The tourist destinations of Kalsi-Chakrata are no longer places to visit; they are also being planned to transform the villages’ economies.
The Rural Development Department has identified 11 Gram Panchayats in the region and initiated the development of a tourism corridor. Tourist amenities will be developed around ancient temples, waterfalls, rivers, and historical sites.
This plan aims to increase tourist arrivals and directly connect businesses such as homestays, local food, handicrafts, and transportation with the villages. The Rural Development Department is identifying new tourist destinations in the Kalsi, Chakrata, Raipur, Sahaspur, Doiwala, and Vikasnagar development blocks.
Special focus is being placed on the Kalsi-Chakrata region due to its tourism potential. Kalsi is the gateway to Jaunsar-Bawar, while Chakrata is recognised as a major mountain tourist destination.
Oak and Sal forests, green valleys, and the Garhwal mountain ranges attract tourists. The region also boasts ancient temples, religious sites, waterfalls, rivers, and historical heritage sites.
First Phase of Exercise in 11 Panchayats
Kalsi and Chakrata have 111 and 116 Gram Panchayats, respectively. Of these, 11 Panchayats have been selected for the first phase. Tourism potential is being explored in Maindrath, Kistud, Penuwa, Kandoi-Bharam, Dasau, Maletha, and Jogio in Chakrata, and Udpalta, Panjia, Lachha, and Badhou in Kalsi.
Preparations are underway to develop drinking water, electricity, accommodation, and other necessary facilities around the selected sites. The respective Gram Panchayats will prepare proposals and submit them to the department. Once the proposals are approved, construction and other development work will begin.
Business will come to villages with tourists.
The department is focusing on integrating tourism into the local economy. Homestays, local food, handicrafts, transportation, and small businesses are expected to benefit from the increased tourist numbers.
This means that along with the tourist destination, the surrounding villages will also become part of the tourist activities. Religious sites like the Lakhamandal Shiva Temple, Mahasu Devta Temple, and Chintaharan Mahadev Temple already attract tourists. Waterfalls such as Tiger Falls, Kimona Falls, and Moigad Falls also draw large numbers of visitors during the tourist season.
Expansion of Water Sports in the Tons-Yamuna River
The Tons and Yamuna rivers are also important in the tourism potential of Kalsi-Chakrata. Boating and rafting activities are conducted in the Yamuna Barrage area near Kalsi. Angling activities are also available in the Tons and Yamuna rivers. With the expansion of tourism facilities, these activities are expected to receive a boost.
Statement
Chakrata-Kalsi is a top choice for tourists. Developing facilities at the tourist destinations and surrounding Gram Panchayats will increase tourism activities in the region and create employment opportunities for local people.
