1

EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL AND USEFULNESS

OF ECOTOURISM IN PUDUCHERRY WITH
SPECIAL REFERENCE TO TOURISM AND
ENVIRONMENT

Master plan and viable project report Submitted to

DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
GOVERNMENT OF PUDUCHERRY

SCHEME
DSTE Release of Grant-in-aid to Research Projects
2006-07

NAME OF THE INVESTIGATOR

Dr Annamalai Murugan

Dr. ANNAMALAI MURUGAN

Principal Investigator,
Department of Tourism,
Tagore Arts College,
Puducherry-605 008.
 2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Project on Exploring the potential and usefulness

of eco-tourism in Puducherry with special reference to

tourism and environment was funded by the Department of

Science and Technology & Environment (DST&E)

,Government of Puducherry. This project is the source for

this book. I extend my sincere gratitude to the DSTE for

accepting my proposal and sanctioning a reasonable

financial assistance to complete it. I acknowledge and thank

them for their prompt responses. The staff and I place on

record our sincere thanks to the DSTE for releasing of the

funds in time which enabled us to work with good spirit.

We thank the Officials of Department of Tourism,

Puducherry for permitting us to collect data in this region

and for various help they extend to us. We also thank the

Staff of the other Government department and other

Agencies in Puducherry for providing necessary information.

 3

We thank the tourists (both domestic and

internationals), hoteliers, tour operators, travel agencies,

and other stake holders of tourism who have responded to

our questions and furnished details we wanted.

I extend my thanks to Principal, Tagore Arts College,

Lawspet, Puducherry, for sincere cooperation to complete

the work.

I wish to acknowledge the cooperation and the

enthusiasm of my family members. I thank them for their

help in completing this project.

In this regard, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to

the Director and other officials of DSTE for their kind

cooperation to complete the project work in a good manner.

DR ANNAMALAI MURUGAN

Principal Investigator
 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTERS TITLE PAGE

NO.

I INTRODUCTION 1

II RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 18

III TOURISM AND ENVIRONMENT 21

IV TOURISM IMPACT ON PHYSICAL AND 43

SOCIO-CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

V PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW 50

ECO-FRIENDLY DESTINATION

VI WASTE MANAGEMENT IN A TOURISM 58

DESTINATION

VII SWOT ANALYSIS OF PUDUCHERRY 65

VIII ECO-TOURISM POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT - 76

PUDUCHERRY

IX CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 184

BIBLIOGRAPHY 188

APPENDICES 194
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
 16

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Definition of Eco-tourism
The word ecotourism has been coined relatively recently and
there remains no consensus about its meaning. Ecotourism has
spread rapidly first because it has a number of different meanings and
second because it has been extensively used opportunistically in
marketing. Where the tag eco has come to be synonymous with
responsible consumerism. The tourism industry has been quick to
exploit the marketing value of ecotourism the more so since its
meaning is unclear and there is no requirement for the operator to do
more than alter the packaging.

The eco-tourist has been variously defined in terms of visitor

behaviour and philosophy. The advertising appeals to and promotes
these approaches. Eco-tourism is a niche market for environmentally
aware tourists who are interested in observing nature (Wheat, 1994),
described by Steele (1993) as an economic process where rare and
beautiful ecosystems are marketed internationally attract visitors.
Kelman put it bluntly a tour advertised as environmentally friendly
can be just as suspect as many of the products tarred up with green
packaging at your grocery store (Wight, 1994).The World Travel and
Tourism Environment Research Centre in its 1993 World Travel and
Environment Review defined ecotourism as tourism with the specific
motive of enjoying wildlife or undeveloped natural areas
(WTTERC1993),making no distinction between nature tourism and
ecotourism Others have also used ecotourism and nature tourism
synonymously (Lindberg1991;Aylward and Freedman, 1992).
 17

Ceballo Lascurains 1987 definition has been used by others

(Boo, 1990; Stewart and Sekartjiakrarini, 1994);

. Travelling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated

natural areas with the specific objective of studying, admiring and
enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as ay
existing cultural manifestations (both past and present) found in these
areas. In these terms, nature-oriented tourism implies a scientific,
aesthetic or philosophical approach to travel although the ecological
tourist need not be a professional scientist, artist or philosopher. The
main point is that the person who practices ecotourism has the
opportunity of immersing himself/herself in nature in a manner
generally not available in the urban environment. (Quoted in Boo,
1990).

Ziffer (1989) offered a definition which combined motivation,

philosophy, conduct and economic benefit to conservation.
Ecotourism: a form of tourism inspired primarily by the natural
history of an area, including its indigenous cultures. The eco-tourists
visit relatively undeveloped areas in the spirit of appreciation,
participation and sensitivity. The eco-tourist practices a non-
consumptive use of wildlife and natural resources and contributes to
the visited area through labour or financial means aimed at directly
benefiting the conservation of the site and the economic well-being of
the local residents.

The American based Ecotourism Society was founded in 1990

as a centre for research, information and policies on developing
ecologically sound tourism in natural areas around the world

The Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as:

 18

purposeful travel to natural areas to understand the culture

and natural history of the environment, taking care not to alter the
integrity of the eco-system, while producing economic opportunities
that make the conservation of natural resources beneficial to local
people (Wood 1991).

These definitions are broadly drawn, seeking to combine

ecological and cultural tourism activities, often within frameworks
which address philosophy and motivation.

The US Office of Technology Assessment of the American

Congress concluded that;

While some eco-tour operators are out simply to make a profit

with little consideration of environmental and social issues, others are
sensitive to these issues and may actively contribute to conservation
projects/goals (USOTA, 1993).

They pointed out that there is a:

Wealth of literature ... [which] ... addresses the nature and

growth of ecotourism. Its potential environmental and sociological
impacts and planning and management issues... No definition of
ecotourism has been universally accepted, data are commonly
questionable, and much information and study is needed to assess
the impact of nature travel.
(US OTA, 1993)

Eco-tourism is often defined prescriptively. Consider for

example the National Eco-tourism Strategy published in 1994 by the
Mexican Secretariat of Tourism in cooperation with the World
Conservation Union. It has developed a long list of characteristics of
ecotourism which constitute a highly prescriptive definition. One
which has been taken up by the World Tourism Organisation (WTO
1995). It is interesting to note that there is only one reference to
 19

protected areas and that where ecotourism is identified as a suitable

mechanism for improving links between local communities and
protected area managers. Definitions of this nature are difficult to use
analytically.

The World Tourism Organisation (WTO) definition of ecotourism

will be the one which is used to determine the volume of ecotourism
and to measure its value world-wide. The emerging definition of
ecotourism within the WTO and the one which will therefore prevail is
derived from Australia. Australias National Ecotourism Strategy
defined ecotourism as Nature-based tourism that involves education
and interpretation of the natural environment and is managed to be
ecologically sustainable (Commonwealth Department of Tourism.
1994). the report recognizes that the natural environment includes
cultural components and that to be ecologically sustainable there
must be an appropriate return to the local community and a
contribution to the long-term conservation of the resource (WTO,
1995).

TOURISM IN INDIA

The year 2004 was a highly successful one for India tourism.
Foreign arrivals to the country were 3.37 million, a jump over the
2003 figure of 2.73 million. The year 2004 registered a growth of 23.8
per cent in foreign tourist arrivals over the previous year while 2003
witnessed a growth of 14.8 per cent over the previous year. The
growth percentage of 2003 and is significant as it was achieved
despite the fact that world over there was a decline of 1.5 per cent in
tourist arrivals in 2003 while 2004 only registered a growth of 10.7
per cent. Consequently foreign exchange earnings also recorded an
unprecedented growth of about 38 per cent with receipts at 21828
crores in 2004. In 2003 the receipt was 16429 corers with a growth of
15.7 percent over the previous years.
 20

The years 2003 and 2004 could be viewed as the resurgence of

inbound tourism for India after a relative slowdown period between
1999 and 2002 where the percentage growth in foreign exchange
earnings ranged from a low of minus 1 per cent in 2002 to 9.9 percent
in 2000. According to data compiled by the Ministry of Tourism (MoT),
the average stay of a foreign tourist in India is 18 days and average
spend is US$ 1,462. This is higher than the world average of US$ 850.
Statistics show that Indias average per tourist foreign exchange
earnings in 05 was the highest in the sub-continent and was also
higher than many primarily tourism-dependent countries round the
world. Tourism industry is emerging as the top forex earner for the
Indian economy. Apart the Incredible India campaign, a greater focus
and effort by the government in various areas like improving
infrastructure, enhancing connectivity through augmentation of air
seat capacity, emphasis on tapping newer markets etc. has resulted in
this upswing in tourist numbers and tourism receipts.

THE ECOTOURIST AND ECOTOURISM

A considerable amount of debate is found in the literature

regarding the definition of both ecotourist and ecotourism (Ashton
1991; Stafford 1992). While defining ecotourism has been the focus of
several recent articles (e.g., Blamey1997; Sirakaya, Sasidharan, and
sonmez 1999; Ross and Wall 1999), ecotourist definitions usually
have been discussed within the domain of ecotourism definitions (e.g.,
Ceballos-Lascurain 1987; Eagles 1992). One could think of these
definitions as ranging from practial and often behavioral to normative
and ideological. At one end of the definitional spectrum are simple
equations of ecotourism to nature-oriented travel (e.g., Boo 1990;
Luzar et al. 1998). This definition of the ecotourist is, then, anyone
who engages in nature-oriented travel. Moving along the spectrum,
one finds the popular working definitions of Eagles (1992), in which
ecotourism is said to be centered around leisure travel to observe and
experience nature, and the ecotourist describes a specific travel
 21

market characterized as being composed of those who select

nature oriented experiences in pristine natural environments (p.3).
Another two sets of ecotourism definitions advocate perspectives of
tourism providers (e.g., Boo 1991; Wight 1993) or sustainability of the
system (e.g., Butler 1992, cited in Ballantine and Eagles 1994) and
offer prescriptives as to how to contribute to conservation or achieve
sustainability. While there is a segment of the ecotourism market that
may consider the economic and environmental impacts of its holiday
experience on the local environment, the majority of individuals focus
more on their interests, experiences, and learning.

Ceballos-Lascurain (1990) provided one of the most

comprehensive consumer-centered definitions. He argued,

We may define ecotourism as that segment of tourism that

involves traveling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated
natural areas with the specific objective of admiring, studying,
and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as
well as any existing cultural features (both past and present)
found in these areas.(p.25)

According to Ceballos-Lascurain,

The person who practices ecotourism has the opportunity

of immersing him or herself in nature in a way that most people
cannot enjoy in their routine, urban existences. This person will
eventually acquire an awareness and knowledge of the natural
environment, together with is cultural aspects, that will convert
him or her into somebody keeny involved in conservation issues.
(P.25)

We recognize the role of experiencing nature in the individuals

development of an environmental ethic (c.f. the discussion by Bottrill
and Pearce 1995) but also acknowledge that the original intent of
most tourists (subsequently categorized in research on ecotourism as
 22

ectourists) is primarily to observe and learn about nature. Some

studies revealed that while tourists acknowledge sustainability as a
desirable factor, it appears that environmental impact has little
influence on their choice of tourism product (Social Change Media
1995). As McKercher (1993) stated, it is a mistake to assume that
most ecotourists are anything other than consumers, whose primary
goal is the consumption of an ectourism experience. In summary, the
emphasis on nature has been the consistently common element of all
reviewed definitions.

It should also be mentioned that in the Ceballos-Lascurain

(1990) definition is the ecotourists enjoyment of cultural features
found in natural areas. General respect for culture and cultural
artifacts and an appreciation for naturally occurring (not staged)
cultural experiences is found in several discussions of ecotourism
(Valentine 1992; Figgis 1993). However, it appears that culture is not
the basis of the ecotourism experience, nor is it the central focus.
Studies that have investigated reasons for visiting ecotourism
destinations by asking respondents to list the reason for their visit
(Lee and Senpenger1992).

In conclusion, there are at least three definitional perspectives

that can be taken in the study of ecotourism and ecotourists:
(1) tourist centered, (2) tourism centered, and (3) macro or
systems view. In the current research, we adopt the tourists view as
a consumer. Furthermore, we see this tourist as best described as
someone who, while interested in culture and in protecting the
environment, is primarily interested in traveling to experience and
learn about wilderness and undisturbed nature. This perhaps less-
restrictive (Buckley 1994) or minimalist (Blamey 1997) definition
enables its broad application across the spectrum of ecotourism
experience. With this definitional focus, we set about developing
ecotourism interests that would help us to identify those individuals
who would most probably choose an ecotourism activity.
 23

One type of alternative tourism is natural area tourism which is

tourism in natural settings. Examples can include nature-based
tourism, in which viewing nature is the primary objective, and
adventure tourism, in which the focus is on the activity, for example,
white water rafting or scuba diving. Ecotourism is another subset of
natural area and may combine elements of both nature-based tourism
and adventure travel. However, it is also characterized by a number of
other feature-notably its educative element and conservation
supporting practice (Valentine 1993). The Ecotourism Society
definition is that Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas
which conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local
people (western 1993). The Australian definition of ecotourism is
Ecotourism is nature-based tourism that involves education and
interpretation of the natural environment and is managed to be
ecologically sustainable. The definition recognizes that natural
environment includes cultural components and that ecologically
sustainable involves an appropriate return to the local community an
long-term conservation of the resource (Australian Department of
Tourism 1994).

Ecotourism may be further described as having a number of

essential characteristics and emerging styles. These elements combine
to shape ecotourism in its present form.

PRINCIPLES OF ECOTOURISM

Ecotourism comprises a number of interrelated components all

of which should be present for authentic ecotourism to occur. There
are five key principles which are fundamental to ecotourism.
They are that ecotourism is nature-based, ecologically
sustainable, environmentally educative, locally beneficial and
generates tourist satisfaction. The first characteristics are
considered to be essential for a product to be considered ecotourism
 24

while the last two characteristics are viewed as being desirable for all
forms of tourism.

1.Nature-Based

Ecotourism is based on the natural environment with a focus on

its biological, physical and cultural features. Ecotourism occurs in,
and depends on, a natural setting and may include cultural elements
where they occurs in a natural setting. The conservation of the
natural resource is essential to the planning, development and
management of ecotourism.

2. Ecologically Sustainable

All tourism should be sustainable-ecologically, socially and

environmentally. Ecotourism is ecologically sustainable tourism
undertaken in a natural setting. The challenge to ecotourism in any
country or region is to develop its tourism capacity and the quality of
its products without adversely affecting the environment that
maintains and nurtures it. This involves ensuring that the type,
location and level of ecotourism use does not cause harm to natural
areas.

3. Environmentally educative

The educative characteristic of ecotourism is a key element

which distinguishes it from other forms of nature-based tourism.
Environmental education and interpretation are important tools in
creating an enjoyable and meaningful ecotourism experience.
Ecotourism attracts people who wish to interact with the environment
in order to develop their knowledge, awareness and appreciation of it.
By extension, ecotourism should ideally lead to positive action for the
environment b fostering enhanced conservation awareness.
 25

Ecotourism education can influence tourist, community and

industry behaviour and assist in the longer term sustainability of
tourist activity in natural areas. Education can also be useful as a
management tool for natural areas. Interpretation helps tourists see
the big picture regarding the environment. It acknowledges the
natural and cultural values of the area visited as well as other issues
such as resource management.

4.Locally Beneficial

The involvement of local communities not only benefits the

community and the environment but also improves the quality of the
tourist experience. Local communities can become involved in
ecotourism operations, and in the provision of knowledge, services,
facilities and products. These benefits should outweigh the cost of
ecotourism to the host community and environment.

Ecotourism can also generate income for resource conservation

management in addition to social and cultural benefits. The
contribution may be financial with a part of the cost of the tour
helping to subsidies a conservation project. Alternatively it could
consist of practical help in the field with the tourists being involved in
environmental data collection and/or analysis.

5. Tourist Satisfaction

Satisfaction of visitors with the ecotourism experience is

essential to long term viability of the ecotourism industry. Included in
this concept is the importance of importance of visitor safety in regard
to political stability. Information provided about ecotourism
opportunities should accurately represent the opportunities offered at
particular ecotourism destinations. The ecotourism experience should
match or exceed the realistic expectations of the visitor. Client
services and satisfaction should be second only to the conservation
and protection of what they visit.
 26

EMERGING STYLES OF ECOTOURISM

In planning and management of ecotourism it is also important to

be aware of a number of different styles of ecotourism they may vary
considerably in regard to a range of factors including:

the types of natural settings they require

the extent of direct contact and involvement with the natural
environment,

the group sizes involved, Ecotourism Concepts Characteristics

the use and extent of personal interaction with tour guides,

the reliance on mechanized means of transport and supporting
infrastructure, and

the type of visitor satisfaction and experience realised.

In Australia the Queensland Ecotourism Plan identified three broad

styles of ecotourism (ETM Mitchell Cotter 1995). They include
Frontier Ecotourism, Small Group Ecotourism and Popular
Ecotourism.

1. Frontier Ecotourism

Frontier Ecotourism involves individuals or small groups of

generally ten or less people who utilize non-motorised forms of
transport (eg. Walking or canoeing) to visit relatively remote and
lightly used natural areas. Visitors are generally very self-reliant and
have few demands for supporting services and infrastructure. There
is a very special and unusual first-hand experience that often
requires a high degree of challenge and some knowledge of outdoor
survival skills. Examples include trekking, rafting.

2. Small Group Ecotourism

This type of ecotourism involves individuals or relatively small

groups (approximately 15 or less) who utilize motorized forms of
transport (eg. Four-wheel-drive) (4WD) vehicle or small boat to visit
 27

areas of special interest which are generally off the beaten track.
This type of ecotourism operation may involve moderately high levels
of challenge and self-reliance but is generally suitable for participants
from a wide variety of age groups who do not necessarily require any
special outdoor skills.

3. Popular Ecotourism

This type of ecotourism involves the transport of larger numbers

of visitors to, through or across a countrys best known and most
popular natural attractions. It relies on high-capacity mechanized
forms of transport such as buses or large boats. There are low
requirements for self-reliance and the degree of challenge is generally
low. There may be substantial requirements for supporting
infrastructure and services (eg. Visitor centres, food and drink outlets,
boardwalks and toilets). This style of ecotourism is available to all
visitors irrespective of age or physical capability.

There are also other tourist activities which are closely related
to the ecotourism but are not within the strict definition of
ecotourism. Examples of such activities include aquaria, botanical
gardens, zoos which displays native fauna, and visitor centres and
displays of native flora and fauna in locations which are remote from
their natural setting. While all of these examples can have substantial
educational and interpretive components and similar objectives to
ecotourism, they do not occur in and depend on a natural setting and
are therefore not exclusively the subject of ecotourism.

ECOTOURISM IN INDIA

In the last twenty years India has opened its doors to

international visitors and is now fostering tourism largely to gain an
increase in foreign earnings to help its economy. In 1996, 2.2m
international tourists visited the country, an increase of 12.6% on the
previous year. However, Indias tourism infrastructure is barely
 28

keeping pace with the industry increase and problems are evident in
the accommodation, transport and personnel sectors. In addition
India has real problems with environmental pollution and tourist
pressures causing substantial damages to its natural treasures
(Gadgil and Guha 1994), wildlife (Bolton 1994), historic sites (Singh
1991) and cultural relics (Verma 1996).

The case of sustainable development has already been put

before India (Roy, Tisdell & Sen 1995). The authors advocate the
adoption of Gandhian planning with its emphasis on small-scale
developments at the village level being in harmony with the natural
environment. By extension this sustainable approach is exactly what
is needed for Indian tourism developments in environmentally
sensitive areas as advocated by Singh & Kaur (1985), Dowling (1990)
and Singh (In Press) and illustrated in the case of Tamil Nadu (Hyma
and Wall 1979, Inbakaram and Kumaran 1995).

Another example is the Adventures Wilderness School in

Rajajinagar, Bangalore. The school runs small group ecotours into
the rainforest of the Western Ghats in which foreigners learn about
the forest and its tribal villages (Cutter 1995). Other examples include
the development of designated touring circuits which have been
established by the Department of Tourism in Rajasthan, Himachal
Pradesh and Kerala (know India Newsletter 1996). Many of the
circuits include a strong focus on wildlife and adventure travel and
could be further infused with an ecotourism content. By extension,
the National Tourism Awards which include the Best maintained
tourism-friendly wildlife sanctuary could be expanded to include a
general Environmental Category to recognise ecotourism and nature-
based-tours, attractions and accommodation.

The future of Indian tourism is now at a critical stage. To

address this problem it is suggested that Indias flirtation with mass
tourism may be better refocused and directed towards sustainable
 29

tourism. Strong elements in support of this approach include Indias

many natural and cultural attractions, its unique blend of natural and
cultural environments, and its expertise in organised small group
package tours. Adopting this approach should help India to achieve
its conservation and tourism goals in a planned and sustainable
manner and learn from other Asian countries such as Thailand which
already has a National Ecotourism Plan (TAT 1995, Dowling 1996).
Another key for India to achieve sustainable ecotourism development
will be for it to become involved in the Indian Ocean Tourism
Organisation (IOTO). The organization comprises a regional travel
industry body open to all nations whose principal land mass touches,
or is surrounded by, the India Ocean. It includes the countries of
south Asia, east Africa, Australia and the island nations of the Indian
Ocean such as Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles.

The mission of IOTO is to enhance regional cooperation and

understanding through sustainable tourism (Dowling 1995). The
approach of IOTO will be to complement and add value to the
strategies and activities of public and private sector tourism
organisations around the Indian Ocean positively positioning and
marketing the Indian Ocean Region as a unique tourism destination
area.

It also aims to facilitate cooperation and coordination among

IOTO destinations and members, promote the expansion of
appropriate transportation services and facilities to and within the
Indian Ocean Region, and liaise with governments to reduce barriers
to travel. The organization also intends to encourage improved service
standards, quality visitor experiences and sound environmental
tourism practices which benefit local communities.

Another key aspect ecotourism development in India is to foster

sustainable development planning principles such as that advocated
by the Environmentally Based Tourism Development Planning Model
 30

(Dowling 1993). This will assist the planning of regions so that a

balance is maintained among the natural, social, cultural and
economic environments. Elements of this kind of approach have
already been included in the regional tourism plan for Goa (World
Tourism Organization 1994).

Benefits and Risks of Ecotourism

How is ecotourism different from other tourism, and why should

conservationists be interested in it? In its theoretical ideal, nature
tourism serves local, national, and international objectives:

increases income and employment;

generates foreign exchange;

encourages dispersed rural development;

stimulates rural infrastructure development;

provides funds for natural resource conservation;

builds political support for nature conservation;

increases awareness of environmental issues;

attracts desirable clients.

That is the theoretical ideal. There also are, of course, many risks and
constraints related to ecotourism development:

Environmental degradation;

Cultural pollution;

Social tensions and disruptions;

runaway development;

economic leakages and distortions;

seasonal and cyclical trends;

Sensitivity to terrorism, instability, and changing consumer

tastes.
 31

Clearly, ecotourism is far from being a panacea for economic

development and environmental protection. But in some places,
under well-managed conditions, it appears that it can make
significant contributions.

Stakeholders in Ecotourism Development

Tourists:

Local landowners and Users:

Government Agencies:

Tourism Authorities:

Resource Management Agencies:

Agencies Responsible for infrastructure:

Planning and Finance Ministers:

Tour Operators:

Investors and Concessionaires:

NGOs

Development Assistance Agencies and Donors:

Principles for Successful Ecotourism Development

Principle 1. Objectively assess the potential for ecotourism.

Principle 2. Identifying potential conflicts
Principle 3. Involve local residents]
Principle 4. Determine Objectives
Principle 5. Develop national and local tourism strategies and
policies
Principle 6. Develop environmentally sound infrastructure
Principle 7. Provide adequate training
Principle 8. Promote and market the ecotourism product
Principle 9. Protect the resource base
Principle 10. Protect the tourists.
 32

CONCLUSION

Therefore, ecotourism can also act as an exemplar for other

forms of environmentally responsible tourism Promoting best practice
in planning, design, management and operation. Any regional
ecotourism development strategy should capture this vision by
incorporating the following key elements:

Ecotourism is dependant on the natural environment

Ecotourism is part of the tourism industry

Ecotourism can be on environmental exemplar for other forms
of tourism, and

Finally Ecotourism enhances awareness and appreciation of the
natural environment.

The report consists of nine Chapters. The first chapter describes

the definition of eco-tourism as Introduction .The second chapter
explains the methodology of the study. The third one presents the
relationship between tourism and environment and the fourth chapter
explains tourism impact on physical and socio-cultural environment
and the fifth chapter explains the use of planning and development of
a new eco-friendly destination. The sixth chapter explains about waste
management in a tourism destination. The seventh chapter analyses
about swot analysis of Pondicherry. The eighth chapter discuss about
eco-tourism potential assessment at Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe
Yanam with the final chapter giving conclusions and
recommendations to improve eco-tourism.
 33

CHAPTER II

Methodology

Rationale of the Study

The consideration of the proximity and as a developing

destinations, have promoted to select the Puducherry for the study.
Puducherry has been averaging as an eco-tourism destinations, with
back water lakes (Chunambar lake, Ousteri lake, Bahour lake,
promenade coastal beach, resorts etc.,) Thus Puducherry provides the
suitable geographical and environmental setting for the proposed
study of eco-tourism potential.

Likely benefits of the project:-

As the environment is divided into three types; natural, built

and cultural environmental, the effects of tourism development on the
environment are also sought to be studied under the above three
classifications.
The natural environment includes, air, water, flora, fauna, soil,
natural landscape and climate.
The built environment encompasses urban fabric, buildings,
monuments infrastructure, parks, landscapes and open spaces.
The cultural environment includes values, beliefs, moral,
behavioural arts and history of communities.
Further the importance of the present study lies in the
following.
 34

1. The Study will benefit policy makers to identify and understand

the problems and constraints which cause to attract more
tourists to the state.
2. The study is a modest approach to lengthen the stay of tourists,
and to increase socio-economic contribution of the state.
3. It also studys about various stakeholders (Tourists,
Government agencies, Tourism authorities, Tour operators,
etc.,) in ecotourism development

Objectives of the Project

The Present study attempted to analyse the potential and

usefulness of eco-tourism in the state by specially focusing on the
following objectives.
(i) To analysis socio-economic contribution of tourism in the
study areas.
(ii) To study ecotourism potential and tourists perception in
the study area.
(iii) To study the relationships between environment and
ecotourism development.
(iv) To suggest policy options for harnessing tourism potential
of the state.

Research Design

The research design is descriptive in nature. It describes the

potential and usefulness of ecotourism in Puducherry . The study
explores the eco-tourism of Puducherry and explores various aspects
of the tourists both domestic and Internationals like the use of the
tourists resources by them like beaches, lakes, and utilisation of
various other tourism products. Swot analysis also presented in
detail.

Tool for Data Collection

 35

Tool administered for collection of data in a structured interview

schedule which contained questions about details, use of tourists
resources, tourist expenditure, accommodation status problems faced
by the tourists, which includes transport, facilities etc.,

Method of Data Collection

The Study is based both on primary and secondary data.

The primary data for the study was collected by conducting
surveys among the tourists with the help of the using
structured questionnaires and interview schedules.

Necessary informations were obtained from the Department

of Tourism, Non-Governmental organisations, Hotels, Travel
agencies and Tour operators , Universities and College
libraries etc., were visited and relevant informations were
collected. The Department of Economic and Statistics
records were referred for materials on Puducherry Statistics
report. Secondary datas also obtained from sources like
Government publications, Government departments, etc.,
and other agencies in the field of tourism also used.
 36

CHAPTER-III

TOURISM AND THE ENVIRONMENT

The literature on assessment of economic impact of tourism

highlights a number of success stories on gains on account of
increased employment opportunities, foreign exchange earnings,
income multiplier effects and tax revenue. Attraction of these benefits
combined with search for engine of development led to the idea of
tourism development being sold as a painless remedy for numerous
social and economic ills, to the developing countries. This led to an
indiscriminate and unplanned growth of tourism infrastructure in
many countries and soon the negative effects in the form of social and
environmental degradation started outpouring, resultantly the last
two decades have witnessed a growing interest in the relationship
between tourism development and the environmental quality. The
interest is driven by a number of factors including the rapid growth in
tourism activity around the world and an enhanced awareness of
these negative impacts of mass tourism on the environment.

This chapter is dedicated to the study of tourism and

environment relationship. Starting with definition of the environment,
its constituents and positive effects of tourism on the environment we
will look into the environmental effects unplanned and large-scale
tourism development. As the environment is divided into three types;
natural, built and cultural environment, the effects of tourism
development on the environment are also sought to be studied under
the above three classifications. The chapter concludes with the
argument that in view of the positive and negative impacts of tourism
development, the tourism management approaches gain importance.
 37

Defining the Environment

Environment is mostly considered under three headings;

physical or abiotic, biological, and socio-economic. In more simplistic
way, the environment is considered under classification of natural,
built, and cultural. For the purposes of this book, the classification of
natural, built and cultural, environment has been adopted. This
categorisation closely relates to the typology utilised to describe the
environmental assets that attract tourists, and provides a simple
framework for the analysis of tourism impacts. The natural
environment includes air, water, flora, fauna, soil, natural landscape
and climate. The built environment encompasses urban fabric,
buildings monuments, infrastructure, parks, landscapes and open
spaces. The cultural environment includes values, beliefs, moral,
behaviour, arts and history of communities.

Before getting into the analysis of the nature of environmental

effects caused by tourism it is appropriate to analyse the natural of
environmental problems. Environmental problems can be of many
types. Fundamentally the environmental problem can be classified
into two types; resource depletion problems, and pollution problems.
The former is again classified into two types renewable and non
renewable resources. The examples of problems with the use of
renewable resources can be depletion of renewable resources such as
forests, fisheries and biodiversity. The non-renewable resources, on
the other hand, refer to depletion of resources like coal, oil and
minerals. The pollution results in injection of wastes into the
atmosphere from production and consumption activities. It can be
divided by source or sink. The source of the pollution refers to the
pollution-generating agency such as automobile pollution noise
pollution, ad industrial pollution. The sink of pollution refers to the
pollution-absorbing agency such as atmosphere (air pollution), water
bodies (water pollution) and city dumps and waste disposal sites (soil
pollution). Magnitude of environmental problems. It needs to be
 38

determined whether the impacts are limited to a city, a region a nation

or across a number of countries.

Considered with reference to tourism, generally, environment

performs three functions.
- supplier of natural goods such as beautiful landscape,
mountains, lakes and the like, forming the core of the tourism
product;
- Provider of natural resources used to create economic goods;
- The sink function wherein the undesirable by-products
generated during the production and consumption process are
discarded.
The tourism industry produces a negative externality while taking
advantage of the environment.

While analysing the tourism product the peculiar feature of

tourism is that if offers environment as a part of its product.
Therefore, the quality of tourism product is dependent on quality of
environment to a large extent. Researches on tourist preferences for
environment to a large extent. Researches on tourist preferences for
environment in a particular destination as well as initiating
environmental protection measures substantiate the arguments in
favour of environmental consciousness in the industry. The result of
a survey conducted in West Germany on tourist opinion reveals that
72% of the tourists regard high quality natural environment as the
primary condition for a successful vacation. The figure is 86% in
Scotland. Krippendorf (1982), therefore, terms it as the raw material
of tourism. It is the reason for the existence of tourism as well as its
economic driving force.

However, identifying the environmental effects caused by

tourism is not a simple task. Inter-linkages of the activities forming
part of tourism make it further difficult to identify one of them.
 39

The following factors make the tasks of identification of impacts

difficult.

1. Probably the first and the foremost would be that the research on
environmental impacts is reactive rather than proactive, that is it is
conducted as a post-factum rather than ante-factum. Therefore, it
is difficult to identify the situation of status quo ante to isolate the
impacts due to tourism.
2. It is difficult to distinguish between the impacts due to human
intervention and pure impacts of nature. Particularly, there are
impacts occurring without human intervention and not always fast
enough to distinguish. Baumol and Oats (1979) using the example
of deterioration in quality of waters of the Baltic Sea have
illustrated the argument. The data, according to them, indicates
that in the central waters of Baltic roughly mid-way between
Stockholm and Helsinki the oxygen content has fallen to zero.
Surprisingly, this is not the case with water on the shores even
though the later is severally affected by oxygen demanding
chemicals. The cause is attributed to rise of salinity.
3. The problem of measurement of impacts further adds to the
complexity. It is difficult to foresee the chain reactions or the
cumulative changes caused by a change in one component.

Finally, there is a problem of spatial and temporal

discontinuities. In arises when the causes and effects of impacts
occur at various places and at different times the example of pollution
caused by untreated sewage to the rivers may lead to environmental
hazards at places for distant from the site of the discharge.

Positive effects of tourism on the environment

The most important factor in favour of tourism leaving positive
impacts emanates from the very fact that the environment constitutes
a very important part of tourism product It is therefore in the larger
interest of the industry to protect the environment. The situation of
 40

over-exploitation of this important resource by the industry leads to

the phenomena of tourism killing tourism.

The positive impacts can be summarised as under:

- Economic benefits to the society flow in the form of foreign

exchange earnings, direct and indirect employment opportunities
created due to the development of tourism and the associated
infrastructure, and the resultant income multiplier effects. It also
leads to increased government revenues in the form of various
kinds of taxes levied on tourism activities.
- Improvement and preservation parks and cultural heritage
properties. Natural parks of Kenya Tanzania, Zambia and South
Africa are good examples of these.
- The tourism activities also lead to better resource availability for
construction of infrastructure and maintenance of heritage
properties and parks due to combined effect of three factors.
First as the historical monuments, nature parks and cultural
traditions are resources for their maintainenance and publicity
from the government. Second, as the visiting tourists are
generally made to pay for their visits to these monuments, the
funds so received also add to the available pool. Finally due to
the combined effect of increased expenditure of the government
on creation of infrastructure and publicity and increased tourist
arrivals, the private investment also starts crowding in
- Tourism also promotes cross- cultural exchange with tourists and
resident population learning more about each others culture.
Mings (1988) concludes that tourism in Barbados improved
international understanding. Similarly in the multi-ethnic society
such as India and Indonesia, domestic tourism can ideally help
achieve cross-cultural understanding. It is generally seen that
tourism infrastructure utilises the idle and wasteland in the area.
 41

Negative effects of tourism on the environment The negative

impacts can be studied into three classifications namely, natural,

built and cultural environment. Table 1 summarises these impacts.

Effects on Natural Environment The effects of tourism on natural

environment are studied in five parts; effects on flora and fauna
pollution, erosion, depletion of natural resources, and visual effects.

Table. 1 Impacts of tourism on the environment

Impact aspect Potential consequences

Destination of breeding habits, Killing of animals
Floral and through hunting; killing of animals in order to supply
goods to the souvenir trade; Change in extent and
faunal species
nature of vegetation cover through clearance of
plantation to accommodates tourist facilities.
Water pollution through discharges of sewage,
spillages of oil/petrol; Air pollution from vehicle
Pollution emissions, combustion of fuel for heating and lighting;
Noise pollution from tourist transportation and
activities.
Compaction of soil causing increased surface run-off
Erosion and erosion; Change in risk of occurrence of land
slides; Change in risk of avalanches, damage to river
banks.
Natural Depletion of ground and surface water; Depletion of
fossil fuels to generate energy for tourists; Depletion of
resources
mineral resources for building material.
Visual impacts Due to littering, sewage discharge, and poorly sited
buildings.
Built Changes in character of built area; changes to urban
fabric and overload of infrastructure; Change in land
environment
use of the area, burden on civic amenities.
Cultural - On tourist; decrease in quality of recreational
experience.
environment - On host population.
 42

a) Effects on Flora and Fauna

The effects of tourism activity on ecological balance of the area
can be studied in the following sub-heads
a) Effects due to tourism infrastructure
b) Effects due to tourists, and
c) Effects due to linkages.

a) Effects due to tourism infrastructure

Perhaps the most significant source of tourism-induced impacts

on ecosystems is the spread of tourism and recreation infrastructure.
It not only puts strain on already scarce land, but also. Due to digging
and increased extraction of local building materials, causes
irreversible damages to the landscape. Creation of tourism
infrastructure requires a lot of space, which is often provided at the
expense of ecosystems. Built infrastructure as well as tourist facilities
and activities are created replacing the natural vegetation.

