TPD Govermnt

Master Plan for Eco-Tourism in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt Executive Summary
DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MASTER PLAN FOR ECO-TOURISM IN

VALLEY OF FLOWERS-HEMKUNT BELT
FINAL REPORT
March 2005
TATA CONSULTANCY SERVICES LIMITED

TULSI-GANGA COMPLEX
19-C, VIDHAN SABHA MARG
LUCKNOW - 226001 INDIA
Tel.: 91-522-2237472
Fax: 91-522-2237445
ES-1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
Abbreviations i
List of Tables vii
List of Exhibits viii
Executive Summary ES-1
1 Introduction 1-1
1.1 Background 1-1
1.2 Scope and Terms of Reference (TOR) 1-3
1.3 Structure of the Draft Report 1-4
2 Tourism Development – A Situational Analysis 2-1
2.1 Valley of Flowers National Park - Hemkunt Belt 2-1
2.1.1 Valley of Flowers 2-1
2.1.2 Hemkunt Sahib 2-2
2.2 Location & Setting 2-4
2.3 Climate 2-5
2.4 Accessibility 2-6
2.4.1 Airfield 2-6
2.4.2 Railhead 2-7
2.4.3 Roads 2-8
2.4.4 Trek Trails 2-9
2.5 Geology & Soil 2-12
2.6 Inventory of Flora 2-13
2.6.1 Distribution of Vegetation in VOFNP by Alpine Zones 2-17
2.6.2 Endangered & Medicinal Plants 2-21
2.6.3 Flora around Hemkunt Belt 2-22
2.7 Inventory of Fauna 2-22
2.8 Local Human Settlements & Activities 2-23
2.8.1 Tourism-based Economy 2-24
ES-2
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
2.8.2 Agro-based Economy 2-27
2.8.3 Fuel Type & Usage 2-29
2.9 Current Tourist Circuits & Routes 2-30
2.10 Tourists/Visitors Arrival 2-32
2.11 Tourist Infrastructure 2-34
2.11.1 Transportation 2-34
2.11.2 Guides, Porters, Mule, & Palki Services 2-34
2.11.3 Accommodation & Food Arrangements 2-37
2.11.4 Solid Waste Management System 2-39
2.11.5 Water Supply System 2-41
2.11.6 Sewerage Disposal System & Toilets 2-42
2.11.7 Electricity Supply System 2-43
2.11.8 Telecommunication 2-45
2.11.9 Health Care Facilities 2-46
2.11.10 Veterinary Hospital /Clinic 2-47
2.11.11 Security Infrastructure 2-47
2.11.12 Management Regulations for Access and Facilities for 2-48
National Park
2.12 Disaster Management Plan 2-54
2.13 Land-use 2-55
3 Environmental Impact of Tourism 3-1
3.1 Introduction 3-1
3.1.1 Methodology Adopted in the Study 3-1
3.1.2 Selection of the Sites for Ecological Sampling 3-2
3.2 Identification of Stress Areas 3-2
3.2.1 Stress mainly due to Environmental Specificity 3-2
3.2.2 Stress due to pressure on Specific Points 3-3
3.2.3 Stress due to Environment Concerns 3-3
3.2.4 Stress due to Management Concerns 3-3
3.2.5 Mitigation of Stress 3-4
3.3 Identification of Ecological Parameters & Impact of Tourism: 3-5
Current scenario
ES-3
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
3.3.1 Route and its ecology 3-5
3.3.2 Tourism & Trekking 3-6
3.3.3 Local Initiatives 3-7
3.3.4 Sanitation and Ecological Concerns: Limiting Factors 3-7
3.3.5 Number of Tourists 3-8
3.3.6 Pollution Status 3-8
3.4 Identification of Ecological Factors Affecting the Area 3-13
3.4.1 Environmental Issues 3-13
3.4.2 Biodiversity Issues & Conservation Strategy 3-17
3.4.3 Conservation Status 3-20
3.4.4 Pollution Issues 3-22
3.4.5 Flora and Fauna 3-24
3.4.6 Water Management 3-27
3.4.7 Solid Waste Management 3-28
3.4.8 Carrying Capacity 3-29
3.4.9 Tourist Vista Points 3-30
3.4.10 Health of Animals 3-30
3.4.11 Capacity Building 3-31
3.4.12 Developmental Issues 3-32
3.4.13 Hazard Mitigation Plan & Safety Measures 3-34
4 Eco-Tourism Development Strategy 4-1
4.1 Emerging Issues 4-1
4.2 The Development Considerations 4-6
4.2.1 Conservation of the Environment 4-7
4.2.2 Boost to the Economy 4-8
4.3.3 Unique Selling Proposition 4-8
4.4.4 Quality Experience 4-9
4.3 Development Strategy 4-9
4.4 Objectives and Management of NDBR & VOFNP 4-11
5 Environmental Management Plan 5-1
5.1 Environmental Management Plan – An Overview 5-1
ES-4
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
5.1.1 Objectives of EMP 5-1
5.1.2 Methodology 5-2
5.2 EMP for Spatial Development 5-3
5.2.1 EMP for Land Management 5-3
5.2.2 EMP for Built-up 5-4
5.2.3 EMP for Construction of Roads / Parking / Trek 5-7
Paths/ Ropeway
5.3 EMP for Products and Services 5-10
5.4 EMP for Waste Management 5-11
5.5 EMP for Water & Waste Water 5-24
5.6 EMP for Sanitation 5-28
5.7 EMP for Energy 5-29
5.8 EMP for Air & Noise Management 5-34
5.9 Environmental Orientation 5-35
5.10 Environment Monitoring 5-37
6 Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt Development Plan 6-1
6.1 Sustainiable Development and Carrying Capacity Concepts – 6-1
Minimisation of Impacts
6.1.1 Factors influencing Carrying Capacity 6-2
6.1.2 Valley of Flowers 6-4
6.1.3 Hemkunt 6-13
6.2 Valley of Flowers Management Plan 6-15
6.2.1 Conservation Plan for the Valley of Flowers 6-15
6.2.2 Development Measures 6-18
6.3 Hemkunt Development Plan 6-24
6.3.1 Conservation Plan for the Hemkunt Region 6-24
6.3.2 Development Proposals for Ghangharia-Hemkunt 6-24
Route & Hemkunt
6.3.3 Tourist Amenities 6-27
6.4 Management/Institutional Measures 6-34
6.4.1 Capacity Building 6-34
6.4.2 Monitoring 6-37
ES-5
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
6.4.3 Sensitisation of Tourists & Visitor Information Service 6-38
7 Development Proposals at Base Settlements 7-1
7.1 Development Plan for Ghangharia 7-1
7.1.1 Accommodation 7-1
7.1.2 Refreshment Stalls 7-4
7.1.3 Commercial Establishments 7-5
7.1.4 Information Services 7-6
7.1.5 Recreational Facilities 7-6
7.1.6 Other Tourist Facilitation 7-7
7.1.7 Tourist Safety 7-8
7.1.8 Health Care Facility 7-8
7.1.9 Mule Sheds, Cheap accommodation, Fodder and Food 7-9
Arrangements
7.1.10 Veterinary Clinic 7-9
7.1.11 Pathways / Other Accessibility 7-10
7.1.12 Water Supply 7-11
7.1.14 Electricity Supply 7-12
7.1.15 Telecommunications 7-13
7.2 Development Plan for Govind Ghat 7-14
7.2.1 Roads & Pathways 7-15
7.2.6 Accommodation 7-18
7.2.7 Refreshment Stalls 7-19
7.2.8 Commercial Establishments 7-19
7.2.9 Information Services 7-20
7.2.10 Other Tourist Facilitation 7-21
7.2.11 Tourist Safety 7-21
ES-6
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
7.2.13 Mule Sheds, Cheap accommodation, Fodder and Food 7-22
Arrangements
7.2.14 Veterinary Clinic 7-23
8 Development Plan for Facilities Enroute 8-1
8.1 Transportation Proposals: Govind Ghat to Ghangharia 8-1
8.1.1 Key Transportation Issues 8-1
8.1.2 Parking 8-1
8.1.3 Extension of Motorable Road 8-7
8.1.4 Anticipated Impact of Extending a Motorable Road to 8-11
Pulna
8.1.5 Trek Path 8-13
8.1.6 Installation of Ropeway from Govind Ghat to Kanjila 8-15
(near Ghangharia)
8.2 Tourist Amenities 8-20
8.2.1 Amenity Cluster 8-20
8.2.2 Solid Waste Collection & Disposal 8-22
8.2.3 Toilets Enroute 8-23
8.2.4 Mule Shed 8-24
8.2.5 Signages 8-24
8.3 Physical Infrastructure Plan 8-25
8.3.2 Electricity Supply 8-26
8.4 Management Controls 8-28
8.5 Route till Govind Ghat 8-30
8.6 Tourist Circuit and Growth Centres Nearby 8-31
8.6.1 Badrinath 8-32
8.6.2 Auli Ski Resort 8-34
8.6.3 Kagbhushandi Lake Trek 8-35
ES-7
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
8.6.4 Khiron Valley Trek 8-36
8.6.5 Khunt Khal Trek 8-36
8.6.6 Pandukeshwar 8-37
8.6.7 Joshimath 8-37
8.6.8 Other Destinations in Chamoli District 8-39
9 Hazard Mitigation Plan 9-1
9.1 Hazard Scenarios 9-1
9.1.1 Need of an Emergency Response System in Project 9-1
Area
9.1.2 Potential Hazards 9-1
9.2 Hazard Mitigation Plan and Emergency Response System 9-3
9.2.1 Planning and Land Use Management 9-4
9.2.2 Emergency Response Cell 9-5
9.2.3 Warning 9-5
9.2.4 Evacuation 9-6
9.2.5 Institutional Responsibilities 9-7
9.2.6 Biodiversity Risk Mitigation 9-10
9.3 Community Participation 9-10
10 Implementation Plan 10-1
10.1 Investment and Phasing 10-1
10.2 External Assistance / Funding Modalities 10-7
10.2.1 Tourism: A tool for Socio-economic Development 10-7
10.2.2 Multilateral Funding Agencies 10-9
10.2.3 Funding Procedure 10-17
10.3 Institutional Framework and Roles & Responsibilities 10-21
10.3.1 Eco-Development Committee 10-21
10.3.2 Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust 10-27
10.3.3 Trade Community 10-31
10.3.4 Mahila Mandal 10-33
10.3.5 Van Panchayat/Forest Council 10-34
10.3.6 Gram Sabha / Village Council 10-36
ES-8
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
10.3.7 Zilla Panchayat (ZP) 10-37
10.3.8 Department of Forests 10-38
10.3.9 Department of Tourism 10-41
10.3.10 Public Works Department 10-44
10.3.11 Jal Nigam and Jal Sansthan Departments 10-44
10.3.12 Electricity Departments 10-44
10.3.13 Department of Telecommunications 10-44
10.3.14 Department of Health 10-45
10.3.15 Department of Revenue 10-45
10.3.16 Role of NGOs 10-45
11 Community Benefits and HRD 11-1
11.1 Community Participation 11-1
11.1.1 Approach to Development 11-1
11.1.2 Community-based Tourism 11-2
11.2 Benefits to Local Communities 11-2
11.2.1 Current Situation 11-3
11.2.2 Direct Benefits 11-4
11.2.3 Indirect Benefits 11-7
11.3 HRD and Training 11-12
11.3.1 Current Human Resource Situation in the Region 11-12
11.3.2 Employment Opportunities in the Tourism Industry 11-14
11.3.3 Training – Approach 11-16
12 Visitor Management System 12-1
12.1 Components of Visitor Management System 12-1
12.2 Market Analysis 12-3
12.2.1 International Tourism 12-3
12.2.2 Domestic Tourism 12-4
12.3 Marketing and Promotion Strategy for Valley of Flowers - 12-6
Hemkunt Region
12.3.1 Strategic Planning 12-6
12.3.2 A Statement of Marketing Objectives 12-7
ES-9
Sr. Title Page

No. No.
12.3.3 Recommendations and Guidelines for Promotion 12-7
12.4 Proposed Visitor Management System 12-10
12.4.1 Features of VMS 12-14
12.4.2 Working of a Sustainable VMS 12-14
12.4.3 Maintenance and Training 12-18
12.4.4 Sustainable Visitor Management System 12-19
Annexure A A-1
Annexure B B-1
Annexure C C-1
Annexure D D-1
ABBREVIATIONS
no Degrees
µg Micro Gram
ADB Asian Development Bank
APME Association of Plastics Manufacturers in Europe
BADP Border Area Development Programme
BBM Benefits-Based Management
BMZ Bundesministerium fur wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und
Entwicklung (German Ministry of Economic Co-operation and
Development)
BPF British Plastics Federation
BRO Border Roads Organization
BSNL Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited
C Celsius
CBD Convention on Biodiversity
CC Cement Concrete
CD Compact Disc
ES-10
CE Chief Engineer
CFC Chloro-flouro Carbons
CFL Compact Fluorescent Light
Cl Chloride Ions
CIDA Canadian International Development Agency
cm Centimetre
CPCB Central Pollution Control Board
CPIA Canadian Plastics Industry Association
CRS Computerized Reservation System
cum Cubic meter
CWLW Chief Wild Life Warden
CWR Clear Water Reservoir
DANIDA Danish Agency for Development Assistance
Dev26 Water Sample taken from Dev Mangri Garh
DFID Department for International Development
DFO Divisional Forest Officer
DM District Magistrate
DoF Department of Environment & Forests
DoH Department of Health
DoR Department of Revenue
DOT Department of Telecommunications
DoT Department of Tourism
DSS Decision Support System
E East
EC Electrical Conductivity
EDC Eco-Development Committee
EDP Entrepreneur Development Programme
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMP Environmental Management Plan
EMS Environmental Management System
ES-11
ERC Emergency Response Cell

ERS Emergency Response System
Fl Flouride
FOR Foreign
FRP Fibre Reinforced Plastic
ft. Foot / Feet
GAIA Global Anti-Incinerator Alliance
GDP Gross Domestic Product
GEF Global Environment Facility
GI Galvanized Iron
gm Gram
GMOU Garhwal Motor Operators Union
GMVN Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited
GNP Gross National Product
GoI Government of India
GOS Government Officials
GPS Global Positioning System
GS Gram Sabha
GTZ Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ)
GmbH (A German government-owned corporation for
international cooperation with worldwide operations)
ha Hectare
H.K. Hemkunt (water samples)
HNB Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University
HRD Human Resource Development
HSC Higher Secondary Course
HST Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust
HW-1 Hemkunt site #1 (from the point where people take bath)
IBRD International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
IC Indian Collection Number
ES-12
IDA International Development Association

IFC International Finance Corporation
ILO International Labour Organization
IND Indian
IPR Intellectual Property Rights
IS Indian Standards
ISV Information System for Visitors
ITBP Indo-Tibetan Border Police
IUCN The World Conservation Union
JBIC Japan Bank for International Cooperation
JFM Joint Forest Management
JN Jal Nigam
JS Jal Sansathan
K Potassium
kg Kilogram
km Kilometer
KVA Kilo Volt Ampere
LAC Limits of Acceptable Change
LAN Local Area Network
LG/LXG Lakshman Ganga (water samples)
LMS Sri Lokpal Lakshman Mandir Samiti
LS Lump Sum
m Meter
MBC Microbial Biomass
MBO Management by Objectives
MIGA Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency
MIS Management Information System
MNES Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources
MoT Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Government of India
Ms Milli simmons
ES-13
MS Mild Steel
MSL Mean Sea Level
N North
NA Not Available
Na Sodium
NaOH Sodium Hydroxide
NBPGR National Bureau of Plant Genetics Resources
NBRI National Botanical Research Institute
NCC National Cadet Corps.
NDBR Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
NGO Non-Governmental Organization
NGT Nominal Group Technique
NH3 Ammonia
NO3 Nitrate
No. Number (s)
NORAD Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation
NOx Nitrogen Oxides
PACIA Plastics and Chemical Industries Association, Australia
pH Potential of Hydrogen Ion
PHHL Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd.
PI/PVT Private Investment / Private Sector
PO4 Phosphate
ppm Parts per Million
PPT Pro-Poor Tourism
PR Public Relations
PV Photovoltaics
PWD State Public Works Department
RCC Reinforced Cement Concrete
RDB Red Data Book
RMS Resource Management System
ES-14
ROW Right of Way

SDS Students on Research
SEB State Electricity Board
SHG Self Help Group
SIDA Swedish International Development Agency
SoI Survey of India
SOx Sulphur Oxides
SPI The Society of Plastics Industry, USA
sqkm Square Kilometre
STOP Poverty Strategies Initiative & Strategies to Overcome Poverty
TCS Tata Consultancy Services
TIES The International Eco-tourism Society
TMIS Tourism Management Information System
TOR Terms of Reference
TSPM Total Suspended Particulate Matter
TW Tap Water samples
UDEC Uttaranchal Infrastructure Development Corporation
UNED-UK United Nations Environment and Development UK Committee
UNDP United Nations Development Programme
UNEP United Nations Environment Programme
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
UNFPA United Nations Population Fund
UNICEF United Nations Children’s Fund
UP Uttar Pradesh
UREDA Uttaranchal Renewable Energy Development Agency
USAID United States Agency for International Development
UTDB Uttaranchal Tourism Development Board
VERP Visitor Experience and Resource Protection
VIM Visitor Impact Management
VOC Volatile Organic Compounds
ES-15
VOFNP Valley of Flowers National Park

WAN Wide Area Network
WB The World Bank
WHO World Health Organisation
WII Wildlife Institute of India
WTO World Tourism Organization
WTTC World Travel and Tourism Council
WWF World Wildlife Fund
YVDC Youth Valley Development Committee
ZP Zilla Panchayat
ES-16
LIST OF TABLES
2.1 Salient Details of Trek Trail Route

