam, Forests falls, Bathing,

Mekkarai MPCA Trekking,
Gundar Dam herbal
tourism

18 Tirunelveli Kanyakumari Kanyakumari Maruthuva River Herbal

malai, Forests, tourism,
Kannimaradai falls Nature camp,
falls Bathing,
wildlife
viewing.

20

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Table-3
Number of Visitors in Tamil Nadu

Sl. Destination No of Visitors

No 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

1 Mudumalai Tiger Reserve,

Udhagamandalam 204514 110012 145059

2 Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Pollachi 673535 369916 583171

3 Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger

Reserve, Tirunelveli 244217 77064 199148

4 Point Calimere Sanctuary,

Nagapattinam 24733 28620 32265

5 Grizzled Squirrel Wild Life

Sanctuary, Srivilliputhur 261 501 382

6 Vedanthangal Bird Sancturary, 224576 212515 159361

7 Sathyamanagalam Tiger
Reserve, Erode 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total 13,71,836 7,98,628 11,19,386

21

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Table-4
Revenue Generated in Tamil Nadu

Rupees
Sl.
Destination 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14
No.
(In lakhs) (In lakhs) (In lakhs)

1 Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, 30.68 105.42 237.76

Udhagamandalam

2 Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Pollachi 1.78 103.30 191.11

3 Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve,

Tirunelveli 3.61 14.73 36.04

4 Point Calimere Sanctuary,

Nagapattinam 5.23 4.60 5.24

5 Grizzled Squirrel Wild Life Sanctuary,

Srivilliputhur 0.04 0.07 0.06

6 Vedanthangal Bird Sancturary, 0.00 11.16 8.56

7 Sathyamanagalanr Tiger Reserve,

Erode 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total 41.34 239.28 478.77

22

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Table-5
Number of Visitors and Revenue realized
Comparision : Exsitu and Insitu
Year

Sl.No. Particulars 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

(in lakhs) (in lakhs) (in lakhs)

1 Ex-situ Visitors 32.21 34.20 35.25

Revenue 527.14 899.29 927.60

2 In-situ Visitors 13.72 7.99 11.19

Total Revenue 41.34 239.28 478.77

Important aspects in Eco-Tourism

A) Policy, Guidelines and Legal Frame Work

1) National tourism policy and guideline (1998)

 Recognizes the importance of wildlife areas as elements of eco-tourism.

 Accepts the role of indigenous and local communities in eco-tourism.

 An environmental pledge was formulated.

2. National Tourism Policy 2002

 Gave importance to eco-tourism

 Focus on improvement of Tourist facilities.

 Promotion of Tiger and Elephant as brand for wildlife tourism.

