Unveiling Karnataka’s Pristine Trails: Experience the Serenity with Limited Access – Only 300 Adventurers Daily!
A picturesque view of the Western Ghats near Talacauvery in Kodagu district highlights the government’s recent move to limit trekking visitors across Karnataka, aimed at preserving eco-tourism sites. Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre inaugurated an online booking portal, capping trekkers to 300 per day per route to prevent environmental damage and overcrowding. The decision follows an overwhelming influx of 5,000 to 6,000 trekkers at Kumara Parvatha earlier this year. Initially, ticket bookings will be available for five routes, including Kumara Parvatha and Talacauvery-Nishani Motte, with 40 more trails to be added soon. The portal will also extend services to wildlife and boat safaris. Each phone number can secure up to ten tickets, with varying refund policies based on cancellation timing. To curb bulk ticket purchases by companies blocking access for individual trekkers, bookings will mandate a government-issued photo ID. Additionally, a ban on plastics such as bottles and bags will be enforced, with fines for violations after initial voluntary compliance checks. These measures are driven by a commitment to sustainable tourism while ensuring a balance between tourism and environmental conservation.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/karnataka-govt-caps-number-of-visitors-to-trekking-sites-at-300-a-day/article68713701.ece
Category : Karnataka
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