2.2 Some the major species of plants/flowers and their period of
bloom in Valley of Flowers National Park
2.3 Current Tourist Circuits and Routes
2.4 Tourist Arrival figures in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt in
past one decade
2.5 Rates fixed for Hiring Mules/Porters/Palkies
2.6 Existing Accommodation Capacity
2.7 Entry Fee Structure for Valley of Flowers
2.8 Land-use Break-up at Ghangharia
3.1 Chemical Analysis of Soil Samples
3.2 Chemical Analysis of Water Samples from various Sites
3.3 Primary Water Quality Criteria for designated Best Use Classes
3.4 Total Bacterial Counts from Water Samples of various Sites
3.5 Total Bacterial Counts from Soil Samples of various Sites
3.6 Standards for Air Quality
4.1 Major Emerging Issues in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt
5.1 An indicative list of Plastic Waste that can be incinerated at
Govind Ghat/ to be Recycled
10.1 Summary of New Proposals
10.2 Summary of Existing Planned Works
10.3 An Example of Tourism Multipliers
11.1 Areas of Training
12.1 Growth of Domestic Tourist Visitation in Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt
ES-17
LIST OF EXHIBITS
2.1 Map Showing Route to Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Region

2.2 Flower Composition Pattern at Valley of Flowers
2.3 Vegetation & Habitat Types in Valley of Flowers National Park
2.4 Landuse at Ghangharia Settlement
4.1 Limits of Acceptable Change Model
8.1 Indicative Trek Path Alignment from Govind Ghat to Valley of
Flowers-Hemkunt Sahib
8.2 Growth Centres near Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt
8.3 Tourist Destinations in Chamoli District, Uttaranchal, India
10.1 ADB Loans to India
10.2 Multilateral Funding Agencies and Sectors Funded
10.3 Funding Procedure adopted by Funding Agencies
11.1 Flow of Tourism Spending in the Economy
11.2 Approach for Training Local People
12.1 Positions and Composition of Visitor Management System
12.2 Trend of Growth of Foreign Tourists in Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt
12.3 Domestic Tourism Growth in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
12.4 Schematic Diagram of a Visitor Management System
12.5 Working of ISV, RMS and TMIS in a Visitor Management System
12.6 Working of Sustainable Visitor Management System
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. INTRODUCTION
Valley of Flowers is also known in Hindu
mythology as Nandan Kanan meaning
“Garden of Indra in Paradise”, which
blooms especially with a riot of numerable
ES-18
flowers and flora of variety of species and colours apart from alpine meadows, forests,
and sparse but special Himalayan wild fauna. It is believed that Lord Hanuman picked
Sanjeevani Buti from this region for treating the wounds of Lakshman. A little known
Hindu Temple ‘Lokpal’ dedicated to Lakshman exists here. However, Hemkunt region is
better known for magnificent Sikh shrine Hemkunt Sahib on the banks of Hemkunt
Sarovar, and for which nearly four lakhs tourists/visitors arrived in the 2003 tourist
season.
The Department of Tourism (DoT), Government of India (GoI), has engaged Tata
Consultancy Services (TCS) Limited to prepare the Master Plan for Development of Eco-
Tourism in Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt Belt of Chamoli District, Uttaranchal.
Background of Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region
Located in the Chamoli district of the State of Uttaranchal, Valley of Flowers and
Hemkunt area are amongst the nine zones or part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
(NDBR) in Himalayas, which is spread across an area of 5860.69 sqkm. The Valley of
Flowers is located at Latitude 30o 41’ – 30o 48’N and Longitude 79o 33’ – 70o 46’E with
the VOFNP area being 87.50 sqkm and altitude range being from about 3200 m to 6700
m above MSL. The main valley portion of the Park runs in the east west direction along
the banks of river Pushpawati. The Government of Uttar Pradesh (as Chamoli district was
earlier in Uttar Pradesh) created “The Valley of Flowers National Park” as per
Notification No. 4278/XIV-3-66-80 with effect from September 6, 1982, the intention
having been declared under Notification No. 5795/XIV-3-66-80 of 1 January 1981. After
notification of the Park, grazing and camping is not permitted in the same.
The sacred shrine of Hemkunt Sahib was discovered in 1934 by
Sant Sohan Singh in remembrance and prayer to see the place
where their tenth guru, Guru Govind Singh meditated and realised
his oneness with God along the banks of Hemkunt. A small
Gurdwara was developed in 1935-36 (including enlarging the
ancient Hindu “Lokpal” temple) and later in 1968 the construction
for the present Gurdwara began which got completed in 1993.
Located at an altitude of 4,329 meters, Hemkunt Shrines are one
of the highest temples in India. Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream
issues from the Hemkunt Sarovar, which later meets river
Pushpawati near Ghangharia and further flows as Bhyundar
Ganga to join the river Alaknanda at Govind Ghat.
2. ASSESSMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES
The consultants studied the current state of various facilities, services and infrastructure
along the trek path route starting from Govind Ghat – the last settlement accessible by
road at the base, along the motorable route till the Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib
via the village settlements of Pulna and Bhyundar, and Ghangharia – the tourist base
settlement in the upper valley.
Accessibility
Nearest airfield are the Jolly Grant Airfield at Dehradun, which has no regular flights to
Dehradun at present and a small airstrip that has come up at Gauchar (111 km by road
before Govind Ghat), which too is yet to be operational. There is a Helipad near
Ghangharia base settlement at Kanjila attached to the local Army unit. Pawan Hans
ES-19
Helicopters Limited has plans to operate helicopter services from next tourist season
(May/Jun 2004) onwards in this region subject to permission from appropriate
authorities, from the Army Helipad at Joshimath/Airstrip at Gauchar. Nearest rail links
are broad guage railheads at Rishikesh (about 271 km) and Haridwar railhead at a
distance of about 295 km by road from Govind Ghat.
Govind Ghat can be reached by
Haridwar/Rishikesh-Badrinath road,
that is maintained by the BRO and
which is normally 5 m wide and is in
good condition. The ascent to the
Valley of Flowers (16 km) -
Hemkunt Sahib (19km) by trek
begins from Govind Ghat (1828 m).
From Govind Ghat first village
enroute is Pulna (1920 m) after a
distance of nearly 3 km, next village
is Bhyundar (2239 m) at nearly 9 km
point, and the main settlement for tourist stay is at Ghangharia (3048 m) at nearly 13 km
point. A little after Ghangharia the trek path bifurcates on the left to Valley of Flowers
(3658 m) to a distance of another 3 km from where the main valley starts, while the other
path continues to Hemkunt Sahib (4329 m) at a distance of another 6 km from
Ghangharia. The grade of trek trail for Valley of Flowers is relatively easy (and much
narrower) compared to trek stretches like from Bhyundar to Ghangharia, or that for
Hemkunt Sahib, which are much steeper.
Transport modes of private taxis (car/jeep type), charter buses, State road transport buses
and GMOU private buses is available till Govind Ghat. Thereafter, one has to either trek
or take the services of Mule Operators/Porters/Palki or Dandi Carriers to visit the Valley
of Flowers-Hemkunt destinations, except at Valley of Flowers where mules are not
permitted. Though Zilla Panchayat fixes the rates for trek transportation services, still the
rates were observed to be negotiable.
Accommodation
Accommodation for tourist is available at Govind Ghat in few private lodges and mainly
in Gurdwara. While, on the trek route Ghangharia is the only base settlement with private
hotel/lodge accommodation, FRH and GMVN TRH, and Govind Dham Gurdwara
accommodation for tourists. Gurdwaras are the largest provider of free accommodation
and food in this region. Night Stay is not permitted at Valley of Flowers being a National
Park and Hemkunt Sahib due to low level of oxygen/acclimatisation issues for visitors.
Overall the accommodation facilities lack proper hospitality standards and essential
services like heater, sufficient electricity supply etc and need to be spruced up to a large
extent.
Electricity Supply
Electricity supply is available through grid at Govind Ghat and till Pulna. Though the
electricity supply system (poles and wire assembly) through grid connectivity continues
till Ghangharia, it is in damaged state at avalanche prone areas and this supply is not
available after Pulna either at Bhyundar or till Ghangharia. Ghangharia is dependent on
ES-20
insufficient supply from the local micro-hydel plant (2x50KW) and lot of establishments
also depend on diesel/kerosene generators (which may add to some pollution). Similarly
at Hemkunt Sahib, Gurdwara has its own 15 KW micro-hydel plant, but also uses diesel
generators (which may add to some pollution) and burns wood for heating the visitor
space.
Water Supply
The predominant water sources are local streams (Garh). Treatment facilities are not
available and Clear Water Reservoirs for storage are available only at Bhyundar and
Pulna. Formal water supply system of Jal Sansthan is not yet complete/operational and
it’s the temporary system connected to Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream which is laid by
local establishment owners on which the Ghangharia settlement is dependent.
Sewerage Disposal System
The sewerage system is still through open drains /disposed using soak pits at all the
settlements of Govind Ghat, Pulna, Bhyundar, Ghangharia, and also at Hemkunt Sahib.
At Hemkunt Sahib and Govind Ghat the stream of Lakshman/Hem Ganga and river
Alaknanda get polluted to some extent when mixed with sewerage and solid waste
components. No system is available for collection or disposal of mule excreta (urine and
dung) enroute the trek path and at Ghangharia and Govind Ghat as well.
Solid Waste Management
Non-biodegradable solid waste is collected by EDC cleaning staff in sacks and brought
down on mules from trek route to Govind Ghat and is currently piled up (more than 4000
sacks of waste accumulated over the years), with no disposal undertaken in this season
(2003-2004). However, more waste is still littered at many places, or still to be brought
down from Hemkunt Sahib. Bio-degradable solid waste including kitchen/utensil wash
waste is observed to be dumped in rock-pits or open land behind establishments at
Hemkunt Sahib, Ghangharia, and Govind Ghat. Such waste was observed to find its way
into Lakshman/Hem Ganga at Hemkunt Sahib and in river Alaknanda at Govind Ghat.
Communication Facilities
Local Call/STD/ISD PCO booths are available in limited number at Govind Ghat and
Ghangharia only. At Ghangharia a Satellite Telephone Exchange exists. However, the
connectivity and performance of the telecom infrastructure is found to be erratic at times.
Pulna has connectivity to telephones but has no Local Call/STD/ISD PCO booth.
Bhyundar and Hemkunt Sahib also do not have telephone connectivity. In any
emergencies along the trek path wireless facility with nearest Department of Forest staff
may be availed.
The Land-use of the VOFNP & Hemkunt Area
Of the 87.50 sq.km area of the Valley of Flowers National Park, Satellite Imagery data
reports following break-up:
- 63.58 sq.km under perpetual Snow and Glaciers (72.66%)
- 05.29 sq.km under Forests (6.04%)
- 18.63 sq.km under Alpine Meadows (21.30%)
While at Hemkunt complex, total somewhat levelled land including and around both the
shrines/related facilities would hardly be a total of around 2-2.5 ha.
ES-21
The Land-use at Ghangharia

The development at Ghangharia has happened in a haphazard manner over a period of
more than past three decades. The development in about 2.638 ha (area of current
developed land under encroachment) has mostly happened in a linear fashion along the
trek path within Ghangharia settlement. Department of Revenue Joshimath has conducted
a survey of the land holdings in Nov. 2002 and has prepared a revenue map of
Ghangharia settlement – a step towards the process of regularisation for diversion of land
with forest cover, as per the requirements of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. This
survey map was in the draft state at the time of this study.
Category Survey No. No. of Units / Area (Ha) Percentage
Establishments Break-up
State Govt. Land
Vacant Land 3 1 0.220 8.3
Trek Path 46 1 0.063 2.4
Dept. of Forest Land 15 1 0.120 4.5
GMVN Land 6, 11, 12 3 0.273 10.3
UREDA Land 43 1 0.040 1.5
Gurdwara Land 45 1 0.620 23.5
Other Commercial 1-2, 4-5, 7-10, 13-14, 45 1.302 49.4
Establishments 16-42, 44, 47-53
Total 53 2.638 100.0
There are 10 more plots surveyed (survey No. 54 to 62) as encroachment spread over
0.13 ha, but were reported not to be considered for regularisation. However, this land
may be considered for regularisation and pooled/retrofitted with existing vacant Govt.
land to provide some future proposals with temporary tin slope roof structures, like
community toilets, cheap dormitory for labour, EDC Store-sum-Education Centre-cum-
Disaster Relief Shelter, Medical Clinic, Veterinary Clinic, mule sheds, etc.
3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF TOURISM
Selection of the Sites for Ecological Sampling
The sites selected for ecological sampling (water, microbial, soil, air) were in settlements
at Bhyundar, Pulna, Ghangharia; Valley of Flowers (four sites in Valley of Flowers);
Hemkunt and ten points enroute.
Identification of Stress Areas
The stress areas have been identified and rated in terms of priority. The causes and
dimensions of identification of stress are:
Stress mainly due to Environmental Specificity
1. Sensitivity of the eco-region in terms of biodiversity
2. Biodiversity loss or disturbance in the biodiversity set
up
3. Disturbances in the ecosystem due to tourism
4. Uniqueness of biodiversity in the region and need for its
protection
ES-22
5. Abundance of medicinal plants that are either rare or in

great demand. Since these plants are not available at other places, there is an
added attraction to steal these from this region due to good market available for
these resources.
6. Remoteness of the region where proper surveillance
throughout the year is not possible
7. Steepness of slopes prohibiting provision of broad roads
or trek paths, separate mule paths, motor-able roads etc.
8. Risky paths, treks, steep slopes prohibiting tourists to
wander in the open.
Stress due to pressure on Specific Points
9. Hemkunt Sahib site is an attraction for religious
sentiments and hence is under greater stress in terms of tourists.
Stress due to Environment Concerns
10. Environmental hazard to the local ecosystem; risk of
pollution including odour pollution
11. Health hazard to the tourists and the locals due to
contaminated water, waste left by the tourists, waste dump sites, other forms of
pollution
12. Excessive use of mules in a specified path or region
13. Visual annoyance to the tourists, any factor that may
become deterrent to tourism
Stress due to Management Concerns
14. Disposal of waste is a major stress area. This waste
includes Degradable mule excreta, Degradable human excreta, Degradable
organic waste, Non-degradable plastic & other waste
15. Ecological disturbance due to the large number of
visitors. The thumb rule is nothing carried from outside is left in the park area and
nothing is carried from park area to outside.
16. Water availability through stream source is not a
problem, however risk of water getting polluted due to improper collection,
current storage and supply is a stress area.
17. Limited number of tourists to Valley of Flowers
compared to the importance of the area.
Mitigation of Stress
The management of tourism and tourists is addressed in terms of fragility of biodiversity,
sustainability of ecosystem, and empowerment of locals to benefit from the eco-tourism;
Utilising the Gurdwara’s influence on the devotees; Health of the tourist, locals, animals
etc.; Ecological issues that have long term impact such as dominating species/weeds,
variability in abundance and density of natural plants, agro biodiversity of the region, and
promoting horticulture in the lower belts to support population and tourism; Modifying
the natural ecosystem to eco-tourism worthy ecosystem on scientific and sustainable
ES-23
principals; Following norms of CBD, Biodiversity Act of India (2002), and Plants
varieties and Farmers Rights Act of India (2001) etc
Identification of Ecological Factors Affecting the Area
After detailed analysis and tests, the issues identified to be addressed as crucial to the
area in the Plan are:
• Environmental Issues
• Biodiversity Issues & Conservation Strategy
• Conservation Status
• Pollution Issues
• Flora And Fauna
• Water Management
• Solid Waste Management
• Carrying Capacity
• Tourist Vista Points
• Special Issues Such as Health of Animals
• Capacity Building and Developmental Issues
• Hazard Mitigation Plan & Safety Measures
4. ECO-TOURISM DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