23

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 3. Eco-Tourism Policy of Tamil Nadu
 Eco-Tourism Policy Provides strategic
direction to engage local communities,
tourists, forest officials, Government
and other stakeholders in promoting
effective eco tourism activities in the
State resulting in conservation and
preservation of resources.
 The Eco-Tourism Policy outlines
specific objectives, guiding principles,
detailed strategies and a systematic
process for assessment.
 Eco-tourism destinations in Tamil Nadu
were Specified for development in an
eco-friendly manner.
4. National Wildlife Action Plan (2002
2016)
 Regulated and low impact is vital as it
helps win public support for Wildlife
Conservation.
 Preparation of Tourism Management
Plan for each Protected Area.
 Eco-Tourism to involve and benefit
local Communities.
5. Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972
 Permits tourism in Protected Areas
which should be according to site
specific Management Plan approved
by the Principal Chief Conservator of
Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden.
24
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
6. Forest (Conservation) Act 1980
 Prohibits Conversion of Forest land for
non-Forestry purpose except with the
approval of Government of India and
Honorable Supreme Court monitored
Central Empowered Committee.
 Eco-tourism is promoted in Forest
areas since they support conservation.
However Eco-Tourism activities should
be in an ecological and environment
friendly manner as per approved
working plan.
7. Hon’ble Supreme Court of India on
Eco-Tourism in Tiger Reserves
 Hon’ble Supreme Court of India lifting
its interim ban on 16th October 2012,
tourism activities in the Core Tiger
Reserve area added.
 We make it clear that we have not held
the guidelines either intra-vires
(constitutionally valid) or ultra-vires
(unconstitutional).
 The Apex Court said the tourism
activities in the Tiger Reserve areas
should be strictly in accordance with
the notification issued by National Tiger
Conservation Authority on 15th October
2012.
 The court also directed the respective
State Government to prepare the Tiger
Conservation Plan within six months
from today and submit the same to the
National Tiger Conservation Authority.
8) Normative standard for Tourism
activities and Project Tiger
Guidelines 2012
 State Government should notify State
level Tourism and Eco-tourism strategy.
 State level steering committee shall
review its implementation.
 Revenue from eco-tourism in Tiger
Reserve shall not go to the State
Exchequer.
 Involvement of the Local People.
 Local advisory committee (LAC) should
be constituted by the State
Government.
 Each Tiger Reserve to prepare site
specific “Tourism Plan” and should be
approved by LAC.
B) Well Defined Area of Operation and
Responsibilities.
1) Protected areas and Reserved Forest
Community based eco-tourism sites
identified and selected for promotion of eco-
tourism in protected areas and Reserved
Forest by the Forest Department in Tamil
Nadu should be promoted and popularized.
2) Opening up of certain Forest areas
Certain forest areas which were re-
afforested from abandoned mining sites
and degraded forest areas should be
develop as world class eco-awareness,
nature education, interpretation centres.
These centre’s should be develop near
urban areas like in Chennai, Coimbatore,
Trichy and Madurai. Forestry Extension
Centres can also be upgraded to eco-
awareness and interpretation centres.
These centres should also provide an
ambient of relaxation for the tourist and
visitor’s to de-stress, improve mental
health, understand and admire nature. eg:-
Nanmangalam RF (Kanchipuram Division)
an abundant mining site comprising mostly
vegetation of artificially regenerated is an
excellent location for the people of Chennai.
3) Opening of certain areas outside
Forest
Abandoned or unutilized godown,
nursery sites and Forest rest house outside
forest areas should be developed as eco-
camping site, or nature interpretation and
education centre, resting place,
accommodation facilities, etc. eg:- Alikulli
25
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 rest House (Tiruvallur Division) located
outside forest area unutilized, should be
developed as tourist facilities for eco-
camping or camping site for trekkers.
Students, eco-clubs, Nature lovers, etc. The
site is adjoining to Poondi reservoir, Alikulli
RF, successful red sanders plantation (40
years old) and Paleolithic age Giudium
caves located in Pulikundrum R F. It is an
excellent location for the people of Chennai
to enjoy and admire nature. Similar areas
are available in all the Forest Divisions in
Tamil Nadu.
4) Opening of certain areas in Forest
corporations
There are three forest corporations in
Tami Nadu
1) Arasu Rubber Corporation (ARC)
2) Tamil Nadu Tea Plantation
Corporation (TANTEA)
3) Tamil Nadu Forest Plantation
Corporation (TAFCORN)