Large scale destruction of an ecosystem through vegetation

removal to accommodate tourist infrastructure in case of European
Alps is a case of this kind. Barker (1982) analyses the impact of
tourism infrastructure on two models that of eastern Alps covering
eastern Switzerland, Bavaria Austria and Northern Italy, ad the
western Alps model typical in France. The eastern model has
developed a symbiosis between tourism and local communities in
villages. Large tourism corporations developed the western model.
These integrated ski resorts have been constructed in the
unpopulated alpine region bringing the skiers closer to the nature.
Barker terms these resorts as eyesores marring the land-scape and
destroying vegetation and causing soil erosion. Mader (1988)
highlights that 59,000 acres of land is covered under ski slopes in
Switzerland of which 90% are destroyed with long-lasting effects the
tourists in 175 million holiday beds spend 75 million nights. Further,
despite a very low occupancy of 20%, the new accommodations are
 43

still being built. Krippendorf points out that I square metre of

cultivated land is built upon each second in Switzerland.

The intrusion of mass tourism has been facilitated by the

construction of paved roads that have the capacity to bring thousands
of tourists. It is believed that this single factor has caused problems
of air pollution, noise, traffic jams, dust, and devastation of vegetative
cover resulting in erosion. Each year at least 150 million people drive
across the Alps, and this traffic is expected to increase by 50% or
more by 2010 (Dinniston, 1995)

Price (1981) contrasts the effects of damages caused by means

of transport in plains and in mountain areas. He argues that
automobiles doe much more damage to mountain environment than
to low lands because of less efficient combustion process at high
elevation due to less oxygen. Comparing the impact of foot travel and
roads, he emphasizes that the contribution of foot travel to
environmental deterioration counts as nothing compared to the
construction and use of highways.

The buildings roads disturb the Alps and changes local drainage
pattern. It also involves construction of structures to protector
travellers from avalanches falling rocks and soil erosion. Similarly,
lifts, cable cars gondolas and Trams often transport people from road
level to high and otherwise inaccessible areas and, therefore affect the
ecosystems. Though these facilities have started coming up on the
Himalayas and other mountain ranges, Alps probably have the largest
concentration of them. Switzerland alone has about 1700 such
facilities (Krippendorf, 1986).

The extent of damage and intensity of damage may depend upon

several factors like the nature of tourism activity and carrying
capacity of the area. Mieczkowski (1995) contrasts the space
requirements among various tourism activities on the basis of their
 44

location. According to him, user oriented activities located in urban,

sub-urban and near-urban areas consume less space but are
monopolistic in character. He sees the example of tennis court and
swimming pool to explain the typical feature of these activities that
exclude se of land for ay other activity. On the other end are the
resource base activities like mountain hiking and camping requiring a
large space but it is not permanent and other activities can also take
place there. Therefore the extent of damage depends upon the type of
activity being promoted in the area. However the intensity of damage
may depend upon the carrying capacity of the area. The intensity may
vary on spatial as well as temporal considerations. The spatial
intensity refers to concentration of tourist infrastructure at one place
while the temporal intensity refers to concentration of arrivals during
a definite period. Examples of spatial over-saturation are regions like
Alps and Mediterranean. Similarly, places like Kullu valley in
Himachal Pradesh, in India, and few tourist destinations in Scotland
(Battam 1998a) face the capacity of overflows during peak seasons.

(b) Effects due to tourists; The vegetation cover can also be

damaged due to trampling by walkers or crushing by tourist vehicles.
Hikers, trackers and mountaineers approach the areas left by roads
and off road traffic. They can penetrate into the places inaccessible by
mechanical means. The damages caused due to this activity may be
of four types namely; soil erosion caused due to trampling,
deforestation caused due to fuel requirements, threat to wildlife, and
treat to cultures.

(c) Effects due to linkages; Linkages of the tourism industry

further compound the problem. With the development and projection
of a tourist destination, the overall projection of the area takes place
leading to considerable increase in construction activities. An activity
like construction of roads, houses and emergence of small business
houses crowds the system and disturbs the ecological system.
 45

(b) Effects on Pollution

Commenting on pollution caused by tourism industry, Hunter

and green (1995: 19) observe, Moreover, the tourism industry itself
has been and still is, a major contributor to environmental pollution
in many parts of the world. The pollution caused by the industry is
of four types water, air, noise pollution, and disposal of wastes.

Water pollution occurs due to the discharge of untreated water,

inorganic and organics wastes and sewage. One of the major causes
of water pollution caused by tourism industry is discharge or dumping
of oil, petrol, inorganic and organic wastes by hotel units and means
of water transport. Hunter and green (1995:20) survey the literature
on the studies reporting the water pollution of the type caused by the
tourism industry. According to them. Stark (1990) with reference to
coastal environment of Hawaii; Holder (1988) on general impacts of
coastal tourism throughout the Caribbean; de Groot (1983) with
reference to the activities of tourist and tour operators in the
Galapagos Islands; Harris (1991) in relation to the discharge of oil-
contaminated bilge water by tourist ships in parts of the south
Shetland Islands of Antarctica; and Milne (1990) in relation to oil
seepage from boats carrying tourists to off-shore attractions in the
pacific Islands have reported water pollution caused by the industry.
The other main reasons for water pollution are fertilizers and
nutrients used for maintenance of lawns and golf courses and tourist
cruises ships and boats. Such contamination of ground water
occurring due to application of large quantities of pesticides and
fertilizers to golf courses has also been reported.

In many coastal waters the source of water pollution are hotels

and resorts that dump raw or inadequately treated sewage. Tyler
(1989) highlights the health hazard to tourists and locals due to
sewage entering the Mediterranean. Cases of gastro-intestinal
disorders in villages of Nepals Everest region due to contamination of
 46

water by the tourist activity have also been reported. Not only this,
contamination of water due to raw and untreated sewage can have
profound impact on aquatic life as well. Hunter & Green (1995:19)
report that,
Sewage pollution can alter the ecological balance of an
area often resulting in a marked decline in species
diversity, by reducing dissolved oxygen in water ad
sediments, by increasing water turbidity by smothering
sea, lake or river bed, and by promoting the accelerated
eutrophication (nutrient enrichment) of water bodies.

Sewage- related water pollution is also very well reported.

Examples of such pollution have been reported in Jamaica, Fiji
Cyprus, Norfolk Broads of England and Japan.

Though the industry is generally believed to be a a smokeless

industry, air pollution can accompany tourism developments in a
number of ways; during the construction of buildings and other
tourist facilities and associated infrastructure, from burnings of fossil
fuels for providing power and heating, and from the forms of
transportation used by the tourists like air, water and road. While the
effects of water pollution are mostly restricted to small and well-
defined area, the effect of tourism on the air quality takes a much
wider dimension, even global, through air transport.

Noise pollution occurs mainly due to increased traffic, water

sports activities and music in restaurants and discos.

Instances of the ecological stresses occurring in the form of

pollution and destruction of natural vegetations across the Hind Kush
Himalayan region have also been reported. Sharma (1998;51) records
that in Nepal an average trekking group of 15 people generate about
15 kg of bio-non-degradable and non-burnable garbage in about 10
trekking days. Similarly, the problem of littering and solid waste
 47

disposal reaches crisis proportions in areas frequented by the tourist.

The Everest region in Nepal is the best example of such a case.
Between 1979 and 1988 about 770 mt of garbage is reported to have
been disposed by about 840 mountaineering teams. This included
422mt of disposable garbage, 141 mts of non-degradable garbage and
about 207 tons of oxygen cylinders.

(c) Effects on Erosion

The most significant physical damage to soils in fragile

environments, such as deserts, dry lands and mountains is caused
due to three reasons. First the construction of tourist infrastructure
may involve digging or cutting of earth causing soil erosion. Erosion
of sand from popular resort beaches has posed a problem in some
locations due to sitting of buildings and other superstructures too
close to high water mark. Romeril (1989) reports erosion of natural
geographical features in certain destinations in Australia. Second, are
tourist activities like camping, trekking and mountaineering causing
trampling leading to soil erosion? Trampling by human feet, horses
and vehicles causes soil compaction. The soil compaction changes the
soil structure as the aggregates disintegrate leading to fall in aeration
and water infiltration ending in water runoffs. Increased runoff has
two negative consequences (a) it reduces the existing soil moisture
which may lead to complete eradication of vegetation; (b) it increases
the water erosion. This removes the soil of factors, including the
amount and intensity of rain and the steepness of slope. Price (1981)
distinguishes the effect of trampling on poorly drained and well-
drained meadows. He concludes that the effect of to well-drained
meadows. Further, the trails developing across the meadows serve as
pseudo-stream beds, by facilitating drainage, leading to demise of
meadows. Finally, the associated increase in transport activities and
construction of roads casing soil damages.
 48

(d) Depletion of Natural Resources

Increased activity and consumption may lead to rapid depletion

of renewable and non-renewable natural resources like construction
material, forests, water and animal life. Tourism-led deforestation
and degradation of forest are widely reported issues. Fuel
requirements of the trekking parties lead to deforestation.
Meieczkowski (1995) argues that in Himalayas, one tourist uses 6.4 kg
of firewood per day, which equals the daily needs of two Nepalese
families.

Analysing the problem, Boo (1990) states that the tree line in
Nepal was lowered by several hundred feet. Sharma (1998) has also
found similar results. He reports that the tourist demand increases
the demand for fuel wood in Everest area by about 85%. The degree
of damage, however, is more in developing countries than in the
developed countries due to non-availability of alternate sources of
energy. Likewise, demand for timber for construction, and the very
short growing seasons add to the problem of forest degradation and
deforestation.

Vegetation has also been affected due to the souvenir industry

in particular. This industry though has thrived at the tourist
destinations due to tourists but has been a major culprit. Increased
deforestation for wood-based carvings and large scale massacre of
animals for animals skins and wings has been reported from Nepal,
Taiwan and various parts of Africa. Similarly, due to access to the
remote areas, problems of increased poaching in wildlife reserve have
also been noticed (Price, 1981; Mieczkowski, 1995; Denniston, 1995)
the presence of tourists also disturbs the predator prey relationship
causing ecological imbalance. Price (1981) mourns the extinction of
Marco Polo Sheep due to uncontrolled shooting.

The cases of tourism-led scarcity of water are common in

certain tourist destination in India. Pirazizy (1993) records that a
 49

bucket of water is sold for a very high price in Shimla (India) during
the tourist season. In general, the per capita water requirement of
tourist is found to be more than the local residents leading to
conflicts. Evidence from Caribbean suggested that tourist water use
can be over three times higher than the consumption of local
residents. Likewise, water consumption may be enhanced due to
watering of golf courses.

(e) Visual Effects

The visual impact may be caused due to three reasons; littering,

sewage, and poorly sited and constructed buildings, Littering is one of
the major causes of visual pollution at tourist destinations.
Abandoned aluminium cans, oxygen bottles, and foodstuff become a
permanent kind of defacement. Several studies like Price (1981),
Mieczkowski (1995), and Cullen (1986), have pointed out the existence
of the problem. Price (1981) expresses grief over is indifference of
trackers to environmental concerns in Himalayas and highlights that
a few campsites used frequently by trekkers have become garbage
dumps. The problem is compounded by the use of bio-no degradable
packing material, which does not to open discharge of sewage. Poorly
designed, sited and constructed buildings and other tourist facilities
are well known consequences of much tourism development,
frequently detracting from the visual amenity of natural environment
by blocking views.

Built Environment

The effects of tourism on built environment can be classified

into three types. These are effects on architectural on architectural
faade, change of land use, and burden on infrastructure.

Mass tourism development is generally associated with poorly

designed, sited and constructed buildings and other facilities. Tyler
(1989) writing on tourism in developing countries has commented on
 50

the construction of glass and concrete blocks not in keeping with the
environment. The problem becomes very complex in heritage towns.
In hilly and coastal areas as well, the sporadic development leads to
what is called as ribbon development (Inskeep, 1987). A strong
argument is therefore given in favour of appropriate architectural
design of tourist facilities. He emphasises on indoor-outdoor
relationship in tropical and semi-tropical areas, the use of indigenous
and natural buildings materials to the extent possible. The
consideration of outward facade and roof design deserves special
attention. Further, ensuring a suitable land-scaping is equally
important. This may be absolutely required in rural resorts and
hotels in order to offer an environment, which integrates with the local
setting.

Large-scale construction of infrastructure and tourist facilities

leads to change of land use in the area, through direct loss as a result
of urban expansion or indirectly as a consequence of changes in land
values. This may be harmful for the local ecological balance. Loss of
agricultural land has been reported in many studies (for instance,
Milne, 1990; Singh, 1989). Instances of large-scale conservation of
agricultural land in Thailand for golf courses and in Kenya for growing
products required by the tourists have also come to notice. The
problem may be acute in mountain areas where agriculture is less
productivity ad attractive prices by the developers will entice the
farmers to selling the land The effect of tourism on the land use in
the area is linked though the effect o the production regime occurring
due the forward and backward linkages of tourism. Studies on the
effects of tourism development in mountain areas have concluded that
the tourism development invariably affects land size around the
trekking routes ad in and around destination settlements. The most
apparent effect according to them is conversion of forest land into
agriculture land, encroachments on public open spaces and tendency
to leave land fallow for camping. There can however be some positive
 51

effects due to changes in land use led by tourism. These positive

effects have been noted along the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal as
a shift in cropping pattern from traditional to commercial one. The
case of Annapurna is often cited as an example of development of a
production base due to trekking tourism. This has socio-economic
implications as well.

Market forces- led indiscriminate construction of tourist

infrastructure leads to overstrained civic infrastructure. Facilities like
water, electricity, roads and public health often exist in accordance
with the local needs. A sudden increase in number of users results in
breakdown of the system. Examples of tourism-led scarcity of water
ad electricity, over-crowding and traffic congestion are very common
in certain urban areas.

Impact on Social-Cultural Environment

The impacts of tourism development on socio-cultural

environment can be studied under two classifications. Impacts on
tourists and on the host population.

(A) Impacts on Tourists

The major impact on tourists that emerges is one the quality of

recreational experience. There is a degree of intensity of use of
recreational resources, which the tourists are willing to accept.
Overcrowding may force some people to consider the experience no
longer worth having, that are the repeat visits will fall substantially.
Claswson and Knetsch (1975) provide an interesting analysis to prove
the fact that the extent of crowding will not be the same for all areas
and kinds of recreational use. Those who take advantage of the
opportunities it offers for nature value a wilderness area and not the
man-made works. Opportunity to see an enjoy a relatively untouched
and primate environment gives such areas their greatest appeal. It
may be argued that satisfaction per user here is highest at the very
 52

lowest intensity of use and it falls steadily as the intensity rises.

However, even here almost everybody welcomes past usages of the
area by someone and almost certain to portend some degree of present
use. But satisfaction per visitor reaches a peak at a very low intensity
of use. Subsequently, as the intensity of se continues to raise, the
satisfaction per visitor falls rapidly. The same area might be
converted into an unimproved camping ground- accessible over dirt
roads addition of minimum facilities of toilets, natural water supply
and the like. Users of such an area would value it largely for its
natural conditions, for the feeling of privacy, which would be available.
The satisfaction here would begin to rise at a higher level of use, reach
a peak at a greater intensity of use, and fall to zero at still greater
intensities, than for the wilderness areas.

The same area can then be converted into a highly developed

campground- accessible by oiled roads, with flush toilets, hot water
and availability of electricity. The satisfaction per user in this case,
will continue to rise to a much greater intensify of use, and probably
would decline more slowly for that peak. Using this analysis, it can be
displayed that how the recreational experience differs with different
level of facilities and intensity of uses even though the area is
identical, and each experience is camping, though the intellectual
content of experience has changed greatly.

Tisdell (1991) also examines the same issue with reference to

tourism industry. He argues that with the increase in popularity of a
destination, more and more people visit the area requiring much
larger infrastructure in the form of hotels and other associated
facilities. Initially, tourist may react positively to it as with the
increase infrastructure and facilities, economics of scale flow and due
to the competition the prices of the tourist facilities fall. However,
with the capacity thresholds of the destination being overreached the
negative effects start flowing in and the satisfaction level of the
visitors falls.
 53

(b) Impacts on the Host Population

Social and cultural aspects of environment of host area are seen

as synonymous in the tourism literature. Although there is not much
agreement among social scientists about the socio-cultural
consequences of international tourism, a majority of them seen to
emphasise the negative effects of tourism. There are also some of
those who feel that the tourism developments in the third world
countries have produced positive results and also those who feel that
the tourism have had no appreciable change in traditional societies. A
more realistic view appears to be that it has both positive and negative
consequences in the third world countries, though the respective
levels vary depending upon the socio-cultural structure of the
country.

Among the negative consequences of tourism are; decline in

traditions, materialism, increase in crime rates, social conflicts,
crowding, environmental deterioration, and dependency on industrial
countries. It is frequently stated that the traditions in the host
countries are weakened under the influence of tourism. There is often
a loss of identity of traditional cultures resulting in tourist facilities
like accommodation loose their identity and similar cultures grow in
different parts of the region. This loss of identity resulting from
tourism often destroys intimate, personal and friendly relationship
and leads to commercialism and materialisms. These results in
change of system based on social and moral values to a system based
on money. Impersonality and commercialisation in human relations
from one of the factors in increase in crime rates. The argument finds
support with the increase in crime and prosecution noticed in Mexico
and the Far East.

Similarly, increased population due to addition of floating

population and increase in number of vehicles due to increase in
demands leads to crowding. The environmental deterioration occurs
 54

as a result of littering, water and air pollution, and destruction of

natural beauty and architectural faade. So much so, evidence of
tourism resulting in physical and mental diseases has also been
found. Pearce (1982) and Lundberg (1976) have associated increase
in incidence of venereal diseases and ulcer in Hawaii. Similarly,
increased dependency is a natural outcome in small island economies
due to less developed manufacturing sector. Moreover, airlines, travel
agencies, and hotel chains are generally operated by industrialised
nations.

The reactions of the residents to adjust themselves to the new

conditions are examined elsewhere (e.g. Dogan, 1989). While if the
impacts are deemed to be positive, the reaction is acceptance to
change, on the other hand if the impacts are deemed to be negative
the reactions take the form of resistance. Among the cultural
strategies the people develop to cope with the effects of tourism are;
resistance, retreatism, boundary maintenance, revitalisation and
adoption.

Resistance; In traditional underdeveloped economy the tourism

developments may result in a lot of resentment against the tourist and
the tourist facilities. This may be more common in the countries,
which have remained European colonies, and the tourists visiting
these elite and costly the poor people cannot utilize them. This also
develops a lot of resentment against the tourism industry as well the
tourists. It is argued that differences in wealth and lifestyle between
the tourists and local residents can also generate the feelings of envy
and resentment among the local people.

Retreatism; The alternate form of resentment can be total

boycott of the tourist and revival of the old traditions and culture.
There is an increasing tendency of promoting cultural and ethnic
consciousness instead of an active resistance. Such a resistance is
notice at a stage of development when the tourist infrastructure is in
 55

existence and the economic gains of the development of tourism are

derived by a segment of population and it is too difficult to give up.
Especially, the young and the educated people get attracted towards
tourism and they adopt it very fast while the old and relatively less
educated feel that the changes produced by tourism have impaired
culture and traditions. Geiger (1978) observes such retreatism
reaction among the rural communities of Tyrol.

Boundary maintenance: This may happen at a stage of

development of tourism when the benefits start percolating to a large
section of people and the negative effects of tourism developments are
overshadowed by the positive economic gains. The community
accepts tourism without any resistance. This process involves
establishing a well-defined boundary between the foreign and the local
cultures and presenting the local traditions to foreigners in a different
context so that the effects of the foreigners on the local are minimised.
Island of Bali is the best example of this kind. The island has kept its
cultural traditions and has accepted tourism. A study by Flamme in
the Bahamas also finds the process of boundary maintenance. The
community was able to protect their culture while reaping the
economic benefits of tourism.

Revitalisation: A culture is an integral part of the tourism

product; sometimes the protection of traditional culture itself becomes
necessary to promote tourism. It is argued that sometimes customs
and traditions coming to the brink of vanishing under the impact of
industrialisation and urbanizations are revived due to tourism. Singh
(1989) also finds such evidence in his survey of tourism impact on
environment in Kullu valley in Himachal Pradesh in India. Dogan
(1989) finds instances of tourism contributing to the development of
pottery, basketry, jewellery and leather goods in Cyprus and Tunisia.
In India as well government has supported fairs and festivals to boost
cultural tourism (Dhar, 1993). Protection of historical buildings in
 56

England and India (Pearce, 1982; Dhar, 1993) has benefited from
tourism.

Adoption. At the initial stage people adopting tourism may be

lesser; however, there is always some section of the host societies
which may support tourism. Such as trend is generally seen among
educated and young people in third world countries. Andronicou
(1979) reports that the impact of tourism on values attitudes, and
behaviour has been accepted without any resistance in Cyprus. The
young people in particular have accepted the western moral values
about sex and dress due to their contact with tourist. The host
reactions are varied and divergent due to certain factors like;
heterogeneity of local population, power relations within the local
population, and role of the government. Heterogeneity of the
population may be for reasons of differences in cultures, cast and age.
The fact that costs and benefits of tourism are not evenly distributed
within the local population leads to internal conflicts. Landberg
(1979) finds that the tourism changes the power relationships and
increases conflicts within a destination. Boyer (Dogan, 1989)
concludes that as a result of touristic development, agriculturally-
based elite is replaced by those based on touristic activities. Different
political parties may hold different views about tourism. The different
scenarios may emerge with different political systems. However,
among the five stages, revitalisation may not manifest itself as a
distinct strategy. It may co-exist with boundary maintenance and
adoption. Responses and stages of development are correlated. The
first stage of tourist development involves any one of the possible four
reactions. If the tourism enters into the area via a stranger, the likely
dominant repose will be resistance. However, if tourism involves a
significant portion of the local population who expect to gain
important socio-economic benefits from it, and if the tourism is
integrated into the community, the initial response will be one of
acceptance it may either be an active acceptance in the form of
 57

adoption or a passive acceptance in the form of boundary

maintenance.

In the community where there is widespread resistance against

tourism. Touristic development may be locked. However, if the place
has strong touristic value, some investor will still invest in tourism
despite the resistance. With this the employment opportunities will be
created and some segment of the population will benefit from it which
will change its attitude from resistance to adoption. On the other
hand, if the general reaction of the population at a destination is that
of adoption, the tourism developments will be very fast. Soon the
negative effects of the tourism developments will start surfacing, and a
significant portion of the population will start getting hostile towards
tourism and tourists. Tourism development has both positive and
negative environmental consequences. The management part of it,
therefore gains importance. It can now be safely concluded that
tourism cannot be regarded as an unqualified panacea for economic
ills. The situation is particularly bad in developing countries. Owing
to the need of such countries to generate incomes, the developing
countries are prone to tourism-related environmental damage. The
challenge therefore is to achieve the balance between the frequently
competing demands of tourism and environmental conservation. It is
therefore essential that those involved in tourism is precursor to the
integration of tourism development and environmental conservation.
 58

CHAPTER IV

TOURISM IMPACT ON PHYSICAL AND

SOCIO-CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

Tourism interacts with environment in a two way process. The

environmental resources provide a critical input for the production of
tourism product and virtually the tourism development of an area is
dependent on the availability of attractive natural or manmade
resources (Briassoulis and Straten, 1992). Qualitative and
quantitative differences in distribution of environmental resources in
various regions account for differences in tourism development. On
the other hand, tourism produces a variety of unwanted bye-products
that are disposed off into the environment; causing negative effects on
the environment of the host area. Among the negative impacts
identified by OECD (1980) are changes causing permanent restricting
of the environment, the generation of waste products, tourist activities
and population effects.

The impact of tourism was studied by other researchers viz.,

Noronha (1976); Van Hout (1979); Williams (1982) and Singh (1984).
Most of these studies point more to negative and adverse
consequences of tourism. Tourism is held responsible for
transformation of societies by introducing uncalled for and
undesirable changes in their value system, tradition and mores,
collective lifestyle, creative expression, language and individual
behaviour (Pizam 1986). Ranging from demonstration effect to
acculturation, tourism and tourist sin by promoting moral laxity,
during addition, crime and often prostitution (Truoung,
1983).Ecologists and environmentalists lament the loss of flora and
fauna, spoilage of scenic beauty, litter and pollution (Echelberger,
1977; Edington, 1977; Kaur, 1980), eutrophication of lake waters
 59

(Kant, 1983; Raza, 1989), degradation of mountain slopes

(Sinnhubber, 1982), park pollution (Western, 1986; Lindsay, 1986),
disregard of nature and monuments (McLellan 1985) and damage of
coral reefs (Salm, 1986) as a result of tourism.

Singh (1989) studied the impact of tourism on host

environments by assessing the residents perceptions through a
sample survey. The findings of his study in physical environment
revealed that, by and large, tourism has not damaged the landscape
appeal and scenic beauty, except a few ecological blights (Dhungri and
Tibetal settlement). However, residents pleaded for strong public
sport and wider peoples participation for a healthy growth of the
town.

In Socio-culture sphere, the resilient social ecosystem has fairly

withstood the cultural assault of contrasting visiting community that
overwhelms a primitive mountain society during the summer and
autumn peaks; causing sufferance to local people. From among the
negative effects were, change in lifestyle of youth and drug addition,
which the leaders of the community have met as a challenge.
Modification in negative architecture has laos been attributed to
tourism on the positive side. Tourism was held responsible for
reviving their fading traditions and preservation of cultural asses and
monuments.

The interaction of tourism and the environment has also been

widely researched by Krippendorf (1982), Gunn (1994), Hunter and
Green (1995), Mieczkowski (1995) and Batta (2000). While
Krippendorf in his famous work The Holiday Makers has highlighted
the environmental implications of indiscriminate tourism
development, Hunter and Green (1995), Mieczkowski (1995), and
Batta (2000) offer a detailed and systematic analysis of the problem.
Hunter and Green have divided the environment into three broad
components; natural, built and socio-cultural environment; and then
 60

tried to analyze the effects of tourism development on all the three

components. The illustrations given by Hunter and Green include
cases from both developed and developing countries.

Gunn (1994), while highlighting the effects of indiscriminate

development of tourism, strongly argued in favour of planned tourism
development. He felt that while some erosion and pollution of
resources is caused by greater number of visitors, most environmental
damage is caused by lack of plan, policies and actions to prepare for
any economic growth. Through the methodology adopted by
Mieczkowski (1995) and Batta (2000) is broadly the same,
Mieczkowski (1995) discusses the impacts of tourism on natural, built
and socio-cultural environment in an international perspective with
greater emphasis on developed countries. Batta (2000), on the other
hand focuses on problems in developing countries and mountain
areas, there is one common factor in all the above works; while these
studies conclude that tourism is not detrimental to environment per
se, they hold indiscriminate development of tourism responsible for
environmental pollution. For instance, Meizckowski (1995) pleads, to
blame any economic activity, such as tourism in general, for
decreasing environmental quality is like blaming literacy for bad
writing.

There has been very little research on the environmental effects

of tourism in Himachal Pradesh. The first study on this aspect was by
Singh (1989) followed by Pirazizy (1993) and Batta (1998, 2000) and
Batta and Bhatti (2000). Batta (2000) offers a detailed account of
effects of tourism on various components of the environment in
Himachal Pradesh Batta and Bhatti (2000) provide an analysis on
effects of tourism on socio-cultural environment in the state.

Guo Ying et al. (1991) studied the characteristics and

developing function of tourism resources in Jinquan National Forest
Park. The tourism resources of Jinquan National Park Heilongjiang
 61

Provinces, China, were divided into two types; natural tourist

resources (including biological resources water resources mountain
resources and ice and snow resources. An analysis was also made of
the seasonal characteristics and aesthetic value of the tourist
resources in the Park. Six functional landscape areas were
designated, based on the resources characteristic and natural scenes
and human facilities planned for these according to the functional
feature of each landscape area.

Bateman et al. (1994) conducted a survey of 391 visitors, partly

to examine factors determining visits to a site at Lynford stage,
Thetford forest, East Anglia, UK. Travel time was found to be by far
the most important influences for undertaking a journey. The validity
of this function was tested against actual arrivals at locations and a
mathematical function was then used to generate predictions of
visitors, arrivals across Wales to stimulate the impact of sites being
converted into woodland. The visitors demand map generated by this
analysis was then converted to a monetary equivalent, using values
derived from a cross study analysis.

Ankica and Vladimir (1999) developed a methodology for

evaluating the usefulness of health and landscape benefits of forests.
As part of a system of Total Economic Value (TEV) assessment, this
method evaluates a useful secondary potential value for health and
recreation benefits and for landscape. The object of the method
described is to estimate usefulness in point values and in the price of
these points for ay particular region of Croatia. External user
population, the burden of pollutants and the specific characteristics of
the landscape (e.g. naturalness, diversity, historical cultural heritage,
and aesthetic images) were also considered.

Bull (1999) studied the tourism potential of Englands

Community Forests. The future potential for tourism development is
assessed through an examination of community forest plans and
 62

through personal communications with the implementers and users of

various projects. The review showed that despite a brief coverage,
most plans devote the same space to tourism issues, with economic
and sustainable concerns underpinning most of the proposals. The
study concludes by revealing that, since the plans were prepared the
importance of tourism has been accorded more prominence and that a
number of distinct tourism initiatives are being developed.

Gomez (1999) reported the results from a case study of the

environmental economic value provided by afforested areas with
distinct management objectives. The application shed light on some
of the problems in considering the non-market output associated with
different forest uses. The goal was to learn more about the benefits
that society derived from the provision of public recreational facilities
and public afforestation programmes; in a given context of Galicia
(North-Western Spain) and Portugal, where rotation periods in forestry
plantations are short, and land previously used for agriculture as well
as native woodlands that have been cut or burnt down are being
replanted with fast growing species. Since the paper supports the
view that contingent valuation (CV) is an appropriate technique for the
valuation of the benefits, the results of the study are accompanied by
the discussion of the way the method is applied.

Hanrid et al (1999) published a paper on Eco-tourism under

multiple management. Using direct observations and interviews of
direct stakeholders, the paper examines the status of eco-tourism
industry in the Sunder bans Bangladesh. It explores the
predicaments of eco-tourism industry as it relates to resource
management and policy statements. Issues discussed were; the
economic background of the Bangladesh Sunderbans; why eco-
tourism; eco-tourism in the Sunderbans; problems and prospects in
the Sundarbans; and the Sunderbans management dilemma the need
for a single outlet shared approach.
 63

Johnson and Booker (1999) surveyed 286 recreationists in the

Apalachicola National Forest in Florida, USA, to examine activity
choice by wild land visitors in various activities, ranging from
consumptive activities like hunting and fishing to non-consumptive
activities like nature conservation and relaxing. Participation was
examined by race and gender subgroups. The results showed no
racial differences for consumptive activities like fishing and hunting;
however, African participates in most forms of non-consumptive
activities like camping and hiking. Greater gender differences in
activity participation were found for whites than for African-
Americans. Shen Yue Quinn et al. (1999) analysed the global trends
in eco-tourism. It is noted that this type of tourism is high in its
expectations, and makes various basic demands on both tourists and
tour managers. The paper then discussed the practices involved in
developing eco-tourism in Linan, Zhejiang Province (China) ad
analyses the natural resources conditions and regional superiority of
the area. Some tactics and measures for enabling the steady,
continuous and sustainable development of eco-tourism in Linan are
proposed.

Batta (2001) in his study emphasized that economic

instruments provided the means or vehicle for internationalization of
environmental degradation costs and resource depletion cost in a
flexible and efficient way and these environmental problems are due to
market institutional and policy distortions which resulted in under
pricing of resources, public services and commodities. He finally
suggested that future developments in environmental policy have to
be guided by the factors like full realization of environmental costs
through an appropriate structure of user charges, collective action
and participative management of natural resources.

Charles (2001) discussed in detail the role of development and

tourism on drug trade with special reference to Himachal Pradesh,
mainly Manali. He reported that, the tourism naturally turns an
 64

important industry for income generation to the local people He

further, discussed that due to lack of management skill the local
people. Either lease out their land to the outsiders or build their won
hotels. The exposure of people to the luxuries that money can buy
has leaded them to adopt ways that are not legal. One of the lucrative
method, a few local people have adopted is catering to tourist demand
of drug of their choice. He also reported that in remote areas local
people have begun to cultivate Cannabis, which is bought by
middlemen and sold to dealers in certain pockets.

Sarpa et al. (2001) studied the recreational benefits from the

creation of nature reserve in Irish forests. Data from a large scale
contingent valuation study are used to investigate the effects of forest
attributes on willingness to pay for forest recreation in Ireland. In
particular, the presence of a nature reserve in the forest is found to
significantly increase the visitors willingness to pay. A random utility
model is used to estimate the welfare change associated with the
creation of nature reserves in all the Irish forests currently without
one the early impact on visitors economic welfare of new nature
reserves approaches half-a-million pounds per annum, exclusive of
non recreational values.
 65

CHAPTER-V

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT OF

A NEW ECO-FRIENDLY DESTINATION

Eco-travel may be defined as a leisure activity that takes place

in an unusual or exactly wilderness or remote destination. It tends to
be associated with high level of activity by the participants. They
expected to experience varying degrees of risk, excitement, tranquillity
and to be personally tested. They are explores of the outer world,
especially the undisturbed exotic parts of the planet. They also seek
the inner world of personal challenge, self-perception and self-
mastery. A simple definition of eco-tourism can be responsible travel
to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the
wellbeing of local people (Wood, Blangy, 1999). Eco-friendly
development of tourism must adhere to principles of Eco-tourism.
Eco-tourism is environmentally responsible travel. Eco-tourism is
nature based and participatory and involves a challenge to the
individual in which the individual experiences natural areas and
regional cultures, while the main focus is conservation and the
interpretation and understanding of the area visited. Eco-tourism
stresses the total environment while making an economic contribution
to the local community. Eco-tourism usually involves a small group
with a naturalist who is knowledgeable about the local environment
and culture. Examples; photographic safaris, bird and wildlife
viewing, cultural tours archaeological digs.

Planning in Eco-tourism

Planning is a process that involves selection of a desirable

future out of a range of plausible alternatives and implementing
strategies and actions that will achieve the desired action. Therefore it
becomes critical that planners understand the social, political and
 66

economic trends as it becomes the context for planning. Such

understanding helps to capitalize emerging markets, develop actions
that are more efficient and effective, and ensure that strategies and
actions can be adapted to changing conditions.
Some emerging trends affecting the planning of ecotourism in this
modern world are listed below.
Increasing social and environmental concerns
Importance of service quality
Personal security and safety
Rising education levels and demand for travelling
Ageing population
Changing roles of women
Change in leisure patterns
Advances in global communication and information technology
Proliferation of travel options
Globalization of the economy, etc.

The Draft Tourism Policy (1997) states that in the context of

economic liberalization and globalization being pursued by the
country, the development policies of no sector can remain static. The
policy further states that the emergence of tourism as an important
instrument for sustainable human development including poverty
alleviation, employment generation, environmental regeneration and
advancement of women and other disadvantaged groups in the
country requires support to realize these goals. Indias tourism
resources have always been considered immense, in a tourism audit.
The geographical features are diverse, colourful and varied. The
coastline offers opportunities for developing the best beeches in the
world. There are a wealth of eco-systems including biosphere
reserves, mangroves coral reefs, mountains and forests as well as an
equally wide range of flora and fauna. The cultural attractions are
plenty. Diversity is the main feature of Indian culture.
 67

The policy further states that international tourists visiting

interiors of the country for reasons of purity of the environment and
nature contributes to the development of these areas particularly
backward regions. Thus tourism Should also become a reason for
better preservation and protection of our natural resources,
environment and ecology. Here ecologically sustainable tourism
should have a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that foster
environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and
conservation such that:
It contributes to conservation
It benefits the local people
And tourists learn from the experience

Development of infrastructure and services

All destination areas, except those in IUCN category, require

some kind of infrastructure where visitors can stay for a period of time
in the natural surroundings. This is necessary to enhance tourist
experience and also help him understand and appreciate the heritage
of a place.