The Tourism Development
Strategy emphasises on:
• developing Valley of
Flowers- Hemkunt region
in a sustainable manner
• developing quality tourism
to ensure the overall
development of the region.
The following principles underpin
the Tourism Strategy for Valley
of Flowers- Hemkunt region as
outlined below.
Limits of Acceptable Change
Model: Limits of Acceptable
Change (LAC) model has been
adopted for sustainable
Conservation of the Environment
Conservation is based on the principle that tourism needs to be sustainable. The sub
components include Conservation of Environment, Categorisation of Areas & Eco-
certification of Services, Conservation of Cultural Heritage, Formulation of Development
Plans, Standards for Maintenance of Environmental Balance, Formulating Circuits etc.
ES-24
All the structures proposed at the cluster facilities should be temporary in nature and
which should be dis-assembled and stored after the tourist season is over in early Oct. and
re-assembled just before June when the tourism begins, every year, barring a few at
Ghangharia (like toilets for labour community, cheap dormitory accommodation, health
care/veterinary clinic, etc.). All these structures shall be painted in dark green (to blend
with the environment).
Boost to the Economy
Tourism is meant to create employment for the locals.
Unique Selling Proposition
Tourism is about uniqueness and attractiveness of the destination. The sub components
include Market Positioning, Perspective Vision for Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt region’s
Tourism Development, Creating a Quality Experience, Creation of a High-quality and
Highly visible Product etc.
The Objectives and Management of NDBR & VOFNP also form the basis for the Tourism
development strategy of Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Sahib region.
5. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Environment Management Plan (EMP) is an action plan prepared to ensure that the
recommendations for enhancing positive impacts and/or limiting or preventing negative
environmental impacts are implemented during the life cycle of a project. Valley of
Flowers-Hemkunt region presents a unique scenario with highly sensitive and rich
environment on one side and two distinct seasonal tourism attractions on the other. Only
about 2% of the visitors to the region are hardcore environment lovers, hence there is a
need for a structured and institutionalised Environment Management Plan so that the
other 98% of the visitors could also be partners in the development of environment
friendly tourism in the region.
A sustainable tourism master plan is critical to ensure overall environment improvement
in the region. This master plan is being developed and is planned to be implemented in
collaboration with all the stakeholders in a participatory manner. The master plan also
includes awareness creation among the visitors and the host community.
EMP for Spatial Development
Spatial Management is a critical area in ensuring sustainable environment management.
Hierarchy of environmentally sensitive and development oriented sub regions is
identified and environment management measures suggested specific to each sub region
with respect to spatial development. The 5 sub regions identified for specific strategies
are Valley of Flowers, Hemkunt Sahib, Govind Ghat to Ghangharia, Ghangharia and
Govind Ghat. The EMP for Spatial Development includes EMP for Land Management,
EMP for Built-up and EMP for Construction of Roads/Parking/Trek Paths.
EMP for Products and Services
Environment management programme is proposed for purchasing environmentally
preferable products and services as well. In the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region the
management action points are proposed are Ban on sale of raincoats made of cheap
plastics, Ban on use of Cheap Plastic Bags etc.
EMP for Waste Management
ES-25
Waste Management is one of the most critical areas in the total Environmental
Management Plan. The waste generated in the region is dealt with in the environment
status review. Waste management follows the following hierarchy: Avoid, Reduce, Reuse
and Recycle. Solid Waste Management Plan as part of the various specific Development
Plans and the EMP for Waste Management.
EMP for Water & Waste Water
Water management in tourism facilities includes Maintaining water source, Managing
water storage and distribution works, Reducing water use, Reducing wastewater output,
Purifying water, Monitoring water consumption, Reusing treated wastewater and
Maintaining water supply quality.
EMP for Sanitation
Sanitation is an important issue in the region. Urine from urinals may not be allowed to
drain into rivers or natural ecosystem of the protected area but a system of its purification
should be an in-built option. The provision and details of the environment friendly toilets
and disposal system are part of the EMP.
EMP for Energy
The settlements/travel path in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region face shortage of
electricity. The EMP for Energy include Power Saving Proposals on Power Sector,
Maintenance or ‘Good Housekeeping’ Options, Repair, Retrofit and Refurbishment
Options and use of Bio-fuels.
EMP for Air & Noise Management
The ambient air quality is good in the project region. However, environment management
initiatives are required to ensure that there will be no air related pollution in the region in
future also. These include EMP for Emissions Control, EMP for Managing Indoor Air
Quality and EMP for Noise Management
In addition to these EMPs, other important components are Environment Orientation and
Environment Monitoring.
6. VALLEY OF FLOWERS & HEMKUNT BELT DEVELOPMENT

PLAN
Carrying Capacity
Carrying capacity is fundamental to environmental protection and sustainable
development. The area currently available in VOFNP for tourists is very limited and all
the components of this destination are precious. It is observed that maximum impact to
environment was caused by the tourist’s behavioural pattern and lack of management
controls and not based on the number of visitation. This suggests that it is not the number,
which affects, in the present scenario, but it is the sensitisation of tourists and the local
host community coupled with well-planned management measures within the Limits of
Acceptable Change Framework, which will minimise the impacts in the Valley. It is
imperative to attract preferably only the high quality eco-tourists in the main valley per
se.
A spatio-temporal approach has been adopted to estimate the optimum number of tourists
in VoF. The details of options explored include Fluid carrying capacities, Fixed carrying
capacities, rationing system etc. The criteria considered to arrive at the optimum number
ES-26
that can visit the VoF area in a season are Use Levels, Transportation to reach the Site,
Recreation Opportunity, Desired Resource Conditions, The Acceptable Level of Impact
etc.
To maintain the present good quality of the environment with minimal levels of
pollution load & ecological disturbance in the valley, the normal load impact per
person in terms of space required in recreational mode is about 4 sqm and the
same is proposed to be increased by 10 times factor* for the sensitive eco-system
of Valley of Flowers, yet which also has a relatively static environment of snow
cover for most of the year, with only dynamicity happening during very few
months of summer-monsoon season. Thus, for the available movable space of 0.6
ha or 6000 sqm in the main valley, and at the sensitised per person load of 40
sqm, the number of persons limited for the visitation in the main valley at any
point in time would be 150 persons (also due to movable space of just 1.5 acres
this translates to a visitation limit of 100 persons/acre at any point in time).
At any given point in time, the number of sensitised tourists inside the Valley
should be limited to 150 persons at the rate of 100 persons per acre of the
movable space. The Forest Department Personnel located at the VOFNP Entrance
gate should take this into consideration before letting new groups in. Moreover,
DoF may ensure that this limit is not exceeded, and especially during the peak
visitation periods, any excess load flow per day shall be diverted from the main
valley to the more resilient area of Germplasm Bank/ Shadow Garden/
Demonstration Nursery as proposed. However, this number has no meaning
unless effective sensitisation is done (visitors shall be well informed that they
have to remain on fixed path, the behaviour expected from them w.r.t. when
visiting such eco-system, and ensuring that they understand it very well and also
are guided appropriately during visitation) and the tourists within the valley are
quality environment lovers.
A. VALLEY OF FLOWERS DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Conservation Plan for the Valley of Flowers
Flora and Fauna

Conservation of threatened flora and fauna will also be one of the important aims of the
project. It is recommended that grazing may not be allowed to address the issue of control
of dominating species. The overall conservation plan can be summarised as development
of proper packages by studying the growth pattern of the dominating species in a season,
their seed behaviour and preparing appropriate packages of practices based on scientific
observations.
*
Normally a person takes nearly 4 sqm of space if he/her has to walk, take off coat and spread arms. At such an eco-
sensitive place where movable space is very limited /to minimize any eco-disturbance due to human activities/impact
beyond hazard management abilities over visitors during visitation, etc., the human load is calculated 10 times higher.
This accounts for the environmental and pollution loading of a person and more space requirement for enhanced visitor
experience. Less than 10 times load in this context would create pressure on the ecosystem. Accordingly 40 sqm space per
person factor has been adopted to derive the visitation limitation per day.
ES-27
Soil Conservation Measures

The transition area needs to be developed with soil conservation measures to prevent soil
erosion.
Participative Conservation
Local Community Participation is an integral part of conservation, the measures include -
Joint Forest Management (JFM), Involvement of Local Community and Eco-
Development Committee (EDC), Awareness creation among the local people and other
stakeholders, Use of traditional knowledge, etc.
Development Measures
Germplasm Bank of Endangered Species of VoF (ex-situ

conservation)
It is proposed to develop up a demonstration nursery / shadow garden, which simulates
species of Valley of Flowers at other sites, and which will be a good demonstration of the
biodiversity of the Valley. This will be an educational garden, will provide research data,
will be an alternative site to visit (a more resilient site/area) for the less eco conscious/
general religious tourist and help understand population growth to the scientists/eco-
tourists. Also this new destination would handle greater visitors outreach in terms of
general tourists to enjoy biodiversity, without disturbing the main VoF. The proposed
garden should not have only the flowering plants planted as in an exhibition but planted
along with the associated plants, depicting the natural ecosystem keeping frequency,
dominance, associations etc. as close to natural one as possible. This garden / nursery
could be named as Germplasm Bank of Endangered Species of VoF.
Paths/Trail
It is proposed to carry out maintenance and partly laying the paths in dry stone kharanja
(RR masonry) over soil/bridle path within the Valley. Where there are steep slopes, it is
proposed that railing – painted in dark green must be provided. Foliage that covers from
both sides about 2/3rd of the already narrow path should be regularly pruned.
Bridge
The river Pushpawati already has a permanent steel truss bridge at 0.9 km point after
Ghangharia, the deck of this bridge needs repair. Three other strong rivulets - Gushadhar
Garh, Dev Mangri Garh and Bistoli Garh require folding bridges.
Essential Tourist Needs
4 Vista Points located at higher elevation/offering good view are proposed in the Valley
of Flowers – one at 2 km point (near the small glacier) and three more in the main valley
(two near the rock boulders and one around Ms. Legge’s grave.
Rain Shelter-cum-Rest Shed: Temporary sloped roof structures with steel truss frame and
corrugated GI sheet roof/wall, with 4 steel benches – all painted in dark green (to blend
with the environment) is proposed to be provided at every 0.5 km interval starting from
the VOFNP entrance gate till the 3 km point at Bamani Dhaur. Additional set of 2
uncovered benches is also proposed to be provided along the trek path at an interval of
0.10 km distance after Ghangharia till the 2 km point in Valley of Flowers to ease the
relatively steep trek in the initial stretch.
ES-28
Toilet: Only one toilet (unisex) for urinal/WC use may be built at the first vista point near
the glacier (which is half way through the valley trek) towards the upper hill slope. The
siting of this toilet should be done in such a way that it is away from sensitive flora and
also not in the way of good view of the Valley. The visitor should be made aware of this
in the introductory informatory session. The toilet should have water saver cistern.
Chemical toilets/Dry toilets are available in international markets, and may be similar
ones can be explored/developed locally too.
Note: All the structures proposed are temporary in nature (except the small plinth bases
required for toilets) and would need to be assembled before every tourist season and
disassembled & stored at Ghangharia after tourist season. All the structures are to be
painted in dark green on exteriors (to blend with the environment).
Signages
Signages will form an important part of the visitor experience enhancement and
education. The various types of signages proposed are Directional and Locational, Nature
Interpretation signages and Standard Warning/Information Signage Board for Landslide
prone areas/Glacier along trek path. Directional/Locational & Informational signages are
proposed with dark green background & white text, while Nature Interpretation signages
would be as per the current pattern followed by DoF.
No Waste Bins are proposed inside the Park. The Park will function based on “Visitor
carries Waste” principle as adopted in many international level National Parks. An Eco-
Deposit (Rs. 50/- or as decided by the Department of Forest) will be collected from the
visitors who have to declare the plastic items – polythene, bags, beverage bottles, etc.
carried by them, at the VOFNP entrance gate. This deposit will be given back to them
once they return back and show that they are carrying back the waste. This waste can
then be deposited in the nearest large iron cage waste collection pit proposed near the
VoF / Hemkunt trek path junction on its south-east side. These cages should be airy,
should not spill, and neither should weather out in a season (plastic cages were not
recommended due to the reason of these getting brittle in sun and may get damaged early,
these would not be as airy, and would be susceptible to fire as discussed in Chapter 5 on
Environment Management Plan).
B. HEMKUNT DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Heritage Conservation & Landscape Proposals
Hemkunt has an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Rama’s brother, Lakshman that had
been revered and visited by local people for long. Any new structure in this area should
come up for meeting the infrastructure gaps only and its architecture/design should
appropriate with the climatic conditions. Conservation of the Lokpal temple is an integral
part of the plan.
As part of conservation measures, for further high altitude species including
Brahmakamal, etc. another small garden / germplasm bank site (about 0.25 ha) could be
developed at Hemkunt area on the land of Forest Department.
Hemkunt and Ghangharia-Hemkunt Route Development Proposals
Planned Works
ES-29
• Upgradation of Ghangharia-Hemkunt Sahib Trek/Pedestrian Path.

• Construction of Folding Bridge near 13 km milestone point after Ghangharia
settlement over the Lakshman/Hem Ganga.
Trek Path-New Proposals
• Construction of a Helipad at Hemkunt (as PHHL is planning for direct
helicopter services, and has conducted inspection of the site for helipad as
well)
• It is proposed that the trek path from Ghangharia till Hemkunt be widened as
far as possible (average 6 ft. wide to accommodate the common path for
mules and pedestrian use) as the hill slopes are steep and current alignment
of path at many places is almost one over another in a zig-zag pattern. Minor
cross drainage is also suggested at regular intervals. Little widening of Trek
path base will be in CC (1:2:4) Stone Kharanja/Masonry work with top
surface upgraded as CC surface with grooves. Construction of MS railing
(painted in dark green) along the trek path in addition to Construction of
Helipad at Hemkunt are proposed. Wherever, path widening is not possible
by cutting upper hill slope, same may be done by constructing RCC floor
slabs on stilts on the lower hill slope, if feasible.
Tourist Amenity Cluster
It is proposed to develop amenity clusters at regular intervals to facilitate tourists who are
proceeding towards Hemkunt from Ghangharia. The cluster types will have the following
mix of amenities:
Cluster A: The components of Cluster A are Snacks/ Fast food centre (4 in no. of 20 sqm
each), A multi-purpose room functioning as tourist information desk and first aid centre
(10 sqm), Shauchalaya (2 toilets each for men and women on ‘pay & use’ facility),
Covered Rest Shed (1 no. of 15 sqm with 5 benches), Mule Shed, large waste collection
pit (iron cage), etc. The trek path between the cluster A is proposed to be partially
covered.
Cluster B: The components of Cluster B are Snacks/ Fast food centre (2 in no. of 20 sqm
each), Drinking Water Facility, Shauchalaya (2 toilets each for men and women on ‘pay
& use’ facility), Covered Rest Shed (1 no. of 15 sqm with 5 benches), Mule Shed, etc.
The trek path between the cluster B is proposed to be partially covered.
Cluster C: The components of Cluster C are Drinking Water Facility, Covered Rest Shed
(2 in no. of 15 sqm with 5 benches), etc.
Approximately Cluster A will be provided near 1.5 km, 3.5 km, 5.35 km points after
Ghangharia settlement towards Hemkunt; Cluster B near 2.5 km & 4.5 km; Cluster C will
be near 1 km, 2 km, 4 km, & 5.75 km from Ghangharia.
Signages
Informatory, Eco-Awareness, Locational, Nature Interpretation and Warning
Signages are proposed as part of the plan. Corner sidewalls of temporary cluster
facilities that are open to view from trek path may also be used for
painting/display of information/eco-signages. Directional/Locational &
ES-30
Informational signages are with dark green background with white text, while
Nature Interpretation signages would be as per the current pattern followed by
DoF.
Electric Supply
It is proposed to provide Street lighting from the junction of route to Valley of Flowers /
Hemkunt Sahib till next 1.5 km cluster of facilities on the Hemkunt route to facilitate safe return
of visitors in this last stretch (13 km to 14.5 km point after Ghangharia) which may get dark
sometimes due to bad weather/after sunset around 6.00 pm, if the visitors are late on return, and
these should be switched off once the visibility improves or after 7.00 pm by which hour it is
expected that all pilgrims/trekkers would have returned to Ghangharia.
Telecommunications
One PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booth at Hemkunt Sahib Complex connected to Satellite
Telephone Exchange of Ghangharia. Wireless connectivity to EDC members & Gurdwara
Managers. One Satellite Telephone PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booth to be provided at 3 km point
(at one of the Amenity Cluster A) between Hemkunt Sahib and Ghangharia for emergency needs.
Sewage & Toilets at Hemkunt
Proper sewage disposal system through soak pit, etc. at Hemkunt Sahib for Kitchen/Langar
wash waste which currently falls into Lakshman /Hem Ganga stream. Separate Community
Toilet (Pay & Use) to be provided for mule operators/porters/palki carriers at Hemkunt Sahib
complex. Upgradation of Public Toilets/Bathrooms/Change Rooms at Hemkunt Sahib complex
with a new Shauchalaya of 4 toilets each for men and women.
Waste Bins (turntable) are to be placed every 100 m in the path. One solid waste
compression equipment unit is to be placed at Hemkunt. Waste collection area to be
managed more scientifically with arrangements for stacking the compressed bags (in Iron
Cage pits that can easily contain some 50 or more bags/sacks) and in no case these should
be stacked near the Sarovar or streams. These cages should be airy, should not spill, and
neither should weather out in a season (plastic cages were not recommended due to the
reason of these getting brittle in sun and may get damaged early, these would not be as
airy, and would be susceptible to fire. Compressed plastic waste is transported down and
used for reprocessing. Contracts for purchase of this waste can be given so that
government cost of collection and transportation can be reduced. Better incentives are to
be given to the waste collectors.
Mule excreta are also collected in sacks by the sweepers as mule organic matter. Separate
coloured/marked sacks can be provided to the collectors. Vermi-composting is practiced
at collection sites so that this excreta can be converted into manure. Mule owners are
educated about collection of this excreta and its conversion. Remuneration to mule
owners for collecting and supplying such excreta at collection centres is given. Special
arrangements may be made at Hemkunt site to collect the kitchen (Langar) waste and
decomposed in a biogas plant. This waste when plenty can be converted in a biogas plant
to generate fuel for heating / cooking purposes.
Note: It is proposed to maintain a uniform character of the cluster amenities/toilets. All
the structures proposed are temporary in nature (except the small plinth bases required for
shops/toilets) and would need to be assembled before every tourist season and
disassembled & stored at Ghangharia after tourist season. All the structures are to be
painted in dark green on exteriors (to blend with the environment).
ES-31
C. MANAGEMENT/ INSTITUTIONAL MEASURES