These corporations are located near
important Eco-Tourism destinations. Hence,
potential and vacant forest areas under their
control can be developed for eco-tourism
purpose. In fact Tea gardens, Rubber
plantations, factories and their rest houses
are of tourist attractions.
26
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
C. Establishment of “Eco-Tourism
promotion, awareness and
marketing centers”
1) Many people feel, they have a right to
enjoy nature and wildlife for
entertainment. In the process, many
tourist with no orientation on eco-
awareness and nature interpretation,
have little interest in nature, visit forest
for entertainment and thrill. Resultant
noisy and screaming tourist wearing
colorful dresses roam in the forest
causing irritation to wild animal,
harassing animal resulting sometimes
even to Man-Animal Conflicts and
polluting environment leading to chaos
and damaging ecosystem. Therefore
to enhance awareness about eco-
tourism a world class eco-awareness,
nature education, eco-interpretation
and nature recreation centre should be
established in Chennai, Coimbatore,
Trichy and Madurai. The reason is most
of the tourist both international and
national passes through these places
to visit wilderness areas of Tamil
Nadu.Exposure to such centre will
ensure tourist who are interested in
nature, wildlife and forest will visit
wilderness areas, casual tourist can be
discouraged.
2) These centers can provide training to
stake holders on technical matter about
eco-tourism, biodiversity, flora and
fauna, environmental and forest law,
guidelines and eco-tourism policy by
the Forest Extension wing.
3. Educative and awareness programme
on environmental and Forest Law,
Wildlife Protection Act, eco-tourism
policy, Guidelines, waste management,
risk management to officials of line
departments, tourist, local
communities, school and college
student can be promoted.
D. Development and Customization of
Eco -Tourism Products.
1) Development of eco-tourism
activities according to different
target group.
a) School and College student
b) Family and Senior Citizen
c) Young Professional
d) Nature lover and Researchers
e) Foreign Tourist
f) Natural and Wildlife Photographer.
2) Eco-tourism activities that can be
promoted
a. Activities in Forest
1) Trekking and Cycling
2) Wildlife and Nature Photography
3) A walk to feel scenic beauty of
nature and landscape
4) Bird watching & Butterfly watching
and chasing
6) Nature and Biodiversity education
7) Exploring caves & Learning herbal
and medicinal plants
8) Exploring hills and Rock Climbing
9) Eco-Camping
b. Activities in Coastal areas
1) Exploring Mangrove Forest
2) Exploring Coral reef and sea World
3) Motor boat riding
4) Para sailing and Scuba diving
5) Water Skiing and Wind surfing and
Kite surfing
6) Board surfing and Snorkelling
c. Educative activities
1) Nature interpretation and awareness
camp
2) Wildlife educative camp
3) Bio-diversity camp
4) Exploration of western Ghats by
trekking
5) Exploration of eastern Ghats by
trekking
6) Exploration of ocean world
7) Exploration of different eco-system
27
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 d. Activities in river and waterfall:
1) Waterfall bath
2) River Rafting and Kayaking
3) River bugging and Angling
e. Adventure sports activities on land
1) Rock climbing
2) High rope courses
3) Zip lining and Mountain boarding
4) Grass boarding and Zorbing
f. Adventure sports activities in the
sky
1) Paragliding
2) Hang gliding
3) Power kiting
g. Activities in the Village
Participation in cultural, social work and
traditional events, enjoying local cuisine and
cultural show, folk tales and story telling
competition, participation in Rural and
traditional sports event.
3. Eco-tourism services
Success of eco-tourism depends on
the quality of services it provides to
consumers. Services like
a) Quality of eco tour guides
28
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
b) Marketing and Publicity
c) Transportation arrangement
d) Accommodation facilities
e) Cleanliness and hygiene
f) Catering and Hospitality
g) Quality of nature interpretation and
awareness
h) Quality of eco-tourism package
i) Safety
E) Operation of Eco-Tourism within
Carrying Capacity
Mushrooming of tourist facilities around
most forest areas have lead to feeding on
the resources that would have been
available to wildlife. This has lead to
disturbance to fragile eco-system. There is
exploitation and degradation of natural
resources, generation of garbage, sewage
and pollution of all kinds.
F) Joint Forest Management Committee
(JFMC):
Economic benefits from eco-tourism
are seriously questioned as most of the
profits are made by private entrepreneurs
or largely going to State exchequer, not to
local communities who were relocated from
Wildlife areas. Active participation of the
JFMC members in Eco-Tourism activities
will dispel such criticism.
 Table-6
No of Joint Forest Management Committees