Good design makes visitors more comfortable and responsive to

the themes and values of the area and inculcates feeling which will
help to meet the objectives of eco-tourism. Though they need to be
discreetly designed, carefully sited and sympathetically landscaped,
but they must nonetheless work. In other words they must draw
visitors, persuade them to look at displays and lead them out better
informed. Thus to be successful visitors centre-must build in a strong
interpretative component and help visitors understand the
significance of the area. But before embarking upon the development
of the site a list of questions needs to be answered to help in
evaluating the need for the proposal itself.
 68

Checklist of questions for proposed facilities and service

Is the scale of development right for the place

Area there alternative uses of the site
How will the character of the site be conserved
What is the level of demand for the proposed facility, ad the
value to the customer
Do similar facilities exist now in the general location, and how
well they are used?
What are the proposals for the subsequent management and
maintenance of the site?

Culturally sensitive design and operations

Culturally sensitive design and operations are essential in the

provision of visitor services. This is important for sustainability of the
tourism operations as now-a-days visitors are largely interested in
understanding the culture of a given destination. Our culturally
sensitive design and operations will provide great motivation to the
local community to maintain their culture and heritage.
These expectations can be monitored by following the guidelines listed
below.
Authenticity
Enhance the appreciation and understanding of that heritage
Employment to host communities Promote equitable
distribution of benefits of eco-tourism Encourage training and
employment of local people
Respect sanctity of spiritual elements, values and life-style of
the host community
Economic returns for conservation and to host community.
Visitor satisfaction
Ensure that the visitor experience is worthwhile present high
quality information Ensure tourism promotion creates realistic
expectations
 69

Environmentally sensitive design and operations

Tourist facilities and design should act as standard setters in

environmentally sensitive design and operations. Good design and
operations can help visitors understand the key concept of eco-
tourism, can highlight the importance of sustainable tourism and also
highlight the managements commitment to environmental protection.

This can be achieved by;

Minimizing the negative environmental impact
Creating an atmosphere in which visitors feel they are in a
special place
Setting an example of sensitive design and operation practices,
to educate and demonstrate the value and practically
sustainable, innovative and effective solutions.

Guidelines for environmentally sensitive design and operations by NPS

(National Park Services) of U.S.A
Carry out Environmental Impact Assessments and also develop
mitigation plan
Materials should be indigenous and involve low maintenance
Site design and Landscaping to minimize
Site disturbance, Physical intrusion, Intervention
Design and operate service which are efficient in resource
consumption
Use new and low impact technologies in construction and
operations
Maintain quality in services
Develop green practices
Develop mutually beneficial relationship with the local
community
Increase the resistance of the resource
Shield the site from impact
Strengthen the site
 70

Maintain/rehabilitate resource
Remove problems
Maintain/rehabilitate impacted problems

Development of Software

It involves development of activities which help visitors come out

as informed citizens who understand the concerns of nature and in
turn helps in dispersing the conservation message. Development of
Software also involves naturalistic expectations of the visitors.

Case study of Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd (JLR)

Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd., (JLR), was established in the
year 1980 in the joint sector, between M/S. Tiger Tops (India) Pvt Ltd.,
and the Government of Karnataka, with the management control
vested with M/s Tiger Tops. In the year 1987 M/s. Tiger Tops pulled
out and from then on it is owned and managed exclusively by the
Government of Karnataka. As per the Memorandum of Association of
the Company, the objectives of Jungle Lodges are to develop wildlife
tourism and various outdoor activities like trekking, camping etc., and
help in general towards conservation and development of wildlife and
improvement of the environment, and act as a consultant to others in
these spheres.

JLR operates the following units

1. Kabini Rive Lodge, Karapur
2. Cauvery Fishing Camps Bheemeswari, Galibore and
Doddamakali
3. B.R. Wilderness Camp, K. Gudi
4. Kali River Camp, Dadeli
5. Devbagh Eco-tourism facility Karwar
6. Bannerghatta Natre Camp, Bannerghatta National Park
7. Bandipur Safari Lodge, Bandipur
8. Dubarre Elephant Camp
 71

i. white water rafting

ii. canoeing and kayaking
iii. professional angling and joy fishing
iv. mountain biking, Wildlife Safaris
v. Outdoor team building exercises
vi. Scuba dividing and snorkelling.

Fishing as an adventure activity has recently popularised a lot.

The Cauvery Fishing Camps at Jungle Lodges and Resorts attract
visitors both from within and outside the country for the thrill of
professional angling and fishing. Here one finds the Masher, a fresh
water fish weighing up to 120 pounds. It is among the largest fresh
water fish in the world.

Fishing at Cauvery Fishing Camp (CFC) has supervised by

Jungle Lodges and Resorts to adhere to eco-friendly norms, resulting
in conservation. All fishing activity carried out by Jungle Lodges and
Resorts ensures that fishes caught are released back into the water.
The following measures adopted by Jungle Lodges and Resorts have
seen the conservation of this miniature ecological environment.

- Fishing is allowed only in season which is from November to

June
- Fishing is banned during the breeding season
- Local community is employed in the resorts and is a part of the
benefit sharing
- Poachers are employed to assist tourists in finding ideal spots
for fishing and patrolling
- Fishing is allowed only one a 30 km stretch
- Room occupancy is limited to avoid impact on environment

Jungle Lodges and Resorts accommodate tourists at CFC in well

furnished spacious tented cottages and ethnic huts, all made up of
environment friendly material. Apart from fishing this place offers a
 72

fantastic setting for Eco-tourists to come and relax for a day or two
and watch the river flow by, or trek and study the local vegetation.
Foreign tourists who stayed in this place have given glowing tributes
to the excellent facilities and courtesy offered by the company.

Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd., is today a recognized across the

globe. In 1999 Jungle Lodges and Resorts bagged the award of Best
Eco-Tourism Destination in India. It has many agents across India
and at many ITDC offices across the globe. Its resorts are booked well
in advance. From failures in the past, the company has adapted itself
to the ever changing tourism market and transformed to a profit
making concern, more importantly an eco-tourism destination. But
for Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd. This is just the beginning.

Developing an eco-friendly destination is a complex activity.

The fragility of the destination has to be taken care of at the time of
development. The more fragile (ecologically) a destination is, the more
impacts it would generate. The activities to be performed during
tourism process have to be set up early. Those should not harm the
ecosystem and the good life of flora and fauna there. There cannot be
a uniform structure since the nature of destinations varies and
similarly the environmental features also vary. This specifies that
planning and development of eco-friendly destination is purely site
specific, though broad frame work can be set and maintained for
ensuring sustainability. The case of NPS is cited as an example for
guidelines and Jungle Lodges and Resorts is given as an example for
ecologically sustainable programmes related to Tourism. These can be
kept in mind while designing an eco-friendly destination.
 73

CHAPTER-VI

WASTE MANAGEMENT IN A TOURISM DESTINATION

Environment is a key component of tourism. Basically,

environment is the external conditions in which an organism lives, but
different view is there according to the subject perspectives. Tourism
environment is considered as an amalgam of resources and facilities
and such complementary support is vital for their effective functioning
(Pigram, 2000). It can be broadly categorized into two, natural and
man-made; both have multi dimensional perspectives like having
social, cultural, economic and political dimensions. Many studies have
shown that tourism has an immense impact on the physical
environment, and that little has been done to remedy or control the
assault on the ecology. And form of industrial development will bring
with it impacts upon the physical environment in which it takes place.
In view of the fact that tourists have to visit the place of production in
order to consume the output, it is inevitable that the tourism activity
will be associated with environmental impacts. As soon as tourism
activity begins to establish, the environment is inevitably changed or
modified either to facilitate tourism or during the tourism process.
(Cooper, et al., 2000).

The increase environment impacts along with the growth of

tourism have raised many eyebrows regarding the sustainability of
tourism and the ir-revocable damages it can create in the
environment. It is argued that tourism is preserving the nature also by
which tourism and environment exist together in harmony. Examples
cited to prove this are preservation and restoration of national parks
and wildlife sanctuaries, protection of wild life reserves and reefs and
beaches, etc. But, the issues come when tourism and environment
exist together in conflict when tourism damages the environment. A
variety of environmental impacts have been identified and are mainly
 74

classified into some broad headings like changes in floral and faunal
species composition, pollution, erosion, natural resources depletion,
deforestation, etc. (Green,et.al,1990). Some of such impacts are
caused by the waste generated by the tourism and related activities.
Waste is an issue of increasing importance in industry as
environmental issues. Tourism industry is an amalgam of many
industries and the kind of waste and the issues created by waste vary
according to the type of the industry. This essay looks into different
aspects of waste created by tourism industries and the measures to
minimize waste production and the issues related to waste.

Waste Management

Disposal of wastes and management of waste is an uphill task

for any governments, their agencies or organizations. Increase in
industrial production results in increasing rate of hazardous waste,
arising from the industrial activities and the consequences are also
increasing in the same rate. Tourism industry is no exception to this.
Waste can be any matter whether liquid, solid or gaseous or
radioactive, which is discharged, omitted or deposited as to cause an
alteration of the environment. This may be discharged accidentally or
otherwise. (Chatwal, Pandey, Nanda, 1988). Tourism industry consists
manly of accommodation industries, food and beverage industries,
transportation industries, shopping sector and others. As stated
earlier, the types of waste discharged by different sectors of the
industry are different. Waste is harmful to the environment and the
society. An organic waste account for approximately one-third of all
landfill and the process afterwards generates greenhouse gases and
other chemicals which may enter into the ground water and the soil.
This is a dangerous situation. Hazardous waste can persist in the
environment and enter the food chain, harming future generations.
Economical aspects of the waste are very relevant especially since the
bad management of resources creates the lions share of the waste.
Many studies have revealed that tourism destinations to some extent
 75

are suffering from the issues due to the waste generation from the
tourism activities over there. Hence it is very important to consider the
waste in a destination since the consequences are not only with the
tourism sector, but the social repercussions are far reaching.

In this circumstance, the aspect of waste management is

gaining much relevance. The terms are a broader one involving
policies preparation, environmental standard fixation, monitoring-air,
water or soil quality, etc. It is referred to as a comprehensive,
integrated and rational system approach towards maintenance of
acceptable quality. But it has to be accepted that to a great extent had
management of resources creates waste in destinations. The emerging
concepts related to waste reveal that if the resources are properly
utilized, the amount of waste can be considerably reduced. This will
result in making the waste management much easier. This aspect has
to be discussed which has much relevance in the case of a tourism
destinations. The practice being performed in this regard is referred to
as Zero Waste, which is a global concept.

Zero Waste

Zero Waste, conceptualized as an alternative to the dump-

burn-bury method, is a recently emerged creative concept dealing with
the increasing menace of waste disposal. It is a set of policies and
practices and the focus of it is to dial with the resources utilization
and it is a multifaceted approach to conserve the Earths limited
resources. It was first documented by the Australian City, Canberra
that decided to get rid of waste in 2010 (Zero Waste Kovalam, 2021).
The zero has been used as a goal to achieve the ultimate result. The
concept is emerged as a total quality management term where the
management is mentioned for the proper resource utilization. For
those at the bottom of the Zero Waste Mountain, it is hard to believe,
it can be climbed. There is no single model, no one set way. But a
broad pattern is emerging which makes it easier for those still looking
 76

up from below. (Robin Murray, 1999). The concept is designed to

reduce the consumption, increase the efficiency, eliminate toxic
inputs, maximize re-cycling and ensure that products are made to be
safely reused, repaired or re-cycled back to nature or the market
place. The practice of it has already attained good results in some
parts of the world. The concept encompasses cleaner production
(using less resources, creating less pollution), re-designing of the
product by which the products can be taken apart, and instead of
being disposed of, the parts re-used, re-cycled or composted,
promotion of re-cycling and re-usage of products, legislation to reduce
waste, promoting self-reliance among local community in a
sustainable manner, etc. The benefits of Zero Waste concept are
many and the major of them are mentioned below (Zero Waste New
Zealand, 2000).

Less waste costs; re-cycling is more cost efficient than land

filling
Employment generation through waste reduction and re-cycling
initiatives.
Income generation from resources / commodities otherwise
destined for landfill, creating employment.
More environment preservation and natural heritage
conservation.
Reducing pollution through decreasing littering and others.
Tourism gains out of it from cleaner environment and
preserving natural heritage, etc.

Thanal a voluntary organization based at Trivandrum has

initiated Zero Waste Kovalam, an effort to reduce the waste disposal
over there and to create conducive atmosphere for the sustainability of
tourism. It was initiated during 2001. Kovalam is an international
beach tourism destination which lies on the coast of Arabian sea near
to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. The destination consists of
 77

four main beaches. It is famous for its natural beauty, calm and
serene sea and the golden sand. The developmental activities emerged
during 1960s and within this short span of time the destination has
produced different kinds of impacts. Recent visitor arrival statistics
shows the declining trends and it was reported that the declining
natural beauty is one of the reasons behind the scenario (Dileep,
2003). The littering and huge garbage disposal has contributed much
to the declining natural beauty of the destination. The waste over
there is creating a range of social and environmental issues
(Zerowastekovalam, 2001). Thanal had come forward with the
concept as a multi-stakeholder community based programme and the
activities were many. Kovalams garbage in the tourist season is rich
with plastics and others. The waste disposal practice followed is
dumping, burying and open burning. But these practices are not
environment friendly. To overcome this zero waste was propounded
as a social and managerial process based on the following important
concepts.

Involve local people and the producers of the garbage.

Boost the local community by generating entrepreneurial
livelihood activities that are healthy, income generating,
meaningful and self sustaining
Not be wasteful or propagate the use of wasteful materials
Not transfer the problem to a different community or lead to
the creation of cross media pollution problems such as air
pollution or ground water contamination.
Re-establish Kovalam as a tourist destination of choice.

The programme has been started by Thanal with the help of

Greenpeace and the Equations (NGO based at Bangalore) and the
primary results are much hopeful. The website of the programme
www.zerowastekovalam.org- will give the details. One of the important
activities of it was to clear up the dumped waste and 72,000 pet
 78

bottles were collected and removed from the beach in January 2004.
The Indian Coast Guard Station, Vizhinjam has co-operated in
cleaning campaigns and in public awareness creation programmes.
The website of the programme is playing a big role in taking Kovalam
as a Zero Waste region. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) was
demanded by the Thanal and Greenpeace and the collected bottles
were sent to COKE and PEPSI asking responsible behaviour along
with a message that they can not dump the bottles in Kovalam
resulting in the death of the destination. EPR is being practiced in
many countries and the idea is that the producer is responsible for
the product even after the same leaves their factory and to an extent
of post-consumption.

The Zero Waste Kovalam involves everyone and children play a

major role in the work. There are toxic-free workshops and a variety of
programmes organized by the Zero Waste Centre for children. These
are paper bags made by the result of lack of creativity and responsible
resources use. There are paper bags made by the local women groups
and individuals which are emerging to replace the plastic bags. The
waste is collected in trays and cartons from hotels for local
management. Bio-degradable discards from 15 Hotels are collected
and a bio-gas plant set up to convert them to generate around 2.5KW
electricity. Jobs are created to manage the discards and money is
generated from the same. The achievement of the Zero Waste
Kovalam is in terms of re-inventing the community collective work
and the joy in many people. It is expected that kovalam will radiate
this happiness to other destinations and places and the new
understanding of waste to far and wide. The programme has already
contributed to the international Zero Waste movement with new ideas
like material substitution and the jobs in alternatives and this is
hopefully changing Kovalam. There is better community participation
for waste management and a sort of change is there in the mindset of
the people.
 79

There is no second opinion about the fact that environmental

degradation is increasingly undermining our lives (Uberoi, 2003).
Discussions and summits have been taking place to consider this
issue and to evolve measures to mitigate the same. It is accepted that
waste generated by human activities are one of the reasons for the
environmental degradation. Disposal of this waste is a big problem for
all those involved with it. Apart from the environmental issues,
improper disposal of waste can create some social problems also. The
necessity of measures for the proper maintenance of waste has been
increasing and some concepts were emerged for dealing with the
same.

Tourism is one sector which generates a range of waste

materials and many issues are generated due to it. The concept of
waste management was evolved some time back and recently, zero
waste concept was emerged as a solution to get a way from waste-
related problems. The fact that waste is generated in this way because
of the improper utilization of the resources is the core of the concept.
It consists of some innovative ideas to mange waste which maximizes
recycling, minimizes residual waste, reduces consumption and
ensures that products are made to be re-used, repaired, re-cycled or
composted. The application of the concept will have different benefits,
like employment generation, apart from managing with the waste
disposal. This concept is well suited for a tourism destination and it is
being practiced by Thanal, a voluntary organization based at
Trivandrum, with the help of Greenpeace at Kovalam-an international
tourism destination. Kovalam experiment has started producing
results and practicing this concept in other areas will be beneficial in
many ways.
 80

CHAPTER VII

SWOT ANALYSIS OF PUDUCHERRY FROM

PERSPECTIVE OF ECO-TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

A SWOT analysis (acronym of Strengths, Weakness,

Opportunities and Threats) of Puducherry was carried out to
understand the inherent opportunities challenges and constraints to
tourism promotion in the region.

A SWOT analysis was strategic to the entire planning process

and was aimed at highlighting vital areas and providing clear direction
to the planning efforts.

It was desired that the SWOT be carried out by involving various

knowledgeable stake holders from the tourism industry to view
tourism development in holistic manner by identifying key areas
which appear vital to these stake holders. Since, major investment
and project promotion efforts would primarily originate from these
stake holders, this was desirable. Accordingly select respondents
which included Hoteliers, aware of the region were identified for
conducting a SWOT analysis. Only one representative from each area
was included in the study to rule out any bias in the final analysis on
account of over representation from any particular segment.

The methodology for carrying out the SWOT analysis was

through the ETOP model (acronym for Environmental Threats and
opportunities Profile). In this model various parameters which affect
tourism development were first evolved based on the consultants own
experience and discussion with various knowledgeable people and
stake holders. The parameters were generated as part of the Unaided
expert interviews conducted during the first phase of our study.
These parameters were carefully worded so that they do not by
themselves hint at being Strength or a Weakness. The respondents
 81

had to give their opinion on a rating scale for each parameters

identifying it as a Major/ Minor strength or Major/ Minor Weakness.
In addition to such identification, they had in relation to the study
objective; they could assign each parameter as (Very Important and
Not so important). In case the respondents felt that a particular
parameter was neither a Strength nor Weakness that parameter would
be assigned Nil marks .As per the ETOP model, a parameter which is
rated strength or a Weakness can get a maximum score of 40 and
40 respectively.

Comments and Ratings on individual Parameters.

a) Historical importance of Puducherry

This parameter was rated asStrength by all the respondents

with some qualifying it as a Major strength and others as a Minor
Strength. However all the respondents were unanimous that the
factor is Very important from the study perspective. The factor got
an overall rating of +27.5 which taken into account while planning a
strategy for tourism promotion.

b) Mix of Tourism Products at Puducherry

The respondents had divergent views on this parameter. 3 out

of 8 respondents thought of the parameters as a Minor Strength
while the rest 5 respondents believed that it was a Major /Minor
Weakness. The different view respondents how the tourism products
were critically viewed. Some respondents thought that though
Puducherry had a good mix of tourism resources, they were not being
exploited /promoted. Others believed that there were not many
tourism attractions facilities available. The parameter got an
aggregate score of 27.5, implying that it is a Significant Weakness
 82

c) Cultural & Traditional assets including existing festivals,

Melas,Events etc.
This parameter has bee rated as a Major Weakness by most of
the respondents. It is a fact that there are no significant traditional
festivals, events that could be exploited for promotion of tourism in
the region. Most of the French festivals / events which were part of
Puducherry tradition during the earlier days of French rule have been
lost. Such festivals are very critical for tourism promotion and some
states like Kerala and Goa have major tourist inflow on account of
such festivals. The factor received an overall rating of -30 on the
rating scale are viewed as a Significant Weakness which must be
addressed.

d) Accessibility and connectively to other cities

This parameter has been rated asStrength by most

respondents except one respondent who considered it as a Minor
Weakness. Half the respondents were of the opinion that the factor
was Very important for tourism promotion where as others though of
it as not so important. Overall the factor received a rating of + 18.75
and is perceived as Strength.

e) Proximity to Chennai

This factor was rated as a Major/Minor Strength by most of

the respondents. Respondents however rated it as a Minor
Weakness. This is because though Chennai is the main source city
for Puducherry and also serves as the Gateway to Puducherry, its
close proximity has resulted in Puducherry being perceived as a Day
visit destination This perception has hindered the growth of the factor
received a rating of +18.75 signifying that it is a Minor Strength.
 83

f) Existing Accommodation infrastructure

Most of the respondents were of the opinion that there is good

value for money accommodation available at Puducherry. The cost
of accommodation is cheaper than comparable accommodation in
other beach / Holiday destinations. Therefore it is Strength. A
Couple of respondents have however rated this factor as a Minor
weakness as they felt that quality of accommodation for upmarket
leisure tourist is not available. Overall this factor received a rating of
+ 15.75 on the rating scale. Though the factor is strength but is not
very significant to tourism promotion.

g) Seasonality /Climatic factors

Most of the respondents believed that Puducherry has excellent

weather throughout with neither strong summer nor winter seasons.
Though the tourist arrival pattern would show some variation in
arrivals in certain months, these are not primarily on account of
climatic factors. A stable climate throughout the year isStrength
and has been rated so by the respondents. The factor received an
overall score of + 75.15 on the ETOP model. However most of the
respondents believed that this factor is not very significant for the
purpose of Tourism promotion.

h) Other required infrastructure in terms of Roads, Shopping

facilities, Transportation, Civic amenities etc.
This factor received a mixed response from the respondents.
Through, overall, the respondents rated it as a Minor Weakness it
was not significant to deter tourism promotion activities. The factor
received an overall score of -7.15 and is perceived as a Minor
Weakness and not a significant deterrent to tourism promotion.

i) Dominance of Ashram and Auroville

The respondents were clearly divided on this parameter. The

responses for this parameter ranged from Major Strength to Minor
 84

Weakness. Overall the factor received a score of 7.5 thereby

implying that it is a Minor Weakness. However, all the respondents
were of the opinion that Dominance of Ashram /Auroville is very
critical factor and promotion of Puducherry should not be limited to
Ashram/Auroville. The perception has to be changed.

j) Perception as a Weekend / Day visit destination

This factor was critical to assess the perception of Puducherry

by various stake holders and the confidence of various stake holders
in promoting tourism in Puducherry. All the respondents agreed that
the perception is a Weakness with 5 of the 8 respondents agreed that
the perception was a Major Weakness. The factor received an overall
score of -28.75 and needs to be effectively addressed in to tourism
development strategy.

k) French Culture / ambience as a Tourist Attraction

Mots of the respondents were of the view that it can be a major

strength to development of tourism in Puducherry. The French
ambience and connection gives Puducherry a unique advantage and
effectively provides a platform for Puducherry to distant it from
Competition from Competing States Interestingly, while all the
respondents were unanimous that promotion of French culture/
ambience would be the right strategy for attracting foreign tourists,
some respondents were of the view that even the domestic tourists
would be attracted by this uniqueness. Overall the factor received a
score of + 21.5 and is perceived as a Major Strength which should be
exploited in the tourism promotion strategy.

Based on the above analysis, Critical factor (Both Strengths and

Weakness) which should be addressed while planning for tourism
promotion have been identified. All factors which received an
aggregate score of more than 3 (on a rating scale 0- of 4) far assessed
degree of importance scale and also secured more than (+) 5 (on rating
 85

scale of 0 10) for Strength and less the (-) 5 (on rating scale 0 (-)
10) for Weakness have been categorised as Critical factors.

On this basis the key Strengths and Weakness have been

identified follows:
1. Historical importance of Puducherry
2. Accessibility ad Connectivity to other Cities
3. Proximity to Chennai
4. Value for money accommodation infrastructure.
5. French Culture/Ambience as a tourist attraction.

Weakness

1. Mix of Tourism products at Puducherry

2. Cultural and traditional assets including existing festivals,
events etc
3. Existing tourism circuits with Puducherry as a Stop Over Point
4. Existing packages Connecting Puducherry
5. Perception as a Weekend / Day visit destination.

Tourism arrivals in Puducherry (March 2005-March 2006)

During March 2006, total tourist arrivals stood at 57,193

persons. The tourist arrivals were higher by a decent 18.6 per cent
over March 2005. In this total, arrivals of domestic tourists were
52,835 persons, while that of foreign tourists was 4,358 persons.
While domestic arrivals posted a huge 39.4 percent rise. This
translated into a hefty share of 92.4 percent as held domestic
nationals.

During April March 2005-06, total arrivals of tourists were

higher by 7.8 per cent over the previous period. The arrivals of
domestic tourists accounted for a share of 93.4 per cent in the total.
Nearly six lakh domestic tourists visited the UT. At 42,527 persons,
the foreign tourists posted a handsome 34 per cent rise over the
 86

previous period. This indicated a share of 6.6 per cent in the total
tourist arrivals in the UT.

Table 2: Tourist arrivals in Puducherry (March 2005 2006)

Tourist arrivals in Puducherry

Month/Year Domestic Foreign Total Domestic Foreign Total
(Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos)
Mar 2005 45080 3126 48206 9.83 10.30 9.86
Apr 2005 45731 2251 47982 2.68 11.93 3.08
May 2005 50982 1691 52673 3.22 28.50 3.88
June 2005 47516 1453 48969 -0.45 37.59 0.38
Jul 2005 49668 3013 52711 6.71 27.16 7.71
Aug 2005 51224 3626 54850 2.26 17.73 3.15
Sep 2005 48520 2045 50565 -0.04 11.87 0.40
Oct 2005 50302 2436 52738 3.40 6.14 3.52
Nov 2005 42481 3759 46240 -4.06 22.12 -2.36
Dec 2005 52706 4705 57411 12.48 27.75 13.59
Jan 2006 52831 6820 59651 19.04 72.75 23.43
Feb 2006 52270 6310 58610 15.08 61.49 18.77
Mar 2006 52835 4358 57193 17.20 39.41 18.64
Apr 04-Mar 05 561503 31740 593243 10.01 11.99 10.12

Apr 05-Mar 06 597066 42527 639593 6.33 33.99 7.81

Handsome Growth in Tourist Arrivals (June 2006 March 2007)

Total tourist arrivals in Puducherry rose by a handsome 40.44

per cent to 72,399 persons. A he share of nearly 97 per cent was held
by domestic tourists (70,203 persons), followed by a small share of
three per cent by foreign tourists. Arrivals of domestic tourists rose
by 40.3 per cent. Foreign tourists numbered 2,196, up by a huge 45
per cent over the same month of the previous year. In June 2006,
tourist arrivals had posted sedated growth rates.

During April June 2006-07, the cumulative tourist arrivals

rose by 35.6 per cent to 2.17 lakh. Domestic tourists totalled 35.6 per
cent to 2.17 lakh. Domestic tourists totalled 2.1lakh, while the
remaining 7,914 were foreign travellers.
 87

Table 3: Tourists arrivals in Puducherry.(June 2006-07)

Month/Year Domesti Foreig Total Domestic Foreig Total

c (Nos) n (Nos) (Nos) (Nos) n (Nos) (Nos)
June 2006 50,035 1,515 51,550 5.30 4.27 5.27
Jul 2006 49,496 3,047 52,543 -0.35 0.13 -0.32
Aug 2006 54,422 4,279 58,701 6.24 18.01 7.02
Sep 2006 52,484 2,573 55,057 8.17 25.82 8.88
Oct 2006 58,739 3,756 62,495 16.77 54.19 18.50
Nov 2006 56,323 4,554 60,877 32.58 21.15 31.65
Dec 2006 68,031 5,137 73,168 29.08 9.18 27.45
Jan 2007 60,775 7,527 68,302 15.04 10.37 14.50
Feb 2007 52,938 7,500 60,438 1.28 18.30 3.12
Mar 2007 57,611 5,063 62,674 9.04 16.18 9.58
Apr 2007 65,052 3,315 68,367 29.61 50.41 30.49
May 2007 74,007 2,403 76,410 35.57 42.19 35.77
Jun 2007 70,203 2,196 72,399 40.31 44.95 40.44
Apr 06-Jun 06 1,54,814 5,409 1,60,223 7.34 0.26 7.08
Apr 07-Jun 07 2,09,262 7,914 2,17,176 35.17 46.31 35.55
Apr 06-Mar 07 6,65,633 48,845 7,14,478 11.48 14.86 11.71

PUDUCHERRY STATISTICS REPORT

UNION
ITEMS YEAR UNIT PUDUCHERRY KARAIKAL MAHE YANAM
TERRITORY

Area

2001
Area Sq.km. 479 293 160 9 17
Census

per
Density " 2034 2510 1067 4092 1847
sq.km.

Towns " No. 6 3 1 1 1

2001
Population lakh 9.74 7.35 1.71 0.37 0.31
Census

Urban Population " % 66.57 68.81 43.58 100.00 100.00

Rural Population " % 33.43 31.19 56.42 -- --

Male " % 49.98 50.2 49.5 46.6 50.6

Female " % 50.02 49.8 50.5 53.4 49.4

Decadal growth " % 20.62 20.88 17.22 10.11 54.67

per 000
Sex ratio " 1001 990 1022 1147 975
Males

Literacy rate

2001
Persons % 81.24 80.66 81.94 95.66 73.72
Census

Male " % 88.62 88.44 89.40 97.64 78.82

Female " % 73.9 72.84 74.68 93.98 68.50

 88

UNION
ITEMS YEAR UNIT PUDUCHERRY KARAIKAL MAHE YANAM
TERRITORY

Projected
Population - in lakh 10.89 8.23 1.88 0.39 0.39
2007
2006-
Rain fall mm -- 1133 986 3281 1427
07
Agriculture
2005- '
Net area sown 20.713 12.950 6.489 0.624 0.650
06 000Hect.
Gross area
" " 29.384 21.983 6.723 0.043 0.635
irrigated
Food grains ' 000
" 55.147 41.089 11.743 -- 2.315
Production M.T
Fish Production
2006-
Marine M.T 33792 17219 11765 3835 973
07

Inland " " 5510 3300 1570 -- 640

Animal
Husbandry
2006-
Milk Production M.T. 44713 33895 9592 374 852
07

Egg Production " in. lakh 107.36 73.95 29.58 1.30 2.53

Public Health
2006-
Hospitals No. 8 5 1 1 1
07

Chest Clinic " " 1 1 -- -- --

Primary Health
" " 39 27 11 1 --
Centres
Community
" " 4 2 1 1 --
Health Centres
Sub-Centres
2006-
Urban No. 25 17 -- 4 4
07

Rural " " 52 35 17 -- --

ESI Dispensaries " " 14 11 1 1 1

Doctors " " 586 410 98 43 35

Nurses " " 1271 847 278 86 60

Beds " " 2561 1607 645 207 102

Education
Primary
i. No. of 2006-
No. 319 216 75 15 13
Institutions 07

ii. No. of Students " % 100 69.72 15.65 5.59 9.04

Middle
i. No. of
" No. 118 81 30 5 2
Institutions
 89

UNION
ITEMS YEAR UNIT PUDUCHERRY KARAIKAL MAHE YANAM
TERRITORY

ii. No. of Students " % 100 65.84 26.93 5.16 2.07

Secondary
i. No. of
" No. 155 112 27 6 10
Institutions

ii. No. of Students " % 100 71.47 17.72 3.42 7.39

Higher Secondary
i. No. of
" No. 92 71 15 5 1
Institutions

ii. No. of Students " % 100 83.02 12.02 4.60 0.36

Teacher Pupil Ratio

2006-
Primary 1:21 1:21 1:16 1:27 1:56
07

Middle " 1:20 1:19 1:21 1:22 1:32

High/Higher
" 1:27 1:28 1:27 1:21 1:25
Sec.

No. of girls per 100 boys

2006-
Primary No. 95 94 97 101 97
07

Middle " " 91 91 93 90 96

High/Higher Sec.
" " 101 102 103 83 105

Public Distribution System

No.of Fair Price 2006-
Nos 438 318 84 18 18
Shops 07
Ration shops run
by
co-operative " 399 290 73 18 18
institution

Labour and Employment

State Government 2005-

No. 28229 21545 4664 1169 851
Employees 06

Central
Government " " 4200 3996 110 48 46
Employees

Autonomous
" " 7982 6936 866 78 102
Bodies Employees

Local Bodies
" " 2591 2038 396 61 96
Employees

Banking

As on
No. of scheduled
March No. 95 68 20 5 2
commercial banks
2007

Rs.
Deposits " 3932 3178 534 173 47
in Crore
 90

UNION
ITEMS YEAR UNIT PUDUCHERRY KARAIKAL MAHE YANAM
TERRITORY

Credit " 1856 1573 215 46 22

Population per
" No. 10256 10814 8540 7366 15697
Office
Transport
Road length 2006-
km. 677.525 440.344 188.417 22.319 26.445
(PWD) 07
Regd. Motor
" No. 47917 40609 6394 493 421
vehicle
Tourism

Jan to
Tourist arrival June No. 409611 347518 62093 -- --
2007

i. Foreign Tourist " 28022 27894 128 -- --

ii. Domestic
" 381589 319624 61965 -- --
Tourist
Co-operative
2006-
No. of Societies No. 510 362 87 26 35
07

Membership " 000 No. 530.89 383.62 93.34 37.09 16.84

Primary
Agriculture Credit " No. 53 46 6 1 --
Societies

Membership
" " 82051 73044 8830 177 --

Rural Development

No. of groups
2006-
formed under No. 163 125 38 -- --
07
SGSY
No. of Houses
constructed under " " 261 224 28 3 6
IAY
Mandays
generated under Lakh
SGRY " 0.589 0.315 0.197 0.007 0.070
Mandays

State Domestic Product (Base Year 1999-2000)

Gross State 2006- Rs.

Domestic Product 629928 -- -- -- --
07 in lakh
(at Current Prices)

Net State
Domestic Product " " 569772 -- -- -- --
(at Current Prices)

Per capita Income

" In Rs. 52669 -- -- -- --
(at Current Prices)
 91

CHAPTER VIII
ECO-TOURISM POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT -
PUDUCHERRY

Puducherry Region

Puducherry lies about 160 Kms, south of Chennai on the coast

of India and is a living monument of French culture in India.
Puducherry town, founded by the French in 17th Century has
developed into a beautiful and quaint city with a unique character of
its own and in many ways, reflects the ambience and chain of an old
European city.

People speaking fifty five different languages of the world live

here and it can be said that Puducherry is a unique conglomeration of
a vibrant cosmopolitan culture. Puducherry is the house of famous
Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville international commune playing a
significant role in attracting people from different parts of the world.
The history of Puducherry dates back to 200 years B.C. There was a
trade channel between Rome and Poduke (present Puducherry).
Subsequently Puducherry was associated with great empires like
Vijayanagar kingdom, Thanjur, Kingdom and Chola Empire. It came
under the influence of French traditions and culture during their
occupation for two hundred years. Its subsequent liberation in 1964
and increased interaction with nearly regions, have all lent a mystic
charm to this unique city.

Because of French rule, architectural style of buildings in the

Boulevard town (White Town) French names of city streets, French
wine and cuisine and an undercurrent of French connection all this
adds to the charm of the city. Puducherry also has a rare spiritual
ambience where Aurobindo Ashramites and Aurovilleans have
contributed in making the city a blend of continental beauty and
spiritual serenity.
 92

Presence of virgin beaches and a beautiful promenade add to its

charms and magnetise the visitors to this little gems of a town in
south India Churches from an intrinsic part of the Puducherry. Of
the four important churches, the most significant is the Eglise De
Sacre Coper De Jesus situated on the South Boulevard. Noted for its
gothic architecture, it contains rare and beautiful stained glass
panels. Temples too, dot the region. Manakula Vinayagar,
Thirubhuvanai, Thiruvandere and Bahour Temples are some of the
famous temples.

Other important city attraction is:-

XVII Century Governor House (Raj Nivas)

The Government square with a monument of Ayi Mandapam

Puducherry Museum

Botanical Gardens

Statue of Duplex

Museum of Ananda Ranga Pillai

War memorial

Gandhi Statue

Old light house

Statue of Jeanne DArc

Boat House at Chunambar

Bahour Lake

Oustrei Lake and Bird Sanctuary

Aquarium

Potential Assessment of tourism products

The preceding section has briefly listed an inventory of various
tourist attraction of Puducherry region. Traditionally, tourism to
Puducherry has been restricted to the city tour and a visit to Ashram
and Auroville. During one study, it was realised that the vast potential
of the region has not been realised and the present positioning of the
region has not been realised and the present positioning of the
destination leaves much to be desired. With the present efforts and
 93

tourism itineraries, Puducherry can best be a half day destination or a

Technical night halt on the Southern circuit from Chennai to
Thanjavur.

