The Uttarakhand tourism department will transform 29 villages into trekking clusters. Moving forward, here’s how it will impact your trekking experience in the state. By Kumar Shree
The Uttarakhand tourism department has marked 29 villages near popular trekking routes to transform them into trekking clusters under the Trekking Traction Homestay Scheme. The move aims to provide livelihood opportunities to locals, and at the same time, it will also enhance trekking experience for tourists.
Picture living close to your trekking route amid the local population while experiencing indigenous culture and cuisine! We bet, now all the trekkers are taking notes!
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As reported by Hindustan Times, Satpal Maharaj, the State Tourism Minister said, “Through this aid, the state government is trying to empower the local people, so that the rural economy can be strengthened. This plan will prove to be effective in preventing migration and making rural areas self-sufficient through tourism.”
The tourism department has marked 29 villages in Uttarkashi, Bageshwar, Pithoragarh and Chamoli districts. Under the Trekking Traction Homestay Scheme, the government will provide financial assistant of INR 60,000 to locals who have the space and are willing to develop new rooms in their houses to offer homestay options to tourists. Apart from this, the government will also provide an additional sum of INR 25,000 for construction of toilets along with these rooms. One individual can avail this assistance for a maximum of six rooms and washrooms.
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The government has also chosen eight beneficiaries from Agora and Dasna villages in Uttarkashi district. The villages fall on the Dodital trek route. The secretary of tourism has also instructed renovation of old bungalows of the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam. The renovation work will start after seeking permission from the state’s forest department.
Well, it seems like our next trekking trip in Uttarakhand is going to be a whole new experience. We cannot keep calm!
Related: 5 Winter Treks In South India You Must Explore Because Snow Isn’t A Reason To Not Go Trekking