Sl. No Particulars No of Villages No of Members

1. Joint Forest Management 1,170 3,20,677

Committee (NAP)

2. Village Forest Committee (TAP) 2,317 6,92,754

3. Eco Development a. GOMBRT 248 77,000

Committee
b. KMTR 228 35,556

Total 3,963 11,25,987

G) Change in Attitude and Organization Set up - Better Co-ordination

Better co-ordination among all the stakeholders especially co-ordination between Forest
Department who controls eco-tourism assets and Tourism Department who has expertise
in hospitality, marketing and service should be strengthened. Both are major players for
successful promotion of eco-tourism in the State.

2) Establishment of Tamil Nadu Eco-Tourism Board or Authority under Forest

Department

Presently there is no separate eco-tourism wing in Forest Department. Therefore in

order to organize, direct and ensure an effective implementation and management of eco-
tourism objectives and principles in the State, a separate eco- tourism Board or an Authority
should be established. The Board should be exclusively for facilitation and promotion of
eco-tourism in Forest Department to manage In-situ ecotourism like Zoo Authority of Tamil
Nadu (ZAT) who manages Ex-situ ecotourism.

29

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 30

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
Session II
The second presentation was
delivered by Mr.Yuvaraj, General
Manager, Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd.
(A Govt. of Karnataka Undertaking. This
presentation was highlighted about the
Karnataka State Forest Department share
in promoting the eco-tourism in forest areas.
Karnataka scenario in Currently 5 Tiger
Reserves , Tourism allowed in all , Tourism
permitted only in 10% to 15% of the PA ,
Permitted number vehicles < carrying
capacity , Tourist vehicle in the forest for <
6 hrs/day , Only Govt. vehicles permitted ,
Naturalists accompany guests , Route /
zone system followed and High-end
photographers – extra charges.
Set up in 1980 as the state’s wildlife
and eco tourism initiative as a Pvt. Ltd.
Company by M/s Tiger Tops Pvt. Ltd. M/s
Tiger Tops Pvt. Ltd. Withdrew in the year
1987 by selling their entire share to Govt.
of Karnataka. Jungle Lodges and Resorts
Ltd is responsible for ecotourism with 17
properties. They are, Bannerghatta Nature
Camp, Bandipur Safari Lodge,
Bheemeshwari N & A Camp, Bhimgad
Adventure Camp, Belgaum, Black Buck
Resort, Bidar ,Devbagh Beach Resort,
Dubare Elephant Camp, Galibore Nature
& Adventure Camp, Kabini River Lodge,
Kali Adventure Camp, Dandeli , K.Gudi
Wilderness Camp, BRT, Old Magazine
House, Ganeshgudi , Om Beach Resort,
Gokarna , Phalguni River Lodge,
Mangalore, River Tern Lodge, Bhadra ,
Sharavati adventure Camp, Jog, Sloth Bear
Resort, Hampi and leased properties are
Sadashivgad , Hotel Metropole, KRS Hotel.
The wildlife destinations at Kabini, K.Gudi,
Bandipur, Bhadra, Sloth Bear and
Blackbuck. The Beach destinations at
Devbagh, Om Beach and Sadashivghad.
The Adventure destinations at Kali,
Ganeshgudi, Sharavathi and
Bheemeshwari. The Nature destinations at
Bannerghatta, Dubare, Galibore and Old
Magazine House. The Heritage destinations
at Metropole and KRS Brindavan. The
philosophy of the Jungle lodges are
Sensitization to Diversity in Nature , Bring
people closer to nature , Create
ambassadors for Conservation , Bring in
ecological sensitivity , Support local
communities and Support Forest
Department.
31
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 Chart - 1

This Jungle lodges and Resorts offering well-furnished, eco-sensitive living quarters
(tented cottages/ log huts), excellent cuisine and outdoor activities. Further he explained
the accommodations details for rooms, cottages, tented cottages and maharaja cottages
and charges for per head and groups for Indian and foreigner etc., The objectives of the
Departments are promote eco-tourism, wildlife tourism Consist of Wildlife Safari, Boat Safari,
Coracle Rides, Elephant Interactions Bird Watching, Adventure Tourism, and various outdoor
activities like Trekking, Camping, Rafting, Kayaking, Burma Loops and Zip-line etc., that
are non-consumptive components of eco-tourism and in general help in environment
conservation. The well defined motto of the Department is sensitization to Diversity in
Nature Bring people closer to nature Create ambassadors for Conservation Bring in
ecological sensitivity Support local communities Support Forest Department. Further the
presentation was dealt about Ecotourism Activities, features of Jungle lodges and
Community Development and other initiatives.