But the reality is quite different. Puducherry has significantly

much more to offer and harnessing the latest potential can possibly
make it an attractive holiday eco-tourism destination for both foreign
and domestic travellers. This section of the exercise deals with an in-
depth analysis of the existing potential tourist attractions of the city
around which the future foreign tourism development should take
place.

Beach of Puducherry
Both on the northern and southern extension of the city of
Puducherry along the East Coast Road, lonely beach stretches are
present. The coastal area stretching up to a distance of 15 Kms.
Comprises of Kalapet, Kanagachettikulam and Pillaichavady villages.
This stretch contains a number of fishermen hamlets, but there are,
nevertheless long stretches near Kalapet and Pillaichavady where a
clear beeches line is available. The northern beach stretches have the
similar ocean characteristic as are true for all of Puducherry and
Karaikal regions. It is an open sea with short sandy stretch with a
gradual gradient. At present there is negligible breach tourism. Hotel
Puducherry Ashok located on this northern stretch but both the
properties have been avoided for the development of beach activities.
Reasons furnished for this were.
a. no requirement from transit passengers (as Puducherry is
a night halt on the circuit)
b. hostile attitude of local population
c. Rough sea conditions Tsunami Phobia.
While at present these reasons are valid, it is also true that a great
natural asset is not being put to profitable use. There is a potential
for development of beach activities like water sports along this stretch
and a possibility of a beach resort can also be considered. Adequate
 94

measures can be taken to isolate the beach stretches and locals can
also be made aware of the benefits of tourism for their region.
Adequate safety steps would definitely have to be taking to ensure
hazard free beach tourism. Development of trained life guards would
be an essential prerequisite.

On the southern side of the city, the coastal area is more scenic
and the sandy stretches are longer. Topography too is undulating at
places and the coast line is at a considerable distance from the east
coast road. Beach resorts, eco resorts/ eco villages can be ideally set
up in this stretch, finding suitable locations near Nallavadu,
Naramali, Morthikuppam, and Pudukuppam. There are fishermen
outlets all along the stretch and adequate measures again would have
to be taken to create tourist - friendly and safe beach activities.

Defining Land use for meaningful development of Beach.

One of the major drawbacks which have resulted in the

haphazard utilisation of beach area is Non- identification of a land
use. At present Puducherry planning Department has declared land
use of only Puducherry and Oulgaret Municipal areas. No land use
has been declared for Kalapet, Pillaichavady and Kanagachettikulam
areas. As it is the CRZ norms provided for stringent guidelines for
development of coastal areas restricting activities which can be
initiated within 500 meters of the high tide line. This puts
tremendous pressure on the land area outside 500 meters for
development purposes. During the extensive field survey carried out to
identify potential sites on the Beach stretches of Kalapet,
Pillaichavady and Kanagachettikulam, it was disheartening to note
that most of the potential areas along the beaches which are outside
the No development Zone as per the CRZ norms, have either PWD
established Crematoriums, Burial grounds or are under the
possession of Ashram/Auroville. Many areas have been splintered
into small plots for residential purposes. In some areas, though the
 95

site appeared to have potential, no approach road was possible to

connect the site to the main roads. It is pertinent that Land Use for
all Beaches areas/along the Coastline be identified and frozen. If
change of land use is to be permitted, it should be on a case to case
basis in the interest of integrated development after charging levies for
change of land use. Unless this is enforced, a planned development of
the coastline is not possible.

Development of Water sports facilities/Oceanarium at identified

location in Kalapet /Pillaichavady
An analysis of the user responses during survey indicated a
strong preference for Water sports facilities and on Oceanarium /
Under Water World. At the moment there are no Ocenarium / Under
Water World facilities available in Tamil Nadu. The Department of
Tourism, Government of Kerala, has recently advertised for the setting
up of an Oceanarium on private sector investment basis at
Thiruvanthapuram.

Since there are no competing facilities in the region, the setting

up of an Ocenarium would provide Puducherry a unique product and
significantly improve the mix of Tourism products available at
Puducherry.

The Oceanarium would be set up on an identified piece of land

and would be spread over 5 6 Acres and would provide a natural
and a thrilling glimpse of the Under Water World. The project would
involve significant conceptualisation and management efforts and
should be developed on private sector investment basis. The state
Govt. can acquire the land from the private agency and give it on a
concession.
 96

Development of a Sunbath Village/Auroville sandy beach on the

Northern Side Close to the Auroville.

There was an overwhelming response by both domestic and

foreign tourists towards the idea of setting up a Sunbath Village at
Puducherry. The proposed Sunbath Village would provide an
exclusive glimpse of the history of Puducherry and promote the
Sunlight Therapy of the region, local cuisine, folklore etc.

A suitable location of the proposed facility can be identified near

the Auroville. (Auroville beach and the Chunnabar beach- Paradise
Beach) The land is a mixture of Government land and private land. A
total area of about 10 acres can be identified for this purpose. In
addition to the local sun bath of Puducherry, local handicrafts /sports
of other southern states can also be displayed as stalls.

The entire area would be conceptualised like a typical village

with thatched huts. The lighting of the village area would be through
earthen lamps. This would add to the ambience of the place. A mini
restaurants with multi cuisine facilities for refreshing tourists.

It is desirable that the project be managed as a joint venture

between Department of Tourism and Department of Arts and Culture
and PDTC and PRTC.

A more comprehensive description of the facility including the

concept lay out and prima facie feasibility would be drawn out for the
specific project profile.

Chunambar and Back Water Lagoons Paradise Beach.

A boat club cum restaurant exists at Chunambar 8 Kms. south

of the city. At present pedal boats, hydroplanes and motor boats are
available. In fact this is the only place in Puducherry where the sea
extends and comes inside the land areas and makes it a safe beach
 97

area. The site can be further developed into a full fledged water sports
complex with the addition of Parasailing, Water Scooters etc.

Alongside the boat club, in the available land stretch (at present
privately held), a completely Water sports /Adventure sports club can
be developed which will not only complement the existing boat club,
but will make the Chunambar complex a unique recreation centre
which will draw people from Puducherry as well as form nearly towns
of Cuddalore, Chidambaram , Villupuram and even Chennai. In fact
the success of water parks / amusement parks on the east coast road
between Chennai and Mamalapuram can be replicated at Chunambar.

Near Chunambar, in the Ariyankupam River, there exist

some wonderful backwater stretches. In fact this is the only stretch
in Puducherry region which can boast of lush green and
beautiful back waters, akintothe famous backwaters of Kerala; and
offers huge potentiality, for Eco - tourism development.

In fact there is an island of about 15 Acres near Pannithittu,

Poornakuppam where an integrated French ambience tourist complex
which will comprise of accommodation units in French style Villas,
French Cafs an Amphitheatre for Cultural activities festivals, evening
theatres etc., an Arts and crafts centre which would be a fusion of
handicrafts from Puducherry and traditional French offerings, and
restaurants set up in French ambience. A backwater boat cruise
facility can be made operational during the months when there is
sufficient water for the boats to ply. In fact the thrill of having the
access to the island facility only though boats plying on the
backwaters would add a rare aura to the present laid back and low
profile tourism activity in the region. The setting up of amusement
Water Park along with the existing boat club which would be
upgraded into a full fledged water sports centre in the vicinity would
make this Southern stretch near Ariyankuppam Chunnambar a
unique tourist facility.
 98

Ousteri Lake

About 20 Kms. West of the Pondicherry town lies Ousteri lake,

a huge water body which is a home for hundreds of birds. As high as
44 species of aquatic birds have been recorded among which 22
species were migratory birds species. Migratory birds are found all
over the year in Ousteri Lake. Maximum number of migratory species
has been recorded during January and February. Number of resident
species higher than the migratory species during all months except
during December February. Migratory species of avifauna include
ducks, teals, pilchards, waders and terns. Resident species include
dabchicks, egret, heron, stork, ibis, pelican, spoonbill, cormorants,
darter, duck (sport bill duck), teal (cotton teal) and waders.

The disturbance caused by indiscriminate filing in the Ousteri

Lake is one of the major problems threatening the existence of birds
and in threatening to destroy this unique ecological treasure of
Puducherry.

In fact, Ouesteri Lake offers a great potential to be developed

into an eco-tourist attraction. The area should be declared as
protected and should be developed as a nature reserve. Across the
road, a small picnic cum- amusement complex can be developed and
special bird watching machans / towers can be installed along the
lake periphery. Limited rowing boat facility can be permitted inside
the lake and interesting landmark can be created inside the lake so as
to give the nature lovers a unique boat ride and a rare bird watching
experience.

This nature reserve cum-leisure destination can not only

become popular with the Puducherry residents as well as tourists, it
can attract a large number of visitors from nearby towns, especially
Villupuram.
 99

Bahour Lake

This is a wetland south of the city of Pondciherry. Since Bahour

receives water only from mid September till March and is devoid of
major aquatic vegetation, it does not offer an interesting option in the
short run However; the area has a potentiality to be developed into a
picnic resort and can be considered as a possible alternative for
development in the long run after 5-7 years. Boat cruise, Pedal boats,
should be introduced by PTDC with functioning of restaurants.
Nearby new sporting complex can be established for childrens with
handicrafts emporium.

Deep sea cruise

Puducherry has an open sea with the sea touching the town at
the Promenade. The view to the open expanse is inviting and the sea
offers some exciting possibilities of watching Dolphins. Tourists can
be taken in specially designed fishing boats for a deep sea cruise
about 5-10 Kms inside the sea and this can offer a wonderful option
for the ocean loving / adventure lowing tourists. Infact there are
mixed views regarding the possibility of dolphin sighting. However, a
large majority of experts contacted felt that it would be a wonderful
experience with or without the dolphins to have a cruise in the deep
sea and tourists could watch at close quarters, the amazing craft of
deep sea fishing. Even in case dolphin sightings are possible, it would
be an added bonus. PTDC has been conducted a few cruises in the
past and many dolphin sightings have been reported. This is a
significant option for tourism development.

Setting up of Eco-Tourism Recreation parks within the City

Near the New Port

One of the key observations made during the Survey was that
there were absolutely no eco-tourism entertainment facilities at
Puducherry. These could include Recreation Parks with mini
 100

restaurant, indoor games etc., and premium facilities like bowling

alley. Also there is no Swimming Pool available for free public use.
Interaction with various user segments highlighted a great demand for
such facilities. The executives /tourists do not have any activity in
which they can leisurely indulge during evening hours.

It is recommended that an Eco-Tourism Recreation Parks

housing the following facilities be set up near the New Port area on the
vast land which at present is owned by the Slums /Sewerage
department.
a) A Swimming Pool
b) A Recreation Parks with mini-restaurants/room/table tennis
lawn/
Handicrafts showroom/ childrens/ toy trains etc.
c) A bowling alley
d) A Hi-tech amusement games Corner.

The entertainment complex would be a good attraction to both

the residents of Puducherry as well as Tourists. The above facilities
can either be taken up by PTDC as its venture in which case the
existing site of the Seagulls Restaurant may be used for creating the
integrated complex and the land sector investment basis on long term
lease by the Government. Tourism Department can crystallise the
facilities desirable and invite private operators to construct, fund and
manage the facility. The private operators must be given absolute
freedom in pricing of the facility as per his investment levels/market
demand.

Setting up of a Major Water Park / Theme Park at identified

stretched of land at Narambai. Puducherry lacks a major
entertainment and leisure product which could cater to the needs of
the residents of Puducherry, transit traffic and the tourists to the city.
 101

A vast piece of land measuring more than 100 acres is available

at Narambai. The land (at present privately held) has well developed
infrastructure and lies about 2 Km off the main Cuddalore Road. The
site has a beautiful unexploited beach stretch which makes it ideal for
a major leisure facility. In short the site can be compared to the VGP
Golden Beach location on the East Coast Road.

A major water theme park would be an ideal proposition at the

site. It is difficult to imaging another comparable site at Puducherry.
The site would help in extending the tourism facilities to the southern
border which at the moment are concentrated on the northern border
of Puducherry and besides cater to the sizeable transit traffic on the
Puducherry Cuddalore route.

The Theme park would be spread over about 35 -40 Acres of

land and would have the following facilities.
1. Amusement rides for Adults, Youth, Family and Children
2. Ecologically planned Park.
3. A fun Virtually Reality theatre
4. A Children play corner
5. Restaurant facilities etc.
The land for the project an be acquired by the Tourism
Department from the private owners and offered on long term lease to
the private operators to set up and manage the facility. Given the
nature of the facility and the investment levels required it is
recommended that the facility be created through private sector
investment.

Exploitation of French connection /developments of products

based on French ambience.

Puducherry offers a unique combination of French ambience in

a typical Tamil setting. The French presence is conspicuous by way of
continental architecture, serene buildings, and gothic architecture of
 102

cathedrals, presence of monuments and the boulevard. Even the

policemen of Puducherry still wear typical French caps called Kepis.
In fact the whole town, or the section of the town on the east of the
Grand Canal, has quite a few beautiful French houses and mansion.
The streets in this part of the town have names in French and one can
easily mistake, for a moment that one is in Paris of yesteryears.

This French ambience or more appropriately the French

connection can be built into a tourism attraction. What ever is there
at present, by way of French ambience, attracts a limited number of
nostalgic French nationals or a few enthusiastic Europeans. Not
many Indians have been enticed to Pondichery because of the French
connection. If a planned marketing exercise is undertaken this
Francein-India slogan can certainly draw a considerable number of
Indian tourists and will also enhance the interest among French and
other European tourists. Some of the options available to explicit the
French connection is:-
i. Setting up of French cafeteria on the road sides (near
Promenade). These would be road side facilities in typical
French style. Ideally, one such Cafs can be located outside
the Le Caf Restaurant on Promenade managed by PTDC.
Different varieties of French bread along with French snacks
and Coffee could be served by the road side Cafs. The
person manning the Caf would be dressed as typical French
Chef which would add to the ambience of the Caf. The
location on the Promenade is ideal as it is the most popular
place for visit by tourists during early morning and evening
hours. The natural setting of the place makes it an ideal
location for setting up of the French Cafs. It is
recommended that 2/3 such French Cafs be set up at
various strategic locations to be managed by PTDC or
alternatively the layout, concept and the Menu can be frozen
 103

by PTDC and the facility can be funded and manned by

quality private operators.
ii. Availability of French wines and French cuisine to be
promoted. Although the present tax structure and licensing
requirements on imported wines does not make it an
attractive proposition.
iii. Celebration of French festivals. One of the possibilities is the
Masquerade festival of masks celebrated during March
April. This festival reflects one face of French honour. With
masks and fancy costumes, revellers go around the streets
indulging in a kind of gimmick dance to the accompaniment
of bleating accordion and trumpets. The Festival of Flowers
is another such festival which would be of much interest to
the local population and the tourists.
iv. The Cultural attach French embassy could be involved
in recommending popular French carnivals and festivals
which could be replicated here. The cultural attach has
promised all support to make such festivals a regular annual
event.
v. Conversion of select French houses in the White Town into
French site hotels where mid budget tourists could stay
and enjoy unique French hospitality in a typical French
setting.
vi. Setting up of a Theme park with French history and
artefacts. This could be a part of the island facility in
Ariyankuppam back waters as discussed in the earlier
section of this report.
 104

Aurobindo Ashram

Contrary to the pre-unit understanding of this study team,

Ashram does not offer a possibility for providing unique selling
proportions for Puducherry. Traffic to the Aurobindo Ashram is a
definite reality but the motivations to visit are independent of the
tourism development activities in Puducherry. While it is not to
suggest that Ashram is not an important ingredient of the tourist
itinerary for Puducherry, it may be emphasised that tourism to
Puducherry can not be built around Ashram spiritualism. Although
Ashram and Auroville are a must in the itinerarys of most visitors to
Puducherry with the enhanced tourism promotion for the U.T., there
would emerge some other potent motivators. As would be seen in the
subsequent section of this report Puducherry offers a potentiality to
be developed into a leisure and holiday destination. It also offers a
unique opportunity for a week end get away for most of the city
dwellers in the Southern belt of Chennai, Cuddalore, Villupuram,
Chidambaram Kanchipuram etc.,

Auroville

Auroville the City of Dawn is the brainchild of The Mother

and is situated 15 Kilometres from Puducherry in Tamil Nadu.
Auroville is an experimental city based on the vision of Sri Aurobindo
and the Mother. It proclaims a dual growth of spiritual and material,
of individual and the community. It is envisaged as a place of
unending education of constant progress and a youth that never ages.
Auroville wants to be the bridge between the past and the future
taking advantage of discoveries from without and from within.

Auroville is a focal point for the upmarket tourists visiting

Puducherry for the following reasons.

a) The Concept: It revolves around the intricacies dealing with every

small aspect of life on physical, vital, mental and spiritual worlds and
 105

is spell binding. It professes perfect beauty in the material by

attaining spiritual heights. It daringly attempts the scientific
interpretation of the ancient lore of unity of consciousness.

b) The Architecture: It is much famous for its harmony in style,

innovative construction material, acute scientific approach, and an
overall economy of land, finances and other resources. Matrimandir
the soul of the city is the main attraction. Every structure is uniquely
modern on the planes of beauty and invariably attaining its utility and
imamates aspirations.

c) Environmental: Auroville is planned to be a marvel in terms of

nature too, though much of it is still incomplete and not open to
tourists. The green belt is planned to consist of rockeries, small
waterfalls and pools, marble fountains, varieties of flora, etc. Eco-
tourism with local communities and other stake holders planning and
promotion are done with its service.

d) Research: Many who go as tourists settle down as visitors for a

long time. They contribute to the research on various cultures,
environment, science and technology.

e) The Products: Many commercial products are exported from here

for their unique form, beauty and extreme quality. Products such as
hand made paper, incense sticks, earthenware, garments and
publications are a major draw for the tourists visiting the place.

ANALYSIS OF SURVEY RESULTS AT PUDUCHERRY

SUMMARY OF SURVEY FINDINGS AMONG DOMESTIC TOURISTS

Survey of tourists was carried out at Puducherry to asses the

visitors perception about various facilities and services, their primary
reason to visit Puducherry, average stay, spending patterns and
inclination to patroning various facilities and services proposed. The
 106

structured questionnaire was administered for the purpose of

conducting the above data.

Table 4: Domestic Tourists - Place of origin

% Age of
Residents (Place origin)
respondents
Chennai 29
Southern districts 9
Northern districts 14
Other places in South India 18

East India 6
North India 5
West India 12
Satellite areas of Puducherry 7

30% of the tourist which were interviewed was the residents of

Chennai. Infact South Indian residents accounted for almost 75% of
the total tourist interviewed. 23% of the domestic tourists to
Puducherry were residents of adjoining southern and northern
districts and about 7% were residents of satellite areas like Cuddalore,
Villupuram and Thriuvanamalai.

Table 5: Domestic Tourists Previous Destination.

Previous destination % Age of respondents

Chennai 42
North India 3
East India 1
South India 43
Satellite areas of 11
Puducherry
 107

Chennai was the most often mentioned (42%) previous

destination i.e. the place from where the tourist had come to
Puducherry. More than 10% of the tourist had come from Satellite
areas. Only 4% of the tourists had come to Puducherry from parts
other than South India.

Previous Destination of Indian Tourists

Satellite areas of
Pondicherry
11%

Chennai
42%

South India
43%

North India
3%
East India
1%

Table 6: Frequency of visit by Domestic Tourists

Frequency of visit % Age of respondents

First time visitors 70
Visited Once or Twice before 10

Visited More than Twice 20

before
 108

Majority of the tourists (70%) were first time visitors to

Puducherry. However, more than 20% respondents indicated that
they had visited Puducherry two or more times, before.

Table 7: Purpose of visit by Domestic Tourists

Purpose of visit % Age of respondents

Pleasure / holiday 61
Business / Conference 10
Ashram / Auroville 14
Study 3
Pilgrimage 5
Other reasons 7

Probe on this aspect threw upon interesting result. Almost 60%

of the respondents indicated pleasure/holiday as the main reason for
their visit Ashram/Auroville visit was indicated by less than 15%.

Table 8: Duration of stay of Domestic Tourists

Duration of stay No. of % Age of

respondents Respondents
Day visit 80 25
1 night 60 40
2-3 nights 55 34
4-5 nights 7 4
6-7 nights 5 3
8-9 nights 2 1
10 and above nights 5 3

40% of the respondents had stayed / would stay only for one
night at Puducherry. Interestingly, 40% of the respondents would
stay for between 2 and 5 nights. 25% were day visitors. See table
below.
 109

The overall average duration of stay of Domestic Tourists works

out to 1 days night.

Table 9: Mode of travel by Domestic Tourists

Mode of travel % age of Respondents

Personal car 23
Hired Vehicle 10
Bus 66
Train 1

Almost 2/3rd of the domestic tourists to Puducherry had used

bus transport to visit the place. Almost 1/4th used their personal car.

Table10: Tourist attractions visited by Domestic tourists in

Puducherry

Places to be % age of
visited/visited Respondents
Promenade 85
Auroville 85
Ashram 85
Chunambar 70
Museum 38
Kalapet Beach 6
Botanical Garden 9
Vinayaka Temple 8
Other Places 1

Promenade, Aurbindo Ashram and Auroville were the favourites.

Chunambar was another preferred place visit which was reported by
70% of the respondents. Less than 50% of the domestic tourists have
visited / planned to visit the beach areas and ousteri Lake.
 110

Preference for various tourist attractions at Puduherry Domestic Tourists

90

80
% age of Respondents 70 Promenade
Auroville
60
Ashram
50 Chunambar
Museum
40 Kalapet Beach

30 Botanical Garden
Vinayaka Temple
20 Other Places

10

0
de

lle

ch

es
am

m
ba

pl
de
eu
vi

ea

c
a

m
hr

la
ar
en

ro

us

tB

Te
na
As

P
G
Au
om

er
hu

pe

ka
ca
Pr

th
la
C

ya
ni

O
Ka

ta

na
Bo

Table 11: General Feedback of Domestic Tourists Vi

% age of Respondents
Averag No
Factor Good Poor
e opinion
Availability /quality of 41 25 2 32
accommodation
Transportation availability 38 40 7 15
Quality of local arts and crafts 33 27 4 36
Availability of wayside facilities 28 41 14 17
and public conveniences
Availability of shopping areas 31 34 6 30
and avenues for Recreation in
and around the region

i. Commenting on the availability and quality of accommodation, about

40% respondents felt the accommodation /its availability was good
25% felt it was average. But as high as 32% did not comment on this
aspect.
ii. On transportation availability too, about 30% respondents felt it was
either average or good. The lack of transportation facilities did not
come out very prominently since most of the tourists restricted their.
 111

Itinery to promenade, museum and Ashram all within walking

distance. For-off tourist facilities like Arikanmedu, Chunambar,
Bahur and Ousteri Lake were seldom visited by tourists.
iii. With respect to quality of local arts and crafts, about 60% of the
respondents were satisfied having rated than as good or average,
but here again, more than 1/3rd of the respondents did not give their
opinion. One view which came out prominently was that all local arts
and crafts were synonymous with Ashram and not as such with
Puducherry.
iv. Wayside facilities and public conveniences were considered to be
average by more than 40% of the respondents. More than 25%
however, felt that they were good. But about 14% felt they were poor.
v. On shopping and recreation facilities and their availability, 2/3rd of
the respondents were satisfied and as high as 30% again had no
opinion.

Table 12: Feedback on specific tourist attractions - Promenade

No
Factor Good Average Poor Opinion
s
Perception of asset value 37 13 2 1
Quality of maintenance 33 15 4 -
Ambience and setting 30 21 3 -
Ambience of tourist facilities and
services
i) Parking 17 15 3 18
ii) Public convenience and facilities. 7 23 9 14
iii) Rest /relaxation and 15 22 12 4S
refreshment

On perception of asset value and quality of maintenance, a large

proportion of respondents rated it good but on ambience, parking
facilities, public convenience and relaxation /refreshment options,
many tourists felt that the facilities were generally average or poor.
 112

Evaluation of "Promenade" by Domestic Tourists

100%

90%

% age of Respondents
80%
70%
No opinion
60%
Poor
50%
40%
Average
30% Good
20%

10%
0%

Availability Transportation Quality of local Availability of Availability of

/quality of availability arts and crafts wayside facilities shopping areas
accommodation and public and avenues for
conveniences Recreation in
and around the
region

Evaluation of criteria

Table 13: Feedback on specific tourist attractions Boat Club-

Chunnambar (Paradise Beach)

% age of Respondents
Averag
Factor Good Poor No opinion
e
Perception of asset value 65 35 0 0
Quality of maintenance 58 42 0 0
Ambience and setting 56 44 0 0
Ambience of tourist facilities
and services
i) Parking 35 27 11 27
ii) Public convenience and 35 40 13 13
facilities.
iii) Rest /relaxation and 34 44 11 11
refreshment

PTDC Boat club and Restaurant at Chunambar at Chunnambar

ousteri lake, the response was generally a mixture of good or average
for almost all the factors. However, here again, the responses were
 113

more skewed towards average for tourist facilities like Parking,

Public conveniences and relaxation /refreshments etc.

Perception of Chunambar As a Tourist Asset (Indian Tourist)

40%
37%

35% 33%
30%
30%
%age of Tourists

25% 23% Good

22%
21%
Average
20% 18%
17% Poor
15% 15% 15%
14% No Opinions
15% 13%
12%
9%
10%
7%
4% 4%
5% 3% 3%
2%
1%
0 0
0%
Perception of Quality of Ambience and Parking Public Rest
asset value maintenance setting convenience /relaxation and
and facilities. refreshment

Evaluation Criteria

Table 14: Feedback on specific tourist attractions Ousteri Lake

% age of Respondents
Factor Good Average Poor No opinion
Perception of asset value 58 42 0 0
Quality of maintenance 62 31 8 0
Ambience and setting 27 69 4 0
Ambience of tourist facilities
and services
i) Parking 8 4 4 85
ii) Public convenience and 0 12 12 77
facilities.
iii) Rest /relaxation and 4 19 8 69
refreshment
Most of the Indian Tourists were not very much satisfied with the
Ousteri Lake the general feeling was that there was much scope for
improvement of facilities. Most tourists felt though the Ousteri Lake
was an important tourist attraction its ambience and setting needs to
 114

be improved well trained Swimmers, Boat drivers, Tour Guides need

to be provided who can explain the importance and specialities of the
Ousteri Lake. There should be better provisioning of Public
Conveniences and Refreshment facilities.

Domestic tourists response on proposed tourist attraction at

Puducherry.
i. A large percentage of respondents (more than 60%) felt that
Puducherry should certainly have an Eco-Tourism as they
indicated that they are certain to visit, if there was one. Only
a mere 15% had indicated that they may not visit nor had no
opinion.
ii. More than 50% respondents felt that they are certain to visit
a floating Restaurants/House Boats if there was one but
20% indicated that they may not visit. However, most
respondents were of the opinion that a would not constitute
a key attraction or a must visit is their itinerary.
iii. Amusement Park, Water Sports or under water world
received very high responses where almost 80% respondents
expressed their certainty to visit such Amusement /Water
Parks.
iv. Respondents were mixed for a Sandy Beach. Most
respondents were not aware of the Concept in the first
instance. However on explaining the facility most
respondents (More than 60%) desired that the facility be
located centrally so that they may visit it during evening
hours.
 115

Table15: Domestic tourists response on proposed tourist

attraction at Puducherry
% age of Respondents
Certainl May Not No
Proposed Attraction Maybe
y visit Opinion
Beach Tourism 61 25 7 7
Boating Restaurants 51 21 20 8
Amusement/Water 76 13 10 1
Park
Water Sports 77 16 6 1
Underwater World 75 15 6 4
Arikamedu 12 10 27 51
Family entertainment 46 18 16 20
Centre

Action Value of Proposed Facilities (Indian Tourists)

90
80
% age of Respondents

70
60
Certainly
50 Maybe

40 May Not visit

No Opinion
30
20
10
0
Arts & Crafts

Planetarium

Amusement/Water

Aqua World

Underwater World

Arikamedu

entertainment
Village

Centre

Family
Park

Proposed Tourist Attraction

Some of the suggestion received from the Domestic tourist visiting

Puducherry was Improvement in tourism information facilities. A
Tourist Reception Centre /Tourist Information Centre TIC TRC need to
be set up at the Main bus stand and at Promenade. Besides this
tourist information brochures should be made available to all the
tourist spot in Puducherry.

Good and multi cuisine restaurant facilities with handicrafts
Showroom
 116

Development of beach facilities including providing shade areas

and snack counters on the Beach/Ousteri /Bahour/Paradise
beach etc.,

Development of products/events which would enhance the
French Connection of Puducherry to be alive in all the seasons
throughout the year.

More recreation and entertainment facilities Popular
suggestions were (a) Indoor games facility (b) Amusement games
(c) Folk dances &Theatre complex (d) Arts and crafts centre
Something on the lines of Eco-Tourism Village in Kerala.

Regulated tariff for taxis and autos and introduction of point to
point mini bus service/ Motor Bikes etc.,

More public conveniences especially on the Promenade,
Jawaharlal Nehru /Mission Street and crowded tourists spots.

Availability of more bilingual and multilingual tourist guides to
explain about Puducherry.

Improvement of tourist recreation facilities at Chunnambar and
introduction of Water /Sea sports.

Provision of better seating benches facing the Sea on Promenade
and Take away snacks counter at Promenade.

Exhibitions /Fairs throughout the year in opposite to Gandhi
Tidal at Beach.

More Childrens Theme Park inside the Bharathi/Botanical
Garden.

Music Festivals ( French/English/Classical etc.,) throughout the
Year.

Placing one or more Handicrafts Stalls in all the tourist spots in
Puducherry to avoid tourists difficulty in Puducherry shopping.
 117

RESULTS OF PRIMARY SURVEY OF FOREIGN TOURISTS AT

PUDUCHERRY
Table 16: Foreign Tourists- Place of Origin
Place of origin % Age or respondents
Sweden 3
U.K. 10
France 43
Ireland 3
USA 10
Germany 10
Malaysia 3
Japan 3
Sri Lanka 3
Australia 3
Kenya 3
Uganda 3

About 45% of the foreign tourists interviewed were French

nationals. Residents of U.K., Germany and US accounted for 10%
each and Europe comprised of as high as 7% of the respondents.
About 10% of the foreign tourists reported Asia their country of
origin.
Table 17: Foreign Tourists Previous Destination

Previous Destination % age of respondents

Chennai 57
Madurai 10
Nagore 3
Mahabalipuram 7
Kanyakumar 10
Trichy 10
Bangalore 3
 118

About 60% of the foreign tourists interviewed had Chennai as

their previous destination i.e. they had come to Puducherry via
Chennai. Table indicates complete domination of southern centres
(with Tamilnadu accounting for 97%) as the previous destinations
points.

Previous Destination of Foreign Tourists

Bangalore
3%
Trichy
10%
Kanyakumar Chennai
10% Madurai
Nagore
Mahabalipuram Mahabalipuram
7% Chennai Kanyakumar
57%
Nagore Trichy
3% Bangalore
Madurai
10%

Table 18: Foreign Tourists - Onward destination

Previous Destination % age of respondents

Chennai 24
Madurai 10
Bhubaneswar 4
Mahabalipuram 7
Kanyakumari 10
Trichy 5
Bangalore 5
Mumbai 5
Himachal Pradesh 4
Sri Lanka 4
Chidambaram 18
Rameswaram 1
Goa 1

Returning back to Chennai or visiting other southern centres like

Trichy, Kanyakumar etc. was the most likely next destination.
 119

Next destination of Foreign tourists

Goa
1%
Rameswaram
1%
Chidambaram Chennai
19% 25% Chennai
Madurai
Bhubaneswar
Mahabalipuram

Sri Lanka Kanyakumari

Trichy
4%
Bangalore

Himachal Pradesh Mumbai

Madurai Himachal Pradesh
4%
10% Sri Lanka
Chidambaram
Bhubaneswar
Mumbai Rameswaram
4%
5% Goa
Mahabalipuram
Bangalore
7%
5%
Trichy Kanyakumari
5% 10%

Table 19: Professional Background of Foreign Tourists

% age of
Background
Respondents
Professional 19
Business 20
Service 60
Others 1

Professional background of foreign tourists presents a cross section.

With 60% holding jobs, 20% in business, little less than 20%
professionals artists.

Frequency of visit

4 out of 5 foreign tourists interviewed at Puducherry were first

time visitors with 14% having visited Puducherry at least once or
twice before. Only 6% of the Tourists interviewed had visited
Puducherry more than two times before this visit. These visitors were
 120

primarily attracted to Puducherry on account of Ashram / beaches

and French Culture.

Table 20: Frequency of Foreign Visit

Frequency of visit No. of respondents

First time 80
Once/Twice Before 14
More than Two times 6
Before

Main purpose of visit

Almost 60% of the respondents indicated pleasure / holiday as

their principal reason for visiting Puducherry. 35% of the tourists
indicated that visiting Ashram /Auroville / Beaches was their main
purpose of visit. The results present a startling fact and challenge the
misconception that Ashram /Auroville are the only motivators of visit
to the region. This means that for most of the foreign tourists a visit
to Puducherry is part of an extended leisure itinerary of the southern
region though Ashram /Auroville are important tourists attractions.
However, a significant proportion (almost 1/3rd) of foreign tourists was
in Puducherry primarily on account of Ashram/Auroville.

Duration of stay of Foreign Tourist

While about 1/5th of foreign tourist stayed for just one night,
more than a third of the foreign tourists stayed /indicated to stay at
Puducherry for between 23 nights. About 1/6th of the foreigners
interviewed planned to stay for 4 to 5 nights, while another 1/10th of
the foreigners intended to stay for more than 5 nights.
 121

Table 21: Duration of stay of Foreign Tourist.

Duration of stay No. of Respondents % age of Respondents

Day visit 18 17
1 night 20 19
2-3 nights 40 37
4-5 nights 18 17
6-7 nights 10 9
8-9 nights - -
10-11 nights - -
12-13 nights - -
2-3 weeks - -
3-4 weeks 2 1
1 month and - -
above

Mode of travel

30% of the foreign tourists had used a car or a taxi to visit

Puducherry. Rest of the 70% used a Hired coach /Van or a Bus.

Table 22: Places of foreign tourists interests visited /intending to

visit at Puducherry.

Places % age of Respondents

Promenade 90
Auroville 90
Ashram 90
Chunnambar 25
Museum 70
Kalapet Beach 12
Botanical Garden 28
Memorials & Statues 10
Churches 20
 122

Promenade, Ashram and Auroville have been indicated as

preferred places of interest which they had or would visit, by about
90% of the foreign tourists. Almost 70% indicated that they had
visited /would visit the museum as well. Only 25% indicated that
they had or would consider visiting Chunambar boat club. Only 12%
were likely to visit the beach (This was because since a majority of the
foreigners had either arrived via Chennai or intended to proceed in
that direction, they would have stopped / proposed to enjoy the beach
facilities at Mahabalipuram enroute.)

Table 23: Expenditure Patterns and Per Person/day Budget of

Foreign tourists:-

% age of Respondents
Budget (in Rs.) No. of Respondents
(rounded off)
0-100 3 3
101-200 10 9
201-300 14 13
301-400 22 20
401-500 30 28
501-600 3 3
601-700 4 4
701-800 7 6
801-900 4 4
901-1000 6 6
1000+ 5 4

Almost half the Foreign tourists interviewed were in the per

person per day expenditure range of Rs. 300 Rs. 500. This means
that a Foreigner who visits Puducherry in family or group size of 4
persons is likely to spend between 1200 2000 Rs per day. The
overall expenditure pattern of foreign tourists appears to be
marginally on the lower side because of (a) availability of reasonably
 123

priced accommodation units (b) Not many avenues to spend on

Entertainment, Transportation or Shopping. The Overall average
budget /expenditure per person per day works out to Rs.450/-.