Capacity Building
It is very essential to develop education/information centres that are run by locals.
Souvenir shops will also be developed marketing the destination. Revival of “Friend of
Valley of Flowers” programme is planned after paying the nominal fee of Rs. 5/- for the
slide and video shows, and will get benefited by becoming a recipient for updated
information on Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region through a computerised database and
an interactive website where brochures/guide maps/e-postcards etc. can be accessed. Also
to fund/sustain the EDC resources, the government in mutual discussion with various
departments & stakeholders shall levy a nominal eco-fee per head payable by all the
tourists.
Department of Forests officers/staff should have state of art education in all the
parameters listed above (Pollution management, solid waste management, conservation
management, biodiversity management, animal health etc.). Listing and site mapping of
all the threatened bio resources of the Valley of Flowers National Park; Need to harness
energy potential of waterfalls, streams etc; Need to look for other sources of household
fuel source will be examined and undertaken. Research and Monitoring: The information
regarding plant communities like Taxus baccata (for cancer medication), etc. of restricted
occurrence need to be better understood and documented in spatial, qualitative and
regeneration terms. Resource Inventory and annual census works will be carried out with
local participation.
Monitoring
Patrolling forms a regular feature of the management. Department of Forest may need to
increase the patrolling staff. In the patrolling activity local community/EDC members
will also be associated. High altitude gears and necessary equipments like high power
torch/ tents/ sleeping bags are some of the most essential item for protection patrolling.
Village biodiversity register will be maintained.
Sensitisation of Tourists & Visitor Information Service
Sensitisation-cum-training workshops will be held at the start of the tourist season (from
the month of June) at division level and in the regional level. In these workshops mule
owners/ porters/ palki carriers/transporters/ Hotel and lodge owners/ Restaurant and
shopkeepers will be involved so that they can be properly apprised with the law and be
motivated to guide the tourist. Many more personnel from the local host community need
to be trained for nature interpretation services / eco-guide work. Decentralised training
camps on various kinds of Forest and Wildlife laws will be arranged throughout the year.
Environmental Awareness
A 5-minute awareness training will be conducted to all the visitors to the Valley of
Flowers at the entry point where they will also be provided with an indicative map of
Valley of Flowers trek path-cum-flower composition and a coloured brochure/booklet of
major species along with the entry ticket.
Also, the existing nature interpretation-cum-information centre at Ghangharia available in
the FRH complex should be supported by another temporary sloped roof structure of 20
sqm area for information provision / nature interpretation & orientation purposes with the
help of EDC trained eco-guides/nature interpreters. Gurdwara at Govind Dham &
ES-32
Hemkunt Sahib shall also play an important role and after each ardas (prayer) the
Manager & Granthi of the Gurdwara should take the responsibility to announce a special
request (Vinti) to all the visitors about the cleanliness and environmental conservation
issues in this eco-sensitive region, and the Gurdwara premises should also prominently
display the Do’s and Don’ts about cleanliness and environmental conservation issues, to
be followed by Gurdwara staff as well as the visitors.
7. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS AT BASE SETTLEMENTS
The base settlement for the Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt in the upper valley is
Ghangharia. Govind Ghat serves as the other base & terminal settlement for the overall
trip.
A. DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR GHANGHARIA

Accommodation
The key issue is absence of quality accommodation, shortage of rooms, no booking
facility, space carrying capacity limitations, sensitive land use and land ownership
pattern etc.
The proposals for accommodation at Ghangharia are Land Pooling/ Land Merger of the
few shops towards the Valley/ Hemkunt side to develop 2 temporary tented resorts in a
participative manner by private entrepreneurs of local community on rent/lease. The
existing accommodation is proposed to be regularised with grading, standard of
accommodation, facilities offered, rentals and per tourist space. Development Control
Regulations are proposed based on the character of the region and its environmental
sensitivity, such that any construction, new or refurbished, shall not go beyond 2-storey
high (G+1). All the new amenity spaces are proposed to be of temporary structures
(except for the small plinth bases for these amenities/toilets, wherever necessary). It is
proposed to maintain a uniform character of the new amenities/toilets. This will be
maintained by following temporary sloped roof steel truss structure with corrugated GI
sheet roof & wall – all painted in dark green (to blend with the environment).
Any development proposal needs multiple approvals from a joint committee of
stakeholders. No new land is proposed to be brought under new physical construction.
However, land pooling and redevelopment may be considered for further development
without cutting any more trees. To meet additional requirements some Forest Land after
Ghangharia and some Van Panchayat Land at Kanjila may be rented per day or per
season/leased for short term only for temporary tented resort accommodation by private
entrepreneurs of local community. A complete ban on use of wood of sensitive trees, like
Taxus baccata etc. in Ghangharia is proposed.
Refreshment Stalls and Commercial Establishments
Quality Assurance and regularisation of stalls will be undertaken. A character shift is
proposed for these shops with overhanging roofs on steel trusses. Department of Health
may assist in certifying / monitoring the quality of food and overall hygiene of the
services. The EDC will audit and monitor the water usage, wastewater and solid waste
management of the shops. Selling of cheap plastic raincoats is proposed to be banned in
the project region. Instead, good quality raincoats may be made available on rent with a
returnable fixed deposit payment.
Information Services
ES-33
It is proposed that a tourist information service desk of area 20 sq.m be opened at the
GMVN TRH at Ghangharia. This centre will also co-ordinate with the local guides. Also,
the existing Information Centre at FRH complex shall be upgraded with another similar
temporary sloped roof building to facilitate display and sale of pictures, souvenirs, etc.
and used as an interpretation & orientation centre.
Recreation Facilities
In addition to the Germplasm Bank / Shadow Garden / Demonstration Nursery,
development of Landscaped Recreation Plaza is also planned on the way from
Ghangharia to the bifurcation point of Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt routes, near the
Lakshman / Hem Ganga waterfall, where temporary sloped roofed structured relaxation
decks are proposed.
Other Tourist Facilitation
In addition to the above tourist amenities, a Cloak Room of 50 sq.m is proposed to be
developed at Ghangharia. Signages will form an important part of the visitor experience
enhancement and education and will comprise of informatory, directional and interactive
signages. Directional/Locational & Informational signages are proposed with dark green
background & white text, while Nature Interpretation signages would be as per the
current pattern followed by DoF.
Tourist Safety
It is proposed that a small Police Chowki with sufficient personnel/logistics be stationed
at Ghangharia in view of the sudden influx of tourists during the four months of tourist
season in a temporary sloped roof building of 50 sqm area.
Health Care Facility
It is recommended to have a proper First Aid Centre-cum-small Trauma Care Clinic
equipped with essential instruments with treatment area spread over 50 sqm. This health
centre will also sell essential medicine kits for those who wish to carry it for their
trekking and will include 4 beds for nursing the patients. This improved facility is to be
housed in a temporary sloped roof building and can move down to Pulna during the off-
season to benefit the local village community. Department of Health shall assist in setting
up the same.
Mule Sheds, Cheap accommodation, Fodder and Food Arrangements
It is recommended that proper Mule Sheds made of temporary sloped roof structures be
built to station at least 200 mules at a time. These mule sheds will have parallel running
drinking pits and waste cleaning pits at the back, and Mule Waste collection and disposal
infrastructure. Fodder shall be made available at the mule sheds at a reasonable cost.
Cheap dormitory accommodation (to provide stay at night for 150 persons) and pay &
use toilet facility - made of temporary sloped roof structures are also proposed to be built
for the mule operators, porters, palki carriers and EDC cleaning staff.
Veterinary Clinic
Though the main veterinary clinic is proposed at Govind Ghat, it is recommended that a
small such clinic made of temporary sloped roof structure spread over 25 sqm be opened
at Ghangharia for treating emergency cases.
Trek Paths
ES-34
It is proposed that the paths be upgraded by laying CC 1:2:4 over stone kharanja (RR
masonry) with grooved top surface along with a central drain and maintained before start
of every season. At Ghangharia settlement, the infrastructure services like water supply is
proposed to be laid parallel to the paths independently for usage on both the sides of the
path without crossing the drain, while the storm water drain is proposed to be constructed
in the centre of the path covered with removable RCC slab drain covers with grated
openings and storm water to get disposed across the trek path & beyond building portion
through hume pipes at regular intervals towards lower slopes. Also, recently PHHL has
worked out plans to operate Helicopter services from Agustmuni to Ghangharia (using
Army Helipad).
Water Supply
The existing planned project by Jal Sansthan is proposed to be implemented by start of
2004 season, and the same should be taken up on priority.
In the year when the Phase-II starts, it is proposed to develop a proper water supply
scheme with covered storage tank and water purification plant providing ample and safe
water for the tourists and local community alike.
Sewerage Disposal System & Toilets
The group of hotels, which do not have any kind of sewerage disposal system to have
septic tanks, if grouping is possible. This would ensure that no sewerage reaches the
river/ directly to the environs. Another public toilet made up of temporary slope roof
structure of the same size as the one constructed at the entrance of Ghangharia is also
proposed at the end of Ghangharia.
Electricity Supply
The recommendations for electricity supply for the region, in addition to above initiatives
are urgent repair works for the turbine plant to ensure high efficiency of turbines and
Upgradation of street lighting at Ghangharia.
Telecommunications
BSNL CellOne Services is also planned to be started from next season onwards. The
targets are Mobile connectivity to be ensured by start of 2004 season and Better
connectivity and more number of PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booths at Ghangharia.
It is recommended that Very evident and attractive turntable solid waste disposal bins are
proposed to be placed at different points at Ghangharia (@ 15 m interval). 1 Solid waste
compression equipment unit is proposed to be placed at Ghangharia. Waste collection
area is proposed to be managed more scientifically with arrangements for stacking the
compressed bags in Iron cage pits that can easily contain some 50 or more bags/sacks.
These cages should be airy, should not spill, and neither should weather out in a season
(plastic cages were not recommended due to the reason of these getting brittle in sun and
may get damaged early, these would not be as airy. Compressed plastic waste is proposed
to be transported down and used for incineration/recycling. Contracts for purchase of this
waste could be given so that government cost of collection and transportation can be
reduced.
Mule excreta is also proposed to be collected in bags by the sweepers as mule organic
matter. Separate coloured bags can be provided to the collectors. The mule excreta will
ES-35
also be collected from the mule shed at Ghangharia and taken to Bhyundar/ Pulna for
vermi-composting. A demonstration be planned at Ghangharia by the officials, where
fertilisers be provided in the newly proposed education/training centre/EDC store. Mule
owners are to be educated about collection of this excreta and its conversion.
Remuneration to mule owners for collecting and supplying such excreta at collection
centres can be given as an incentive.
B. DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR GOVIND GHAT

Development Control Regulations are proposed based on the character of the region and
its environmental sensitivity, such that any construction, new or refurbished, shall not go
beyond 2-storey high (G+1). All the new amenity spaces are proposed to be of temporary
structures (except for the small plinth bases for these amenities/toilets, wherever
necessary, and the hotels which require larger spaces). It is proposed to maintain a
uniform character of the new amenities/toilets. This will be maintained by following
temporary sloped roof steel truss structure with corrugated GI sheet roof & wall – all
painted in dark green. Any development proposal needs multiple approvals from a joint
committee of stakeholders.
Roads & Pathways
Repair Work of Govind Ghat-Ghangharia-Hemkunt Sahib Trek/Pedestrian Path and
Valley of Flowers Trek/Pedestrian Path is proposed by the PWD. Tourism Bureau’s
Parking Proposal comprises of construction of additional parking facility at Govind Ghat.
Additional parking facility is suggested as discussed in Chapter 8.
Water Supply
Uttaranchal Jal Nigam is already working on a scheme for meeting the drinking water
demand at Govind Ghat with a horizon period of next 15 years. Jal Nigam is preparing a
scheme for providing piped water supply via Pulna to Govind Ghat.
Sewerage Disposal System & Toilets
It is to be ensured that no sewerage reaches the river Alaknanda/ directly to the environs.
For this, the group of hotels, which do not have any kind of sewerage disposal system to
have septic tanks, if grouping is possible. A public toilet complex (Pay & Use) is to be
built for the trekking tourists near the starting point and a separate Sulabh Shauchalaya/
Community Toilet (Pay & Use) – all made of temporary sloped roofed structure is to be
provided for mule operators/porters/palki carriers.
Telecommunications
It is proposed add few more Local Call/STD/ISD PCO booths and to provide wireless
service between the Gurdwara at Govind Ghat, Ghangharia and that at Hemkunt for
emergency connectivity, with due permissions from the concerned government
authorities.
An incinerator plant with a project cost of Rs. 25.00 lakhs planned by Tourism Bureau
has been sanctioned for installation at Govind Ghat. Proper sewage disposal system be
provided through soak pit, etc. at Govind Ghat Gurdwara and other private
establishments for Kitchen/Langar/Restaurant wash waste which currently falls into river
Alaknanda. Very evident and attractive turntable solid waste disposal bins to be placed at
different points at Govind Ghat (@15 m interval). 1 Solid waste compression equipment
ES-36
unit to be placed at Govind Ghat. Two iron cage pits for waste collection are also
proposed at Govind Ghat.
Accommodation
Few quality hotels with capacity of 300 beds (low-rise 2 storeyed structure only) are
proposed to be developed at Govind Ghat. There is a need for regularisation of
accommodation facilities. Based on the standard of accommodation, facilities offered and
the per tourist space, hotels/ lodges will be graded. Booking facility for hotels/lodges is
proposed to be made available.
Refreshment Stalls and Commercial Establishments
The recommendations for the refreshment stalls are Quality Assurance and
Regularisation of these stalls. Department of Health may assist in certifying / monitoring
the quality of food and overall hygiene of the services. The recently formed EDC, Govind
Ghat will inspect and monitor the water usage, wastewater and solid waste management
of the shops.
Information Services
It is proposed that a nature interpretation-cum-tourist information centre of 30 sqm area
be opened by the DoF/DoT at FRH complex, Govind Ghat. The Gurdwara will also help
in creating environmental awareness session with all the religious tourists to Hemkunt
Sahib.
Other Tourist Facilitation
In addition to the above tourist amenities, a Cloak Room made of temporary sloped
roofed structure of 100 sqm is proposed to be developed at Govind Ghat for the tourists
who do not wish to carry their entire luggage during the trek. Directional Signages are
proposed to be provided at Govind Ghat right from the Badrinath road junction.
Directional/Locational & Informational signages are proposed with dark green
background & white text, while Nature Interpretation signages would be as per the
current pattern followed by DoF.
Tourist Safety
It is proposed that, as a safety measure, some police personnel stationed at Govind Ghat
may be attached with the Patwari. They can patrol the trek route during the four months
of tourist season.

PWD Proposal: At Govind Ghat for a Medical Relief Centre Rs. 4.12 lakhs were
sanctioned in Dec 1997, the balance fund in this has to be requisitioned again.
Department of Health shall assist in setting up the same.
Mule Sheds, Cheap Accommodation, Fodder and Food Arrangements
Registration of Mules, Porters, and Palki owners/operators with EDC, Govind Ghat. Most
mule owners/operators are from Nazibabad, Ramnagar, Haldwani etc. and the porters and
palki carriers are mostly from Nepal, who cross from Nepal through near by districts for
employment. Proper Mule Shed made of temporary sloped roofed structure may be
provided for a handling capacity of 300 mules at a time with proper Mule Waste Disposal
infrastructure. These mule sheds would have parallel running drinking pits and waste
cleaning pits at the back. Fodder may be made available at the mule shed at a cost.
ES-37
Cheap dormitory accommodation (to provide stay at night for 200 persons) should also
be built for the mule operators, porters, palki carriers and EDC cleaning staff and pay &
use toilet facility for the labourers – all made of temporary sloped roofed structure.
Veterinary Clinic
A main veterinary clinic was proposed at Govind Ghat during the study. This is one of
the main developments required at Govind Ghat in view of the 800-1000 mules presently
operating from Govind Ghat and back. This will also ensure good health of mules so that
they are able to carry tourists without jeopardising the safety of tourists. At the time of
revision of this report, the Director, NDBR informed that a veterinary camp service has
been started at Govind Ghat from the 2004 tourist season.
8. DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR FACILITIES ENROUTE
Transportation Plan: Govind Ghat to Ghangharia
There is growing need to
cater to the increasing Indicative Trek Path Alignment
demand for parking in the Ghangharia
3
Valley of
Kms
hill settlement of Govind Flowers
4
Ghat. Also, there is a Kms 6
Proposed Motorable Kms
significant need to enhance Section 6
Bhyundar Village
Hemkunt
Kms Shrine
access to the tourist spots / Trek Path-
Pulna Village
local community enroute by 3 Kms
(
reducing the actual distance Govind Ghat
to be trekked on foot by
extending the reach of
motorable road. The need of an investigation on the proposal for the road from Govind
Ghat till Pulna as requested by the then Union Minister of Tourism & Pulna Community
Members for providing basic road accessibility for emergent needs of the community and
controlling the tourist vehicular traffic load near Govind Ghat, was communicated to the
consultants by the DoT, Uttaranchal. Thus, possibility of extension of Motorable Road
was examined. The trek can be broken up into multiple legs on the basis of the
intermediate settlements. The entire area besides being a reserved forest and a bio-reserve
is extremely ecologically sensitive. A detailed ecological impact analysis of the area has
to be conducted before any option of extending a road on the entire trek route up to
Ghangharia is considered.
Options for Motorable Road to Pulna

A motorable road to Pulna Village connecting it with the road to Badrinath could be laid
along two alignments, details of which have been explored by the Uttaranchal Public
Works Department earlier in the year 2000 as part of the larger proposal up to
Ghangharia.
• Alignment – I: Pandukeshwar (from start of access road on Badrinath motor
road to Yogdhyan Temple) to Pulna (5 km long road)
• Alignment – II: Govind Ghat to Pulna (6 km long road)
In alignment Option-II, the provision of a bridge at Govind Ghat also makes is difficult
and costlier option because it is situated at the confluence of two rivers and the
ES-38
surrounding geological structures are susceptible to the simultaneous cutting by two

rivers. Also, the mountain slope opposite Govind Ghat is particularly steep at this
location and may require more number of hairpin bends. Overall alignment Option-I is
reported to be more feasible by PWD and a proposal already exists from them for road till
Pulna on this alignment.
Impact on Settlements
The impact on Pulna from the socio-economic environment point of view is examined.
There will be an increased need for space for parking, need for ancillary infrastructure,
demand tourist facilities in the village and increased pressure on waste disposal and
management in the Village. The shift of the last motorable point to Hemkunt from
Govind Ghat to Pulna via Pandukeshwar may significantly impact the importance of
Govind Ghat as the central focus.
In view of these, it has been proposed that if the road be built till Pulna, no private
vehicles be allowed beyond Govind Ghat/Pandukeshwar and only environment friendly
public transport ferries will run till Pulna thereby reducing the pressure on Pulna as well
as generating local employment in eco-friendly means of transportation.
Trek Path
It is proposed that the trek path till Ghangharia be widened to about 10 ft in Stone
Kharanja/Masonry work. Separate trek path for Mules (4 ft. wide), Pedestrians (6 ft.
wide) from Govind Ghat-Pulna till Ghangharia is proposed. The pedestrian path is
proposed to be 10 cm above the mule trek path. The top layer of the trek path would be in
CC (1:2:4) with grooved top surface. Construction of MS railing (painted in dark green)
along the trek path Minor cross drainage is also suggested at regular intervals.
Installation of Ropeway from Govind Ghat to Kanjila (near