32

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Table-7

A Performance overview

Sl. No. Year Occupancy % Turnover (in crores)

1 2007-08 75285 61 21.43

2 2008-09 79331 66 25.98

3 2009-10 74711 60 27.85

4 2010-11 81088 62 32.99

5 2011-12 86622 56 42.68

6 2012-13 73535 44 40.93

7 2013-14 74199 43 42.29

33

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Table - 8
Jungle Lodges & Resorts Limited
Occupancy Performance for the year 2012-13

Occupancy Performance 2011-2012 & 2012-13

Sl. Name of the Property Acc Capacity Achieved %
No.
2011-12 2012-13 2011-12 2012-13 2011-12 2012-13

1. Kabini River Lodge 30 21468 21900 20978 15838 98 72

2. Bheemeshwari N & A Camp 19 13908 13870 10180 8199 73 59

3 Cauvery Fishing Camp (G) 11 8052 7062 4869 2756 60 39

4 Cauvery Fishing Camp (D) 0 3680 0 670 0 18 0

5 B.R.T Camp K .Gudi 10 7320 7300 5180 4006 71 55

6 Kali Adventure Camp 23/5 17122 18704 10388 8867 61 47

7 Devbagh Beach Resort 18/4 14192 14234 6807 7042 48 49

8 Bannerghatta Nature Camp 10 7320 7300 5035 4814 69 66

9 Bandipur Safari Lodge 20 14640 14600 10332 7485 71 51

10 River Tern Lodge 22 14640 16060 6527 5882 45 37

11 Dubare Elephant Camp 17 10762 12410 5440 4884 51 39

12 Pilikula Nisarghadham 8 5856 5840 672 673 11 12

13 Sloth Bear Resort 20 10980 14600 1665 1285 15 9

14 Blackbuck Resort 17 10980 12410 1333 1804 12 15

Total 160920 166290 90076 73535 56 44

34

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Chart - 2

Ecotourism Activities Features of the Jungle Lodges

1. Wildlife tourism (safaris, birdwatching,  A sensitive approach, well planned and
etc.)
developed camps.
2. River Activities (water sports, rafting)
 Exotic natural locations, Trained
3. Adventure tourism (parasailing) Naturalists.
4. Sport Fishing (Angling, Joy Fishing)  Exciting & Safe outdoor activities,
5. Wellness Tourism (Ayurveda) Contribution to Conservation

6. Experiential wilderness training  Green practices.

35

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 Community involvement and other
initiatives
 Employment of local people in the
resorts.
 Purchase of perishables from local
community.
 Sale of locally produced products at the
resorts and Support to NGOs.
Awards
The following awards have been
received by jungle lodges and Resorts Ltd
for outstanding Services / Performances.
 Kabini River Lodge, Karapura was
rated by Tatler’s Travel Guide as one
of the top wildlife resorts in the world
(1995)
 Awarded “The Best Eco-tourism
Organization” by the Ministry of
Tourism, Govt. of India (1997-98)
 Kabini River Lodge was adjudged as
the ‘Site with the Best Eco-tourism
Practices’ by CNBC AWAAZ.
 Chief Minister’s Ratna Award 2010.