Table 24: Back up of Spending Patterns of Foreign Tourists:-

Accommodation and Food expenses account for roughly half of

the total expenditure of foreign tourists. Shopping accounts for only
15 20% primarily because of limited shopping facilities /speciality
handicrafts. As expected foreign tourists only spend a miniscule 3-5%
of their budget on transportation within Puducherry.

% age of total
Expenditure Head
Expenditure
Boarding & Lodging 40-55
Transportation 3-5
Shopping 15-20
Other Misc. Expenditure 15-20

Table 25: Feedback on tourist facilities by Foreign Tourists

% age of Respondents
Factor Good Average Poor No.
Opinion
Availability/quality of
70 23 0 7
accommodation
Transportation availability 17 63 7 13
Quality of local arts and crafts 60 27 3 10
Availability of wayside
facilities and public 10 31 17 41
conveniences
Availability of shopping areas
and avenues for recreation in 34 45 0 21
and around the region
 124

i. On accommodation availability and quality, 70% foreign

tourists reacted favourable and more than 90% of them were
satisfied. Therefore it can be inferred that existing
accommodation scenario at Puducherry is quite satisfactory
vis--vis the tourists traffic levels and expectations.
ii. Regarding transportation availability, the reaction was
clearly negative with about 70% respondents findings them
average or poor. This is in stark contrast to the response of
the domestic tourists on the issue. Therefore, it is desirable
Auto/taxi fares, cycles can also be made available on rent
being a convenient and otherwise environment friendly mode
of transport and limited distances required to be traversed.
iii. Quality and range of local Arts and Crafts were satisfactory
however most of the Foreigners viewed arts and crafts of
Puducherry synonymous with Ashram/French Culture.
iv. On availability of wayside facilities and public conveniences,
the reaction was not satisfactory. Only 10% rated them as
good while 60% rated them either as poor or had no opinion
on the issue.
v. Availability of shopping areas and avenues of recreation
generated a mixed reaction with a little over 30% findings
them good but over 40% finding them average or poor.

Table 26: Feedback on specific tourists assets: Promenade

% age of Respondents
Factors Good Average Poor No Opinion
Perception of asset 93.75 6.25 0 0
value
Quality of maintenance 62.5 31.25 6.25 0
Ambience and setting 87.5 12.5 0 0
Parking 18.75 6.25 0 0
Public conveniences
0 25 6.25 68.75
& facilities
Rest/relaxation
6.25 81.25 6.25 6.25
& refreshment
 125

While the quality of assets, maintenance, and ambience were

found good by a large portion of respondents, reaction on parking
facilities, public conveniences and option of rest / relaxation
/refreshment were not satisfactory.

Museum

There were mixed reaction to the Museum as a tourist asset.

While perception of asset value was generally favourable, quality of
maintenance was not considered satisfactory at all. This is in stark
contrast to the response expressed by the Domestic Tourists on
maintenance of Museum facilities. The response clearly indicates that
foreign tourists generally take a deeper interest in articles displayed in
the Museum and expect impeccable maintenance of precious
collections displayed. No opinions were expressed on allied tourist
facilities and services.

Chunambar Paradise Beach.

As very few valid responses were obtained, meaningful

conclusions cannot be drawn about the feedback of foreign tourists on
Chunnambar boat house. Out of the foreigners who responded, most
of them expressed disappointment with the boating facilities available
at Chunnambar.

Ashram

Of the tourists who commented on the asset value of Ashram,

majority rated it as extremely satisfactory with respect to quality of
maintenance and ambience. However not many views were available
on the allied facilities.

Auroville

Recreation to the tourist assets were not available in significant

number
 126

Table 27: Recreation of Foreign tourists on the proposed tourist

attractions at Puducherry.

%age of Respondents
Certainl May Not No.
Proposed Attraction Maybe
y Visit Opinion
Beach Tourism 70 23 7 0
Floating Restaurants/House Boats 40 33 27 0
Amusement/ Water Park 20 20 60 0
Water Sports 27 37 37 0
Underwater World 73 20 7 0
Arikamedu 10 27 23 40
Family entertainment Centre 20 30 47 3

Proposals for an Arts and crafts village and an Underwater

World were met with very favourable responses. Lukewarm reactions
were received for a Planetarium or an Aqua World. Not very
encouraging reactions were obtained for an Amusement/Water Park
or a family entertainment centre.

Suggestions received by foreign tourists on improvement of tourism

facilities at Puducherry

Enhanced French ambience / culture through creation of new
tourism facilities.

Big Shopping Mall to be centrally located with local Handicrafts.

Provision of good Sunbath beach facilities at kalapet
Pillaichavady,Ousteri,Bahour lake etc.,

Better relaxation facilities on Promenade which include
provision of Sea facing Benches with clean, hygienic food
outlets.

More speciality restaurants serving better continental Cuisine to
serve foreign tourists

More information brochures about tourist attractions in the UT
of Puducherry and provision of a Tourist Information Centre at
Promenade with qualified Professional Tourists Guides.

Better Public Conveniences at all tourists spots.
 127

Deep Sea cruising for sighting of Dolphins and if possible

Dolphin rides to be provided for.

More Handicrafts/Antiquities shops for sale of authentic
Souvenirs.

Marketing available Bi-Cycles/Motorbikes on rent for local
transportation.

More Sign Boards on roads to help the tourists.

Accessible Dial on Assistance Phone Booth for Tourists to cater
their needs.

Paying Guest Accommodation Bed Breakfast Scheme.

More Tourist Police to cater the needs of the Tourists.

Survey of Travel Agents and Tour Operators at

Puducherry
This section contains the summarised findings of detailed
interviews conducted with 25 Travel Agents and Tour operators
Puducherry. Interviews were conducted by senior consultant with the
help of semi-structured questionnaire.

i. Among International tourists most popular nationalities of

tourists handled by them indicated by the travel agents were
French, British, Germans, Americans and Australians.

ii. For domestic tourists, common places of origin indicated

were South India, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Delhi.

iii. Popular circuit which was sold by travel agents was

Puducherry Chidambaram Trichy Tanjore. Popular next
destination indicated was Kerala.

iv. Large proportion of Travel agents (66%) indicated that there

is an increasing trend in the tourist flow to Puducherry over
the last 5 years. Rest felt that it has been constant. This
has been confirmed by the statistics available with the
 128

Department of Tourism according to which foreign tourist

arrivals had grown at more than 30% per annum over the
last 2 years.

v. Places of interest for foreign tourists are Ashram,

Promenade, Auroville and Museum. Chunambar, Ousteri
Lake and Ashram temples. Beaches are popular places for
domestic tourists.

vi. Average duration of stay indicated for domestic tourists has

been about 2 nights (3 days). For foreign tourists it has been
indicated as 4-6 days.

vii. Puducherry has no defined tourists season marked by any

event. While July, August, September, November, December
and January are popular months for foreign tourists, March,
April, May and December / January are popular months for
domestic tourism.

viii. Almost 90% of the tourists are handled by Travel Agents visit
Puducherry for holiday /pleasure.

ix. Significant action areas suggested by travel agents for

improvement of tourism to Puducherry are.

A) Organising Water sports and promoting Beach tourism.

B) Setting up Theme and Recreational parks

Specific suggestions by travel agents for promotion of tourism in

Puducherry

Improvement of beaches and setting up beach facilities

Conversion of French villas into hostels/hotels.

Setting up water sports facilities at Kalapet Beaches and
Chunambar/Ousteri lakebed.

Increased accommodation in 3 star category hotels
 129

Organising dolphin rides and deep sea cruises.

Setting up more house boats.

SURVEY OF HOTELIERS AT PUDUCHERRY

In order to obtain face to face reactions from the hoteliers of

Puducherry on the problem and prospects of tourism. Twenty leading
hotels were contacted and in-depth interviews were conducted with
GMs/Directors/Owners of these properties.

Salient findings of these interviews are summarised below:-

ii. Pleasure and holiday was reported by 5 hoteliers as the

principal purpose of tourists visit to Puducherry. Other
important purpose of visit as reported by hotels was
Business/Conference. Interestingly only 10 hoteliers
indicated that 10-15% of their guests visits Puducherry for
Aurobindo Ashram/Auroville. It is obvious from the above
that majority of hotel guests in Puducherry are pleasure or
generally stay in the hotels. They prefer to stay in Ashram
guest houses spread all across the city.
iii. About 35% of the hotel guests in the 7 Hotels were reported
to be foreign tourists.
iv. Duration of stay for domestic tourists was indicated as 1-2
nights. For foreign tourists staying in hotels, duration of stay
indicated was 2-5 nights.
v. Peak occupancy reported was between 70-120% and
occupancy during the lean months was indicated to be
around 25-40% in general. Year round average occupancy of
star hotels in Puducherry can be estimated as 65-70%.
vi. Most hoteliers felt that Puducherry was experiencing a rising
trend in tourist, flow, except for this year when Occupancies
have been badly hit.
 130

Some of the suggestions received from hoteliers to improve the

tourism activity in Puducherry.
i. Development of beaches Chunnabar-Paradise beach Ousteri,
Bahour and beach activities
ii. Setting up of amusement facilities including theme parks
iii. French villas to be converted into tourist products
iv. Holding of popular French events like French carnivals, food
festivals etc.
v. Reintroduction of Dolphin rides and deep sea cruise
vi. Improvement in transportation facilities for local and sight
seeing purposes.
vii. More new hotels have to be consumed.
viii. Zero waste management system should be introduced in all the
Hotels and Guest Houses in Puducherry.
ix. Subsidy to Hotel Industries, More Public Private Partnerships.
x. More Convention Centres with Multiple Business Centres etc.

FINDINGS OF THE IN-DEPTH SPECIALISED INTERVIEWS WITH

EXPERTS AND OPINION LEADERS

To supplement the information collection during the primary

survey stage. Specialised interview were conducted. These interviews
were open-ended and unstructured and were aimed at obtaining an all
round insight into the tourism problems, prospects and potentialities.
The respondent segments for this exercise comprised of officials of:-

PIPDIC

Airport office

Railway authorities

Archaeological survey of India

Port Authority

Fisheries department

Department of Tour Planning

Puducherry University
 131

Directorate of Arts and Culture

French library /publishing house

Some of the pertinent suggestions and feedback based on these

specialised interviews have been indicated in the following section. It
may be relevant to add that these are only suggestions and are not
quantifiable parameters.

Conversion of French villas in the white town, especially near

the Promenade with a mid market tariff would be a viable
attraction.

Introduction, of French wine bars.

Surfing in the sea and at Chunambar is desirable

Renovation of the Museum and make available good interpreters

More restaurants serving Continental and Indian cuisine

Introduction of paying guest accommodation in the white
town/fishing village hamlet

Airport can be made operational with desirable routes as
Madras Puducherry-Bangalore or Puducherry Bangalore
Bombay

Deep Sea cruises to be started

Introduction of water sports facilities on the beach as it is quite
safe upto 200 meters.

Water sports are possible except surfing as it is a flat sea.

Venice type of canals can be developed by taking out the salt
water and having boats.

Theme park with cultural tourism as focus needs to be
introduced.

Houseboat tourism can be introduced at Chunnambar,

Local handicrafts especially terracotta clay items can be
promoted,

Floating Restaurants/house boats,

More Tourist resorts in Chunnambar / Ousteri / Bahourlake,

More Beach Tourism activities,
 132

Special New Year Festivals,

Puducherry French carnivals,

More Tourism Conferences/Workshops/Seminars,

Heritage Festivals- Popularising French Architecture,

Golf Tourism Event etc.,

More Motor cruises,

Sunbath Beaches,

More French Colonial Cottages,

Sea view Restaurants / cafeterias,

French delicacies restaurants /Hotels,

More spa centres,

Popularising local folk art through hotels.

Coordination with other tourism Stake Holders.

ESTIMATION /PROJECTION OF TOURISM INFLOW TO

PUDUCHERRY AND ASSESSMENT OF ACCOMMODATION
REQUIREMENTS

Tourism Arrival

During March 2006, total tourist arrivals stood at 57,193

persons. The tourist arrivals were higher by a decent 18.6 per cent
over March 2005. In this total, arrivals of domestic tourists were
52,835 persons, while that of foreign tourists was 4,358 persons.
While domestic arrivals posted a huge 39.4 percent rise. This
translated into a hefty share of 92.4 percent as held by domestic
nationals.

During April March 2005-06, a total arrival of tourists was

higher by 7.8 per cent over the previous period. The arrivals of
domestic tourists accounted for a share of 93.4 per cent in the total.
Nearly six lakh domestic tourists visited the UT. At 42,527 persons,
the foreign tourists posted a handsome 34 per cent rise over the
 133

previous period. This indicated a share of 6.6 per cent in the total
tourist arrivals in the UT.

Table 28: Tourists Arrivals in Puducherry (March 2005-March

2006)

Tourist arrival in Puducherry

Domestic Foreign Total Domestic Foreign Total
Month/Year
(Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos)
Mar 2005 45080 3126 48206 9.83 10.30 9.86
Apr 2005 45731 2251 47982 2.68 11.93 3.08
May 2005 50982 1691 52673 3.22 28.50 3.88
June 2005 47516 1453 48969 -0.45 37.59 0.38
Jul 2005 49668 3013 52711 6.71 27.16 7.71
Aug 2005 51224 3626 54850 2.26 17.73 3.15
Sep 2005 48520 2045 50565 -0.04 11.87 0.40
Oct 2005 50302 2436 52738 3.40 6.14 3.52
Nov 2005 42481 3759 46240 -4.06 22.12 -2.36
Dec 2005 52706 4705 57411 12.48 27.75 13.59
Jan 2006 52831 6820 59651 19.04 72.75 23.43
Feb 2006 52270 6310 58610 15.08 61.49 18.77
Mar 2006 52835 4358 57193 17.20 39.41 18.64
Apr 04-Mar 561503 31740 593243 10.01 11.99 10.12
05
Apr 05-Mar 597066 42527 639593 6.33 33.99 7.81
06

700000

600000

500000

400000
Domestic (Nos)
Foreign (Nos)
Total (Nos)
300000

200000

100000

0
Mar-05 Apr-05 May-05 Jun-05 Jul-05 Aug-05 Sep-05 Oct-05 Nov-05 Dec-05 Jan-06 Feb-06 Mar-06 Apr 04-
Mar 05
 134

Handsome Growth in Tourist Arrivals

Total tourist arrivals in Puducherry rose by a handsome 40.44

per cent to 72,399 persons. A share of nearly 97 per cent was held by
domestic tourists (70,203 persons), followed by a small share of three
per cent by foreign tourists. Arrivals of domestic tourists rose by 40.3
per cent. Foreign tourists numbered 2,196, up by a huge 45 per cent
over the same month of the previous year. In June 2006, tourist
arrivals had posted sedated growth rates.

During April June 2006-07, the cumulative tourist arrivals

rose by 35.6 per cent to 2.17 lakh. Domestic tourists totalled 35.6 per
cent to 2.17 lakh. Domestic tourists totalled 2.1lakh, while the
remaining 7,914 were foreign travellers.

Table 29: Tourists arrivals in Puducherry (June 2006 June

2007)

Domestic Foreign Total Domestic Foreign Total

Month/Year
(Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos) (Nos)
June 2006 50,035 1,515 51,550 5.30 4.27 5.27
Jul 2006 49,496 3,047 52,543 -0.35 0.13 -0.32
Aug 2006 54,422 4,279 58,701 6.24 18.01 7.02
Sep 2006 52,484 2,573 55,057 8.17 25.82 8.88
Oct 2006 58,739 3,756 62,495 16.77 54.19 18.50
Nov 2006 56,323 4,554 60,877 32.58 21.15 31.65
Dec 2006 68,031 5,137 73,168 29.08 9.18 27.45
Jan 2007 60,775 7,527 68,302 15.04 10.37 14.50
Feb 2007 52,938 7,500 60,438 1.28 18.30 3.12
Mar 2007 57,611 5,063 62,674 9.04 16.18 9.58
Apr 2007 65,052 3,315 68,367 29.61 50.41 30.49
May 2007 74,007 2,403 76,410 35.57 42.19 35.77
Jun 2007 70,203 2,196 72,399 40.31 44.95 40.44
Apr 06-Jun 1,54,814 5,409 1,60,223 7.34 0.26 7.08
06
Apr 07-Jun 2,09,262 7,914 2,17,176 35.17 46.31 35.55
07
Apr 06-Mar 6,65,633 48,845 7,14,478 11.48 14.86 11.71
07
 135

90,000

80,000

70,000

60,000

50,000 Domestic (Nos)

Foreign (Nos)
Total (Nos)
40,000
Domestic (Nos)
Foreign (Nos)
30,000 Total (Nos)

20,000

10,000

0
Jun-06 Jul-06 Aug-06 Sep-06 Oct-06 Nov-06 Dec-06 Jan-07 Feb-07 Mar-07 Apr-07 May-07 Jun-07 Apr 06- Apr 07- Apr 06-
Jun 06 Jun 07 Mar 07
-10,000

At present, Puducherry region receives around 4, 00,000

tourists; 95% or so being domestic tourists. Chennai on the other
hand receives 36, 00,000 tourists and 2.25 lakhs foreign tourists each
year. While, Domestic tourism in Puducherry is growing at a
compound growth rate of 7.5% per annum, the rate of growth of
foreign tourist arrivals is erratic largely on account of a small base.
For example in 1997, the foreign tourist arrivals registered growth rate
of foreign Tourist arrivals at Puducherry may not be a reliable tool to
project future arrivals. Since Chennai is a major feeder centre for
tourism to Puducherry, it would be appropriate to benchmark on the
foreign tourist arrivals at Chennai for arriving at realistic projections
for Puducherry. Foreign tourists arrivals at Chennai on the other
hand are linked to the overall foreign tourist arrivals in India and
therefore it would be appropriate to view the foreign tourists arrivals
in India as a basic step for any projections for Puducherry.

Tourism Trends

Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the world.

The post industrialised world is likely to lay even more emphasis on
human activities like leisure, travel, holidays etc. There are some
quantitative and well as qualitative shifts too, which have been
 136

predicted for the 21st Century. Asia Pacific has been identified by
the World Tourism organisation as the fastest growing region, with
international tourism arrivals expected to reach 122 million by the
year 2000 A.D. and 229 million by 2010. The thrust areas identified
are intra-region travel, special interest tourists including environment
and culture tours, incentive and conference travel. In the past
decade, Asian Region has registered a growth rate of more than double
the world average. This trend is likely to continue for the remaining
part of this century and go on till the first decade of 21st century.
While the fastest growing destinations in the region are China, Hong
Kong, and Macao, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand have all recorded
a double digit growth, India too has joined the group of select Asian
Tigers. In the changed scenario India has been identified by Japan as
well as the major Western Industrial countries as having the largest
potential for economic growth. While India has received a minuscule
share of the Intra-regional travel so far, in the coming years, the
situation is expected to change dramatically. India, which has
traditionally relied on North American and European markets for long
halt tourists, is now aggressively marketing itself to receive tourists as
well as commercial travellers in a big way from Japan and Southeast
Asia.

Projections

Based upon the historical growth trends of Foreign Tourist

arrivals in India, the foreign tourist arrivals for the year 1998 2008
have been projected as under (assuming a conservative growth factor
of 6% p.a.)
 137

Table 30: Foreign tourist arrivals to India

Year Tourist Arrivals (in 000)

1998 2518.7
1999 2669.8
2000 2830.0
2001 2999.8
2002 3179.8
2003 3370.6
2004 3572.9
2005 3787.3
2006 4014.5
2007 4255.4
2008 4480.7

Based upon the past trends it has been found that out of the
total foreign tourist arrivals to India, 10% visit Chennai or the market
share of Chennai is 1/10th of the total International arrivals in India.
On this basis the projections for the Source city Chennai have been
made.

Table 31: Foreign Tourist arrivals at Chennai

(10% of Foreign Tourist arrivals in India)

Year Tourist Arrivals (in 000)

1998 251.87
1999 266.98
2000 283.00
2001 299.98
2002 317.98
2003 337.06
2004 357.29
2005 378.73
2006 401.45
2007 425.54
2008 448.07

60% of the foreign tourists who visit Puducherry enter through

Chennai. When we correlate this factor to foreign tourists arrivals at
 138

Chennai, it works out that a mere 5% of the total foreign tourist

arrivals at Chennai visit Puducherry (excluding day visitors). Based
on these findings, the Foreign tourist arrivals for Puducherry has been
project after taking into account that on implementation of Master
Plan for the Puducherry region (from 2001 towards), share of foreign
tourists Puducherry (excluding day visitors) from Chennai (5% of
Chennai arrivals would increase to 10%. A 10% Share of Foreign
tourist arrivals from Chennai (1% of total foreign tourist arrivals) is
very much achievable.

Table 32: Foreign tourist arrivals at Puducherry has been

projected as follows:-

Year Foreign Tourist Balance 40% of Expected

Arrivals to Puducherry foreign tourist total foreign
from Chennai @ 10% arrivals from tourist
share (This amounts to other source arrivals to
60% of total arrivals of cities Puducherry.
foreign tourists at
(A) Puducherry)
(B) (C) (D)
1998 12594 8395 20989
1999 13349 8898 22247
2000 14150 9433 23583
2001 @ 29998 19998 49996
2002 31798 21199 52997
2003 33706 22471 56177
2004 35729 23819 59548
2005 37873 25249 63122
2006 40145 26763 66908
2007 42554 28369 70923
2008 44807 29871 74678

Note: @ From 2001 onwards the growth arrivals is expected to

grow at 10% from the present 5%. Though when we look at the
figures of 2001 which shows a two-fold increase, still it only
account for 1.66% of Countrys projected arrivals from the
present meagre 0.86%.
 139

Arrivals of Domestic Tourists to Puducherry

Domestic tourist statistics of Puducherry collected by the

Department of Tourism has been taken as the base for projection
purposes. It may be mentioned here that the Domestic tourism
statistics pertain only to tourists staying over at Puducherry and not
day visitors. In fact it has not been possible to get a realistic estimate
of the day visitors primarily on account of the fact there are no major
tourist facilities at Puducherry making an entry record to hint at the
number of day visitors. Only Museum and Aquarium charge an entry
fee but both of them cannot be termed as popular facilities with
domestic tourists. Again, no separate figures for domestic and foreign
tourists are available at these places which further complicate the
issue. No reliable estimates could be available for the road traffic on
the East Coast road and on the Cuddalore Highway. Since the day
visitors are primarily in the nature of transit traffic, their projections
have not been attempted.
The domestic tourist arrivals at Chennai (excluding transit
traffic /day visitors) have been growing at a compound growth rate of
7.5%. The domestic tourist arrivals till the year 2000 have been
projected on this basis. From 2001 onwards (after the Master plan has
been implemented) a slightly higher growth rate of 10% per annum
has been estimated.
Table 33: Domestic tourist arrivals at Chennai has been projected
as follows:-
Year Domestic Tourist
Arrivals
1998 353277
1999 379773
2000 408256
2001 449082
2002 49390
2003 543389
2004 597128
2005 657500
2006 723250
2007 795575
2008 875132
 140

Estimation of accommodation requirements based on the above

projections. Present Infrastructure and Supply Scenario Looking at
the accommodation scenario, the type of accommodation varies from 3
stars to dormitories. For the purpose of analysis, the available
accommodation has been classified into three segments namely
Quality, Budget and Others. The survey exercise involved
discussions with the Managers/owners of properties. The tariff for the
quality accommodation ranges between Rs. 1500/- to Rs.750/- in the
Quality accommodation segment (in comparable range of 3 star to
1- star facilities) presently there are 158 rooms in this segment. The
Budget accommodation accounts for around 114, rooms and the tariff
range is in the bandwidth of Rs.500/- to Rs.250/- Taking into account
the projected tourist inflow, the supply factor, a demand supply
analysis has been attempted to identify the demand, supply gap.

For the projection of room demand from foreign tourist the

following assumptions are taken into account:
Average stay of foreign tourists: - 2 Nights till 2000; 3 Nights from
2001.
Double occupancy factor : 1.8
Ideal occupancy : 65%

Table 34: Estimation of rooms demand for foreign tourist.

Year Expected Total Foreign No. of Rooms

tourist arrivals to required to meet the
(A) Puducherry demand
(B) (C)
1998 20989 98
1999 22247 104
2000 23583 110
2001 49996 351
2002 52997 372
2003 56177 395
2004 59548 418
2005 63122 443
2006 66908 470
2007 70923 498
2008 74678 525
 141

Room requirements for domestic tourists.

For this purpose the following assumptions have been taken into
account

Average stay of domestic tourists : 1.5 Nights till 2000,

2 Nights thereafter
Double occupancy factor : 1.8
Ideal occupancy : 65%

Table 35: Estimation of rooms demand for domestic tourists

Year Projected Domestic No of Rooms

Tourist Arrivals required to meet the
demand
1998 353277 1241
1999 379773 1334
2000 408256 1434
2001 449082 2103
2002 493990 2313
2003 543389 2545
2004 597128 2797
2005 657500 3079
2006 723250 3387
2007 795575 3726
2008 875132 4098

Demand Supply analysis

Table 36: The total room demand from foreign and domestic
tourist has been presented in the following table:-
Projected Room Projected Rooms
Total room
requirements for requirements for
Year demand
Foreign tourists Domestic tourists
(A+B)
(A) (B)
1998 98 1241 1339
1999 104 1334 1438
2000 110 1434 1544
2001 351 2103 2454
2002 372 2313 2686
2003 395 2545 2939
2004 418 2797 3215
2005 443 3079 3523
2006 470 3387 3857
2007 498 3726 4224
2008 525 4098 4623
 142

Project demand supply gap

After arriving at the total demand hotel rooms and taking the
availability of hotel accommodation, the surplus/deficit in hotel
accommodation has been presented hereunder:-

Table: 37 Total accommodation gaps in Puducherry.

Total
Total Projected Total supply
Year Accommodation
demand for rooms of rooms
gap
1998 1339 1154 185
1999 1438 1324 114
2000 1544 1324 220
2001 2454 1324 1130
2002 2686 1324 1130
2003 2939 1324 1362
2004 3215 1324 1615
2005 3523 1324 1891
2006 3857 1324 2533
2007 4224 1324 2900
2008 4623 1324 3299

While for purposes of our infrastructure and facility planning,

the above demand supply gap may be reckoned, it may appear
advisable to review the picture and perspective developing from year to
year while implementing individual infrastructure/tourism projects, in
the short term.

Traffic to propose recreation and amusement centres in

Puducherry region namely; Amusement/water park, Chunambar
complex and Eco-tourism sports can be broadly assessed with the
help of following parameters:-

These tourism products would attract long haul domestic traffic

as well as potential day tippers and weekenders from Cuddalore,
Villuppuram, Chidambaram ,Chennai, Bangalore,Kerela etc.

Tours in the hinterland have an educated urban population
upwards of 10,00,000
 143

Transit traffic (local) through Puducherry on an average day is,

1, 00,000.

Addition of such tourism attractions would draw a greater
proportion of visitors to Chennai towards Puducherry.

It can be assumed that at least 2000 tourists visitors would
patronise these facilities on average day. At least 30% of these
would be from the neighbouring towns.

The VGP Golden beach complex near Mahabalipuram received
more than 5000 persons per day in the year 1996-97.

The proposed wayside facility including a cafeteria on the East

Coast Road near Narambai would attract a part of transit traffic from
around 800 buses, 1700 cars/ jeeps and 4300 motorcycles / scooters
each day. Assuming only 2% success of the above traffic patronising
the proposed facility, on an average day, would attract an approximate
number of 800-1000 persons.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDITIONS/UPGRADATION IN BASIC

ECO TOURISM RELATED INFRASTRUCTURE

This section would identify gaps in the infrastructure, if any,

and recommendations for development in short term. This is being
done keeping in view of the development strategies for the identified
individual centre which would be taken up in a prioritised manner.

Roads and bridges

While motorable roads are available connect most villages and
hamlets, specific sites selected for development of tourism activities in
the northern and southern coastal peripheries would require
additional road length of few hundred meters.

These sites where additional road lengths may be required are

i. For the proposed Oceanarium /Water Sports facility near

Kalapet Hotel an extensions of existing beach road.
 144

ii. For the proposed Amusement park at Narambai an

extension of existing road leading to the fishermen hamlet.
iii. A Road and bridges to connect the Island between
Thengathittu and Murunkampakkam.
iv. Sandy Beach for Sun Bath proposed on the northern
stretch opposite Auroville Beach, Paradise Beach.

Electrification and water supply

a. The proposed French theme village on the island in the

backwater lagoons at present has no water and power lines.
Requisite extension from the main land would be required.
b. Requisite power and water connections would have to be
provided for the proposed snack bar and picnic facilities near
Ousterri Lake.

Public conveniences
Tourists have indicated lack of toilet facilities near the tourist
complexes adequate toilet/ rest from facilities would be required at:
i. Chunnambar / Ousteri/ Bahour lake water sports complex
ii. Art and Crafts village proposed on the northern stretch
opposite Pondicherry University.
iii. On the Promenade in the city
iv. On the EC highway near the southern border near Narambai
junction.

Tourists information centre

An efficient and functional tourist information centre needs to

be set up at the main bus terminal in the city. The facility would
provide information for Puducherry region as well as for Karaikal,
Mahe and Yanam. An information centre is also recommended at
Chennai which would be housed in the existing Puducherry Guest
House. This information centre would provide information to tourist
on all the region of the U.T.
 145

Telecommunication facilities

A full fledged centre is proposed in the existing Roman Rolland

Library complex which would provide facilities like e-mail, facsimile
and Internet to the tourists as well as local residents. This telecom
centre would also augment the existing STD/ISD facilities in the city.

Tourist information

Local transport, though available, is not very satisfactory. Auto

rickshaws charge arbitrarily and there is no authorised tourist taxi
service. This requires an effective monitoring of such facilities by the
government by creating a climate of functionality. Authorised rates
have to be regulated. Tourist car services have to be strengthened.
Point to Point services by way of coaches /cars need to be created for
locations like Auroville, Chunambar, proposed arts and craft village
and the proposed French theme village island.

Wayside amenities

On the east coast highway, near the southern border of

Puducherry region, a highway cafeteria / snack bar along with
STD/ISD/PCO and public conveniences (rest room) to be created.

Accommodation facilities

With the total availability of over 2500 beds (including 360 beds
in the pipeline and around 600 700 beds provided by the Ashram
guest houses), the present bed capacity in Puducherry region seems to
be adequate. A normal growth of 5-8% p.a. may be necessary to keep
place with the increasing traffic.

However in the quality accommodation category, the enhanced

availability of 850-900 beds (after the 3 hotels in the pipeline are
commissioned) may be still not is adequate. An addition of 250-300
beds may be necessary in the short run to make a total of 1100-1200
beds. This would then cater to at least 25% - 30% of the tourist
 146

population and create a balance between the tourist wise and the
hotel category mix in the city. It may be added here that with the
sustained promotion and development of tourism in the region, the
tourist profile is bound to change from the present budget (low
income) to a middle class (mid market) tourist in the coming years.

PROJECTED ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL BENEFITS OF ECO-

TOURISM FOR PUDUCHERRY

Tourism is basically a social activity, which has an economic

benefit. It is considered an activity essential to the life of nations
because of its directed effects on the social, cultural, educational and
economic sectors of the nation and also international relations. The
various social and economic benefits accruing to the region due to
tourism activities include preservation and development of places of
cultural interest, increase in area development and direct and indirect
employment, increase in foreign exchange earnings for the country
and greater economic activity.

Economic Benefit of Tourism

The economic value of tourism is measured by estimating its

contribution to the national income and employment and the tax
revenues accruing to the economy. The economic benefits in this
chapter are measured in terms of output (direct and indirect), income
and employment generated from different industry segments
comprising.

Hotel and restaurants

Travel agents and tour operators

Passenger transport services

Entertainment establishments

Sales outlets

Tourists Guide services etc.,
 147

Tourism constitutes a demand for service and consumer goods

that would not have been produced otherwise. The benefits arising to
the society can be classified as direct, indirect and incidental benefits.

Direct Benefits

The money spent by tourists is received by the different

segments of the tourism industry, which provide various services
required by the tourists. These receipts from the direct output of the
industry. These are directly proportional to the number of tourist
arrivals and their length of stay in the region.

Indirect Benefits

Tourism also has an indirect economic benefits arising from a

chain of inter-industry spending, initiate by the expenditure of the
tourism industry on its own inputs. Thus, a flow of money finds its
way into the economy through the multiplier effect. Indirect output
arises from the payment of wages and salaries to the employees in the
tourism sector, purchases of goods by the tourism industry, etc. The
indirect outputs are estimated by multiplying the direct output by an
appropriate multiplier. The net value added by the tourist is the
income accruing to the economy. These multipliers give the direct as
well as indirect income to the economy as a result of tourist
expenditure.

Assumptions and Methodology

This section explains the assumptions and methodology

adopted in the calculation of direct and indirect output, income and
employment generated.

Tourist Projections

The tourist projections for the next ten years have been made on
the basis of past trends and the proposed development efforts. The
year-wise tourist arrivals have been calculated based on past trends
 148

and proposed developmental efforts. The total number of tourists

(both domestic and International) projected to visit Puducherry in the
next ten years, is given in the table below:

Table 38: Projected Tourists Arrival in Puducherry

Year Domestic International Total

1999 379773 22247 402020
2000 408256 23583 431839
2001 438875 49996 488871
2002 471791 52997 524788
2003 507175 56177 563352
2004 545213 59548 604761
2005 586103 63122 649225
2006 630060 66908 696968
2007 677314 70923 748237
2008 728112 74678 802790

Tourism Receipts

The receipts from tourism spending, which is the direct output

of tourism have been calculated as follows:-
Annual Tourism Receipts Annual tourists Arrival x Avg.
Expenditure
Per Day. X Avg. Duration of Stay

The table below presents the projected average daily

expenditure of the domestic and international tourists visiting
Puducherry over the next ten years.
Table 39: Projected Average Daily Expenditure (Rs.)

Year Domestic International

1999 324 486
2000 350 525
2001 402 604
2002 463 694
2003 532 798
2004 612 918
2005 704 1056
2006 809 1214
2007 931 1396
2008 1070 1606
 149

The average expenditure figure for domestic tourists is taken as

Rs. 300 per day and the corresponding figure for international tourists
is Rs. 450 per day in the year 1998. These figures have been
increased @ 8% in the next two years i.e. till the year 2000. (To
account for inflation). From the year 2001 onwards a total 15% rise in
the expenditure has been estimated which includes 8% increase for
inflation the rest due to increased tourism product availability, in the
remaining period. The average duration of stay is shown below:-

Table 40: Average Duration of Stay

Years Domestic Tourists International Tourists

Average stay Average Stay.
1999- 2 days 3 days
2001
2002- 3 days 4 days
2008

Multipliers

Indirect Output, total income and employment generation have

been calculated based on the multipliers listed in table below. These
multipliers have been taken from a 1992 united nations ESCAP
sponsored study, The Economic Impact of Tourism in India.

Table 41: Economic Multipliers in Tourism Sector

Multiplier Domestic International

Indirect Output 1.050 1.069
Income output 0.903 0.930
multiplier
Employment/Output 13.62 17.33

Calculation of Output

The indirect output has been calculated as follows:-

Indirect Output = Direct Output x Indirect Output Multiplier
The total output comprises the sum of direct and indirect output
 150

Calculation of Income
Total Income (direct and indirect) accruing to the economy has
been derived using the income/output multiplier given above. The
total income has been calculated as follows;
Total Income = Direct Output x Income /Output Multipliers
The incremental employment generated due to increased tourists
tourists arrivals has been arrived at as follows:-
Total Employment = Direct Output x Employment /Output Multiplier

Projected Economic Benefits

Table represents the estimated total output for Puducherry due
to increased tourism activity in the next ten years:

Table 42: Estimated Total Output

(In Rs. Million)
Direct output Indirect output Total Output
Year Domesti Internat Domest Internatio Domest Internatio
c ional ic nal ic nal
1999 246.09 32.44 258.40 34.67 504.49 67.11
2000 285.71 37.13 300.00 39.70 585.71 76.83
2001 529.82 120.71 556.31 129.04 1086.13 249.75
2002 654.99 147.15 687.74 157.31 1342.73 304.46
2003 809.73 179.38 850.22 191.76 1659.95 371.14
2004 1001.03 218.66 1051.08 233.75 2052.11 452.42
2005 1237.52 266.56 1299.04 284.95 2536.11 551.51
2006 1529.89 324.93 1606.38 347.35 3136.27 672.27
2007 1891.32 396.09 1985.89 423.42 3877.21 819.51
2008 2338.14 479.62 2455.05 512.71 4793.19 992.33
While the income from domestic tourist will grow at 30 percent
per annum the income from international tourist will grow at 35
percent per annum. The real increase would however be lesser on
account of inflation.