Ghangharia)
Possibility of installation of a ropeway from Govind Ghat to Kanjila (near Ghnagharia as
suggested by DoF has been examined, with an analysis of positive and negative impacts.
A preliminary examination showed that the proposal is not very viable from the demand
and cost perspective. However, suggestions have been given on possible aspects that
government should weigh, and it may undertake a separate techno-economic feasibility
study to identify the option being plausible or not, and subsequently if plausible,
undertake a DPR.
Tourist Amenity Cluster

It is proposed to develop amenity clusters at regular intervals to facilitate tourists who are
proceeding towards Ghangharia. The cluster types will have the following mix of
amenities:
Cluster A: The components of Cluster A are Snacks/ Fast food centre (avg. 8 in no. of 20
sqm each), Souvenir Shop (1 in no. of size 20 sq.m run by Mahila Mandal with First Aid
Box), Shauchalaya (2 toilets each for men and women on ‘pay & use’ facility), Covered
Rest Shed (1 no. of 15 sqm with 5 benches), Mule Shed (to accommodate 30 mules at a
ES-39
time), large waste collection pit (made of iron cage as discussed earlier), etc. The trek
path between the cluster A is proposed to be partially covered.
Cluster B: The components of Cluster B are Snacks/ Fast food centre (avg. 6 in no. of 20
sqm each), Drinking Water Facility, Shauchalaya (2 toilets each for men and women on
‘pay & use’ facility), Covered Rest Shed (1 no. of 15 sqm with 5 benches), Mule Shed (to
accommodate 15 mules at a time), etc. The trek path between the cluster B is proposed to
be partially covered.
Cluster C: The components of Cluster C are Drinking Water Facility, Covered Rest Shed
(2 in no. of 15 sqm with 5 benches), etc.
Approximately Cluster A will be provided at Pulna (3 km point), 6 km point, and at 9.60
km point; Cluster B will be at 1.5 kms, 5 km, 7.2 km, 8.5 km, 10.95 km and 12 km from
Govind Ghat; and Cluster C will be at 1.05 km, 2.10 km, 2.6 km, 3.9 km, 4.3 km, 6.75
km, 8 km, 10.3 km, 11.35 km from Govind Ghat. At Pulna, a mule shed to accommodate
150 mules at a time is proposed in the event of a motorable road.
All the amenity cluster spaces are proposed to be of temporary structures (except for the
small plinth bases for cluster amenities/toilets, wherever necessary). A uniform character
is proposed for the cluster amenities/toilets. Chemical toilets/Dry toilets are available in
international markets, and may be similar ones can be explored/developed locally too.
This will be maintained by following temporary sloped roof steel truss structure, with
corrugated GI sheet roof & wall – all painted in dark green on exteriors (to blend with the
environment). All these structures would be disassembled at the end of tourist season and
kept in EDC Stores at Ghangharia, Bhyundar and Pulna as per the nearest location for
these structures, and would be reassembled before the next tourist season.
Mule Shed
Proper Mule Shed made of temporary sloped roofed structure may be provided
for a handling capacity of 150 mules at a time with proper Mule Waste Disposal
infrastructure at Pulna.
Signages
Standardised Signage Boards are proposed at regular intervals, all deviations,
informatory signages about altitude, location, ecology etc; nature interpretation
signages (in various languages), warning boards of landslide/ avalanche areas
etc. Directional/Locational & Informational signages are with dark green
background with white text, while Nature Interpretation signages would be as
per the current pattern followed by DoF.
Water Supply
Uttaranchal Jal Nigam is preparing a scheme for providing piped water supply via Pulna
to Govind Ghat.
Electric Supply
The proposals include provision of Street Lighting from Pulna till Govind Ghat (from 3
km to Suspension Bridge end), from Kanjila till Ghangharia entrance, Upgradation of
Street Lighting at Pulna and Bhyundar, power supply through grid via Govind
ES-40
Ghat/Pulna be further extended to Bhyundar, Kanjila and till the entrance of Ghangharia,
re-erecting the broken poles, etc. and having a process in future to maintain this on a
regular basis after every tourist season.
Telecommunications
A new Satellite Telephone Exchange is proposed at Pulna to provide better connectivity
to Govind Ghat, Pulna and till 6 km point between Pulna and Bhyundar. One Satellite
Telephone PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booth each is proposed at Pulna, one at 6 km point
between Pulna and Bhyundar, Bhyundar and near Kanjila Helipad area connected to the
existing Satellite Telephone Exchange of Ghangharia for villagers and tourists enroute.
A Medical Trauma Centre is proposed at Pulna. First aid box is proposed at Cluster A
and B to be managed by EDC/Gurdwara members or Sevadars from Ghangharia to
Hemkunt and by Mahila Mandal/Yuvak Mandal members between Govind Ghat and
Ghangharia.
Management Controls
Regularisation of Development is envisaged through development control regulations,
restricting character and type of development, ownership with locals, approval from
EDC/joint management committee, ban of use of sensitive wood, timings of trekking,
compulsory eco-fee (amount as decided by the government in mutual discussion with
various departments & stakeholders) from all tourist trekkers, incentives etc.
Tourist Circuit and Growth Centres Nearby

The region nearby has many tourism spots and growth centres, which could attract more
tourists to the whole region is projected as part of the regional circuit. The important
tourist attractions and growth centres nearby are Badrinath, Auli, Kagbhushandi Lake,
Khiron Valley, Khunt Khal, Joshimath, etc. that can be integrated with 4-month tourism
season at Valley of flowers-Hemkunt destination.
9. HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN

Hazard mitigation refers to “any action taken to reduce or eliminate the long - term risk to
human life and property from hazards.” Disaster Management Plan addresses the
management and actions/ measures to be adopted in the event of a disaster. Emergency
Response System deals with the immediate response mechanism in the event of a
disaster, the effectiveness of which would primarily determine the life and property
saved.
Need of an Emergency Response System in Project Area

The project area including Valley of Flowers, Hemkunt Sahib and Govind Ghat to
Ghangaria, is a highly fragile eco system, which has a very sensitive geological structure
and biodiversity. In view of this and the high tourist visitation during the four months of
tourist season, it is very important to have an emergency response mechanism in place to
avoid and minimise casualties in the event of any disaster. The possible hazard scenarios
in the project region are Landslides, Avalanche falls, Earthquake Proneness, Heavy
Monsoon, Stampede, Threats due to Sick Porting Animals, Attack of Wild Animals etc.
ES-41
Hazard Mitigation Plan and Emergency Response System

The Hazard Mitigation Plan for Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Sahib region addresses the
issues of disaster management and emergency response system including the following
components:
• Planning and Land Use Management
• Emergency Response Cell
• Warning System
• Evacuation Mechanism
• Institutional Responsibilities
• Bio Diversity Risk Mitigation
• Community Participation.
10. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Summary of Proposed Investment
The proposed project investments would be implemented in two phases of two
years each. It is presumed that every year hardly 3-4 months may be available
for plan implementation to be undertaken in the region along trek route (including
1 month before tourist season, 1 month during Aug.-Sep. which is the leaner part
of tourist season, and another 1.5-2 months post tourist season till end of Nov.).
At Govind Ghat and Pulna, however more time would be available for
implementation. Hence, a 4-year phasing is recommended to complete all these
infrastructural/developmental works.
Majority of the works are to be implemented by the DoF, where in they may take
assistance of agencies like EDC / PWD /others, under DoF guidance and
permissions. The private entrepreneurs of the local community can also take up
some of the components, like temporary tented resort accommodation, proper
furniture & appliances for running their shops/kiosks, procurement of raincoats &
bags, etc.
Total Estimated Project Cost for the implementation of this Master Plan amounts
to Rs. 2584.61 lakhs or Rs. 25.85 crores. The phase wise summary of new
proposals is delineated in the following tables.
Proposals Amount (Rs - Lakhs)

New Proposals 2552.91
Existing Proposals 31.70
(Pending Sanction)*
TOTAL 2584.61
*Refer Chapter 10 for details
External Assistance/ Funding Modalities
ES-42
For the implementation of the master plan, there is a need to arrange for finances over
and above plan allocations. International financial institutions’ contribution would be
required for the mobilisation of resources. Loans can be obtained from multilateral and
bilateral lending agencies under heads of various socio-economic development schemes,
provided benefits of tourism are widely spread in society and that the local host
communities & poor benefit from tourism development.
ES-43
Table: Summary of New Proposals

Sr. DEVELOPMENT Destination Land Cost excluding Funding (Phase I-Rs. in lakhs)
No. AREA Development Cost Land Cost MoT Public Pvt. MoT Public Pvt.
Cost (Rs. in (Rs. in (Rs. in lakhs)
lakhs) lakhs)
1 Enroute Govind 918.32 918.32 617.88 8.00 31.69 220.94 1.50 38.31
Ghat to Ghangharia
2 Valley of Flowers 589.17 589.17 258.12 0.00 0.00 331.05 0.00 0.00
3 Hemkunt Sahib 417.51 417.51 351.83 1.50 15.00 14.06 21.13 14.00
4 Ghangharia 274.24 274.24 130.54 3.50 49.36 2.50 38.99 49.36
5 Bhyundar 7.99 7.99 5.72 1.50 0.00 0.77 0.00 0.00
6 Pulna 34.92 34.92 15.32 1.50 0.00 3.10 15.00 0.00
7 Govind Ghat 310.77 4.94 305.83 51.12 3.00 12.49 9.99 3.37 230.79
TOTAL 2552.91 4.94 2547.97

INVESTMENTS
(Rs. in lakhs)
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (AGENCY WISE - Rs. in lakhs) 1430.52 19.00 108.54 582.41 79.99 332.46
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (PHASE WISE - Rs. in lakhs) 1558.06 994.85
ES-44
Master Plan for Eco-Tourism in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt Final Report
Multiplier Effect of Tourism

Tourism in the Valley will be a tool for the socio- economic development. Other than
direct benefits from tourist expenditure, indirect benefits also accrue to the economy.
This is because tourism has strong backward, forward and lateral linkages with other
sectors of the economy.
Institutional Framework and Roles & Responsibilities
The roles, responsibilities and structure of the main institutional stakeholders are defined,
these cover the Eco-Development Committee (EDC), Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib
Management Trust (GSHSMT), Trade Community, Mahila Mandal, Van
Panchayat/Forest Council, Gram Sabha/Village Council, Zila Panchayat (ZP),
Department of Forests, Department of Tourism, Public Works Department, Jal Nigam
and Jal Sansthan Departments, Electricity Departments, Department of
Telecommunications, Department of Health, Department of Revenue, and Role of NGOs.
11. HRD AND TRAINING
The areas of training identified are:
Fresh Training Multi-Skilling Home-based Workers
Tea/Coffee/Snack shops Restaurant/Dhaba owners Souvenir makers/Handicraft
hawker
Beverage/Ice cream vendor Snacks/ Chaat sellers Toy Seller
Photographer/Albums/Film Fruit & Juice Kiosks Tea shops
Rolls/Film Slides
Souvenir makers/Handicraft Porter-cum-Ecoguides Beverage/Ice cream vendor
hawker
Printing & Publishing Work Souvenir makers/Handicraft Plantation Activities
(Booklets/ Brochures/ hawker
Pamphlets/ Post Card sellers)
Guide / Nature Interpreter Printing & Publishing Work Horticulture
(Booklets/ Brochures/
Pamphlets /Post Card sellers)
Rentals: Trek Equipment – Horticulture Floral extracts
Shoes, Stick, Raincoat;
Binoculars
Paramedics for First Aid/Trauma Prasad / Offering shops Environmental Patrolling
Centre
Hired cycles – All terrain bikes Paramedics for First Aid/Trauma Printing & Publishing Work
Centre (Booklets/ Brochures/ Pamphlets/
Post Card sellers)
Cobblers Mechanic/Repair shop’s Paramedics for First
Aid/Trauma Centre
Mechanic/Repair shop’s Toy Seller
Toy Seller Floral Extracts
Floral extracts Mason-cum-Fitter (Temporary
Structure work)
Mason-cum-Fitter (Temporary Environmental Patrolling
Structure work)
The other specific training measures identified are:
2-45
• Training of women for their participation in Tourism

• Formal Training of Students
• Travel and Tourism Course
• Basics of Computers
• Course in Financial Management
• Spoken English and Hindi
• Travel Agents Course
• Hotel Management Course
• Guide Course
• Entrepreneurship Development Programme
In addition to these Training to Other Stakeholders like Local Governments and Tourism
Boards, Tourism Industry, NGOs etc. are also planned. Detailed training curricula can be
prepared on a pilot basis and be refined while imparting training/as the training programs
progress.
12. VISITOR MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
The primary components of Visitor Management System (VMS) comprise of plans for
Promotion, Hospitality, and Marketing. The objective of any promotion is not to
increase the number of tourists, instead it is to provide the necessary information on all
aspects and to aid in better visitor management. The activities include preparation of self
guiding brochures, promotional material, advertising in select media, running
documentaries/ short films on Television and a specific Public Relations programme.
It is proposed to develop a web enabled Visitor Management System (VMS) for Valley
of Flowers - Hemkunt Belt. This can be developed separately or can be integrated with
the Uttaranchal tourism portal.
The main objectives of this web enabled VMS would be to make available a database of
all information pertaining to Valley of Flowers, Hemkunt Sahib and the nearby tourist
attractions; database of tour operators and transportation facilities, data base of
accommodation and other tourist infrastructure (services and facilities) to the
interested/potential tourists and information seekers, e-postcards, etc. In addition to this,
database of tourists would also be captured. The VMS would also be a helpful tool to
monitor the visitor management by systematic collection of data.
Over the longer run, the system could take the shape of a portal through which tourists
can book the lodges/ hotels as well as prebook their entry to the Valley. In case, in future,
Uttaranchal state goes in for regulating religious tourism through a policy, and
recommends limiting the number of tourists to Hemkunt Sahib, the portal could be used
for reserving entry from Govind Ghat.
2-46
1. INTRODUCTION
1.2 Background
Valley of Flowers also known in Hindu
mythology as Nandan Kanan meaning
“Garden of Indra in Paradise” is a
relatively smaller part of a valley spread
over about 10 sqkm part of the large
Valley of Flowers National Park
(VOFNP), which blooms especially with
a riot of enumerable flowers and flora of
variety of species and colours apart from
alpine meadows, forests, and sparse but
special Himalayan wild fauna. The
valley portion of the Park runs in the east west direction along the banks of river
Pushpawati. It is believed that Lord Hanuman picked Sanjeevani Buti from this
region for treating the wounds of Lakshman, the brother of Lord Rama during
the war with Ravana in Lanka. It is a place of escape from the hussle-bussle of
today’s city life. One would have to descend in winter to warmer and less snowy
levels, but for nearly 4 months those in search of beauty and solitude can find
peace in the Valley of Flowers.
Abutting Valley of Flowers on a branch route to its south-east is Hemkunt Lake on the
banks of which it is said that Lakshman had meditated, an ancient (though little known
outside) Hindu Temple ‘Lokpal’ dedicated to Lakshman exists. However, Hemkunt
region is better known for Hemkunt Lake and a magnificent Sikh shrine Hemkunt Sahib
on its banks for which maximum tourists/visitors arrive. Though only about 5000-6000
tourists visit Valley of Flowers at present, keeping in mind the natural beauty and
historical/religious significance of this overall region and the perspective of eco-tourism,
it is imperative to study the eco-determinants that could (or should) limit tourism
development of this region and issues of ecological and environmental conservation vis-
à-vis existing/future tourism development, including community benefits, which would get
impacted adversely if not analysed and planned in a proper manner.
The term “eco-tourism” and the concept is fairly recent and was first used by Hector
Ceballos-Lascurain, a Mexican architect, environmentalist, eco-tourism and cultural
tourism expert in 1983 with its preliminary definition to differentiate it from “mass
tourism”. He 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 any existing cultural
manifestations (both past and present found in these areas)”. His modified version of this
definition has been officially adopted by IUCN – The World Conservation Union
headquartered at Switzerland in 1996 as “environmentally responsible travel and
visitation to relatively undisturbed natural areas, to enjoy, study and appreciate nature
(and accompanying cultural features both past and present), that promotes
conservation, has lower visitor impact, and provides for beneficially active socio-
economic involvement of local populations“. While, The International Eco-tourism
2-47
Society (TIES) had defined eco-tourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that
conserves the environment and sustains the well being of local people” and which is
widely accepted. In fact, the year 2002 was declared as the year of the “International
Eco-tourism” by United Nations during which in May 2002, World Eco-tourism Summit
was held at Quebec, Canada and this definition was also adopted by the World Tourism
Organization (WTO) and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). While closer
home in Asia, the Institute of Eco-tourism, Bangkok, Thailand defines eco-tourism as
“nature based, sustainably managed, inclusive of social and cultural aspects, and
education to tourists”.
So, by and large, the concept of eco-tourism embraces tourism that is “environmentally
friendly”, “community-based”, “market friendly”, and is developed on the concept of
“sustainable development”. Also as part of Forest Policy – 2001 of Uttaranchal, eco-
tourism is identified as one of the main strategies for creating opportunities for self-
employment and eradication of poverty. Similarly, in the action plan of Tourism Policy –
2001 of Uttaranchal, development of eco-tourism is an important activity.
Thus, the Department of Tourism (DoT), Government of India (GoI), has
engaged Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Limited to prepare the Master Plan for
Development of Eco-Tourism in Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt Belt of Chamoli
District, Uttaranchal.
The consultants undertook a Participative Planning approach involving all
Stakeholders in the process and most importantly the local host community. The
site visits were done in a two-phase study manner, staying at the project area and
extensively travelling within and outside the project area. Participative
consultations were done at different forums with the local community,
Department of Tourism, Department of Forests, GMVN, Departments of Water
Supply, UREDA, the 3 Gurdwara officials, tour operators etc. Qualitative surveys
were conducted among the tourists to both Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt
destinations. Individual surveys and group discussions (NGT - Nominal Group
Technique) were deployed with the local community involving representatives
of all walks of the local people including the representatives of EDC, trade and
business community, guides, doctor, telecommunications, youth, women, etc.
The draft report on the master plan were submitted to the Department of
Tourism and Department of Forests, Government of Uttaranchal for their review
and feedback. The master plan report was also presented to various stakeholders
in a meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary, Government of Uttaranchal at the
State Secretariat, Dehra Dun. The comments received in these forums have been
duly analysed and incorporated in the final report submitted herewith. An
indicative list of those interacted during the study by the consultants is provided
for reference in Annexure - A."
1.3 Scope and Terms of Reference (TOR)
Scope
The scope of the assignment would be to carry out an initial environment impact
assessment with a view to bring out the factors affecting the environs of Valley of
2-48
Flowers. In terms of physical area to be covered under the assessment, the scope
would be limited to the geographical spread of Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt belt
in Chamoli district, Uttaranchal.
Terms of Reference (TOR)
Following shall be the Terms of Reference for the study:
• Assess the impact of tourism activity on the flora and fauna of the
region.
• Design measures for mitigating effect on flora due to increased
visitation and presence of mule as essential mode of transportation
• Provide measures for conserving the flora & fauna of the region.
• To identify specific growth centres in the vicinity and possible
involvement of local community in the development activities.
• To explore the possibility of external assistance for this project.
• Prepare a detailed site management plan specifying the following:
− Capacity management & eco-tourism plan.
− Accessibility to major tourists circulation network and proposed
transportation facilities.
− Hazard mitigation plan and improving safety.
− Maintenance and upkeep of treks and trails.
• Design institutional measures for
− Waste management.
− Environment orientation of mule owners and other service providers.
− Detailed land use plan in consonance with carrying capacity of the area
indicating generalized land use system and various types of activities and
requirements in the immediate vicinity including the transport network
and conceptual service plan for water supply, sewerage, drainage,
electrification and garbage.
− Landscaping proposals and general improvement plan.
− Training local guides.
− Project phasing.
1.4 Structure of the Draft Report
This Draft Report illustrates the detailed understanding of the study and
recommendations, and consists of twelve Chapters, including this chapter, and four
Annexures.
2-49
Chapter 2 presents situational analysis of the tourist development in the region.

