Abstract:
Ecotourism is a sort of responsible tourism that aims to educate visitors while raising funds
for environmental protection, economic development, and respect for various cultures and
human rights. The idea combines conservation, community, and long-term growth through
travel. Over the last several decades, conservation groups, ecological disciplines,
policymakers, and community planners have all shown an interest in applying eco-tourism
concepts to maintain and preserve an area's biological richness while simultaneously
boosting the economic well-being of the local people. Over the last decade, countless
ecotourism studies have established a knowledge framework for sustainable tourist growth.
Most earlier research has concentrated on the benefits of ecotourism sites for the economy
and the environment.
The eco-tourism development significantly contributes to Wayanad’s expansion as a
premier global tourism destination. The main contribution of Wayanad's economy is
agriculture and tourism. The study includes ecotourism spots of Wayanad Wildlife
Sanctuary and its environs which also includes heritage & culture tourism spots of
Wayanad. Ecotourism hotspots should be on the agenda of both domestic and foreign
tourists even though the infrastructure and other amenities are inadequate. Climatic change,
irregular climate behaviour, poverty, unemployment, and inequality have all been
identified as threats to which eco-tourism techniques have been acknowledged as viable
solutions. This thesis looks at formulating strategies for ecotourism development in
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary & environs to build economic, social, and environmental
characteristics at ecotourism sites and in local communities. Information gathering and
observation methods were used to obtain data from ecotourism spots in the Wayanad
Wildlife Sanctuary Forest area. The environs and the materials were evaluated using
ecotourism ideas and principles. This also assisted in exploring multiple alternatives that
aid in uplifting local inhabitants and how to develop transportation & infrastructure
facilities without jeopardizing the environment in many ways. Strategies are provided to
enhance eco-tourism that would be both responsible and profitable.