Table 43: Projected Income Generated Per Annum

Income Generated (Rs. Million)
Year Domestic International Total
1999 222.22 30.17 252.39
2000 258.00 34.54 292.53
2001 478.43 112.26 590.69
2002 591.46 136.85 728.31
2003 731.19 166.82 898.01
 151

2004 903.93 203.36 1107.29

2005 1117.48 247.90 1365.38
2006 1381.49 302.18 1683.67
2007 1707.86 368.36 2076.22
2008 2111.34 446.04 2557.39

The estimates of employment generated have been made on the

basis of the employment multipliers presented in the earlier table.
The estimates of the incremental employment generated due to
domestic that by the year 2008 tourism will generate additional
employment for more than 40,000 persons.

Table 44: Projected Income Generated Per Annum

Income Generated (Rs. Million)
Year Domestic International Total
1999 3352 562 3914
2000 3891 644 4535
2001 7216 2092 9308
2002 8921 2550 11471
2003 11029 3109 14137
2004 13634 3789 17424
2005 16855 4619 21474
2006 20837 5631 26468
2007 25760 6864 32624
2008 31845 8312 40157

RECOMMENDED MARKETING INITIATIVES FOR DEVELOPMENT

OF ECO-TOURISM IN PUDUCHERRY REGION

Positioning Strategy

The unique French connection of Puducherry region has been

perceived as a major strength w.r.t its tourism attractions. The other
strength of the region is its multi-section potentiality. Proximity of the
region to Chennai, Bangalore which is its major feeder centre is
strength. The inherit pull of Auroville/ Aurobindo Ashram is also a
supplementing factor. Apart from that backwaters at chunnabar,
ousteri lake
 152

And Bahour Lake is adding more popularity to the destination.

With the backdrop, the study probed into various possibilities /

potentialities of tourism development in the region and the following
market-positioning is recommended.
i. For target visitors of foreign origin, Puducherry can be
promoted with a USP (Unique Selling Promotional) of French
connection. Additional promotional peg can be cosmopolitan
character of the city with Beach Tourism/Back waters in the
backdrop
(Eco-Tourism)
ii. For target visitors in the domestic long haul market, the
region can be promoted with recreational activities as
(a) A French town in Indiamore French festivals/Themes etc.
(b)A leisure and holiday destination Beach Tourism beaches.
iii. Floating restaurants and house boats

For target visitors from southern interland tours, Puducherry region

can be promoted as a weekend leisure destination.

Circuit development

Puducherry primarily has to be seen as a stand alone

destination offering a unique combination of French ambience, leisure
and holiday possibilities and a conference of French-Tamil centre.

Puducherry as a part of the well developed tourism circuit of

Chennai Mahabalipuram Puducherry Thanjavur is a reality
which can be capitalised by increasing the stay at Puducherry from 1
night to at least 2 nights. This can be possible by creating tourism
pulls and attractions, as proposed, as otherwise Puducherry is seen
as a utilitarian night halt on the circuit with a present perception of
the region being that of a half day sight seeing options.
 153

Marketing and promotion

Putting the recommended USPs and positioning in perspective,

Puducherry region can be promoted in the following manner:-
i. Promotional campaigns in France / Europe, North America
and South East Asia as a French Town/With Eco-Tourism on
the coast of Bay of Bengal, Media to be used for this would
be:
a. Magazines / brochures in target countries.
b. Requisite publicity aids including video films/ CDs
available with India Tourism Offices in target countries.
c. Travel trade promotion by participating in relevant travel
trade marts and expositions.
ii. Setting up of effective tourism information centres at
Chennai, Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Trivandrum etc.,
iii. Organising Eco-Tourism Village including the events
suggested on a regular basis with desired media hype.
iv. Familiarisation tours of domestic travel agents and tour
operators with a thrust on the twin USP of French
connection and Eco-Tourism.
 154

KARAIKAL REGION
Location and area

Karaikal district lies 150 kms South of Puducherry. It is

enslaved by Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu and is located between
10 degree 51 and 11 degree north latitude and 79 degree 43 and 79
degree 52 east longitude. The boundaries of this district are the Bay
of Bengal on the east and Thanjavur district on the other 3 sides.

The district is so spread out that Karaikal is located at the

centre with the communes of Kottucherry on the North, Nedungadu
on the north-west, Tirunallar on the west, Neravy and
Tirumalairayanpattinam on the south. Neravy commune is made up
of two detached portions separated by Nannilam taluk of Thanjavur
district but aligned to Tirunallar commune with the easterly flow of
Arasalar River forming the commune boundary. 3 small isolated
conclaves of Thanjavur district are embedded within the detached
enclave of Neravy commune in Tirumalaairayanpattinam commune;
the village of Padudarkollai lies detached and enclaved within
Nannilam taluk.
Total area of the district 160 sq. Kms. The district
headquarters is located at Karaikal.

Geography and Physical features

The district is situated more or less on a flat land. There are no

hills or forests in this district. This district consists of almost entire
coastal alluvial soil.

History

Several explanations are offered for the name Karaikal. The

imperial Gazetteer gives it the meaning Fish passes According to
Julien Vinson the town is said to have been known as Karaigiri in
Sanskrit. In 1738 Dumas, a French citizen with an intention of
 155

extending the French territory in India, negotiated with the then

Sahuji of Thajavur for possession. This marked the beginning of
French rule in Karaikal.

Rivers canal and water ways

This district lies in Cauvery delta and is fed by the water of

Arasalar (running a distance of 11.97 Kms in the region) Nattar (11.2
Kms), Vanjiar river (9 Kms), Nular (13.77 Kms), Puravadaiyaran (5.3
Kms) Thirumalurayanadar (5.13 Kms), and the Nandalar (15.5 Kms).

Town and Villages

The district at present comprises of 6 taluks and 1 community

development block. It has 1 town and 100 villages.

Roads

Karaikal district is well connected with good motorable roads

directly from important centres like Chidambaram, Tiruchirapalli,
Nagapattinam Nagore, Velankanni and Thanjavur etc.

Accessibility and Distance

Some of the distances of important tourist/pilgrimage places are

as follows:-

Thirunallar : 5 Km
Nagore : 10 Km
Velankanni : 19 Km
Chidambaram : 57 Km
Puducherry : 132 Km
Thiruchirapalli : 168 Km
Chennai : 294 Km

The nearest airport, Thiruchirapalli is 168 Kms away.

 156

Public Transport

There is good number of buses in operation in the district. They

also connect places like Nagore, Nagapattinam, and other parts of
Tamil Nadu. Many Private carriers as well as Public buses are plying
in the district. Long distance buses operated by Tamil Nadu Govt from
Nagapattinam to Madras via Puducherry, pass through Karaikal.

Fairs and Festivals

On the full moon day of the Tamil month Masi, the

Masimagam festival is celebrated in the sea shore of Karaikal. The
Karaikal Ammayar temple festival which holds the annual Magani
festival which is a well attended Mela.

Industrial Scenario

The Karaikal region is emerging as a high potential industrial

area. There are three large scale industries, three medium scale
industries and 689 small scale industries situated in the Karaikal
region. Henkel Spic India Ltd. has set-up two chemical units at a
cost of Rs. 85 Crores. Other big names in the region include E.I.D.
Parry Ltd. (Rs. 65 Crores investments) and BOSS Profiles Ltd (Rs. 45
crores investment). There are also three spinning mills, one under co-
operative and two under private sector management. A Gas based
Power plant with 32.5 MV capacity is also being set-up at a cost of Rs.
110 crores. The Oil and Natural Gas Commission (O.N.G. C) have also
shifted their Cauvery project head-quarters from Chennai to Karaikal.
O.N.G.C is also setting up a housing colony with 400 units. Further
an oil refinery at a cost of Rs. 2000.00 crores under N.R.I. investment
is proposed to be set up at Vanjore in Karaikal. Out of the 100 growth
centres proposed to be set up throughout India during the eighth plan
period, one centre has been allotted to the Union territory of
Puducherry. It is proposed to set up in a 1200 acre site at T.R.
Patinam with an investment of Rs 600 crores in Karaikal region. It is
expected that about 30 medium /large scale industries and about 100
 157

to 200 small scale industries will be set up in this centre. This growth
centre will bring about an investment of more than Rs. 300 crores and
will provide employment to about 12000 to 15000 persons.

EXISTING TOURISM SCENARIO AT KARAIKAL

Karaikal is one of the four regions of the Union Territory of

Puducherry. It is about 132 Kms. South of Puducherry. Karaikal is
a small coastal town on the eastern west and as it was a part of the
prior French establishment, since 1739, it is meeting place for the
western culture and traditional culture of the Tanjore district.

Karaikal has great tourism potential in uninterrupted and virgin

beach stretches all along its eastern boundary. There is in fact an
unutilised beach stretch of more than 15 Kms, which opens up to the
Bay of Bengal. Though there are a number of fishermen hamlets all
along the coast but there are a number of uninhabited stretches
offering immense tourism potential.

At present there is no beach activity. Near the town, where

Arasalar River enters the sea, the beach is used by the local
population for evening outings. There is a PTDC restaurant on the
beach front near the light house which too attracts a considerable
traffic. Discussions with the manager reveal that on the weekend,
during evening hours between 150 200 persons visit the restaurant.
Floating Restaurants were introduced to attract more number of
tourists.

Karaikal is famous for the traditional temple of Lord Someswara

(Saturn) at Thirunallore which is just 5 Kms. Away from the Karaikal
town. This temple has a great significance in India and abroad and
lakhs of devotees visit the temple. Saturdays are especially crowded
and once in 21/2 year, during the sanipeyarchi festival more than
one lakh devotees visit the shrine on each day.
 158

In the town, there is a small and beautiful temple of Karaikal

Ammaiyar, the only woman out of the 63 Nayanmars. Karaikal has in
its hinterland such pilgrimage/ tourist centres of repute as
Chidambaram, Sirkali, Poombuhar, Thiruvidaimaruthur Gangoikonda
Cholapuram, Kumbakonam, Swamimalai and Alangudi to the west.

Then it has world famous Basilica of Vellenkanni and Nagore

Dargha, Sikkal, Thiruvarur and Mannargudi to the South. Therefore,
Karaikal has a strategic location w.r.t pilgrims traffic and in itself it is
a great pilgrim and religious centre which receives lakhs of devotees
each year.

Tranquebar or Tharamgambadi in Tamil Nadu is located merely

10 Kms north of Karaikal. Here there is an Old Danish fort which was
a part of the Danish settlement. Many tourists visit Tranquebar as it
is a panoramic site of old European feet on the coast line of Bay of
Bengal.

Overall, Karaikal is largely viewed as a Pilgrim destination. The

location is very close to popular pilgrim destinations of Thirunallar,
Thirunageswar, Nagore, Vellankanni, Kumbakonam etc. Leisure
tourism though now non existent has a good potential at Karaikal.
The beaches of Karaikal offer immense scenic beauty and offer a
worthwhile place for weekend /holiday relaxation. Foreign tourist
arrivals at Karaikal are very low at about 200 tourists. The domestic
tourist arrivals at Karaikal are in the region of about 1 Lakhs. Both
domestic and foreign tourist growth is almost stagnant. This is
because, the primary reason for visit to Karaikal is a visit to the
Saturn Temple at Thirunallar and tourists leave immediately after the
Darshan. Till now, effort has been made to retain the tourists at
Karaikal because of non availability of any tourism attraction. The
packages which are marketed by Tamil Nadu Tourism also include
Karaikal as a limited halt day visit stop over point.
Place of Tourist interest
 159

Karaikal finds a place in the tourist map of India as a pilgrimage

centre. Some of the important tourist interests are given below:

Lord Darbaranyeswar Temple

Situated about 5 Kms from Karaikal, a temple dedicated to Sri

Darbaranyesswarar constructed during the Chola Period exists in
Tirunallar village of Tirunallar commune. Although the presiding
deity is Sri Darbaranyeswarar, Lord Saneeswara Bhagavan who has a
separate apartment in this temple is very famous. Once in 2 years
a great Sanipeyarchi festival is celebrated and attended by lakhs of
pilgrims from all over India.

Ammaiyar temple

The temple is dedicated to a celebrated woman Saiva saint

Punithavathi subsequently elevated to the status of a goddess. She is
the only woman out of 63 Nayanmars.

Tranquebar (Tamil Nadu)

It is a Danish settlement with an ancient fort, a place where the

first printing press was established It is located 10 Km. North of
Karaikal. This place attracts around 20000 visitors in a year.

Nagore Andavar Dargah (Tamil Nadu)

This is one of the biggest Muslim Pilgrim centre in India and is

located 10 Km south of Karaikal.
Vellenkanni Church (Tamil Nadu)
It is the famous Christian Pilgrim shrine 26 Km south of
Karaikal.

Beach

Though the beach is not fully developed, yet it attracts good

number of tourists/ visitors. The vast silent stretch of the beach can
be developed as an ideal place for leisure activities.
 160

SWOT ANALYSIS OF KARAIKAL FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF

ECO-TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

STRENGTH
Strong Pilgrimage traffic throughout WEAKNESS
the year with heavy inflows during
weekends on account of Saturn
temple.
Fast Developing as an industrial hub
with a thrust on Petrochemicals
industry.
Located close to many important
Pilgrimage centres of Tamil Nadu viz.
Thirunageswaram, Kumbakonam,
Nagore, Vellankanni etc.
Availability of land at strategic
locations
Good amount of transit traffic to
Velankanni and Nagore, which can
be capitalised by future way side
projects along these routes.
Absence of a rail head
No existing entertainment
leisure tourism products
leading to the positioning
Karaikal as a transit point
rather than as a destination
Strong consumer perception
and holy town rather than a
leisure centre.
Absence of Good/ quality
accommodation units restrict
the retention of high end
tourist.

OPPORTUNITIES
Viable multiple product options
can be developed to serve both
business / pilgrimage/ transit
segments.
Large number of weekend
tourists who visit Karaikal due to THREATS
the lower cost of liquor who may Threat from the proposed competing
be encouraged to make use of the tourism products like amusement
tourism facilities proposed. facilities proposed in the nearby
The proposed Extension of East tourism centres (both Govt as well as
coast road would increase the Private) such as Nagore Velankanni,
traffic volume and could afford and Poombuhar.
potential for development of
highways motels /way side
facilities.
The existing packages of TTDC
connect Karaikal albeit as a
Limited stop over point once
tourism products are developed
packages could be modified for a
one night stay at Karaikal.
 161

PRIMARY SURVEY OF DOMESTIC TOURISTS AT KARAIKAL

A survey was carried out at Karaikal to assess the profile of

tourists visiting Karaikal, their motivation for visit, spending patterns,
satisfaction with available facilities and services and facilities desired
to be made available. About 100 respondents (Domestic tourists) were
surveyed at Karaikal. Since level of foreign tourists at Karaikal is very
low (About 200 Odd tourists in a year), it was not possible to get a
meaningful sample of foreign tourists at Karaikal. The results of the
survey have been presented below.

Place of Origin

All the respondents who were interviewed were residents of

South India. Some prominent points of origin were Puducherry (10%)
Mayiladuthurai (10%), Chennai (7%) Trichy (10%) and Nagapattinam
(10%).

Onward destination

Tanjore, Srirangam, Nagapattinam, Kumbakonam, Salem,

Nagore, Chennai and Mayiladuthurai were reported as the next
destinations.

Previous destination

The break-up of previous destination of domestic tourists to

Karaikal presents a mixed picture with tourists coming in from varied
parts. However 14% of the respondents reported that their previous
stopover was Chidambaram with another 7% and 10% stating Tanjore
and Trichy as their previous destination.

Professional background of respondents

More than 2/3rd of the respondents were in business. 20% were

in jobs and little over 12% were professionals.
 162

Frequency of visit

While 1/3rd of the tourists interviewed at Karaikal were first

time visitors, more than half reported that they visit the place at least
twice in a year.

Purpose of visit

Pilgrimage was expressed as the most significant purpose for

visiting Karaikal (85% of respondents). Business visits accounted for
another 10% and only 5% of the respondents reported Pleasure /
holiday as their primary purpose of visit.

Duration of stay

Bulk of the respondents (85%) was day visitors. These were

primarily pilgrim traffic and only 15% reported that they would stay
for one night or more.

Mode of travel

2/3rd of the tourists had used a personal car/hired coach or a

taxi to visit Karaikal. Others had arrived by Public bus.

Main tourists attractions visited at Karaikal

Saturn temple has been reported as the place to be visited by

more than 80% of the respondents only 20% indicated that they may
visit the beach as well.

Table 45: Feedback on facilities General

% Age of Respondents
Factor Good Average Poor No Opinion
Availability / 48 7 0 45
quality of
accommodation
Transportation 81 19 0 0
availability
Quality of local 19 32 35 14
arts and crafts
 163

Availability of 36 32 32 0
wayside facilities
and public
conveniences
Availability of 42 16 39 3
shopping areas
and avenues for
recreation in and
around the region

While the tourists have rated factors like availability/ quality of

transportation as generally good, a lot of respondents have rated the
factors like wayside facilities, shopping recreation and local arts and
crafts as either poor or average.

Feedback on Tourist Assets

Saturn Temple

Perception of asset and quality of maintenance have been rated

as generally good or average, response on ambience facilities and
convenience are more skewed towards being either poor or average.
Here it may mention that more than 50% of the respondents felt that
Public conveniences, the rest relation and refreshment facilities were
poor.
Table 46: Perception of Asset and Quality of Maintenance

% Age of Respondents
Factor Goo Average Poor No Opinion
d
Perception of asset 85 11 4 0
value
Quality of maintenance 42 54 4 0
Ambience and setting 8 88 4 0
Availability of tourist facilities and services
i) Parking 31 54 12 4
ii) Public conveniences 23 31 46 0
and facilities
iii) Rest / relaxation 27 23 50 0
and refreshment
 164

Beach and other Developments

There have been mixed response on the beach at Karaikal.

Regarding proposed attractions at Karaikal, Amassment Park, Aqua
world, underwater world and family entertainment centre they all
have received overwhelming responses. All the proposed products
received overwhelming responses. The 70% to 95% of the visitors
assured that they will certainly patronise the proposed facilities which
clearly demonstrates captive market for the products to be developed.

Table 47: Proposed Attraction in Karaikal

% Age of Respondents
Proposed Attraction Certainly Maybe May Not No Opinion
Visit
Amusement / Water 68 26 0 6
Park
Aqua World 61 26 0 13
Underwater World 87 7 0 6
Family entertainment 94 3 0 3
centre

Some of the suggestions from tourists for improvement of tourist

facilities at Karaikal.

Tourism Circuit connecting all the Navagrahas

Sunshades with good seating arrangements on the Sea Shore
Improvement in boating, Floating/Beach Tourism Resort
Better hotels/ restaurants to be made available
A good Beach resort with cottages
Tourist information centre providing information about Karaikal
and other centres.
Railway facilities at Karaikal
More refreshment facilities at Thirunallar, hotels in Thirunallar.
House Boats etc.,
 165

SUGGESTED TOURISM PRODUCTS TO BE SET UP AT KARAIKAL

Karaikal is one of the four regions and second largest district of

the Union territory. It is about 132 Km. South of Puducherry.
Karaikal is well known for rich religious heritage. Karaikal is a
strategic location w.r.t. pilgrims and it receives lakhs of devotees each
year.

The virgin beaches of Karaikal and the Pilgrim/ historical

centres of Tamil Nadu which is nearby to Karaikal offers immense
potential to develop Karaikalm as a Pilgrim cum leisure destination
for the middle / upper income segments.

During the visitors survey it was reported by a vast majority of

the respondents that certain entertainment activities be made
available at Karaikal. The response to all the proposed projects at
Karaikal has been overwhelming. At present a visit to Karaikal has
been restricted to a visit to Saturn temple During the study, it was
realised that the vast potential of the region has not been realised with
the present efforts, Karaikal can best be a half day destination or a
Transit point on the way to visit Nagore, Vellenkanni, and other
Pilgrim/tourist centres.

But the reality is quite different. Karaikal has significantly

much more to offer and harnessing the latest potential can possible
make it position as a Pilgrim cum leisure destination for the middle/
upper income segments in the long run. The focus on the pilgrimage
should be continued with wider options and the development of
selective leisure products for the tourists so as to make Karaikal an
important hub with a one night stay.

The following projects based on market feedback are suggested

which would make Karaikal to be positioned as Pilgrim cum leisure
destination for the middle / upper income segments.
 166

1. Integrated Recreation Complex near the boat club at Arasalar

River:

Location: On vacant land stretch north of Arasalar River between

East west road and the beach. At present the beach attracts marginal
tourists and local population/ visitors from the local command area.
With vast stretch land available facilities on the way to Seagulls
Restaurant offers scope for the development of boating and other
recreational facilities. The same location which has been identified by
the Planning and Research Department and Tourism Department at
Karaikal for the proposed Beach beautification Project cum Film city
project may be utilised with the following product components.

Outline of product concept

Looking at the various factors such as the survey results in

which more than 70% of the respondents have said that they would
certainly patronise the proposed facilities, visitors traffic to the beach,
from the near by places like Mayiladuthurai Nagapatinam and the
local population with a good substantial disposal income it has been
recommended to develop a Integrated Recreation Complex in an area
of around 30 acres. The location identified is well connected by road
and already power supply and water are available on site thereby
exempting the Government from provision of support infrastructure.
The following are the product components suggested in the complex.
1. Boatings/BeachTourism Resorts/Aquarium cultural shows,
performance by the rural folklore etc. (To be developed by the
Government).
2. Museum depicting the history of Lord Saturn and story of Karaikal
Ammaiar and other pilgrim centres near to Karaikal. (To be
developed by the Government).
3. House Boats (To be developed by the Government)
4. Children Play Area (To be developed by Government)
 167

5. Boating Facilities (The existing Boating set up by PTTDC could be

shifted here)
An amusement park with water rides (to be developed by private
sector on land leased out)
1. Souvenir shops (To be leased out to the private sector)
2. Restaurant (Multicusine) .

Beach Resort and Boat Club Complex

Location
On the vacant beach stretch north of seagulls restaurant

Out line of product concept

Considering the poor quality accommodation, absence of resorts,
Master plan objective to improve the foreign tourists arrivals from the
present 220 foreign tourists to a significantly higher figure by the year
2001, Karaikal requires a resort complex which would be utilised both
by the foreign tourists as well as the businessmen / executives who
visit the region. The project implementation should be ensured to
meet the demand of foreign tourist by the year 2001.
The following are the product components suggested in the proposed
complex
1. 30 Cottages of mid-market standard with a tariff of Rs 600-800
2. Boat Club comprising of rest boats, high speed boats for Deep
sea cruising.
3. Multicuisine open air restaurant
4. Beach Tourism

Target segment
Foreign tourists, business visitors to the town, and affluent local
population.

Management
To be set up and run by private sector initiative on land leased out by
the Tourism Department. More details of the project highlighting the
 168

concept and the overall feasibility would be available in the specific

project profile.

3. Highway restaurant near T.R. Patinam

Karaikal receives a large number of pilgrim population either

heading for the Saturn temple and to the other nearby pilgrim centres.
In order to provide better way side amenities to the transiting
population, it has been recommended to develop a highway restaurant
with rest rooms. This project should be set up and run by private
sector initiative.

The Wayside restaurant proposed on the northern border of

Karaikal town can attract around 500 persons each day. This is
based on the assumption that 2% of the vehicles passing through the
ECR at this junction (buses, cars/jeeps, two wheelers) would stop at
this facility.

More details of the project highlighting the concept and the

overall feasibility would be available in the specific project profile.

4. Conversion of PTTDC work shop to Yatri niwas.

The present PTTDC workshop which is strategically located on

the banks of the Arasalar should be converted into a Yatri niwas. This
can have dormitory accommodation with 100 beds to meet the
requirements of budget segment of the domestic tourists as well as
reasonably priced lunch/refreshment area. This project should be set
up and run by Department of Tourism. This restaurant may be either
run by PTTDC or by the private sector on space leased out by the
government.

5. Yatri Niwas near Saturn temple

Another 100 bedded accommodation is required to be set up

near Saturn temple. Tirunallar to meet the demands of pilgrims. The
 169

need for accommodation near the temple is evident from the year
round higher occupancy levels, prevailing in the accommodation built
and maintained by the temple authorities. The proposed facility can
be located near the temple on the site already earmarked.
Reservations for the temple can be made available from Puducherry
and Chennai.

PROJECTION OF TOURIST TRAFFIC AND ASSESSMENT OF

ACCOMMODATION REQUIREMENTS

Projection of Domestic tourist traffic

Karaikal is an important pilgrim place for the domestic tourists.
Presently, all traffic flow to the region is on account of visits/ offerings
at the temple of Lord Someshwara (Saturn). For projecting the future
traffic flow at Karaikal, the historical growth trends as well as the
impact of the proposed developments have been taken into account.

The domestic tourist arrivals at Karaikal for the next 2 years

have been projected based on the historical growth rate of 4%. The
sluggish growth of tourists at Karaikal also hints at (i) The pure
pilgrimage traffic which is purpose specific and (ii) Lack of any tourist
facility and infrastructure resulting in no motivation for the tourists to
stay over. However with the implementation of Master Plan from the
year 2001 onwards we expect a growth rate of 10%. (In the near by
tourist places like Nagore, Vellenkanni, Chidambaram etc). The
growth rate of domestic tourists is between 10-15%). Based on the
above, the Domestic tourist traffic at Karaikal has been projected
hereunder:-
 170

Table 48: Projection of Domestic Tourists at Karaikal

Year Tourist
Arrials
1998 71573
1999 74436
2000 77413
2001 85154
2002 93669
2003 103036
2004 113340
2005 124674
2006 129661
2007 142627
2008 156889

Projections of Foreign tourists at Karaikal

At present the foreign tourist arrivals at Karaikal is very

minimal (221 in 1997), while the near by place like Vellankanni
receives around 1791 foreign tourists (1997 figures) which is 8 times
of that of the Karaikal arrivals. The reasons for this are a mixture of
marketing as well as location specific problems.

Table 49: Foreign Traffic projections for Puducherry:-

Year Foreign Tourist Foreign tourists likely
arrivals at to proceed to
Puducherry Chidambaram @ 18% of
total arrivals
1998 20989 3778
1999 22247 4005
2000 23583 4245
2001 49996 9000
2002 52997 9540
2003 56177 10112
2004 59548 10719
2005 63122 11362
2006 66908 12043
2007 70923 12766
2008 74678 13442
 171

Foreign Tourist projections for Karaikal

To project the foreign tourist arrivals at Karaikal the following

assumptions have been made:-
From the next 2 years foreign tourist arrivals would be in line
with the historical growth rate and would be in the region of about
300 odd tourists.

From 2001 onwards, after the Master Plan is implemented and

co-ordinated marketing effort is launched from Puducherry and
Chennai to promote the new suggested circuits as well as the facilities
created Karaikal, the foreign tourist arrivals at karaikal have been
projected at a reasonable 5% of foreign tourist arrival at Puducherry.

On this basis the foreign tourist arrivals for Karaikal have been
projected as under:-

Table 50: Foreign tourist arrivals for Karaikal

Year No. of foreign tourists No of Foreign Tourist at

at Puducherry Karaikal (5% of
Puducherry traffic)
excluding day visitors
2001 49996 2500
2002 52997 2650
2003 56177 2809
2004 59548 2977
2005 63122 3156
2006 66908 3345
2007 70923 3546
2008 74678 3734

Accommodation Scenario at Karaikal

Karaikal has at present 155 rooms. This includes the rooms of

Yatri nivas Tourist home of Saturn Mandir. There is only one good
hotel at Karaikal which can qualify as quality accommodation (Hotel
Paris). This hotel has 30 rooms and the tariff ranges from 175 to 400.
Though PWD guest house qualifies for quality segment it is generally
 172

not available for tourists. The whole picture of the accommodation

units at Karaikal is presented below:

Table 51: Accommodation Units at Karaikal

Accommodation No. of rooms
type
Quality 30
Others 125
Total 155 rooms

Projection of room requirements for tourists (Both Domestic and

Foreign)
For the projection of room requirements for tourists the following
assumptions has been taken into account.
Average Stay of domestic tourists : 1 Night
Double Occupancy factor : 1.8
Ideal Occupancy factor : 65%

Table 52: Accommodation Scenario in Karaikal

Year Projected Tourist No. of Rooms required

Arrivals to meet the demand
1998 71800 168
1999 74700 175
2000 77700 182
2001 85626 205
2002 94147 226
2003 103520 248
2004 113830 272
2005 125171 299
2006 130164 311
2007 143137 342
2008 157405 376

Based on projected Domestic tourist arrivals and national foreign

tourist arrivals of between 250 300 tourists for Karaikal till the year
2000.
 173

Projected Demand Supply Gap

After arriving total demand for rooms and taking the availability
of hotel accommodation, the deficit in hotel accommodation has been
presented hereunder. It may be mentioned here that presently (till
2001) there is not much scope for a budget accommodation in the
range of (Rs. 400 Rs. 800) for tourists. However, hectic pace of
industrial activity at Karaikal is likely to result in demand for hotels
by the business segment even before 2001. The projected demand
supply gap primarily relates to the tourism scenario.

Table 53: Total Accommodation Gap

Year Total projected Total supply Total

demand for of rooms accommodation
rooms by tourist gap
traffic
2001 205 155 50
2002 226 155 71
2003 248 155 93
2004 272 155 117
2005 299 155 144
2006 311 155 156
2007 342 155 187
2008 376 155 221

RECOMMENDED STRATEGY FOR DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM

AT KARAIKAL

The strategy for tourism development at Karaikal has been conceived

based on the following factors:
1. The strong impression of Karaikal as Pilgrim centre. It is
advisable that the identity is retained, though new
segments could be added. Though significant avenues to
promote leisure / ecotourism are available at Karaikal, the
perceptual and marketing barriers would deter a major
repositioning of the Centre.
2. The primary motive of the target population travelling in the
region Since Karaikal is a part of the Pilgrimage circuit
and not a Stand alone destination, the primary visitor
 174

motive travelling in the region is Pilgrimage as there are

no leisure destinations near Karaikal. The itinerary is more
or less fixed as they would like to cover their identified
destinations in the time set out.
3. The demographic profile of the visitor/ local population to
the region in terms of their age, income levels, spending
patterns and life style.
4. The primary target segments identified at Karaikal patterns
and life style.
5. The primary target segments identified at Karaikal
comprising of Domestic middle / high end income pilgrim
traffic, transit population. The foreign tourist segment
would continue to be a marginal proportion of the overall
traffic as is evident from the mobility and volume of foreign
tourists in the region.
6. All strategies for tourism promotion and development
should be in consonance with the SWOT analysis of
Karaikal region carried out from perspective of tourism
development and promotion.
7. The Primary objective of the proposed strategy.
8. Retention of a portion of the transit population for a few
hours to make use of some of the products / proposed
facilities.
9. Retention of a portion of the middle / high end visitors for a
nigh to make use of the leisure products. The long term
objective is to develop Karaikal as a Vacation cum pilgrim
destination for the Middle /High end domestic tourists

Evaluation of strategic alternatives for the promotion of tourism

at Karaikal
Primarily the most potential segments which would make use of
tourism products available at Karaikal would be domestic pilgrim
tourists and visitors from the 100 km radius of Karaikal local area
 175

(near by places like Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai Chidambaram etc.)

With the development of various product options for leisure recreation
at Karaikal it may still not be feasible to promote Karaikal as a Stand
alone destination since all visits to Karaikal are likely to be part of a
larger itinerary comprising of visit to near by centres. Therefore,
primarily the consumer behaviour is not likely to be Visit Karaikal
and back . The feasible strategic alternative is to view Karaikal as a
part of a larger itinerary with a one night stay at karaikal. To
specifically attract foreign tourist to Karaikal, proper marketing
initiatives should be launched from Chennai as well as Puducherry
Almost 18% of the foreign tourists have reported that their next
destination would be Chidambaram. A sizeable proportion of these
could be attracted to Karaikal if the proposed facilities are developed.

Deluxe Buses with well trained tourists guides who can

interpret the temple architecture, local lifestyle, culture of these
centres would provide a meaningful and enriching insight at these
centres. Trichy has been recommended as an ideal exit because of its
locational advantage and established rail and air network.

For the domestic tourists, typically from nearby centres a

conducted tour of the Pilgrimage centres of importance dedicated to
the Navagrahas would enhance the importance of Karaikal as the
local hub for Pilgrimage in the region.

A feasible 1 night (2 days) circuit would be to connect the following

places.

Thirunallar
Thirunageswaram
Vaitheeswaran Kovil
Thingaloor
Thiruvenkadu
Keelperumpallam
Kanchanur
 176

Suryanar Kovil
Alangudi
Apart from the above segments the local population with a very high
disposal income will also be potential segment for the proposed
products. This can be evident from the per capita bank deposit of Rs.
4565 for Karaikal as against the National per capita bank deposit of
Rs. 3269/- for 1991. The discussions with the Government officials
also point out the factor that the per capita income of the district has
gone up further substantially. Based on the above background, the
following strategic alternatives are evaluated.

Other developments/ initiatives suggested

Roads
There are extensions required to the existing road network for
specific project locations like.
a. Beach resort complex on the northern beach stretch adjacent
to the light house and sea gulls restaurant.
b. Proposed town Park/ amusement park on the vacant land on
the north side of Arasalar boat club.
c. Floating Restaurants, house Boats

Tourist information centre

A functional tourist information centre located at the main bus

stand. This can also have a snack bar and a souvenir shop. This TIC
would provide information on Karaikal, nearby pilgrim centres,
Puducherry regions, Mahe and Yanam.

Public conveniences

Public toilets/ rest room to be set up near the beach front

opposite sea gulls.

Way side facilities

 177

One highway restaurant/ snack bar along with rest room

facilities on the northern border of Karaikal on the east west road.

Accommodation

There is at present only one hotel at Karaikal which can be

quality as quality accommodation (Hotel Paris) This reports a
weekend occupancy of over 80% and weekday occupancy of 65% -
70%. In addition there are around ten small hotels/ lodges which
enjoy similar occupancy patterns. In the near future, with the region
opening of five tourism and economic activities; the traffic volume
would grow and requirement for quality hotel accommodation would
also enhance. From the 6000 per day pilgrim traffic, at least 5%
additional visitors are expected to spend at least one night in Karaikal
once suitable accommodation is available and beach activities are put
in place. It is proposed to provide this increase by way of 100 beds in
quality segment (mid market) and 200 beds by way of Yatri Niwas /
budget lodges.

Suggested Positioning slot

Karaikal has a basic strength of being a pivotal coastal town in

the Southern pilgrim centres. In fact with the presence of Saturn
temple at Karaikal, proximity of Velankanni and Nagore famous
Christian and Muslim shrines and availability of Nawagraha temples
in the vicinity, Karaikal can be positioned as a significant part of the
South Tanjavur pilgrim circuit. Target tourists for Karaikal would be
the pilgrims and residents of Southern hinterland towns. Domestic
long-haul traffic and foreign tourist traffic does not seem to be an
effective target option for Karaikal.

Circuit development is necessary to specifically to promote

foreign tourist to Karaikal from Puducherry. This can be done by
launching a co-ordinated circuit suggested (Puducherry
Chidambaram Karaikal Kumbakonam- Thanjore Trichy). What
 178

needs to be done is to highlight the unique options at Karaikal;

namely the proposed beach resort and amusement/ water park and
attract pilgrim on the circuit to spend 1- nights there. This is feasible
as a significant proportion of foreign tourists at Puducherry (visiting
Karaikal as part of the conducted tour. The circuit with a stay over at
Karaikal would become a reality only when the suggested products are
put in place and the required marketing initiatives taken.