Chapter 3 describes the environmental impact assessment in the region due to
various factors.
Chapter 4 elaborates the environment development strategy to address the
concerns/issues.
Chapter 5 sets out the environmental management plan for the region.
Chapter 6 illustrates the development plan for Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt.
Chapters 7 and 8 contain recommendations for development proposals at the
base settlements and enroute the trek path respectively.
Chapter 9 describes a hazard mitigation plan.
Chapter 10 sets out the implementation plan with funding modalities and
phasing of work components.
Chapter 11 presents initiatives required on community participation and human
resource development.
Chapter 12 describes components of a visitor management system.
Annexure A contains References section that lists various stakeholders, experts,
literature and data sources referred.
Annexure B contains an indicative list of signages to be implemented.
Annexure C lists the details of work items and costs for new proposals.
Annexure D provides an indicative list of individuals and organizations that can
provide information on tourism in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt.
2. TOURISM DEVELOPMENT – A SITUATIONAL

ANALYSIS
This chapter details the understanding of the Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt Region,
current facilities/amenities available, existing tourism scenario, and any eco-
development initiatives being undertaken in the region.
7.1 Valley of Flowers National Park - Hemkunt Belt
Located in the Chamoli district of the State of Uttaranchal, Valley of Flowers and
Hemkunt area are amongst the nine zones or part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere
Reserve (NDBR) in Himalayas, which is spread across an area of 5860.69 sqkm. A
brief description of this region is presented below.
2.1.1 Valley of Flowers
2-50
Though it is reported that

Colonel Edmund Smythe,
an Explorer and Education
Officer in the then Indian
Army, first visited this
valley in 1862, barring the
contentions who visited the
valley first, it is the later
accounts of British
Mountaineer Frank S
Smythe published in a book
“The Valley of Flowers”
which made the valley
famous. Frank S Smythe
incidentally reached this valley lost in thick mist along with colleagues R L
Holdsworth and Eric Shipton after an expedition to Mount Kamet in 1931 and
fascinated by the valley’s beauty and grandeur Frank S Smythe named it “Valley
of Flowers”. He revisited the valley in 1937 to collect the specimens and
published the book “The Valley of Flowers” the following year.
The valley portion of the National Park runs in the east-west direction along the
banks of river Pushpawati. Local pastoralists have for long grazed their livestock
here through summers and know of it as Bhyundar Valley (the place of fairies
and nymphs, and now they just call it Phoolon ki Ghati). A stone laid bridle track
winds through the valley, which was long ago used by the Marchas, a Garhwali
tribe, as a trade route to Tibet. Excessive human intrusion over the years has
seriously threatened the valley’s wealth and may already have robbed it of some
of its hidden secrets.
In recognition of valley’s fame and floral wealth and with the intention of
preserving the ecology and conserving the floral diversity, the Government of
Uttar Pradesh (as Chamoli district was earlier in Uttar Pradesh) created “The
Valley of Flowers National Park” as per Notification No. 4278/XIV-3-66-80 with
effect from September 6, 1982, the intention having been declared under
Notification No. 5795/XIV-3-66-80 of 1 January 1981. After notification of the
Park the villagers have shifted their grazing activities to the lower and side
valleys away from the National Park viz., Kanjila (to the south of Ghangharia),
and Roopdhunga, Semartoli, and Rajkharak (towards west from Bhyundar
village). The Valley of Flowers National Park is one of the core zones of NDBR.
2.1.2 Hemkunt Sahib
2-51
Sikhs come to the sacred

shrine of Hemkunt
Sahib (the only Tap
Asthan) in remembrance
and prayer to see the
place where their tenth
guru, Guru Govind
Singh meditated and
realised his oneness with
God in his earlier birth
in Sat Yug along the
banks of lake Hemkunt,
which means the 'lake of
solace'. It is fed by few small streams, and rainfall and glacial melt water which
spills down the mountainside on the far shore. Though described in the Bachitar
Natak (an autobiography attributed to Sri Guru Govind Singh himself) and
Dasam Granth, Hemkunt Sahib was discovered in 1934 by Sant Sohan Singh (a
retired Granthi from the then British Army) after relentless effort, and a small
Gurdwara (which became the Gurdwara at the highest altitude) was developed
with initial assistance of Bhai Vir Singh in 1935-36 (including enlarging the
ancient Hindu “Lokpal” temple dedicated to Lord Lakshman). In February
of 1939, Sant Sohan Singh passed away, but not before entrusting Modan Singh,
a retired Havaldar from the Survey Department of the Indian army with his
mission to continue the development of Hemkunt Sahib. Inspiration for building
a larger Gurdwara at Hemkunt Sahib came from a woman who was given the
mission to lay its foundation stone in a vision of Sri Guru Govind Singh,
sometime in 1959-60. Later in 1968 the construction for the present Gurdwara
(designed with the image of an upside down lotus flower as envisioned by
Modan Singh earlier) began (after the motor road was extended by BRO to
Govind Ghat and beyond to Badrinath along the river Alaknanda) and which got
completed with upper storey in 1993. The Gurdwara has a hexagonal perimeter
and its base measures 110 by 110 feet, while doors on the five sides symbolically
welcomes pilgrims from every faith and direction. At a time in 1950s when their
yearly pilgrim group was only about 200 strong, Modan Singh told the other
trustees that one day people would come to Hemkunt Sahib in their thousands
from all over the world.
Lakshman's other name was Lokpal, the 'protector of the world' or the ‘sustainer’
as referred to Lord Vishnu in the Hindu Trinity of Creator (Lord Brahma),
Sustainer, and Destroyer (Lord Shiva). It is said that Lokpal is not traditionally
associated with the names Sapatsring or Hemkunt. Nonetheless, it was these
clues, which helped the first Sikhs to locate and identify Lokpal as
Hemkunt/Parbat Sapatsring. It is said that Lord Lakshman meditated here or
performed penance, and hence the river issuing from the lake became Lakshman
2-52
Ganga, which later became to be also known as Hem Ganga. It is said that for
three hundred years the local Garhwali people have followed a tradition of
visiting the Lokpal temple on the shore of the lake on three annual festivals held
during the summer season: Rakshabandhan, Janam Ashtami, and Durga
Ashtami (locally known as Nanda Ashtami). The sacred journey was made
primarily by women, both Garhwali villagers from the valley below Lokpal and
villagers of Bhotia (Indo-Tibetan) ancestry from neighbouring valleys, like Mana.
The religious and sacred flowers of Brahmakamal (Saussurea obvallata) are
collected by local people on some auspicious days (including after Nandashtami,
the annual fair held in August) to offer to the Gods and Goddesses.
All who went to Lokpal recognised it as a sacred place. It is said that out of
respect for the purity of the water and the surrounding landscape, they made the
steep ascent barefoot, clad only in white cotton dhoti (an unstitched garment).
The women left their clothes and shoes behind at a halting place in the forest
(which was earlier full of pine, taxus baccata, etc). This halting place became the
site of what is today Ghangharia or Govind Dham, named after the Ghaghara
(petticoats) which the pilgrims would leave there. The women would spend the
night singing songs of the goddess, and at dawn they would set out to climb the
slope to the lake. When they reached Lokpal, they would make offerings of coins,
coconuts, Brahmakamal flowers, and prashad (a sacrament made from Ghee, flour,
and sugar). They would bathe in the cold water, and pray to Lakshman for the
blessing of a son, a better future, the health of their men folk, or a cure for
sickness.
In 1988 the Lakshman temple was enlarged still further with the help of the
Indian Army. At present the sacred place of Hemkunt Sahib attracts maximum
number of tourists in the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region, virtually making
this region a dominant religious tourist destination.
Sikhs consider water of the Hemkunt Sarovar as holy water, referred to as amrit
or 'nectar’, and hence carry the same on return (Sarovar water is filled in small
plastic bottles/cans that are sold in the shops enroute. Also pilgrims often take
some token of the journey back home, e.g. a souvenir purchased from one of the
shops which could be a saropa (length of cloth) or prashad presented by one of the
Granthis, or Brahmakamal flower plucked from the surrounding meadows, etc. as
treasured reminders of the journey. However, plucking of Brahmakamal
(Saussurea obvallata) flower, which is specie, found only at high altitudes from
its natural growth surroundings is not a correct action from the perspective of
biodiversity conservation.
7.2 Location & Setting
The locational and topographical details of “The Valley of Flowers National
Park” region are as follows:
2-53
District : Chamoli, Uttaranchal

Setting : Latitude 30o 41’ – 30o 48’N and Longitude 79 o 33’ – 70 o 46’E
Altitude : Altitude of Park Ranges from about 3200 m to 6700 m above MSL
(Valley of Flowers itself is at about 3658 m altitude, and Hemkunt
Shrines are at an altitude of 4,329 meters, being one of the highest
temples in India)
Park Area : 87.50 sqkm
Main Valley & Topography
The Valley of Flowers in Garhwal Himalayas is an alpine valley, and has been
formed by the retreating glaciers whose periodic advances pulverised hard
rocks, resulting in a smooth U-shaped valley, which was later colonised by
numerous plants. The valley remains covered by snow from October to April but
when the snow melts it gets invaded by a profusion of colours. The main valley
is Bhyundar Valley, which is surrounded by panoramic view of snow clad
Mountain peaks - Gauri Parvat (6,590 m) and Rataban (6,126 m) tower to the east,
Khunt Khal (4,430 m) in the west, Saptsring (5038 m) in the south and Nilgiri
Parvat (6,479 m) in the north.
The river Pushpawati, emerging from Tipra Glacier, cuts through the Valley in
east-west direction and divides it into two sectors. The area of the main valley is
about 10 sqkm. The North and South slopes of the main valley are gentle at the
base and rise to merge with the snow clad rocky slopes of Nar Parvat in north
and Saptsring peak in south. The major portion of the Valley is on its right bank
(in the direction of flow of river Pushpawati)/Northern slopes, Base and central
meadow are at an altitude of 3658m above MSL and are a paradise for trekkers.
Many streams flowing from glacial deposits in and around the Valley irrigate it
and merge finally into the river Pushpawati. While exploring the Valley, the
smaller streams can be easily crossed by wading across but the larger ones need
to be crossed on log bridges. In May-June, some thick glacial bridges across the
Pushpawati stream are also used for crossing over to access both sides of the
main valley.
After entering a gorge, the valley widens and can be seen in its entirety from the
east. This place is locally called Bamani Dhaur ('Cave of the Brahmin'). According
to legend a Brahmin once lived here, telling visitors their fortunes and drawing
their horoscopes (Kundali). He did this by observing shadows on the long
meadow across the river. At what time and on which day the shadow was to be
observed depended on the person's date of birth. This meadow was therefore
called Sri Kundalinisen ('Meadow of Horoscopes'), which is seen as a long
meadow on the opposite bank of the Pushpawati River. From Bamini Dhaur,
another remote trek path bifurcates from the Valley of Flowers trek path, which
2-54
via Khunt Khal (in south-west), passes towards Hanuman Chatti on Badrinath
road route.
Within the main Valley, there are many smaller valleys carved out by streams of
melting glaciers. On the banks of these valleys, one can encounter the most
exciting pattern of flowers. One such valley exists along the Donagair Garh, the
last of many streams. Some of the most magnificent plants flower on its banks.
Birch and rhododendron forest are also observed in the main valley. On the left
bank of the river Pushpawati, are several chunks of flat land. One of them is
called Nag Tal, literally the place of the venomous serpent - the Nag. It is believed
to be infested with poisonous flowers. These flowers are said to cause harm
when plucked, crushed or smelt. However, since the Nag Tal area is not readily
accessible due to lack of proper bridges across Pushpawati, no visitors were
observed on that side. The Nag Tal valley area is also predominantly covered
with dominating species like “Polygonum polystachyum”, apart from Birch
forest growth along Pushpawati bank and on the higher portion of the peak
range on eroded soil/boulder debris.
The Hemkunt Lake is nestled among rocky peaks, high above the tree line.
Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream issues from the lake to flow south-west, falls 14
m before Ghangharia creating a beautiful waterfall, meets river Pushpawati near
Ghangharia and further flows as Bhyundar Ganga for few miles to join the river
Alaknanda below at Govind Ghat, which subsequently is one of the tributary of
the holy Ganges.
7.3 Climate
The climate of the Valley of Flowers is moist temperate and alpine type, with
short cool summers and long severe winters influenced by southwest monsoon
in the summer, and western disturbances in winter. During the snow period the
vegetation survives under snow with the help of tubers and rhizomes. Based on
the altitude aspect and the climatic conditions the vegetation of the Park is
divisible into 3 broad climatic zones:
• Sub-alpine zone (Altitude 2800 m - 3500 m above MSL)
• Lower alpine zone (Altitude 3500m - 3700 m above MSL)
• Higher alpine zone (Altitude > 3700 m above MSL)
Snow Period : 7 months (early October to late April). On higher altitudes (> 5000
m above MSL) the snow fall continues throughout the year.
Growing/Flowering Season: 3-4 months or about 15-20 weeks (June to September)
Rainfall Period: 3 months (mid June to mid September, while July & August are
wettest months with almost daily rainfall, maximum being about
47.1 mm in mid-August, 1993-94 data)
2-55
Humidity : Average humidity of the area is high during summer and ranges
between 80%-100% (days are usually very cloudy and the visibility
is often reduced by thick mist)
Temperature : 7 0C – 24 0C (May - September)
The Bhyundar valley is surrounded by snow clad mountain peaks. There is a small
opening that opens the way to clouds to enter the valley through Pairra from the sub-
alpine zone of Bhyundar valley. These clouds collapse at Gauri Parvat and Rataban to
cause rainfall in the valley portion of the National Park.
7.4 Accessibility
2.4.1 Airfield
Nearest air field, after which one can start the road journey to Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt Region is the Jolly Grant Airfield at Dehra Dun, the capital city of State
of Uttaranchal. There were no regular flights to Dehra Dun at the time of the
study, however, at the time of revision of this report, daily to-and-fro afternoon
flights are operational by Air Deccan at present from New Delhi to Dehra Dun. A
small airstrip has also come up at Gauchar (111 km by road before Govind Ghat),
but is yet to be operational. A little less than a km before Ghangharia base
settlement is a place called Kanjila, where the terrain is little flatter, a Helipad in
a grassy field exists attached to the local Army unit near the Bhyundar Ganga.
Joshimath also has a large Helipad facility of the Army.
At the time of revision of this report, it was reported that Garhwal Mandal Vikas
Nigam and Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd. (PHHL) have signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) to commence air services to some of the major tourist
destinations in Uttaranchal. PHHL has put to use the US manufactured Bell 407
helicopters to conduct air services from Agustmuni (located in Rudraprayag
District at a distance of 18 km from Rudraprayag on Rudraprayag-Kedarnath
route) to Ghangharia at present to provide access to Valley of Flowers and
Hemkunt Sahib, apart from other priority sectors of Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Further plans are reported to be underway to start air services from Gauchar
where an airstrip already exists. Fixed-wing aircraft can easily land at Gauchar
and chartered flights from Delhi can be initiated after due clearances from
relevant authorities.
2-56
The Agustmuni to Badrinath / Ghangharia and return helicopter ride is of 35

