Ecotourism Development and Prospects in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in South East Asia owing to its cultural, geographical and ecological diversity. Culture, historical, monuments, palaces, forts, heritage sites along with the landscapes and wildlife form the most lasting memory when it comes to touristic impression of Rajasthan. Ecotourism is a form of sustainable tourism within a natural or cultural heritage area where community participation, protection and management of natural resources, culture, indigenous knowledge and practices, environmental education and ethics, as well as economic benefits are fostered and pursued for the enrichment of host community and satisfaction of visitors. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change describes Ecotourism as ‘responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the wellbeing of local people’.