Marketing and promotion

Karikal, at the movement lacks any kind of publicity and

promotion. However the town has significant pilgrim relevance and a
latent beach potential. Once the tourism development is taken up
for execution on the lines proposed in this study, tourism promotion
would become extremely important. Some recommendations are:-
i. Tourist information centres of Puducherry at Chennai,
Puducherry, Tanjore, Bangalore etc which would provide
information to Karaikal and promote Karaikal through
relevant brochures etc.
ii. Establish new and Pro- active contacts with South India
based tour operators to in introduce them to the inherent
beach potential of Karaikal and the proposed products.
iii. Courteous and knowledgeable guides who can interpret the
architecture lifestyle and culture of the different centres on
the proposed circuit would enhance visitor satisfaction levels
and establish the circuit.
iv. Clearly earmark the areas which should be taken up by
PTDC and those to be developed by the private sector.
Initiate active developmental effort and advertise for
concession for the proposed projects in respectable media. It
may be mentioned here that the private sector would only
step in if the government take scare of developmental
infrastructure and demonstrates absolute commitment to the
cause of tourism development.
 179

v. Organising a variety of cultural events / festivals / meets in

the proposed Amphitheatres in the town park.

Training and development of human resources

With the increased tourism activity in the two regions of

Puducherry and Karaikal, there would invariable increase the need for
trained manpower to successfully man the proposed tourism take
off.

At present there are no facilities to train people in different aspects

of tourism industry.

It is therefore, proposed that Department of Tourism, Govt. Of

Puducherry in association with University of Puducherry Tagore Arts
College Dept of Tourism should organise relevant short duration
week shops and training programme for the following levels.

i. Tourism planning and development workshop for

government officials connected with travel and tourism
activity.
ii. Tourism/ travel marketing PR and promotion workshop for
travel/ hospitality functionaries in the government as well as
private sector
iii. Tourists guide orientation programmes.
iv. Orientation programmes for travel agents, tour operators,
taxi, operators, auto rickshaw drivers / owners.
v. Orientation programme for all relevant functionaries in put
as well as public sector for effective beach tourism
management.

PROJECTED ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL BENEFITS OF TOURISM

AT KARAIKAL
Tourism is basically a social activity, which has an economic
benefit. It is considered an activity essential to the life of nations
 180

because of its direct effects on the social cultural, educational and

economic sectors of the national societies and their international
relations. The various social and economic benefits accruing in the
region due to tourism activities include preservation and development
of places of cultural interest, increase in area development and direct
and indirect employment, increase in foreign exchange for the country
and greater economic activity.

Economic Benefits of Tourism:

The economic value of tourism is measured by estimating its

contribution to the national income and employment and tax revenues
accruing to the economy. The economic benefits in this chapter are
measured in terms of output (direct and indirect), income and
employment generated. Tourism is a multi segment industry
comprising.
Hotel and restaurants
Travel agents and tour operators
Entertainment establishments
Sales outlets
Guide services
Tourism constitutes a demand for services and consumer goods
that would not have been produced otherwise. The benefits arising to
the society can be satisfied as direct, indirect and incidental benefits.

Direct Benefits

The money spent by tourists is received by the different

segments of the tourism industry, which provide various services
required by the tourists. These receipts from the direct output of the
industry. These are directly proportional to the number of tourist
arrivals and their length of stay in the region

Indirect Benefits
 181

Tourism also has an indirect economic benefits arising from a

chain of inter industry spending, initiate by the expenditure of the
tourism industry on its own inputs. Thus a flow of money finds its
way into the economy through the multiplier effect. Indirect output
arises from the payment of wages and salaries to the employees in the
tourism sector, purchases of goods by the tourism industry, etc. The
indirect outputs are estimated by multiplying the direct output by an
appropriate multiplier. The net value added by the tourist is the
income accruing to the economy. This is calculated on the basis of an
appropriate income multiplier. These multipliers give the direct as
well as indirect income to the economy as a result of tourist
expenditure.

Assumption and methodology

This section explains the assumptions and methodology

adopted in the calculation of direct and indirect output, income and
employment generated.

Tourist Projections

The tourist projections for the next ten years have been made on
the basis of past trends and the proposed development efforts. The
year-wise tourist arrivals have been calculated based on past trends
and proposed developmental efforts. The total number of tourists
(both domestic ad International) projected to visit Karaikal in the next
ten years, is given in the table below:

Table 54: Projected Tourists Arrival in Karaikal

Year Domestic International Total
1999 74436 264 74700
2000 77413 287 77700
2001 85154 2500 87040
2002 93669 2650 95580
2003 103036 2809 104972
2004 113340 2977 115301
2005 124674 3156 126660
2006 129661 3345 131673
 182

2007 142627 3546 131673

2008 156889 3734 158954

Tourism Receipts

The receipts from tourism spending, which is the direct output

of tourism have been calculated as follows:-
Annual Tourism Receipts = Annual tourists Arrival x Avg. Expenditure
per Day x Avg. Duration of Stay.

The Table below presents the projected average daily

expenditure of the domestic and international tourists visiting
Karaikal over the next ten years.

Table 55: Projected Average Daily Expenditure (Rs.)

Year Domestic International

1999 216 216
2000 233 233
2001 268 268
2002 309 309
2003 355 355
2004 408 408
2005 469 469
2006 540 540
2007 621 621
2008 714 714

The average expenditure figure for domestic tourists is taken as

Rs. 200 per day (based on actual survey); the corresponding figure for
international tourists has also been taken as Rs. 200 per day in the
year 1998 as no data could be available on the spending patterns at
Karaikal. (The spending patterns at Puducherry would not be a right
benchmark). These figures have been increased @ 80% in the next
two years (to account for inflation) followed by a 15% rise, which
includes 8% increase for inflation and the rest due to increased
tourism product availability, in the remaining period.
183
 184

Table 56: The average duration of stay is shown below:

Years Domestic Tourists Avg. International

Stay Tourists Avg. Stay
1999-2001 1 day 1 day
2002-2008 2 day 2 day

Multipliers
Indirect Output, total income and employment generation have
been calculated based on the multipliers listed in table below. These
multipliers have been taken from a 1992 united nations ESCAP
sponsored study, The Economic Impact of Tourism in India.

Table 57: Economic Multipliers in Tourism Sector

Multiplier Domestic International

Indirect /Output 1.050 1.069
Income / Output 0.903 0.930
Employment 13.62 17.33
/Output

Calculation of Output

The indirect output has been calculated as follows:-

Indirect Output = Direct Output x Indirect output Multiplier
The total output comprises the sum of direct and indirect output

Calculation of Income

Total Income (direct and indirect) accruing to the economy has

been derived using the income/output multiplier given below above.
The total income has been calculated as follows;
Total Income = Direct Output x Income/Output Multiplier

Calculation of Employment Generation

The incremental employment generated due to increased

tourists arrivals has been arrived at as follows:-
Total Employment = Direct Output x Employment/Output Multiplier
 185

Projected Economic Benefits

Table represents the estimated total output for Karaikal due to

increased tourism activity in the next ten years.

Table 58: Economic Benefits of foreign and domestic tourists.

(In Rs. Million)
Year Direct Output Indirect Output Total Output
Domestic Internation Domestic Internation Domestic Internation
al al al
1999 16.08 0.06 16.88 0.06 32.96 0.12
2000 18.06 0.07 18.96 0.07 37.02 0.14
2001 45.69 1.34 47.97 1.43 93.66 2.78
2002 57.80 1.64 60.69 1.75 118.48 3.38
2003 73.11 1.99 76.77 2.13 149.88 4.12
2004 92.49 2.43 97.11 2.60 189.60 5.03
2005 117.00 2.96 122.85 3.17 239.84 6.13
2006 139.93 3.61 146.92 3.86 286.85 7.47
2007 177.01 4.40 185.96 4.70 362.87 9.11
2008 223.91 5.33 235.11 5.70 459.03 11.03

The income earned by the economy is the next value addition to

the economy & has been calculated on the basis of the income
multipliers given in the table below which presents the estimated
income to Karaikal district due to tourism. While the income from
international tourist will grow at about 68 percent per annum. The
growth rate of International tourist appears very much on the higher
side because of negligible base, even in the year 2008 the income from
foreign tourist is only expected to reach about 5 Million.

Table 59: Projected Income Generated Per Annum

Year Domestic International Total

1999 14.52 0.05 14.57
2000 16.31 0.06 16.37
2001 41.26 1.25 42.50
2002 52.19 1.52 53.71
2003 66.02 1.85 67.87
2004 83.52 2.26 85.78
2005 105.65 2.75 108.40
2006 126.35 3.36 129.71
2007 159.84 4.09 163.93
2008 202.20 4.96 207.15
 186

The estimates of employment generated have been made on the

basis of the employment multipliers detailed earlier. The estimates of
the incremental employment generated due to domestic and
international tourists are presented in the next table:-

Table 60: Employment Generated by Tourism.

Year Domestic International Total

1999 219 1 220
2000 246 1 247
2001 622 23 646
2002 787 28 816
2003 996 35 1030
2004 1260 42 1302
2005 1593 51 1645
2006 1906 63 1968
2007 2411 76 2487
2008 3050 92 3142

As can be seen from the above table, the employment would be

primarily be generated because of the demand from domestic tourists.
The employment from foreign tourist is projected to be only about 100
persons even in the year 2008.
 187

REGIONAL PROFILE OF YANAM

General

Yanam is situated on the east coast of the Indian Peninsula

between 16 grees 42 and 16 degree 46 Northern latitude, and
between 82 degree 11d 82 degree 19 Eastern longitude bound on all
sides by the East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh State. The
town of lies on the spot were the River Coringa (Atreya) branches off
from cauthami into two parts. His entire region, which covers an area
of 30.0 sq.m, has a population of 297 according to the 1991 census.
The region Gowthami Godavari which charges itself into Bay of Bengal
after flowing almost 14 Kms. Towards with east from yanam.

Story

Saravana from Haji Hassan Khan authorised the French

Representative suet, then Chief of the company at Machilipatnam
(kms away from Yanam) to set up a loge at Yanam in the year 1731.
The sovereignty of the over the territory was confirmed by Musafar
Jung, the Nizam of Hyderabad in 1750. The Place was formally ceded
to them only two years. Like all other settlements, Yanam too feel
thrice into the hands of the British. After the Napoleonic war, Yanam
along with factory at macchilipatnam was finally returned to the
French early 1817.

The loges at Machilipatnam which were not more than a market

centre continued under the French with a semblance of sovereignty till
6th October 1947 when they relinquished their right over the same.

Approach

There is no railhead in Yanam region. The nearest railhead is at

Kakinada (26 Kms from Yanam) Kakinada is an important trade
centre and port town and there is a district road connecting Yanam.
 188

It is also linked by another district road on the west of

Ramachandrapuram and Rajamundry.

Irrigation

Yanam received irrigation water through Bank canal which

starts from Develeswaram Head works (Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage on
the river Godavari down stream Rajahmundry. This canal runs
towards east upto Pilanka, a small village through a small canal
popularly known as French Channel built by an agreement entered by
in 1949 between the then French Government and the Government of
India. This canal serves the irrigation as well as drinking water needs
of the areas of west of Coringa river.

After merger steps were taken to provide irrigation facilities for

about 560 Hectares of dry land in the eastern side of Coringa River by
providing a new irrigation canal called Adivipolam Channel from the
tail end of Tallarovu south channel and at starting point of Nilapalli
channel on the right side. The work was taken for execution by the
Andra Pradesh Public Works Department as a deposit work in 1964
and was completed and commissioned in June 1996. The water from
this channel is used for drinking purpose also, as in the case of
French Channel.

Climate and Rain Fall

It experiences a climate which is characterised by high humidity

over 70% in the mornings and over 60% in the evenings throughout
the year, an oppressive summer season and a good rainfall. It enjoys
the benefit of both the South west and North East Monsoon.

During a year on an average, there are about 60 rainy days i.e.

days with rainfall of 2.5 mm. or more.
 189

Temperature

From February temperature start rising rapidly till may which is

the hottest month with the mean maximum around 37 degrees C and
mean minimum around 28 degree C. Humidity being high, the heat is
very trying. The maximum temperature on some days in May or early
June before the onset of the south west monsoon may even touch 47
degree C. The sea breeze however affords some relief in the
afternoons. Similarly premonsoon thunder showers may also in
June the temperature falls rapidly and remains almost steady till
September. In this season mean maximum temperature is around 32
degree C and night temperature fall rapidly till December or January
when day temperature is around 19 degree C. some times the
minimum temperature may reach as low about 14 degree C December
and January are the coolest months.

Humidity

The air is generally humid throughout the year with relative

humidity- over 70 percent in the mornings and over 60 per cent in the
evenings during al the months.

Cloudiness

The sky is generally heavily clouded to overcast during the

south-west monsoon months. There is moderate cloudiness in the
post monsoon months. There is moderate cloudiness in the post-
monsoon months. During the rest of the year, the sky will clear or
lightly clouded.

Surface winds

In the summer season winds blow from directions between

souths east to south west. During the monsoon seasons, they blow
mainly from south west to west. During October to February, winds
are usually from north-east in the mornings, veering towards South-
 190

east in the afternoons. Winds are generally light to moderate during

the whole year.

Special weather phenomena

The storms and depressions which form in the Bay of Bengal in

the permission month of may, and during September to November,
cross the east coast and affect the region and the neighbourhood
causing thunderstorms associated mainly with the onset of the south-
west monsoon occur in April, May and June.
 191

SWOT ANALYSIS OF YANAM FROM PERSPECTIVE OF TOURISM

DEVELOPMENT
STRENGTHS OPPORTUNITIES
Urbanisation with no village Development of natural
Scenic beauty especially the landscaped recreation
islands and along the products for the local
Godavari and Koringa rivers population
Interface between east and Development of restaurant
west Godavari districts of facilities on the France
Andhra Pradesh. tippa catering to transit
Tax structure resulting in low and local population.
cost of alcohol. Development of islands
into mega tourism
projects.
WEAKNESS THREATS
No significant tourism
attraction or historical New bridge being
monuments. developed would effectively
No major tourism attraction bye-pass Yanam thus
/destination in the vicinity seriously affecting the ferry
Relatively conservative and services and traffic flow
content lifestyle of local through Yanam.
population.
No major industrial units in
the region.
Most of the scenic spots are
in flood prone areas
Any medium scale tourism
project would not be
sustainable if only catering to
the local population and thus
may not attract private
investment
 192

RECOMMENDATIONS ON DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM AT

YANAM

At present there are no tourism activities in and around Yanam.

The closest destination having some tourism activity is Rajahmundry.
Here too, the traffic primarily comprises of (a) Business segment (b)
traffic on account of Film shooting.

Unlike Mahe, Yanam does not have any intrinsic strength for
promotion of any tourism activity. There are no tourist attractions
and negligible basic tourism infrastructure nor are there any
significant tourist attractions near Yanam for which Yanam can be
conceptualised as a hub.

Tourism infrastructure is largely absent; the only decent

accommodation where the tourist can stay at Yanam is the
Government Guest House. Even for the day visit/ transit traffic there
are no leisure / entertainment facilities to hold the traffic for a
sometime. There are no good restaurant facilities at Yanam which
again hint at the relaxed and conservative lifestyle of the local
population.

The traffic from the nearby areas do not comprise of

Holiday/Leisure segments so that they could be attracted to Yanam.

The areas around Yanam comprising of the East and West

Godavari districts comprise of very affluent but traditional population.
Though the segment may have high disposable income levels, they
lead by and large a relaxed life style and may not be very willing to
spend much on any tourism major attraction.

The SWOT analysis of Yanam has been attempted to bring out

the relative Strength and Weakness of the place so that tourism
development could be viewed more realistically. As brought out in the
SWOT analysis the major deterrent to promotion of any Private
 193

investment in tourism at Yanam is from natural forces in addition to

Market characteristics and the locational setting of Yanam. Because
of the disturbances in the Godavari river primarily on account of
storms and depressions which form in the Bay of Bengal in the pre-
monsoon month of may, and during September to November, most of
the scenic areas in Yanam are flood prone including the large Islands
on the river Godavari. No private investor would like to risk his
investment at a place which is flood prone. A flood bank on the Island
may not be feasible as Godavari Flood Conservancy may not give
permission for any such construction which may result in the river
course affecting areas in Andhra Pradesh during flooding of the
Godavari river.

The strength of Yanam which are relevant from promotion of

Tourism is (a) Scenic Beauty (b) Vital link between and West Godavari
districts. The major threat to Yanam is in terms of the Proposed
Bridge via Bhim Nagar which would effectively Bye-pass Yanam. The
bridge would connect traffic from Ammalapuram to Kakinada. The
present transit traffic from Ammalapuram and other areas (between
15,000 20,000 per day) using the Ferry services would be
significantly affected once the bridge becomes operational. Presently,
the alignment of the bridge is complete and land acquisition is in
process. The Bridge may take between 5-7 years to become
operational. The map of Yanam showing the alignment of the
proposed bridge has been presented at the end of this chapter for ease
of reference.

A quick scanning of the potential target segments which could be

attracted to Yanam, given the generic scenario and SWOT analysis
narrows down as under:-
a) Evening entertainment / Weekend traffic primarily comprising
of local population/executives of medium scale industrial
units at Yanam.
b) Transit traffic segment passing via Yanam
 194

For the tourism planning horizon over the next 5- 7 years,

development of the Island 2, 3 and Island 5 (Opposite Dariyala Tippa)
is not recommended. This is because of the following factors.
a) These islands are very large bodies (about 300 400 Acres) with
no infrastructure at present in terms of access by road, power,
drinking water etc. There is substantial jungle vegetation on
the island and mangrove the forests and the land has to cleared
and developed in case it has to be offered for tourism promotion.
All this calls for significant investment to convert the Island into
Amusement and Recreation facility or Nature/Eco tourism
Island is unlikely, in view of the demographic profile of
residents in the command area of 60 Kms radius.
b) Any tourism product created on the Island would substantial
investment levels would have to safeguard from flooding of the
Godavari Gomati Rivers during rainy seasons. It would be a
Herculean task to construct a bund on the Island due to
administrative and Physical difficulties. As already pointed out
any such activity would require the permission of Godavari
Flood Conservancy which is unlikely to view the proposal
positively.

Therefore, taking initiative to develop any large scale tourism product

at Yanam is not recommended in the next 5 7 years as any such
step is likely to bring in private sector investment or the required
number of tourists. In any case any Large scale tourism project
would be misaligned with market realities.

In view of the foregoing the following Strategic Alternatives have been

evaluated.
 195

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS OF ECOTOURISM IN PUDUCHERRY

Sl.No. Activity Environmental Issue Impact Scale of Impact Mitigative Measures

Developmental
Measures
1 Floating
restaurant,
house boats
Noise created by the engine
of the floating restaurant.
Water pollution due to
indiscriminate disposal of
liquid and solid waste
(biodegradable and non-
biodegradable)
Air pollution due to floating
restaurant
This noise disturbs the
aquatic habitats.
Particularly that of fish
and prawns.
Destruction of habitat
Increase in Biochemical
Oxygen Demand (BOD)
levels due to waste
disposal from the
restaurant and metallic
steamers. This will lead to
degradation of water
quality
Fumes and harmful gases
from the steamer adversely
affect the surroundings of
the reservoir.
Judicious use of
stream motors
Avoiding the places of
fish habitats
Moderate Negative
Providing proper waste
disposal bins.
Transporting and
dumping the waste
(biodegradable and
non biodegradable) in
a landfill far away from
High Negative the site.
Plastic material to be
avoided
Suitable fuel like
unleaded petrol should
be used.
Instead of mechanised
boats paddle boats and
peddling boats can be
used
By using houseboats
drawn through sails
and oars.

2 Tourist Resorts
Littering of the site with
Waste Disposal biodegradable and non-
biodegradable wastes.
3 Pilgrimage
Tourism Conflicts on sharing of
resources
Crowding
Higher Cost of living
Pollution
4 Water Sports Disturbance of natural
Noise Pollution habitat of aquatic
creatures
River banks will be
Air Pollution
adversely affected
Due to the rusting and
dissolution of metals of the
equipments into river
Water Pollution water
Oil spills during starting
and closing operations of
the water sports activities.
Results in greater erosion
Weakening of riverbanks,
along riverbanks and
hill slopes and damage to
problem in waste disposal
the natural environment due
leading to environmental
to the sports activities.
hazards.
196
Provision of sewage
treatment unit and
Moderate Negative usage of treated water
for gardens and
landscaping.
Build infrastructure
Have sound visitor
management practices
High Negative
Involve local
communities in
development activities
Usage of high quality
High Negative gadgets, regular
maintenance of
gadgets.
Low Negative Suitable fuel like
deleaded petrol should
be used.
Usage of Wooden and
high Bamboo steamers
NegativeModerate instead of metallic
Negative boats should be
encouraged
Instead of mechanised
boats paddle boats and
peddling boats can be
used
Careful waste
High Negative management planning
Construction of an
emban kment (natural
or artificial) in the area
of operation Careful

5 Construction of Noise pollution during the
buildings and construction due to
Roads. operation of machinery.
Construction activities and
operation of machinery
results in smoke spread of
residues and increase in
Suspended Particle Matter
(SPM)
Ecological disturbances
Causes inconvenience to
the people/functioning of
offices, schools, and
institutions in the vicinity.
Disturbs the normal lives
of the nearby habitats.
Creates lot of smoke and
dust and increase in SPM,
which may lead to
breathing problem or
adverse affect on the
health of the people.
Reckless Disposal of
material, machine waste
and Dirty water may lead
to death of natural
vegetation/disturb the
natural stability of the
region
197
planning of cut-and-fill
to minimise erosion,
including planned
growth of appropriate
vegetation.
Provision of dikes to
hold runoff to settle
out soil particles.
High Negative Careful scheduling of
Temporary operation of the
equipment and usage
of earplugs and
mufflers.
Providing sprinklers at
the site and screens
around the
construction site.
Usage of transit
mixers.
Careful usage of
material to reduce
wastage at the site.
Moderate Negative A proper waste
and temporary management plan
should be implemented
to dispose construction
wastes at landfill.
They could be disposed

Weakening of riverbanks
and damage to natural
environment during the
construction of facilities at
beaches/riverfronts
6 Beach Tourism More people visiting Beach
Indiscriminate littering of
waste
Littering of the beach areas
7 Costal Erosion Coastal erosion due to
construction of facilities
198
Results in greater erosion High Negative by incineration after
along riverbanks and considering wind
problem in waste disposal direction.
leading to environmental Construction of an
hazards. emban kment (natural
or artificial) in the area
of operation. Careful
planning of slopes
including planned
growth of appropriate
vegetation to minimise
erosion.
Provision of dikes to hold
runoff to settle out soil
particles.
Conflicts with the local Moderate Negative Local communities
communities should be involved in
Beach Activities
Waste disposal
Change in environment Moderate Negative measures should be
due to indiscriminate implemented by
waste disposal providing garbage bins
Tourism value of the site High Negative at appropriate
will be lost intervals.
May lead to instability of Moderate Negative Buffer areas of
the coastal region vegetation should be
planned not only to
minimise the coastal
erosion but also to
provide protection from
low depressions and
cyclonic storms.
 199

8 Employment Socio-economic benefits Improvement in Quality of High Positive

generation life
Better accessibility to
other areas, providing
better health care,
information related places
for awareness
Increased commercial
activity due to easier
access to markets.
Availability of better
amenities
 200

CHAPTER IX

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Tourism has been recognized as an important sector of the

global economy, with a contribution of about 91 per cent of domestic
tourism (Filion et al., 1994). Ecotourism is an upcoming activity,
especially suited for the backwaters areas like the state like
Puducherry. However Cebbalos Lascurian defined eco-tourism as
travelling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas
with the specific objective of studying, admiring and enjoying the
scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as ay existing
cultural manifestations (Butlar, 1994, cited in Filion et al., 1994). In
this regard the following implications of the tourism development in
the study area need consideration.

1. Carrying Capacity

Among the important components of Lascurians definition are

the terms like undisturbed and uncontaminated natural areas,
admiring and enjoying scenery and existing cultural manifestations.
Sustainability of these characteristics of a tourist site depend on the
level and manner the sites are used. It is important that ample
precautions are taken so as not of the study point out to a disturbing
phenomenon of concentration of tourism activities in and around
Puducherry sites. As a result, there has been a spurt in different
types of construction activities resulting thereby in the loss of
undisturbed or uncontaminated nature of these tourist sites.
 201

2. Transportation and Communication Network

Transportation and communication network of the study area

needs immediate attention of the policy makers. An utmost care in
lying of road and communication network is required because of the
fragile ecosystem of the area. It would be worthwhile, in the long run,
if air transport network is strengthened. This will not only make travel
to the area easy but will also minimally disturb the natural
ecosystems. The road network must be so planned as to avoid
repetitive digging of the roads and the feeder roads must similarly be
constructed and maintained.

3. Ownership of Hotels and Guesthouses

One of the results of the study points out to the pattern of

ownership of hotels and guesthouses; with persons from outside the
state owning most of the standard hotels and guesthouses. In order
that local people may also avail the fruits of tourism developments, it
may be important to consider ways and means to increase their
interest in the hotel business and also to strengthen their investment
capacity for this capital intensive business.

4. Identifying New Eco-tourist Sites.

Adventure sports have added to the tourism value of

Puducherry. As for example, sites like Ousteri/Chunnambar /Bahour
Lake have added to the tourism value of the study area. The results
of the study thus imply a greater need for identifying and popularizing
various satellite tourist sites so as to ease pressure on traditional
tourist sites of Puducherry in the region.
 202

5. Pilgrimage Tourism

Pilgrimage tourism is another upcoming tourist activity in the

country and Puducherry offers a great deal in this regard as well.
Given the history of this French colonial state, as mentioned in
various historical and religious documents, there is lot of scope for
pilgrimage tourism. The Churches, Mosques, Hindu temples of
various gods and goddesses and Lord Saturn shrines are dotted all
over the place in the study area which is regularly visited by the
devotees. It would add to the potential of pilgrimage tourism if efforts
are made on a larger scale to bring this religious heritage to the notice
of people at large.

6. Civic amenities and local administration

On administrative level, the study revealed that a lot needs to be

done in the area for general cleanliness in the towns, provision of
basic civic amenities and gearing up of local administration, to check
the malpractices adopted by various travel and tour agencies, tourist
guides and other such related agencies.

Similarly, there is need to enforce various provisions of the

Tourism Development Registration Act, so that the tourists visiting the
study area do not face hardships on account of corrupt practices and
thus, can enjoy the most during their visit to the area. This would
encourage them to revisit the area and thus same will increase the
tourism importance of these sites.

7. Handicraft

One of the important contributors of the tourism activities

towards the socio-economic enlistment of ordinary local people is the
boost to sale of local handicrafts and other local produce. At present,
emphasis in tourism development policies on local fruits and
handicrafts seems to lack the rigour that it requires. Similarly, a
much still needs to be done to encourage local folk art and culture
 203

from the tourism point of view. It would be worthwhile to set up

training and cultural centres, for this purpose, at the local level.
Terracotta toys of Koodapakkam are very famous. More exclusive
handicrafts shops to set up promoting the rural tourism
8. More Hotels
.According to the Tourism Department, there are 124 hotels in
various categories. This includes eight star hotels, five beach resorts,
six heritage hotels, 25 mid range hotels and 76 budget hotels. A
heritage hotel has already come up. Twenty hotels with 500 rooms are
coming up. The premier hotel chains include ITC Welcome Group,
TATA Group, Club Mahindra Group, GRT Grand and Residency.
In fact, a few local hotels have tied up with international chains,
to provide quality services at reasonable rates. Sri Lanka based
hospitality chain Aitken Spence has tied up with hotel Athithi.
However, hoteliers say that though this indicates a positive
growth, the big concern is infrastructure such as roads. If a proper
mechanism is not in place, it can harm the town. They insist that the
government should take steps to make Puducherry a sustainable
destination.

9. Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) study has to be carried

out for development plans in Puducherry.

10. Visitor Management System (VMS) should be formulated for

attracting tourists to the state.
 204

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Anand, M.R. 1964. Some notes on the composition of pahari murals.

Marg. 17: 9-10.
Ankica, K. and Vladimir, L. 1999. Methodology for evaluating the
usefulness of health and landscape benefits of forests.
(Methodological uredrovanja korinostic azdravstvenith I
harazobraznih usage suma). Radovi-Sumarshi institute
Jastrebarsha. 34: 103-119.
Anonymous, 2000. Brief note on the working of the H.P. state
handloom and handicraft weavers: Apex Cooperative Society
Ltd. (Himbunkar), Kullu.
Archer, B. 1989. Tourism and Island Economics: Impact Analysis,
In: C.P. Cooper (Ed.). Progress in Tourism, Recreation and
Hospitality Management. Vol. 1. London: Belhaven.
Banon, H.M 1952. Fifty years in Kullu valley. The Himalayan Journal,
Sunshine Orchard, Vol. XVII.
Bateman, I.J., Lovett, A.A. and Brainard, J.S. 1994. Developing a
methodology for benefit transfers using geographical
information systems: modelling demand for woodland
recreation. Regional Studies. 33: 191-205.
Batta, R.N. 1998. Tourism and Environment. In Council for Science
and Technology (edited). Status of the Environment in
Himachal Pradesh. Shimla: Norad Project Authority.
Batta, R.N. 2001. Tourism and environment. A quest for
sustainability. New Delhi: Indus Publishing Company.
Chalers, M. 2001. Drug trade in Himachal Pradesh role of socio-
economic- changes. Economic and Political Weekly, pp. 1895-
1873.
Chander, G and Sagar, S. 1994. Himachal the playground of
adventure. HIMTAB Conference held at Manali.
Charak, SS. 1979. History and Culture of Himalayan States, Vol. 3.
New Delhi: Light and Life Publishers.
 205

Chauhan, B.R. 1988. The personnel administration of Tourism

Development Corporation Ltd., Project Report, Department of
Public Administration. Shima: Himachal Pradesh University.
Delos Santos, J.S., Ortiz, E.M., Haung, E. and Sacretario, F. 1983. In:
Pyre, E.A. and Lin, T.B. (eds.). Tourism in Asia: Economic
Impact. Singapore: Singapore University Press.
Dev, K. 1969. Temples of North India. Cited in Charak, S.S. 1979.
History and Culture of Himalayan States. Vol. 3 New Delhi:
Light and Life Publishers.
Dhameja, J. 1970. India folk arts and crafts. Cited in Charak, S.S.
1979. History and culture of Himalayan States. Vo. 3. New
Delhi: Light and Life Publishers.
Diamond, J. 1977. Tourisms rid in economic development: the case
re-examined. Economic Development and Cultural change. 25:
539-553.
Dieke, P.U.C. 1993. Tourism in the Gambia: some issues in
developing policy. World Development. 21:277-289.
Echelberger, H.E. 1977. Vegetative changes at Adirondak
Campgrounds: 1964 to 1969. Forest Service Research Notes:
142. Cited in Charak, S.S. 1979. History and culture of
Himalayan States. Vol. 3 New Delhi: Light and Life Publishers.
Edington, J.M 1977. Ecology, Recreation and Tourism. London.
Cambridge University Press.
Eppler, P. 1981. Impact of Tourism on Leh and Surroundings. In:
Kantousby et al. (eds.). Research on Ladakh: History, Culture,
Sociology, Ecology. Muenchen: Western Verlag.
Filion, L., Foley, P. and Jacquemot, J. 1994. The Economics of Global
Ecotourism. In: Munasinghe and McNeely J. (eds.). Protected
Area Economics and Policy. World Bank and World
Conservation Union (IUCN) Publication, pp.235-252.
Fleet, J.F. 1973. The Topographical list of the Brihat-Samhita. K.K.
Dasgupta (ed.). Calcutta: Somshi Sarat.
Gandhi, I. 1980. Eternal India. Delhi: B.I. Publications, p. 152.
 206

Garg, R.B.L. 1981. What ails Indian tourism? Eastern Economist.

76:553-555.
Gilbert, D.C. 1990. Conceptual Issues in the meaning of tourism, In:
Cooper, C.P. (ed.), Progress in Tourism, Recreation and Hospitality
Management. Vol. London: Belhaven Press. Pp. 1-27.
Hanrid, M.A. and Feank, B.A. 1999. Eco-tourism under multiple use
management of the Sundarbans mangrove forest in Bangladesh:
Issues and options. In: Alauddin M. and Hasan S.J. (eds.)
Development Governance and the Environment in South Asia: A
focus on Bangladesh. Basintoke, U.K.: MacMillan Pres Ltd.
Pp.279-287.
Hartcourt, A.F.P. 1871. The Himalayan districts of Kooloo, Lahaul
and spiti. Reprinted in 1982. New Delhi: vivek Publishing
Company.
Huband, M. 1997. Something big to sing about. Financial Times 13
may 1997.
Jafari, J. 1974. The socio-economic costs of tourism to developing
countries. Annals of Tourism Research. 1:227-262.
Jefferson, A and Lickorish, L. 1988 Marketing tourism practical guide.
Longman, Essex.
Johnson, C.Y. and Bowker, J.M. 1999. On site wild land activity
choices among African-American and White Americans in the
rural south: implications for management. Journal of Park and
Recreation Administration. 17:21-39.
Kant, S. 1983. Limnology of the Himalayan Lakes: Problem of
Resource use and Management. In; Singh, T.V. and Kaur, J.
(Eds.). Himalayas, Mountains and Men. Lucknow: Prints House
India.
Kaul, R.N. 1990. The dynamics of tourism- a trilogy. New Delhi:
sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd.,
Kaur, J. 1980. Pre-examining Tourist Capacity of Nainital: A case for
Diffusion of Tourist Activity in the Kumauni Lake Basins. In:
 207

Singh T.V. and Kaur J. (Eds). Studies in Himalayan Ecology and

Strategies for Development. New Delhi: The English Book Store.
Krippendorf, J. 1982. Towards new tourism policies the importance
of environmental and socio-cultural factors. Tourism
Management. 3: 135-148.
Leper, N. 1979, the framework of tourism. Annals of Tourism
Research. 79: 167-189.
Lindberg, K. and Enriquez, J 1994. An analysis of ecotourisms
economic contribution to conservation and development in
Belize. 2 Vols. World Wildlife Fund, Washington, DC.
Lindsay, J.J. 1989. Carrying capacity of tourism development in
national parks of the United States. Industry and Environment.
9: 17-20.
Lyall, J.B. 1887. Land settlement report of Kangra district, Punjab.
Cited in Govt. of Punjab. 1918. Punjab district Gazetteer.
Kangra District. Part-II. Kullu and Seraj, II Lahaul IV Spiti.
Lahore: Government Press.
McLellan, R. 1985. Nature monuments and parks. Tourism
Recreation Research Special Issue. 10: 16-19.
Mieczkowski, Z. 1995. Environmental issues of tourism and
recreation. New York: University Pres of America.
Milne, S.S. 1987. Differential multipliers. Annals of Tourism Research.
14:499-515.
Mittal, J. 1961. Devi mural at Kullu by Sajnu. Rooplekha. 32: 93.
Murphy, P.E. 1990. Tourism a community approach. New York and
London Publication.
Nadda, A.L. and Sharma, L.R. 2000. Tourism potential. In: L.R. Verma
(ed.). Natural Resources and Development in Himalaya. New
Delhi: Malhotra Publishing House, pp. 575-589.
Noronoha, R. 1976. Reviews of sociological literature on tourism.
Report Prepared for the IBRD, Washington, DC.
Nunez, T.A. 1977. Tourist studies in anthropological perspective. In:
Smith V.L. (ed.) Hosts and Guests: The Anthropology of
 208

Tourism. Philadelphia: University Pennsylvania Press, pp. 207-

216.
O.E.C.D. 1980. The impact of tourism on environment. Organization
of Economic Co-operation and Development, Paris.
Oppermann, M. 1993. Tourism space in developing countries.
Annuals of Tourism Research. 20: 535-556.
Panchani, C.S. 1995. Ethnology. In: Secrets of Himalayas. 101-110.
Kullu (Himachal Pradesh): Renaissance Court Publishing
House.
Pirazizy, A.A. 1993. Mountain Environment: Understanding the
Change. New Delhi: Ashish Publishing House.
Pizam, A. 1986. The social impacts of tourism: Tourism Recreation
Research. 9: 29-32.
Raja, M. 1989. Anthropogenic factors in lake ecosystem conceptual
and ecological parameters. In: singh, T.V. (Ed.). Geography of
the Mountains. New Delhi: Heritage.
Salm, R.V. 1986. Coral reefs and tourist carrying capacity: the Indian
Ocean experience. Industry and Environment. 9:11-14.
Sanon, A. 1987. Festive India. New Delhi: Frank Bros and Co., p.88.
Sarpa, R. Chilton, J.M., Hatchinson, W.G. and Buongiorno, J. 2001.
Valuing the recreational benefits from the creation of nature in
Irish forests. Ecological Economics (Amsterdam). 33:237-250.
Seth, P.N. 1985. Successful tourism management. New Delhi:
Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd.,
Sharma B.R. 1990. A critical appraisal of tourism facilities in and
around Shimla. Project Report, Department of Commerce.
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh University.
Smith, S.L.T. 1994. The tourism product. Annals of Tourism
Research. 21: 582-595.
Truong, T. 1983. The dynamics of sex tourism: the case of South-
East Asia Development and change. 14:533-553.
 209

Van Houts, D. 1979. The non-economic impact of international

tourism in developing countries: a review of recent literature.
Travel Research Journal. 1: 81-89.
Wagner, J. 1997. Estimating the economic impact of tourism. Annals
of Tourism Research. 24:593.
Wahab, S.E. 1971. Tourism Management. London: International
Tourism Press.
Walpole, MJ. And Goodwin, H.J. 2000. Local economic impacts of
Dragon Tourism in Indonesia. Annals of Tourism Research 27:
559-576.
Waters, S.R. 1986. Travel Industry World Yearbook: The Big Picture.
Vol. 30. New York: Child and Waters, Inc.
Western, D. 1986. Tourism Capacity in eastern African Parks.
Industry and Environment. 9: 14-16.
Williams, A.T. 1982. Impacts of Domestic Tourism on Host
Populations: The Evaluation of a Model. In Singh, T.V. and
Kaur, J. (Eds.). Studies in Tourism Wildlife Parks and
conservation. New Delhi: Metropolitan, pp. 214-223.
Wilson, P. 1980. Indian Tourism Development Corporations
performance. Capital. 185: 11-13.
 210

APPENDIX-I

ECO TOURISM GUIDELINES FOR INDIA

The Ministry of Tourism recommends all visitors to India

To use hotels, tour operators, lodges and travel related
Services of organizations who adopt green practices and
Who have taken a recognized Environmental pledge?