36

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
Session III
P.V. Ramana Reddy, IFS, CCF,
Hyderabad, Former Executive Director,
APTD explained the Eco-tourism in Andhra
Pradesh. According to the (WTO): “tourism
that involves traveling to relatively
undisturbed natural areas with the specified
object of studying, admiring and enjoying
the scenery and its wild plants and animals,
Chart - 3
as well as any existing cultural aspects
(both of the past or the present) found in
these areas” is defined as Eco-tourism.
Eco-tourism is distinguished from mass
tourism or resort tourism by having a lower
impact on the environment and by requiring
less infrastructure development.
37
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 Policy Guidelines for Ecotourism in
India, 1998
 Involvement of local community leading
to overall economic development of the
area.
 Identification & minimization of likely
conflicts between resource use for
tourism and livelihood of local
inhabitants.
 Compatibility of tourism development
with the environment and socio-cultural
characteristics of the local community.
 Integrated land-use plan and
commensurate expansion of public
services.
The National Tourism Policy, 2002:
 Proposes Beach and Coastal Tourism
Resort products based on more flexible
tourism development approach in the
coastal zone.
 Proposes Active development of
Village Tourism especially the areas
with rich cultural heritage.
 Identifies the potential of Adventure
Tourism in the country with mighty
38
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
rivers, lofty mountains and unique
landscape.
 Identifies the ‘Bio-diversity’ of India and
proposes to encourage the ‘Tour
Operators’ to promote Ecotourism with
involvement of ‘Local Community’.
National Tourism Policy, 2002
 “… The wildlife sanctuaries and NP
need to be integrated as an integral part
of the Indian tourism product… the
quality of tourist facilities available at
the parks should be enhanced, improve
visitor information/interpretation.
 “India is a region of the world’s greatest
bio-diversity, with a variety of unique
natural locales and is therefore, a
perfect candidate for eco-tourism”.
Eco - Tourism Initiatives in – Andhra
Pradesh
 AP Tourism Development Corporation
has established full fledged ‘Eco-
Tourism wing’ in 2002.
 For Integrating concept planning,
creation and provision of services in
 Eco-Tourism Sector in Andhra  Facilities - Wooden Cottages, Log Huts,
Pradesh. Dormitory accommodation.

Policy Guidelines for Ecotourism in  Catering facilities provided.

India, 1998 defines the following as Eco-
 Trekking and bird watching facilities
tourism Resources:
provided by trained guides.
 Biosphere Reserves,
 Tribal dance ‘DIMSA’ and tribal games
 Mangroves,
‘ARCHERY’.
 Coral Reefs,
 Base for tribal village tourism & tribal
 Deserts,
cuisine.
 Mountains and Forests,
 Flora and Fauna, II. Nature’s Wonders
 Seas, Lakes and Rivers
Following facilities are available in
 Caves
Nature’s Wonders.
The important stakeholders of
1. Belum Caves - Features
Ecotourism industry as identified by the
Policy Guidelines are:  Longest underground cave system in
South India – about 3.5 km. long.2 km.
 Government, Developers/Operators/
of the area has been made accessible
Suppliers, Visitors, Destination
Population/ Host Community, Non- for public viewing. Beautiful stalactite

Governmental Organizations/ Scientific and stalagmite formations with a

& Research Institutions. breathtaking view. Underground water
springs and streams developed. Being
I. Wilderness Camping
integrated as the focal point of Cave
Following facilities are available in
systems of Kurnool
Wilderness Camping.