minutes with a carrying capacity of maximum 5 passengers per ride and air fare
worked out on charter as well as per seat basis is Rs. 12,000/- per head
(minimum 5 passengers required). As per PHHL conditions, booking charges
will be Rs 500/- (non refundable in case of cancellation) and the air ticket will be
have to be collected 16 hours before departure time from Agustmuni. The other
conditions for the helicopter services are:
• The services are subject to weather conditions and serviceability of the
helicopter.
• PHHL would provide helicopter to Badrinath / Ghangharia on the day there
is no booking or having only one or two confirmed sorties for Kedarnath
Dham.
• The helicopter would remain at Badrinath after dropping the passengers.
• The helicopter will bring the Badrinath passengers back to Augustmuni after
their having darshan, which would approx. take 2 hrs.
• The charges per passenger would be Rs. 12,000/- provided there are
minimum 5 passengers. GMVN is required to arranged priority darshan for
Badrinath passengers. In case number of Badrinath passengers is less, then
the charges would be proportionately increased/divided amongst number of
passengers travelling.
• While, the fare per passenger for dropping only at Ghangharia would be Rs.
12,000/- if number of passengers travelling were minimum 5. If these
Ghangharia passengers would like PHHL to pick them up next day, the
charges would be the same i.e. Rs. 12,000/- per passenger for minimum 5
passengers available. In case, number of Ghangharia passengers are less than
5, then the charges would be proportionately increased/divided amongst
number of passengers travelling.
• In case the flight does not materialise due to weather or any other reason
beyond PHHL control, charges will be as per actual time flown.
2.4.2 Railhead
The road into the Himalayas in the State of Uttaranchal begins along the banks of
the river Ganges at Haridwar, the 'gateway to God'. The nearest broad guage
railhead is Rishikesh (about 271 km), while Haridwar railhead is at a distance of
about 295 km by road from Govind Ghat.
Other railheads are:
• Lalkuan / Haldwani/ Kathgodam
• Ramnagar
2-57
• Kotdwar
These are connected to Govind Ghat by roads passing through various towns of
Kumaon and Garhwal as shown in the next section.
2.4.3 Roads
From Haridwar the accessibility is by a pucca road (Rishikesh-Mana National
Highway), which passes through Rishikesh and into the upper hill region. It
winds northward through the valley along the Ganges, past the Panch Prayag, the
five sacred confluences where major tributaries join the river. Past Joshimath, the
road continues along the river Alaknanda, tracing the ancient pad yatra (walking
pilgrimage) route to Badrinath. Located near the river's source, Badrinath is the
most important Hindu shrine in the Indian Himalayas. Because of its proximity
to the Indo-Chinese border, the Indian army has gradually extended the
motorable road since 1968, easing pilgrims' journeys. About 25 kilometres before
Badrinath, and nearly 295 km beyond Haridwar, the road reaches Govind Ghat,
the base of the trek route to the Ghangharia base settlement and from where
subsequently one can trek to Hemkunt Sahib and the Valley of Flowers.
The pucca road stretch in this hilly region is maintained by the BRO and is
normally 5 m wide and in good condition, as it is being widened right from
Rishikesh to Mana since it was declared NH. However, there are quite a few
stretches, which are landslide prone and cause some traffic jams every day. Also
to control the traffic on this treacherous road between Joshimath and Badrinath,
one-way timings are applicable for release of traffic in either direction. BRO has
provided traffic signs and safety awareness signage boards at many locations
along the road and also major portion of the road stretch has stone masonry
/cement concrete pillar barriers.
Alternative approaches to Govind Ghat from other Railheads are as follows:
• Lalkuan / Haldwani/ Kathgodam – Bhowali – Khairna – Ranikhet –
Dwarahat – Chaukhutiya – Gairsain – Simli – Karnaprayag – Chamoli –
Joshimath – Govind Ghat (about 331 km: deduct 16 km if traveling from
Haldwani or 21 km if travelling from Kathgodam)
• Ramnagar – Mohan – Bhatrojkhan – Ranikhet – Dwarahat – Chaukhutiya –
Gairsain – Simli – Karnaprayag – Chamoli – Joshimath – Govind Ghat (about
345 km)
• Kotdwar – Gumkhal – Jwalpa Devi – Pauri – Srinagar – Rudraparayag –
Gauchar – Karnaprayag – Chamoli – Joshimath – Govind Ghat (about 296
km)
2.4.4 Trek Trails
2-58
The ascent to the Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Sahib by trek begins from the
small settlement of Govind Ghat (1828 m), which is 19 km beyond Joshimath
(1845 m altitude) accessible through a pucca motorable road en-route to
Badrinath. Govind Dham/ Ghangharia is the junction settlement on the bridle
path/stone kharanja type trek trail, a little ahead of which, after crossing the
Lakshman/ Hem Ganga stream, one trail goes towards Valley of Flowers and
another steep trail to Hemkunt Sahib. Though the trek trail on the Govind Ghat –
Ghangharia – Hemkunt route is about 6ft wide in average width, for Valley of
Flowers it’s relatively much narrower (3 ft. or less) for most of the trek stretch.
The condition of these trek trails is not very good in most of the stretch and is
very uncomfortable to walk on in general and not safe in steep gradients when
the trail surface is moist near thick tree cover/foliage. The aesthetic value of the
trail is also very low in most of the stretch due to extreme unevenness of the
surface, mule dung & urine and the resultant stink in the air all along the route
from Govind Ghat to Hemkunt. This trek trail from Govind Ghat is maintained
by the PWD. The brief of
trek trail route is given
below in Table 2.1.
Grade: The grade of trek
trail for Valley of
Flowers is relatively easy
compared to trek
stretches like from
Bhyundar to
Ghangharia, or that for
Hemkunt Sahib, which
are much steeper.
Table 2.1: Salient Details of Trek Trail Route

From To Distance Route Remarks
Govind Ghat Pulna 2.6 km The tourists start in the morning, after crossing
(1828 m) a suspension bridge over the river Alaknanda.
The path zig-zags up a steep hillside for over a
km, then levels out. After 2.6 kms of trek one
reaches Pulna village, the first place near which
-basic facilities for tourists exist. Gradient of
trek – 1:28 (approx.)
Pulna (1920 Bhyundar 6.15 km Most part of the trek along the Bhyundar
m) Ganga is punctuated with waterfalls on right
side (4 in no. with a fall of 180 m, 75 m, 120 m,
60 m respectively in sequence)/ wild flowers/
forests/ beautiful landscapes. Bhyundar village
is the migratory settlement of Pulna villagers in
2-59

the summer and tourist season. The area is
named after the river and is surrounded by
dense broad leaf moist temperate forest where
one can take little rest. Small wayside tea stalls
run all across the route and young and
enthusiastic tourist guides are available at
Bhyundar village. Gradient of trek – 1:20
(approx.)
To the east of Bhyundar village, the trek trail to
Kagbhushandi lake branches out across the
Bhyundar Ganga river. This trail is about 27.5
km long starting from Bhyundar (about 14.25
km upto Kagbhusandi lake) and with another
exit access via Painka village near Vishnu
Prayag (about 13.25 km from Kagbhushandi
lake). One has to take a prior permission from
the DFO, Joshimath, and pay an eco-
fee/deposit to trek on this route.
Bhyundar Govind Dham 3.75 km Though ascent on this route is gradual in the
(2239 m) / Ghangharia beginning, the last stretch from Bhyundar is
(3048 m) steep & ascent to Ghangharia is much harder.
This stretch also has 2 waterfalls on left side.
Night Halt is at Ghangharia, which has
accommodation facilities of FRH/GMVN TRH
& Private Lodges/ Gurdwara. Total Trek Travel
Time – 6 to 7 hours by walk and 4 to 5 hours by
mule from Govind Ghat to Ghangharia. Return
trip is relatively shorter by about 2 hours.
Gradient of trek – 1:5 (approx.)
Valley of Flowers Route
Ghangharia / Valley of 3.25 Travel beyond Ghangharia is on foot since the
Govind Dham Flowers (3658 (Bamani entry of ponies is prohibited. The trek is subject
(3048 m) – m) Dhaur to strict ecological discipline and the trekker is
spread over point) expected to be concerned about the ecosystem
along trek after of the region. After crossing a temporary metal
path from Ghangh- bridge over the stream Lakshman / Hem
12.50 km to aria and Ganga which is 0.5 km from Ghangharia, the
12.75 km point main route to the Valley of Flowers separates from
valley that going to Hemkunt Sahib, and one has to
extends pay an entry fee at the VoF Entrance Check-
another 2 post. About a km ahead, the river is crossed
km over to its right bank on another proper steel
truss bridge and this trail goes up to the Valley
of Flowers along river Pushpawati. Some
portion of trek trail is landslide prone and there
is a small glacier around 2.25 km. The main
valley starts from the 3 km point and is
accessible upto another 2 kms. Beyond which
2-60

remaining stretch of valley of flowers is
inaccessible due to lack of proper trek path.
Camping/Night Stay is not permitted at Valley
of Flowers. Total Trek Travel Time – 6 to 7 hrs
from Ghangharia to Valley of Flowers and back
to Ghangharia. There are no side tracks for
viewing colonies of flowers away from the
main track so one may either try to wade
through knee-deep flowers and foliage (this
would mean crushing some flora on the way) or
stay on the single track running through the
length of the valley without seeing the best OR
one may stand on a raised vantage point to get
a better view of the flowers all around. The
valley also offers great view of majestic snow
peaks around. Gradient of trek – 1:12 (approx.)
To the south-west of the Valley of Flowers at
the 3 km Bamani Dhaur point inside the Valley
of Flowers, the trek trail via Khunt Khal Pass
branches out and exits near Hanuman Chatti on
Badrinath road. This trail is about 8.5 km long
from Bamani Dhaur to Hanuman Chatti. One
has to take a prior permission from the DFO,
Joshimath, and pay an eco-fee/deposit to trek
on this route.
Hemkunt Sarovar/Hemkunt Sahib Shrine
Ghangharia/ Hemkunt 6.25 km Visitors should leave early morning and take
Govind Dham (4329 m) after steep ascent to Hemkunt Sarovar, Hemkunt
(3048 m) Ghangh- Sahib Shrine & Lokpal Temple, and should try
aria to return back before evening. About nearly a
km ahead of Ghangharia, river
Lakshman/Hem Ganga falls with a 14 m drop
and offers excellent view. Once can also take
about 1200 or so steps that comprise the last
kilometer of the trek through an alternate route
to Hemkunt Sahib. It is important to note that
only these steps are accessible in early June
before the snow covering over the longer stone
rubble path has melted by end of June, and
hence till then mules cannot go past the place
where the snow begins/ahead of base of the
steps. Staying is not encouraged at Hemkunt
Shrine due to low level of oxygen at that
altitude/non-acclimatisation of visitors and
hence one has to return to Ghangharia /
Govind Ghat for night stay. Total Trek Travel
Time – 2 to 3 hours by mule & about 5 hrs by
walk from Ghangharia to Hemkunt and 3 to 4
hrs on return by walk and about 2 hours by
2-61

mule. Gradient of Trek – 1:5 (approx.)
Exhibit 2.1: Map Showing Route to Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Region

N
VALLEY OF
FLOWERS
HEMKUNT SAHIB
Ghangharia
Bhyundar
Motorable Route
Trek Route
To Rishikesh
2-62
7.5 Geology & Soil
Geologically the Valley of Flowers region falls

in the Zanskar range of the Himalayas. The
rocks are primarily sedimentary with mica
schists and shales. The hills slopes are steep
rocks as well as soil/boulder debris deposits
along the slope at many places enroute,
starting from Govind Ghat itself. Also, at many
places, the area is highly prone to land slides /
avalanche given the nature of rocks,
topography, and their geological structure.
The soil is acidic in nature (pH 4.5-6.1) as
observed in the results of chemical analysis
conducted by the consultants on various soil
samples collected in this region. The pH of 7.3
was observed in the sample collected from the
sides of the other trek path, which had soil
covered with swept mule excreta. The
percentage of organic Carbon in the lower
slopes ranges from 4.29 - 33.84 as reported in
study by Dr. C. P. Kala. Such a wide range of
carbon in the soil along a diverse topographic
gradient is not unusual.
7.6 Inventory of Flora
2-63
The variation in the altitude within the “Valley of

Flowers National Park (VOFNP)” provides a great
diversity of landscape and microhabitats. The wealth of
flora and its species reported is described below. To
highlight the beauty of one of the small beautiful flower
“Primula”, Smythe writes in his book on Valley of
Flowers - "In all my mountain wanderings I had not seen a
more beautiful flower than this Primula. The fine rain drops
clung to its soft petals like galaxies of seed pearls and frosted
its leaves with silver".
Although the main valley starts after about 3 km from
the entrance gate near Ghangharia to Bamani Dhaur
point, flowers and foliage in exotic varieties apart from
forest of pine, taxus baccata, birch, and rhododendrons
can be spotted throughout this 3 km route. Immediately after crossing the
Lakshman / Hem Ganga, colonies of blue Hackelia uncinata, commonly known
as “Forget me not”, can be seen in the midst of shrubs and foliage along the
roadside. Primulas, morinas, wild roses and many other species are found in
abundance. On reaching the banks of the Pushpawati, a rich formation of blue
poppies, sunflowers, ligularia and pink androsace can be seen between the rocky
stretches near the bridge abetment. Further on, near the main valley, are
gorgeous varieties of wild roses, rhododendron, geranium and the
killer/dominating plant species like Polygonum polystachyum and also
Impatiens sulcata, which has been offsetting the floral composition of the valley.
A large variety of ferns like epiphytic, maiden- hair and oak fern can be seen.
The valley is rich in herbal plants, many of these are flowering plants - bergenia,
wood lily, are the popular ones. At several places, the dense growth of the
flower and non-flowering plants makes the valley look like a thick carpet that
has been splashed with several colours. A forbiddingly beautiful plant is
Arisaema costautum, popularly known as arum. Its head resembles that of a
cobra. The plant grows in shady recesses, often in isolated family groups.
Anemones, white dwarf Rhododendrons, Primulas and Anaphalies give a white
background to the valley. The violet Iris kumaonensis, Primula denticulate in
purple and Potentillas in red, yellow and pink can also be seen.
Along the riverside there are small patches of land
between scattered boulders, which have become the
natural habitat of a majestic flower - the blue
poppy. Known as Meconopsis aculeata to botanists,
it is a solitary flower and has the colour of the sky at
dawn. Like most poppies, it is open and wide,
droops slightly, has golden stamens, and is so
fragile that its petals are detached merely by
Anemone
2-64
brushing against them. It protects itself with sharp spines arranged on the stem
and buds.
The lily like Nomocharis exypetala, a rare plant, looks beautiful on the well
warmed, well-drained meadows of the valley. The rose-coloured Cypripedium
himalaicum has, earned the popular title of lady’s slipper and there are a number
of them in the valley. The pinkish glow of the valley can be attributed to the
large colonies of androsace, marsh orchid, geranium, pedicularis and thymus.
Splashes of golden lily and creamy tell- shaped codonopsis are also seen. The
pink pedicularis gives way to its yellow cousin the mainstay of the August
bloom. The potentillas are the first to appear and last to disappear from the
valley.
Thus, a variety of flowers grow at
the same place one at a time
indicating short life cycles (from
germination to flowering to
seeding) in this limited 3-4
months of flowering season.
Hence, one as a visitor to the
Valley of Flowers should not
come with an undue expectation
of finding all the varieties at one
time. Refer Table 2.2 for the
specie-wise period of bloom in the Valley of Flowers region and Exhibit 2.2 for
distribution of major Flower Composition in Valley of Flowers.
2-65
Table 2.2: Some the major species of plants/flowers and their period of bloom
in Valley of Flowers National Park
Sr. Botanical Name of English Habit Colour of Bloom Altitude (in
No. Plants Name Flower Period m above
MSL)
1. Rhododendron - Tree Red Feb-Jun 1200-3200
arboreum
2. Primula denticulate - Herb Purple Apr-Jul 2200-3600
3. Caltha palustris Marsh Herb Yellow May-Jul 2500-4000
marigold
4. Fragaria nubicola Strawberries Herb White May-Jul 3000-3600
5. Arisaema coastautum - - - Jun-Jul -
6. Dactylorhiza hatagirea - - - Jun-Jul -
7. Fritillaria roylei - Yellow Jun-Jul 3500-4000
Her Green
b
8. Iris Kumaonensis - Herb Purple Jun-Jul 3000-4000
Blue
9. Lilium oxypetala Golden Lily Herb Cream Jun-Jul 3000-3500
yellow
10. Rosa macrophylla Wild Rose Shrub Red Jun-Jul 2000-3200
11. Thermopsis barbeta - Herb Purplish Jun-Jul 3000-3500
12. Anemone obtusiloba Anemony Herb White & Jun-Aug 2400-4500
Wind flower Blue
13. Cypripedium Ladies Herb Pink Jun-Aug 3400-3700
himalaicum Slipper
Orchid
14. Hackelia uncinata Forget me Herb Blue Jun-Aug 3000-3500
not
15. Phlomis bracteosa - - - Jun-Aug -
16. Delphinium roylei - - - Jul-Aug -
17. Geranium Cranes’s bill Herb Purple Jul-Aug 2000-3500
wallichianum
18. Geum elatum - - - Jul-Aug -
19. Impatiens sulcata Balsam Herb Purple Jul-Aug 3200-4000
20. Ligularia amplexicaulis - Herb Yellow Jul-Aug 3500-4000
21. Meconopsis aculeate Blue-poppy Herb Blue Jul-Aug 3000-4000
22. Pedicularis hoffmeisteri - Herb Yellow Jul-Aug 3000-3500
2-66