FOREWORD

This set of guidelines and policies for the development of eco-

tourism is the result of the initiatives taken by the Ministry of Tourism
in pursuance of the Government policy to achieve sustainability in
tourism development and to ensure regulated growth of eco-tourism
with its positive impacts of environmental protection and community
development. These guidelines have been evolved after analyzing
various documents and papers available on the subject, including the-

(i) Guidelines for the development of National Parks and Projected

areas for Tourism of the World Tourism Organisation.
(ii) PATA code for Environmentally Responsible Tourism.
(iii) Environmental Guidelines of the World Travel and Tourism
Council.
(iv) The Himalayan Codes of Conduct prepared by the Himalayan
Tourism Advisory Board.
(v) Ecotourism guidelines by Ecotourism Society.

The Ministry has a committee comprising experts and eco-

tourism promoters to deliberate on the issues to prepare basic papers
for the formulation of an eco-tourism policy. The contribution of this
Committee, headed by Ms. Chuden Tshering Misra, Jt. Secretary, as
well as the deliberations of the Himalayan Tourism Advisory Board in
the preparation of these guidelines have been substantial. I must
 211

commend Dr. G. Raveendran, Dy. Director General, who has prepared

the final report. The draft was discussed in a workshop organized on
June 26, 1997 which was attended by representatives of State
governments, Tourism Industry Associations and experts in the field
of environment. The suggestions made were incorporated and the final
draft was approved by the State Tourism Ministers in the Tourism
Ministers Conference held on June 27, 1997.

It is expected that all State Governments, Industry Associations

and those involved in tourism development and the preservation of
our environment and natural resources would take positive steps for
the implementation of these policies and guidelines.

Eco-tourism: Definition

The activities of persons travelling to and staying in places

outside their usual place of residence for not more than one
consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes constitute
tourism. Such visits for being close to nature to enjoy its enormous
creations, both biotic and abiotic, in a most environment-friendly
manner, without any adverse impact on the eco-system, is particularly
known as eco-tourism.

According to the World Tourism Organisation (WTO) tourism

that involves travelling to relatively undisturbed natural areas with the
specified object of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its
wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural aspects (both
of the past or the present) found in these areas is defined as eco-
tourism. Nature tourism (eco tourism) is distinguished from mass
tourism or resort tourism by having a lower impact on the
environment and by requiring less infrastructure development.

The key elements of eco-tourism include a natural environment

as the prime attraction, an optimum number of environmental friendly
visitors, activities which do not have any serious impact on the
 212

ecosystem and the positive involvement of the local community in

maintaining the ecological balance.

Eco-tourism can take many forms and magnitudes. For

example, losing oneself in a beautiful natural forest or landscape
watching animals, birds and trees in a forest, corals and marine life in
sea, engaging in trekking, boating or rafting, wandering amongst
stand dunes-these are some of the common forms of eco-tourism.

Through the concept has gained importance only recently, India

has been experiencing various forms of eco-tourism all through the
ages.

Eco tourism resources of India

The geographical diversity of India is a wealth of eco-systems

which are well protected and preserved. These eco-systems have
become the major resource for eco tourism in India.
They are:
1. Bio-sphere Reserves
2. Mangroves
3. Coral Reefs
4. Deserts
5. Mountains and Forests
6. Flora and Fauna
7. Seas, Lakes and Rivers
8. Caves
Bio-sphere Reserves

Bio-sphere reserves are multipurpose protected areas, for

preservation of the genetic diversity and integrity of plants, animals
and micro-organisms in representative ecosystems.

There are seven such reserves in India at present:

(i) Nilgiri
(ii) Nanda Devi
 213

(iii) Nokrek
(iv) Great Nicobar
(v) Gulf of Mannar
(vi) Manas
(vii) Sunderbans

Mangroves

Mangroves are very specialized forest eco-systems of tropical

and sub-tropical regions bordering sheltered sea coasts and estuaries.

Major mangroves areas are:

(i) Northern Andaman and Nicobar Islands

(ii) Sunderbans (West Bengal)
(iii) Bhitarkanika and Mahanadi Delta (Orissa)
(iv) Coringa, Godavari Delta and Krishna estuary (Andhra Pradesh)
(v) Pichavaram and Point Calimere (Tamil Nadu)
(vi) Goa
(vii) Gulf of Kutch (Gujarat)
(viii) Coondapur (Karnataka)
(ix) Achra / Ratnagiri (Maharashtra)
(x) Vembanad (Kerala)
Coral Reefs

There are four major coral reefs identified in the country so far:
(i) Gulf of Mannar
(ii) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
(iii) Lakshadweep Islands
(iv) Gulf of Kutch

Deserts

The Great Thar desert and the little deserts in the North
Western Regions of the country are distinct eco-systems which have
fascinated tourism from all over the world.
 214

Mountains and Forests

The Great Himalayas and other mountain range in the country

along with the snow-clad slopes, forests and rivers; have also become
great attractions for eco-tourists. The country has an area of about
752.3 lakh hectares notified as forest land and of this about 406.1
lakh hectares are classified as reserve forests and 215.1 lakh hectares
as Protected Forests.

Flora and Fauna

India is floristically very rich. She has about 45,000 species of

plants. The country also has a great variety of fauna, numbering a
little over 65,000 known species, including 1,228 of birds, 428 of
reptiles, 372 of mammals, 204 amphibians and 2,546 of fish.

In order to protect and preserve these genetic constituents,

India has created a number of National Parks and 421 Wildlife
Sanctuaries in different parts of the country. Some of these which
have already become popular with tourists are Kaziranga and Manas
in Assam; Jim Corbett in Uttar Pradesh; Keoladwo in Ghana,
Ranthambore and Sariska in Rajasthan: Kanha and Bandhavgarh in
Madhya Pradesh; Bandipur in Karnataka and Similpal in Orissa.

Water Resources

The Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal brace
the sides of the Indian subcontinent except for the northern
boundary. The land mass of India is crossed by several rivers and
dotted by lakes at many places. These water bodies provide attractive
opportunities for water sports.

Policy and Planning

 215

The national policy on tourism stipulates that tourism become a

unifying force nationally and internationally, fostering better
understanding through travel.

It should also help to preserve rain and enrich out world-view

and life-style, our cultural expressions and heritage in all its
manifestations. The prosperity that tourism brings should strengthen
and cause accretion, rather than damage, to our social and cultural
valves and depletion of our national resources.

Realisation of these policy objectives particularly in the context

of ecotourism would involve selective approach, scientific planning,
effective control and continuous monitoring. The development process
itself should meet the following cardinal principles:

(i) It should involve the local community and lead to the overall
economic development of the area.
(ii) It should identify the likely conflicts between resource use for
tourism and the livelihood of local inhabitants and attempt to
minimize such conflicts.
(iii) The type and scale of tourism development should be compatible
with the environment and socio-cultural characteristics of the
local community, and
(iv) It should be planned as a part of the overall area development
strategy, guided by an integrated land-use plan and associated
with commensurate expansion of public services.

The biospheres, mangroves, coral reefs, deserts and mountains

which form the core resources for ecotourism, are fragile ecosystems.
Hence decisions for the development to tourism in such areas have to
be based on a thorough understanding of local resources, social and
economic factors and other characteristics.

The objectives of tourism development in any specified area, as

well as the intended beneficiaries, dependency and scale of
 216

development have to be decided on the basis of these factors and

discussions and negotiations with those most directly concerned.

The development of physical infrastructure of tourism should be

preceded by the preparation of an inventory of resources and a
zoning/ management plan to ensure preservation and public use of
valuable natural sites.

Whenever destruction or serious alteration of areas of high

primary productivity like wetland, sea grass beds, coral reefs or
rainforests is contemplated, benefits and costs should be carefully
assessed before planning tourism development activities. Further,
planning and promotion of tourism should be undertaken as a
component part of an integrated, comprehensive resource
management plan founded on sound ecological principles.

The Tourism Management Plan should also establish standards

for resort development, covering among others, the style and locations
of structures, treatment of sewage and control of litter, preservation of
open spaces and public use of fragile areas. It should further lay down
procedures to ensure that sewage is not directed to the beach or the
ground water and solid waste is systematically collected and disposed
of suitably. Adequate precautionary measures should also be taken to
avoid noise pollution. Is should also specify methods and material for
construction activities and minimize any possible adverse impact on
local environment.

Physical planning and design should integrate community

services including availability of potable water, transportation and
tourism. Transportation and access should also be integrated with
other purposes such as industry and trade as communities and the
termini for air, land and water access. Physical planning for all travel
modes, especially modern tour buses, also needs to be integrated
between segments outside and inside the area of attraction.
 217

Operational Guidelines

The key players in the ecotourism business are the Government,

both central and at state levels, the local authorities, the developers
and the operators, the visitors and the local community. Each one of
them has to be sensitive to the environment and local traditions and
follow a set of guidelines for the successful development of tourism. In
addition, nongovernmental organizations and scientific / research
institutions also have to play a key role in the development of eco-
tourism.

The Government
The Management Plan for each area should be prepared by
professional landscape architects and urban planners, in
consultation with the local community as well as others directly
concerned.
Integrated planning should be adopted to avoid inter-sector and
cross-sectoral conflict.
The architectural programme for ecotourism centres should
include controlled access points and cabins, roads, self-guided
nature trails, transportation options, interpretive centres, sings,
observation towers and blinds, adequate but unpretentious
lodging and dining facilities, docks, garbage disposal facility and
other utilities as per requirement. If needed, suitable living
quarters and facilities for project personnel have to be provided.
Structures creating visual pollution, and aesthetic values and
non-compatible architecture, should be controlled and
temporary structures using local building material and befitting
the local environment should be encouraged.
 218

Exclude developments in geologically unstable zones and define

development and buffer zones after proper environmental
impact assessments.
Establish standards, building codes and other regulations.
Specify environmental, physical and social carrying capacities to
limit development activities.
Ensure continuous monitoring of adverse effects of tourism
activities and initiate suitable corrective measures.
Recognise and award quality labels to ecotourism operators.
Provide visitor information and interpretation services covering
particularly (i) What to see, (ii) how to see, (iii) how to behave. It
can be by way of brochures, leaflets, specialized guides, visitor
information centres and such.
Prepare and widely distribute codes of conduct to all visitors.
Launch training programmes on ecotourism to tourism
administrators, planners, operators and general public.

Developers, Operators and Suppliers

Respect and follow the planning restrictions, standards and

codes provided by the government and local authorities.
Implement sound environment principles through self-
regulation.
Practice environmental impact assessment for all new projects
and conduct regular environmental audit for all ongoing
activities leading to development of environment improvement
programmes.
Be sensitive to conservation of environmentally protected or
threatened areas, species and scenic aesthetics, achieving
landscape enhancement what ever possible.
Ensure that all structures are unobtrusive and do not interfere
with the natural ecosystem to the maximum extent.
 219

Recognise the optimal environmental capacity and sociological

use-limits of the site in creating tourist facilities. They should
also take into account safety and convenience of tourists.
Buildings should be designed strictly on functional and
environmental considerations and avoid over construction.
Local material and designs should be used in all construction to
the extent possible.
Physical planning, architectural design and construction of
tourist facilities should employ eco friendly techniques like solar
energy, capture and utilization of rain water, recycling of
garbage, natural cross-sufficiency
in food generation through orchards, ecological farms,
agriculture and
the such.
Energy and water-saving practices should be employed to the
extent possible. Fresh water management and controlled sewage
disposal should also be practiced.
Control air emissions-both chemical pollutants and noise.
Control and reduce environmentally unfriendly products such
as asbestos, CFCs, pesticides and toxic, corrosive, infectious,
explosive or inflammable material.
Respect and support historic or religious objects and sites.
Provide information and interpretive services to visitors
especially on attraction and facilities, safety and security, local
customs and traditions, prohibitions and regulations and self-
conduct and behaviour.
Ensure adequate opportunities to visitors for communion with
nature and native cultures.
In marketing ecotourism products, customers should be given
correct information, as the visitors who appreciate ecotourism
products usually belong to environmentally aware groups.
 220

Training and research programmes of the company should

include environmental issues.
Prepare tourists to minimize possible negative impact while
visiting sensitive environment and cultures before their visit.
Ensure the safety and security of visitors and inform them of
precautions to be taken.
Exercise due to regard for the interest of the local population,
including their history, tradition and culture and future
economic development.
Involve the local community to the extent possible in various
activities and vocations.

The Visitors

Help conserve habits of flora and fauna and any site, natural or
cultural, which may be affected by tourism.
Make no open fires and discourage other from dong so. If water
has to be heated with scarce firewood, use as little as possible.
Whereas feasible, use kerosene or fuel-efficient wood stoves.
Remove litter, burn or bury paper, and carry back all non-
degradable litter.
Keep local water clean and avoid using pollutants such as
detergents in streams or springs. If no toilet facilities are
available, try to relieve yourself at least 30 meters away from
water sources and bury on over the waste.
Plants should be left to flourish in their natural environment
and avoid taking away cuttings, seeds and roots.
Leave the camp sites clean after use. Remember that another
party will be using the same camp site after your departure.
Help guides and porters to follow conservation measures. Do
not allow cools/porters to throw garbage in streams or rivers.
Respect the natural cultural heritage of the area and follow local
customs.
 221

Respect local etiquette and wear loose clothes, kissing in public

are disapproved of.
Respect privacy of individuals and ask permission and use
restraint in taking photographs of local inhabitants.
Respect holy places-do not touch or remove religious objects.
Strictly follow the guidelines for personal safety and security
and always take your own precautions and safety measures.
The Destination Population / Host community

Realise and respect the value of the environment, the flora and
fauna, the monuments and the cultural heritage.
Practice conservation of nature and cultural as a way of life.
Establish guidelines to protect valuable local resources and
foster tourism management.
Realise and react to the potential threat of investors who see
opportunities in development but lack sensitivity to local values.
Become effective nature guides and conservationists of natural
areas by enhancing the practical and ancestral knowledge of the
natural features of the area.
Be friendly with the visitors and help them to practice
ecotourism codes.

Non-Governmental Organisations / Scientific and Research

Institutions
Create awareness, amongst all concerned, about the importance
of sound eco-practices in tourism development.
Motivate the local community to increase their involvement in
sustainable tourism activities.
Organise training programmes to prepare the local people for
taking up various vocations relating to ecotourism.

The Environmental Pledge

1. Stationery and other Publicity Material on Recycled Paper:
 222

We will introduce the use of recycled paper for our stationary

and other publicity items such as brochures and establish a
recycling programme.
2. Polythene Bags: We will convert, wherever possible, from the use
of polythene bags to paper bags, cloth bags and other
alternatives.
3. Alternate source of Energy for Fuel: Where possible, we will
convert to solar power such as solar heating and lighting, to
reduce the use of thermal electricity.
4. Garbage Disposal: We will introduce the system of separating
recyclable and non-recyclable garbage emanating from our
operations and dispose non-biodegradable garbage in a
responsible way, so as to not harm the environment.
5. Water Catchments and Treatment: Wherever possible, we will
recycle water by incorporating water treatment schemes. We will
also make storage and catchments facilities for rain water to be
used for our operations.
6. Eco Lodges and Resorts: We pledge to conserve the ecology,
animal and bird life of the area our properties are located in.
7. Planting of Saplings: We will encourage the planting of saplings
and greeting of the local environment.
8. Alternate use of Fuels: We will limit the burning of firewood and
use alternate sources of fuel for both cooking and heating.
9. Use of Local Ethnic Materials in Construction of Properties: In
keeping with the local landscaping. We will incorporate
architectural styles typical to the area, thus blending with the
environment.
10. Employment of Local Committees: Wherever possible, we will hire
locally for our business to enhance the economy of our area.
11. Limit Deforestation: We will make no open fire and discourage
others from doing so. Wherever water is heated using scarce
firewood, we will not use it or use as little of it as possible.
 223

Wherever possible, we will choose accommodation that uses

kerosene or fuel-efficient firewood stoves.
12. Plant Saplings: We will take saplings and encourage our tourists
to help plant them near our camp sites or on the trails.
13. Non-Biodegradable Garbage: We will leave campsites clean and
take back all non-biodegradable litter to the road head towns for
proper disposal. We will bury only biodegradable food waste.
14. Keep Local Water Clean: Toilet facilities will be pitched at least
30 meters away from the water source and all waste will be
covered properly. We will not allow detergents to be used in
streams and springs.
15. Plants Left in their Natural Environment: We will not take away
cuttings, seeds and roots this is illegal in most parts of the
Himalayas.
16. Respect Local Cultures: We will promote the appreciation and
preservation of religious place and local villages by never
allowing clients to buy religious objects or heirlooms from
remote villages.
17. Alternate Source of Energy for Fuel: Where possible, we will
convert to solar power such as solar lanterns and solar cookers.
18. Stationery and other Publicity Material on Recycled Paper: We
will introduce/ increase the use of recycled handmade paper for
our stationary and other publicity items, such as brochures.)
 224

APPENDIX-II
ECO-TOURISM: POLICY & GUIDELINES (2002)

1. Preamble:

Eco-tourism is emerging as an important component of the Indian

tourist industry. The significant growth in nature tourism and the
numerous tourist operators bear adequate testimony to this. Though
the term eco-tourism is popular, it is rather loosely used by many.
Hence, it is imperative to distinguish this from the general mass
tourism. Eco-tourism has been considered here as a sustainable,
equitable, community based Endeavour for improving the living
standards of indigenous host communities. Apart from these stake
holders, there is also a dire need to forge partnership with the existing
tourism industry of the state.

2. Eco-tourism defined:

Ecotourism is sustainable, nature tourism involving the

indigenous stake holders while forging partnership with the existing
tourism industry. The World Tourism organization (WTO) defines eco-
tourism as tourism that involves traveling to relatively undisturbed
natural areas with the specified object of studying, admiring and
enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any
exiting cultural aspects (both of the past or the present) found in
these areas. Ecotourism or Nature tourism is distinguished from
resort tourism or mass tourism by requiring lesser infrastructure
development and a lower impact on the environment.

The key elements of eco-tourism are:

1. Existence of National Park/Sanctuary/natural environment as a
prime, star attraction
2. Should be ecologically, socially, culturally and economically
sustainable
3. Should have participation of the local stake-holders (host
 225

community)
4. Should be a low profile venture
5. Should be capable of dove-tailing in the existing tourism of the
State.

2.1 Synonyms of Eco-tourism:

- Environmentally friendly
tourism
- Nature tourism
- Green tourism
- Scientific tourism
- Cottage tourism
- Wildlife tourism
- Wilderness tourism
- Safari tourism
- Designer tourism
- Hard tourism
- Risk tourism
- Adventure tourism

3. Policy and Planning:

The National Eco-tourism Policy & Guidelines (1998), after

considering the National Policy on Tourism, has identified the
following cardinal principles for the development of Eco-tourism:
1. It should involve the local community and lead to the overall
economic development of the area
2. It should identify the likely conflicts between resource use for
tourism and the livelihood of local inhabitants and attempt to
minimize such conflicts
3. The type and scale of tourism development should be
compatible with the environment and socio-cultural
characteristics of the local community and
4. It should be planned as a part of the overall area development
 226

strategy, guided by an integrated land-use plan while a

voiding intersectional conflicts and ensuring sectoral
integration, associated with commensurate expansion of
public services

While adopting the above general principles, the following

guidelines are laid down for eco-regional planning to foster eco-
tourism.

1. Delineation and notification of fringe areas (special areas)

around identified eco-tourism sites (NPs I WLS) as Non-Plan
Areas under the City & Country Planning Act of the States,
to a void cross, sectoral conflicts and to achieve sectoral
integration of inputs, for wise land use to foster eco-tourism as
per the operational guidelines.
2. Fostering eco-tourism through eco-development as a land
use.
3. Prescription of environmental requirements for such specially
notified areas for incorporation in the relevant rules of the
State (Appendix-1).
4. The first benefit of eco-tourism must go to the local people
(host community), and in the long run the capacity building in
this regard should be built-in for forging partnership with the
local people.
5. According statutory protection to such specially notified areas
under the Environmental Protection Act, 1986
6. Recognizing the local Panchayat as the authority having -,
jurisdiction, for granting permission for development
7. Constituting a special committee under the chairman-ship of
the district Collector, with the respective Protected Area
manager as the member-secretary having adequate
representatives from concerned Panchyats, Eco-development
Committees, apart from local NGOs and honorary Wildlife
Wardens, for advising the Panchyats on issues relating to
 227

development
8. Creation of village level micro-institutions (VFCI FPCI EDC) as
per the resolution of the State Forest Dept, and formulation of
site- specific eco-tourism plans with indigenous, participatory
planning
9. Providing soft loans from Community Credit Programmed
/Special Trust Funds / Special Central Assistance/
Developmental Schemes of Tribal Department / District- level
Integrated Developmental Programme, to identified host-
community I beneficiaries for promoting eco-tourism
10. Establishing standards for eco-tourism in the site-specific
micro plans in tune with the operational guidelines, and the
suggested modifications in the State rules, apart from
ensuring adherence to these standards by the tourist
developers and operators through the Panchyats

4. Key players in Eco-tourism

Implementing Agency:

During formative years, the Forest Department of the State

should be the main implementing agency. However, at a later stage
this should be entrusted to the Confederation of Eco-development
Committees, with - -State-Tourism Development. Corporation
Tourism Department and Forest Department of States assuming
supportive and supervisory roles.

Financial Support

1) The host community would be provided financial support

mainly through soft loans from Community Credit Programme Special
Trust Funds / Special Central Assistance/ Developmental Schemes
of Tribal Department / District level Integrated Developmental
Programme, to ensure their participation as stake holders for
promoting eco-tourism.
2) The general development of the Protected Area including
 228

Eco-tourist facilities, Interpretation Centers, Literature and the like

would continue with funding support under the Centrally Sponsored
Schemes, based on size specific proposals received from States.
3) Generating resources by inviting private entrepreneurs to
develop site-specific packages by providing appropriate incentives.

At the State-level

1. Tourism Department & MPSTDC

2. Forest Department
3. PWD
4. State Electricity Board
5. Water/Irrigation Department
6. Private entrepreneurs: Tour operators, hoteliers

At the District level:

1. Zillah Sarkar /Local district administration

2. Panchayats
3. EDC*/VFC*/FPC*
4. Municipal Corporations
5. PA* managers (local units of forest department)

5. Operational Guidelines:
For the Government:
In addition to the guidelines (1 to 10) laid down in para-3 under
policy and planning, the following additional operational guidelines
are also indicated:
- The planning should be flexible, site-specific & participatory,
and should form part of a larger eco-developmental eco-regional
plan for the area, within the normative standards of a
Landscape Code
- Assessment of existing infrastructure, surface transportation,
air service, road, electricity, water supply, law and order
 229

situation
- The eco-tourism package should invariably include
o Simple, adequate boarding & lodging facilities, in tune
with the environment & the general setting of the
landscape
o Road network within the identified tourism zone
o Self-guided Nature trails
o Transportation options
o Interpretive Centers
o Way-side exhibits
o Signages
o Observation towers
o Public conveniences
o Garbage disposal facility
o Living quarters for staff/personnel

- Structures with an exotic look causing visual pollution and no

compatible and unaesthetic architecture should be avoided
- Site-specific micro - planning for community based eco-tourism
should be resorted to
- Providing soft loans from specially created Trust Funds based
on recycled park gate receipts / Community Credit Programmes
to identified beneficiaries
- Temporary housing structures blending with the surrounding
should be encouraged
- Establishing building codes in consultation with the
Panchayats apart from other regulations to ensure pollution free
environment, with the concurrence of the respective Zilla
Sarkar / District Administration
- Environmental, physical & social carrying capacities to limit
the various developmental activities in the fringe area to be
identified for eco-tourism
- Devise mechanism to ensure continuous monitoring of adverse
 230

effects of tourism for quick redressal

- Recognize eco-tourism operators, provide incentives to deserving
cases and award quality labels
- Provide visitor information & interpretation services (bilingual)
covering :
o Do s and Donts
o What to see?
o Where to see?
(Brochures, leaflets, guide service, visitor centers)
- Periodic training programmes on eco-tourism should be
conducted for tourism administration, p lanners, operators and
general public
- Ensuring training programme to the host community in
1. Lodge ownership/Management
2. Basic education and awareness
3. Health and sanitation
4. Skill development for preparation 0 f local souvenirs as
appropriate
5. Codes of conduct
6. Forest and wildlife conservation
7. Litter control
8. Forging partnerships with tourists & tourism industry
9. Environmental management

To evolve and implement eco-tourism package in a few selected sites

initially as pilot projects
For Tour operators/developers:
- To abide by the planning restrictions, codes and standards
prescribed by the authorities
- Implementation of desired environmental principles through
regulation
- Conducting EIA/ environmental audits for new / ongoing eco-
tourism projects
 231

- Being sensitive to the conservation of endangered species &

corridor value of the area
- To ensure construction of structures blending with the
environment as per the prescribed building code
- To take into consideration the Carrying capacity & Sociological
use-limits of the site while creating tourist facilities, and
ensuring safety & convenience of tourists
- To use local material & design as far as possible, while avoiding
over construction
- The planning, architectural design and construction of tourist
facilities should use eco-friendly techniques viz., solar energy,
recycling of garbage, harvesting of rain water, natural cross
ventilation instead of AC, self-sufficiency in food through
kitchen garden & farming
- Energy & water saving devices should be used apart from
controlled sewage disposal
- Use of signages / boards as per the standard prescriptions in
the code
- Reduced use of environmentally .unfriendly items like asbestos,
CIS, pesticides, inflammable material
- Respecting the historic and religious sites in the area
- Providing appropriate interpretive service to visitors for
communication with nature & local culture
- Ensuring proper marketing of eco-tourism products
- Ensuring training of staff on environmental issues
- Ensuring safety and security of visitors
- Respecting local inhabitants. culture & involving them in
various activities & vocations as far as possible

For The Visitors:

- Abiding by the code of conduct. Do s and Donts

- Helping conservation. Apart from protecting any site natural or
cultural. which may be adversely affected by tourism
 232

- Avoiding wastage of resources

- Avoiding littering and carrying back all non-degradable litter
- Leaving the camp sites clean before departing
- Avoiding removal of plants, seeds, drift wood from the site
- Respecting local culture/customs
- Respecting holy places
- Strictly adhering to the safety precautions

For Host Community:

- Respect the value of environment, cultural heritage

- Avoid overusing the are
- Co-operate with the authorities in ensuring healthy eco-
tourism
- Realize & react to the threat of investors who see opportunities
& exploit the locals
- Be friendly with the visitors as effective nature guides &
conservationists
6. Development of PA-level Participatory Eco-tourism & Visitor

Strategy:

Action points for planning:

- To develop an overall eco-tourism strategy which shall

incorporate:

o Local participation
o Sound environmental design
o Visitor management
o Conservation education
o Training
o Financial sustainability
o Monitoring and evaluation

To assess:

- The existing tourism situation and potential

 233

- The desirable tourism situation & identify steps to attain the same
- To prepare a Participatory Community Based Eco-tourism strategy
for the project area, involving the stakeholders through meetings &
workshops

The Eco-tourism strategy should also address the following

- Potential PA attributes vis--vis eco-tourism

- Identification of sites
- Development of monitoring mechanisms for ecological impact of
eco-tourism
- Visitor information and levels
- Identify marketing opportunities.
- Development of guidelines for visitors / staff viz., visitor centre,
orientation centre, brochures, handbook, signages
- Development of mechanisms to collate visitation data for
management
- Development of guidelines/building code for environmentally
acceptable and culturally appropriate designs
- Identification of : staffing levels for tourism, future requirements &
training needs
- Identifying : institutional arrangement for eco-tourism
management: mechanisms to increase long-term local participation
in benefit -sharing & decision-making, local training needs
- Developing monitoring & evaluation plans to assess local
participation & benefit sharing
- Evolving legal framework for eco-tourism activities
- Establishing administration & legal requirements for :Zoning, entry
fees, revenue-sharing with indigenous people

7. Development of State-level Eco-tourism and Visitor Strategy:

Action Points

- To develop a State-level Community Based Participatory Eco-

tourism strategy which would incorporate : elements of local
 234

participation, sound environmental design, visitor management,

marketing, conservation education, training, financial sustain
ability & monitoring and evaluation

For PA s throughout the State assessment of:

- Determination of the PA specific desirable tourism situation &

steps to attain this situation
- Preparation of PA level Community Based Participatory Eco-
tourism strategies

The strategy should also address the following:

- The current I potential PA attributes relevant for ecotourism

- Site-selection criteria & processes for eco-tourism activities
- Development of monitoring mechanisms for ecological impact of
eco-tourism/ tourism
- Procedures to calculate visitation information and levels
- Identification of marketing opportunities for eco-tourism
- Development of guidelines for visitor/staff behavior in PAs
- Identification Interpretation inputs for visitors viz., orientation
centre, visitor centre, museum, way -side exhibits, signages, road-
side markers, literature, brochures, posters
- Monitoring of visitation data for management
- Development of generic guidelines for environmentally acceptable &
culturally appropriate architectural designs
- Identification of training needs, sources for PA staff & stakeholders
- Identification of appropriate Institutional / Organizational
structures for participatory management of eco-tourism
- Identification of mechanisms to ensure long-term local
participation in benefit-sharing & decision-making
- Developing monitoring-evaluation criteria to ,assess local
participation & benefit sharing,
- Development of State-level legal framework for ecotourism /
activities viz., delineation of fringe areas around PA, legal
 235

provisions for Zilla Sarkars & Panchayats

- Assessment of existing State-level policy considerations for tourism
- Assessment of current State-level financial provisions &
infrastructure for tourism management
- Identification activities or modification of exiting practices to
improve financial sustainability
- Identification of potential private-public sector linkages related to
tourism! eco-tourism, apart from opportunities for future
collaboration & related guidelines
- Development of an Action Program for follow-up

8. Community based Eco-tourism: Possible Inputs -

Opportunities For indigenous host communities:

- Creation & management of low cost accommodation of tourists

- Providing guide service to visitors for jungle excursions
- Providing sale outlets for local herbal medicine
- Management of eco-tourism inputs like:
- Canoeing/boating
- Angling
- Cafeteria
- Pony ride
- Souvenir making and sale
- Organizing folk dance
- Picnic spots
- Elephant rides
- Nature trail
- Cycle trail
- Organizing visit to a typical host community village and exposure to
country culture
- Organizing bird club (restricted)

Attractions For visitors:

- Eco centers
 236

- Nature trail
- Interpretation inputs:
- Orientation centre
- Visitor centre
- Museum
- Amphitheater
- Road-side exhibits
- Signages
- Road-side Markets
- Literature
- Light and Sound display
- Vehicular exclusions
- Picnic spots
- Canoeing/boating
- Elephant rides
- Angling
- Pony rides
- Village visit
- Ethnic /folk dance
- Bird club
- Souvenir shops
- Cycle trail

Environmental requirements for specially notified non planning areas

under the State Town and Country Planning Act, for Eco-development
Eco-tourism.

1. The hotel/resort area should not be less than 8 ha. and should
be encompassed by chain-link fencing for security and control
reasons.
2. The hotel! resort should comprise of :
- Reception , Administrative office
- Lobby
- Managers office and safe Small shop
 237

- First aid dispensary

- Storage area
- Wash room facilities (men and women)
- Dining area with seating capacity for at least 5 tables
Kitchen
- Lodging for manager and staff (Approximate area for the
above complex should not be less than 2000 sq. m.)

3. The bungalow sector should comprise of at least

- 10 hutments, each with a built-up area of approximately 50

sq. m.
- A multiple use area (living! sleeping) with 2 beds, desk and
chair, closet, bathrooms with WC, wash basin and shower,
with provision for hot water through solar energy
- A small terrace
- The accommodation bungalows should be paired with parking
space
- The layout of the bungalows should be informal around a
central area and no trees or natural features of the
landscape should be destroyed
- A camping and recreational area with out door picnic tables,
communal bathrooms and waste bins
- Waste recycling plant
- Vegetable garden area for self sufficiency Facility for cooking gas (bio-
gas)
- Area for cattle and poultry with fencing and provision for stall
feeding
- Machine room
- Entry control barrier

4. The carrying capacity (site-specific) of each eco-tourism

site should be assessed at the following three levels:
- Physical carrying capacity
 238

- Real carrying capacity

- Effective / permissible carrying capacity
5. The land use in the notified area should be environmentally
compatible, without causing any adverse impact. Activities like
mining, quarrying, industries with the likely discharge of
environmental pollutants should be prohibited in such areas.

6. Structures with exotic look causing visual pollution should be

avoided. Temporary housing structures merging with the
surrounding with sloping roof using local material and design
should be encouraged.

7. The planning, architectural design and construction of tourist

facilities should use eco-friendly techniques like: solar energy,
recycling of garbage, harvesting of rain water, natural cross
ventilation instead of AC, self sufficiency in food through
kitchen garden and farming with controlled sewage disposal.

8. The development should be sensitive to the conservation of

fauna and flora, the corridor value of the area, apart from
respecting the religious and historic sites in the area.

9. The local authority having jurisdiction, on the advice specially

constituted district level committee, can make relaxation with
respect to serial nos. 1, 2 and 3 as indicated above for
involving the indigenous community in promoting eco-
tourism.

 Only vehicular movements permitted on forest roads, hence

road length is more relevant than area
 Standing area is not relevant, but closeness between vehicles is
important
 There is a required distance of at least 500 m. (1/2 km.)
between 2 vehicles to avoid dust (2 vehicles / km.)
 239

Rotation Factor (Rf) = 9 hours/3.5 hours = 2.6

PCC = 283 km. x 2 vehicles / km. x 2.6 = 1471.6 or 1472 visits / day

Total Road Length = 283 km. (Mt.)

Medium erosion risk = 50 km. (weight age factor = 2)
High erosion risk = 40 km. (weight age factor = 3)
M1 = 50 x 2 + 40 x 3 = 100 + 120 = 220 km.