39

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 2. Borra Caves - Features
 90 Km. from Visakhapatnam. Million
years old stalactite and stalagmite.
Crystal white calcium stones can be
seen in various forms. 16 Tribal guides
engaged from locals.
 Facilities: Illumination and pathways,
Catering facilities, Electronic gate entry,
Accommodation facilities, Landscaping
& Visitor amenities like Clock rooms,
Wash rooms & Children play area and
Guide Service.
3. Durgam Cheruvu - Features
 Idyllic lake situated in Hyderabad –
near to Hitech City, Being in concealed,
picturesque location also called ‘The
Secret Lake’, the lake spreads over an
area of 63 acres, Hills of interesting
rocky formations and pockets of huge
rock out crops.
 Facilities - Conservation oriented –
rocks and lake protected from
encroachments, mining and damages,
Rock illumination, Angling and water
sports. Wilderness landscaping of the
40
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
rocky terrain surrounding the lake.
Ethnic food courts and Amphi-theatre.
Pulicat Lake - Features
 Located near Nellore- 50 Km. from
Chennai, Famous for its unique
ecology and birds like Flamingos,
Pelicans and Painted Storks.
 Facilities- Conservation oriented
tourism. Accommodation, catering
being provided outside the lake area
at ‘Tada’. Battery operated boating
facilities introduced, Pulicat avifauna
interpretation centre developed.
III. Adventure Sports
 Rapelling - Facilities available at
Horsley Hills in Chittor District and
Bhongiri in Nalgonda District, Also
available at Paladhara and
Panchadhara waterfalls ,Feasibility in
Araku Valley & Talakona area.
 Trekking - Introduced in Srisailam and
Araku Valley, Trekking routes to suit
different time frames. Mapping of
different trekking routes, Provision of
 necessary equipment. Trained Local
guides.
 Parasailing - Introduced at Hussain
Sagar Lake (Hyderabad) and
Vijayawada (Bhavani Island), acquired
parasailing speed boats.
 Ballooning -‘Lighter than Air ’
technology being used – Helium based
Balloon at Durgam Cheruvu in
Hyderabad.
 Angling - Idle spot for angling at
Durgam Cheruvu and other lakes,
angling equipment like fishing rods are
available on hire.
 Rope Way at Srisailam - An eco-
friendly tourism initiative which also is
a good revenue generating model.
 River Cruise on Godavari & Krishna
Rivers.
 Village-Tourism, Godavari Districts-
Features
Resorts amidst lush green paddy
fields, coconut grooves and Godavari back
waters developed, Rich cultural heritage of
coastal Andhra highlighted. Festivals,
cuisine and customs of the area introduced
to give local ethnic experience to the
visitors.
Ten Commandents of Eco Tourism
 Respect frailty of earth
 Leave only foot prints
 Educate yourself about customs &
activities
 Respect privacy and dignity of others
 Do not buy products from endangered
plants or animals
 Always follow designated tracks
 Support conservation-oriented
programmes
 Utilize only environmental sound
transportation
 Patronize agencies with strong
principles of conservation
 Travel and stay with minimum
requirements
Understand the fragility of Eco system
… Take only memories, Quartize
formations at Orvakallu. Local community
involvement … In step with tribals, Tribal
dance at Ettipotala,
41
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 Constraints for Eco-tourism
 Policy Constraints- ‘Ambiguous’ and
‘Contradicting’
 ‘National Tourism Policy, 2002’
identifies NP and WLS and Bio-
diversity areas as unique resources for
 The AP Scheduled Areas Land
eco-tourism whereas ‘National Wildlife
Action Plan, 2002’, ‘Forest
Conservation Act, 1980’ and ‘Wildlife
Protection Act, 1972’ are highly
conservative.
 ‘National Tourism Policy, 2002’
proposes for ‘sustainable beach and
coastal tourism’ to be developed on a
more flexible approach whereas the
Coastal Regulation Act Notification,
1991’ is inflexible.
Transfer Regulations, 1959 prohibits
transfer of immovable properties to
non-tribal persons. Eco-tourism
development potential in tribal areas
not utilized to the optimum level.

42

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
Recommendations / Outcomes
• Forest Department to ensure that
the entire legal framework,
relevant Acts & Provisions, present
Policies and Guidelines are
complied with and Creation of
awareness on this subject to all
the stakeholders.
• Eco-tourism policy may be created
by forming a special committee
with related Departments such as
tourism forest Hindu regions and
other realized Departments to
enhance the income of the forest
Department and indirectly
promoting the social statues of the
eco-tourism well Known and lesion
known tourism places.
• The forest Departments may take
initiatives in up scaling eco-
tourism spots similarly or which
is more relevant our forest areas
such as high lands, low lands and
available water bodies.
• The seashore areas/ inland water
bodies, bird and wild life
sanctuaries may be utilized with
eco-tourism products which are
best practice in India and
international
• It is suggested that Eco Tourism
has a lot of potential and prospects
to generate revenue in forestry
sector in Tamil Nadu. However
care and sensitivity need to be
exercised so that the goals of
sustainable management are not
lost sight of.
• The responsibilities should be
fixed between forest and other
Departments. In this regard, a
Board or an Authority should
initiate, organize and facilitate for
a fruitful result and all sided
development of forest
Department.
• Many tourists with no orientation
on eco-awareness and nature
interpretation, have little interest
43
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 in nature, visit forest for Citizen, Nature lover and
entertainment and thrill. Resultant Researchers, Foreign Tourist
noisy and screaming tourist Natural and Wildlife Photographer.
wearing colorful dresses roam in Eco-tourism activities that can be
the forest causing irritation to wild promoted in Coastal areas,
animal, harassing animal resulting Educative activities, Activities in
sometimes even to Man-Animal river and waterfall, Adventure
Conflicts and polluting sports activities on land,
environment leading to chaos and Adventure sports activities in the
damaging ecosystem. Therefore sky, Eco-tourism services, like
it is essential to enhance Quality of eco tour guides,
awareness about eco-tourism Marketing Publicity, Transportation
a world class eco-awareness, arrangement, Accommodation
nature education, eco- facilities, Cleanliness and hygiene
interpretation and nature and Catering etc., Responsibilities
recreation centre should be should be clearly assigned to
established in Chennai, stakeholders and Park manager
Coimbatore, Trichy and should be clear and operates within
Madurai. carrying capacity.

• Development and Customization • Presently there is no separate

of Eco-Tourism Products like
Development of eco-tourism
activities according to different
target group to School and College
student, Family and Senior
eco-tourism wing in Forest
Department. Therefore in order to
organize, direct and ensure an
effective implementation and
management of eco-tourism

44

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
objectives and principles in the
State, a separate eco-tourism
Board or an Authority should be
established for effective utilization
and management of resources for
eco-tourism in order to achieve
economic and livelihood
development of the State.
• Engagement of Joint Forest
Management Committee (JFMC),
Village Forest Committee (TAP)
and Eco Development Committee
(EDC) members in Eco-Tourism
activities and services need to be
streamed line and operational zed
through Self Help Groups.
45
State Planning Commission,
Tamil Nadu
 46

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 List of participants

S.No. Name and Designation

1. Tmt. Santha Sheela Nair, I.A.S.,(Retd.),

Vice-Chairman, State Planning Commission,
Chennai – 5.
2. Thiru S. Krishnan, I.A.S.,
Principal Secretary to Government,Planning,
Development and Special Initiatives Department,
Secretariat, Chennai – 600 009.
3. Dr. Sugato Dutt, I.F.S.,
Member-Secretary (i/c), State Planning Commission,
Chepauk, Chennai – 5.
4. Thiru Lakshmi Narayan, IFS, PCCF & CWLW,
Department of Forest, Chennai -15
5. Tmt. K.Geethanjali, IFS,
Wildlife warden, Chennai.
6. Mr. M.Yuvaraj,
Asst. General Manager,
Jungle lodges and Resorts Ltd, Karnataka State
7. Thiru.Limatoshi, IFS, CCF (F),
Saidapet, Chennai - 15.
8. Thiru Sanjay.K.Srivastawa, IFS
Department of Forest, Chennai-15
9. Thiru.V.Kadal,
Deputy Secretary to Govt., (Tourism),
Tourism and Culture Department, Chennai-9.
10 Dr. S.Bakthavachalam,
Additional Director, Tourism Department,
Chennai-2.

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State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu
 11. Thiru. M.Kavitha,
Additional Commissioner H.R.& C.E Department,
Chennai-34.
12. Dr. S.Vasanthi Commissioner (i/c)
Department of Archeology,
Egmore, Chennai-8.
13. Thiru. A.Chandirasekaran
AO/ADB work/ Tourism Department,
Chennai-5.
14. Thiru. T.Thanga Tamil Arasan
Tamil Nadu Bio-Diversity Board, Tamil Nadu,
Chennai.
15. Mr. M.S. Ashou Deen
Archaeological chemistry, Department of Archaeology,
Chennai.
16. M.Ganamani,
Civil Engineer, Department of Tourism (ADB Project)
17. Thiru. N. Prabaharan,
General Manager, Department of Tourism,
Chennai - 2.
18. Thiru. M.P. Pari,
Accounts Officer, ADB Project,
Dept of Tourism, Chennai - 2.
19. Thiru. A.Venugopal,
Asst.Director, Department of Tourism,
Chennai - 2.
20 Thiru. G.Kamarajan,
Asst.Director, Department of Tourism,
Chennai - 2.

48

State Planning Commission,

Tamil Nadu