MSL)
23. Rheum australe Rhubarb Herb Pink Jul-Aug 2700-3500
24. Saxifraga roylei - - - Jul-Aug -
25. Anaphalis triplineruis - - - Jul-Sep -
26. Aster albescens - Herb White Jul-Sep 3000-3300
27. Cremanthodium ellisii - - - Jul-Sep -
28. Morina longifolia - Herb White Jul-Sep 3000-4500
Pink
29. Potentilla Cinquefoil Herb Orange Jul-Sep 3200-4000
atrosanguinea Red
30. Thalictrum reniforme Meadow-reu Herb Green Jul-Sep 3000-3500
31. Aconitum hookeri - - - Aug-Sep -
32. Arenaria griffithii - - - Aug-Sep -
33. Bistorta affinis - - - Aug-Sep -
34. Campanula latifolia Bell Flower Herb Purple Aug-Sep 2400-3200
35. Codonopsis affinis - - - Aug-Sep -
36. Corydalis junecea - - - Aug-Sep -
37. Cyananthus lobatus - Herb Blue Aug-Sep 3000-3700
38. Epilobium latisperma - - - Aug-Sep -
39. Erigeron multiradiatus - Herb Blue Aug-Sep 2200-3500
40. Gaultheria erichophy - - - Aug-Sep -
41. Gentiana ornate - - - Aug-Sep -
42. Heracleum pinnatum - - - Aug-Sep -
43. Inula grandiflora - Herb Yellow Aug-Sep 2800-3300
44. Nepeta connata - - - Aug-Sep -
45. Polygonum molle - - - Aug-Sep -
46. Saussurea obvallata - Herb Yellowish Aug-Sep 3600-4500
White
47. Sedum ewersii - Herb Red Aug-Sep 3000-4500
48. Selinum tenuifolium/ - Herb White Aug-Sep 2000-4000
Selinum Candollii
49. Silene setisperma - - - Aug-Sep -
50. Senecio - - - Aug-Sep -
jacquemotiamus
2-67

MSL)
51. Stachys sericec - - - Aug-Sep -
52. Swertia hookeri - - - Aug-Sep -
Source: Display Board at the entrance of VOFNP and Wildlife Institute of India (Report: RR-
98/003)
2-68
Exhibit 2.2: Flower Composition Pattern at Valley of Flowers
Source: Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Joshimath
2.6.1 Distribution of Vegetation in VOFNP by Alpine Zones

The details of the vegetation in the Park as falling under various categories of
alpine zones is listed below:
Sub-Alpine Zone (Altitude < 3500 m above MSL)
The sub-alpine zone is characterised by typical high altitude forests dominated
by those below, which terminate at the tree line:
• Acer caesium
• Abies pindrow
• Betula utilis
• Rhododendron campanulatum
• Taxus baccata
2-69
• Euonymus fimbriatus
• Syringa emodi
• Sorbus lanata.
Some of the common herbs in tree line eco-tone are:
• Arisaema jacquemontii
• Boskniakia himalaica
• Corydalis cashmeriana
• Polemonium caerulium
• Polygonum polystachyum
• Impatiens sulcata
• Geranium wallichianum
• Helinia elliptica
• Galium aparine
• Morina longifolia
• Inula grandiflora
• Lilium oxypetala
• Anemone rivularis
• Pedicularis pectinata
• P. bicornuta
• Primula denticulate
• Trillidium govanianum, etc.
Lower Alpine Zone (Altitude 3500 m - 3700 m above MSL)
The vegetation of lower alpine zone consists of dwarf shrubs, cushionoid herbs,
and grasses. The major shrub species in the lower alpine zone of the park are:
• Juniperus communis
• Rhododendron anthopogon
• Salix sp.
• Lonicera myrtillus
• Cotoneaster microphyllus
• Rubus foliolosus
2-70
The herbaceous flora of this zone represents a spectacular array of multi-

coloured flowers during the growing season, for instance:
• Saussurea obvallata (Brahmakamal)
• Polemonium caeruleum
• Primula involucrate
• Aquilegia pubiflora
• Epilobium latifolium
• Corydalis meifolia.
They also exhibit an interesting cycle of growth within a short period giving way
to subsequent communities during different seasons. The dominant herbs of this
zone are:
• Potentilla atrosanguinea
• Geranium wallichianum
• Fritillaria roylei
• Dactylorhiza hatagirea
• Campanula latifolia
• Corydalis govaniana
• Epilobium latifolium
• Cortia depressa
• Impatiens sulcata
2-71
• Polygonum polystachyum
• Angelica arch-angelica
• Selinum vaginatum etc.
The common grasses in the lower alpine zone are:
• Kobresia royleana
• Carex nubigena.
The major sedges in the lower alpine zone are:
• Danthonia cachemyriana
• Calamogrostis emodensis
• Agrostis pilosula
• Trisetum spp.
Higher Alpine Zone (Altitude > 3700 m above MSL)
The vegetation of higher alpine zone is rather sparse, dotted with moraines,
boulders, and rocky slopes. The stable slopes on southern aspect typically
represent:
• Kobresia sedge meadows.
In northern aspects and certain sheltered areas extensive patches of shrubs are
found, for example:
• Rhododendron lepidotum
• Cassiope fastigiata
• Juniperus communis.
The dominant species in the higher alpine zone are:
• Kobresia royleana
• Trachydium roylei
• Danthonia cachemyriana.
In addition several colourful flowering herbs are found on the slopes, for
example:
2-72
• Geum elatum
• Saussurea obvallata (Brahmakamal)
• Saussurea simpsoniana
• Sedum sp.
• Bistorta affinis
• Bergenia stracheyi
• Potentilla atrosanguinea
• Trollius acualis etc.
Systematic work on the flowering plants and detailed ecological study of the
National Park was taken up by Dr. C. P. Kala in 1993-94 as part of the long-term
project titled Montane Grassland Project of the Wildlife Institute of India.
Satellite imagery was used to study the natural land use distribution in the Park.
In all, a total of 521 species of vascular plants were recorded in the Valley of
Flowers National Park, of which 499 are flowering plants (Angiosperms), 4 are
non-flowering plants (Gymnosperms) and 18 are ferns (Pteridophytes). The
ratios of monocot and dicot families, genera and species were 1:4.1, 1:3.5 and
1:4.3 respectively. Fifty five new flowering plants were first records from this
valley, of which 5 species were also first record for the entire Uttaranchal
Himalayas. These 5 species are:
• Saussurea atkinsonii
• Duthiea bromoides
• Lycopodium selago
• Herminium joshephii
• Salix calyculata.
Although the National Park constitutes only 1.3% of the total geographical area
of the Chamoli district, it contains almost 25% of its flora.
2.6.2 Endangered & Medicinal Plants
Of 31 rare and endangered plants found in the Valley of Flowers, 13 are
medicinal plants and 11 species are already listed in the Red Data Book (RDB) of
Indian Plants. Most of the rare plants grow in unusual habitats such as rocky
slopes, forest edges, and marsh meadows.
2-73
The species are rare because of restricted habitats, small

population size, narrow range of distribution, and over
exploitation by people for medicinal uses in the recent
past.
2.6.3 Flora around Hemkunt Belt
Around Hemkunt Sahib can be seen profuse flowering of
the Brahmakamal (Saussurea obvallata) and Blue poppy,
both of which are surprisingly not very common in the
Valley of Flowers area.
7.7 Inventory of Fauna
The density of wild animals in

the Valley of Flowers region is
very low. A total of 13 wild mammal species
are found within the Park and its vicinity. Of
these only 9 species were sighted by Dr. C.P
Kala during the research work, directly viz.:
• Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus)
• Himalayan musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster)
• Mouse hare (Ochotona roylei)
• Himalayan black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus)
• Red fox (Vulpes vulpes)
• Himalayan weasel (Mustela sibirica)
• Common langur (Presbytes entellus)
• Flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista)
• Himalayan yellow-throated marten (Martes flavigula).
According to the local people other wild

animals also found in the Park are:
• Himalayan brown bear (Ursus arctos)
• Bharal or blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur)
• Serow (Nemorhaedus sumatrensis)
2-74
• Snow leopard (Panthera uncia).
Blue sheep droppings were found only once

close to a high pass near Bhyundar Khal. Also
Common leopard (Panthera pardus) was
sighted close to human settlements in Khiron
Valley and buffer zone of the National Park.
The species of birds reported in the region are:
• Monal pheasant
• Koklas pheasant
• Kaleej pheasant
• Lammergeier
• Himalayan griffon
• Common kestrel
• Golden eagle
• Himalayan snowcock
• Snow partridge
• White-throated dipper
• Snow pigeon.
Several accentors, Wagtails, Finches, Warblers
breed during summer (May-August). Apart from
birds, one may also find different kinds of insects
and butterflies.
7.8 Local Human Settlements &
Economic Activities
There is no settlement within the National

Park. Four settlements viz., the tourist
settlement of Ghangharia, villages Bhyundar
and, Pulna, and the tourist settlement/village
2-75
Govind Ghat exist between the Park fringe and

the motor road. The local population at present
is about 79 families/households (about 375
persons in 2003) in Pulna, the winter
settlement. Except the school going children
and few elderly people, these villagers migrate
to Bhyundar and Ghangharia, the summer
settlements from May to early Oct. While
women stay back at Bhyundar with small
children, the men folk move further 3.75 km to
Ghangharia, which is the central place/base in
upper valley for tourist activities for 4 months
from June – September every year.
2.8.1 Tourism based Economy
Commercial Establishments and Tourist

Accommodation
Numerous tea/snack shops-cum-temporary rest
sheds have come up between Govind Ghat,
Pulna, Bhyundar, Ghangharia, and Hemkunt
to cater the needs of tourists during summer.
Earlier almost each family had an average of 4-
5 such temporary shops scattered haphazardly
along the route. Now these commercial
2-76
establishments have recently been registered

and regularised by a local NGO body known
as Eco-Development Committee (EDC),
Bhyundar under the aegis of the Department
of Forests (created under the provisions of
State Government’s Joint Forest Management
Rules and funding made available from the
World Bank Forestry Project to create
revolving fund) and the numbers of such
establishment enroute has drastically come
down to 63 shops from Govind Ghat to
Ghangharia and 15 shops from Ghangharia to
Hemkunt Sahib, while at Ghangharia itself
some 43 private establishments of
lodges/restaurants/photo studios/souvenir
shops, etc. are registered. These establishments
erected on Private/Nap land are called “Chak”
and those on Forestland are called “Chatti” and
these are either run by the villagers themselves
or given on rent (it was observed that such rent
varied from Rs. 5000/- to 17000/- depending
upon the suitability of the locality for
business) per tourist season.
Govind Dham Gurdwara is the largest
building complex established at Ghangharia
on the land where long ago a small
2-77
Dharamshala of 3 rooms of Baba Kali Kamali

Trust, Kolkata existed as the only means of
accommodation at Ghangharia. Due to its high
accommodation capacity that is free apart from
free food arrangements (Langar), majority of
the visitors who are mainly on pilgrimage to
Hemkunt Sahib avail the Gurdwara facility.
Thus, the nature of visitation in this region
being predominantly for a religious tourism
and with the availability of free facilities of
Gurdwara, the economic flow in favour of the
local communities is highly affected. The
government provided accommodation like
GMVN Tourist Rest House (TRH) and Forest
Rest House (FRH) charge relatively high and
fixed tariffs, the private lodge owners hardly
get Rs. 200/- per bed in peak tourism season or
Rs. 50-100/- per bed in Sep. i.e. nearing end of
tourist season due to fierce competition
between 20 odd private lodges to get high
occupancy by providing cheap accommodation
to the extent possible.
Moreover, the overall spatial development and
growth of Ghangharia has already happened
in a haphazard manner after felling numerous
trees, while structures have poor architectural
2-78
aesthetics/construction quality with no proper

water supply or solid waste disposal system in
place, along with the unresolved controversy
of whether it is developed on Reserve Forest
land or Van Panchayat land or Revenue land.
These establishments are thus, basically
encroachments without any prior approval
from Ministry of Environment & Forests
(MoEF)/ Central Government, on a land which
is part of the biosphere, and which was never
meant for creating permanent structures for
accommodation/commercial use and was never
under any permanent occupancy for
residential/commercial use of the local
community of Pulna/Bhyundar, since
generations before the Valley of Flowers was
found or when they trekked to Lokpal Temple
and Sarovar for years, much before the sacred
relevance of this place as Hemkunt Sahib as
well was discovered.
The owners of these establishments who are
also the local villagers as well as members of
village community/EDC/Van Panchayat are
trying to get the land of Ghangharia declared
as Revenue land from the district/state
administration so that after such declaration all
2-79
the structures/encroachments with their land

holdings can get regularised and get
individual ownerships registered with the
Department of Revenue. As per the provisions
of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the
encroached land in Ghangharia has been
surveyed by the Dept. of Revenue, Joshimath
in Nov. 2002 as a prerequisite to the proposal
of regularisation. This revenue survey map
was in draft state during this study with a
record of 53 establishments (including the trek
path area as circulation space within the
Ghangharia base settlement) spread over an
area of 2.638 ha. It is observed that of these 53
survey units/plots, 52 came into existence
before end of 1980. However, as per the Forest
(Conservation) Act, 1980, in no case any of
those encroachments which have taken place
after 24/10/1980 should be regularised, and any
regularisation can be considered only if
government had taken any decision with
reference to some eligibility criteria (in
accordance with local needs and conditions)
for regularisation before 25/10/1980. Hence, the
regularisation in the present case of
Ghangharia is expected to be a difficult issue.
2-80
Currently, EDC collects Rs. 2500/- as eco-fee

from Hotels/Lodges/Restaurants at Ghangharia
while Rs. 1500/- is collected from Chatti’s and
only Rs. 750/- is collected from Chak Stalls in
two installments for the 4-month tourist season
for environmental management along the trek
path.
Guide/Nature Interpretation Services
Some of the EDC members from the village are
also trained guides in nature interpretation
services and hence apart from their businesses
they can earn additionally Rs. 500/- per day per
guide through this activity.
Mules/Porters/Palki or Dandi Services
Most of the mules that operate in the tourist season here are from the lower/southern
areas of Uttaranchal/adjacent areas of UP, like Nazibabad, Bijnor, Ramnagar, etc. Even
the persons that command the mules, the porters, and palki/dandi carriers are mostly
from Nepal or the nearby hilly regions or adjacent areas of UP. Thus, almost all the
earnings from these services goes to outside persons. Only, an eco-development fee of
Rs. 20/- per mule is charged on this trek path near Govind Ghat and at Ghangharia for
Hemkunt Sahib trek and return from Ghangharia for cleaning of trek path. Also at
present no fee is charged for the temporary mule shed facility erected by mule operators
during the tourist season on the vacant government land, by Zila Panchayat at
Ghangharia.
Even for the household/commercial use goods

to be carried by mules villagers normally pay
per one-way trip about Rs. 50/- from Govind
Ghat to Pulna, Rs. 100/- to Bhyundar, and Rs.
2-81
150/- to Ghangharia, and Rs. 250/- to reach

establishments enroute Hemkunt Sahib.
Commercialisation of Grasses
The entire Bhyundar Valley in earlier days
used to be a summer grazing ground for
migratory pastoralists. According to the local
people every year two or three flocks (tolis) of
sheep and goats would camp in the valley from
early June to late September. Each 'toli'
contained about 700-1000 sheep, goats and a
few horses. Besides, buffaloes and cows of
Bhyundar village numbering about 40-50
would also be left in the valley. The shepherds
used two routes viz., one from the present
entrance to the valley via Pairra and another
from Hanuman Chatti (from Badrinath side) to
upland valley of Khunt Khal from where they
would descend to upper slopes and further
down to the centre of the valley. The major
camping sites were Bamini Dhaur, Khunt
Khal, Bistoli, Lower Drunager, Tipra and
Sewachand. The shepherds would use about 5
ha area at each place where their livestock
would halt at night and let loose to roam freely
on the slopes or flat lands during the day
hours. After notification of the VOFNP since
2-82
1981-82 the villagers have shifted their limited

grazing activities to the lower and side valleys
away from the National Park viz., Kanjila (to
south of Ghangharia), and Roopdhunga,
Semartoli, and Rajkharak (which are towards
west from Bhyundar village).
Now these families keep about 4-5 milch cattle
(cows/buffalos) per household and each of
them hardly produce 2-2.5 litres of milk, while
goat herds are hardly kept due to grazing
issues (except the local village community of
Govind Ghat which has some goat herds).
Also, very few households in Bhyundar/Pulna
village keep mules and there would be hardly
8-10 mules in the village. Thus, most of the
800-1000 odd mules that are reported to
operate in the peak tourist season here are
from the outside areas, as mentioned earlier.
Earlier, the grasses were collected and stored
for feeding of own livestock mainly during the
winter season, but now after early 1980s there
has been a shift in grass collection pattern
from domestic use to commercial utilisation.
At Govind Ghat, the mules mostly feed on hay
(which is brought from Ramnagar/Haldwani
markets) and some jaggery and gram (chana).
2-83
But, to meet the feed requirement of these

mules/ponies when they trek from Govind
Ghat –Ghangharia - Hemkunt Sahib and
return, local people from these villages collect
and sell grasses to the contractors who in turn
sell these grasses to prospective buyers (mostly
mule operators) at Ghangharia. Due to
migration of manpower to Bhyundar and
Ghangharia in tourist season, and due to
inhospitable climatic conditions around the
Bhyundar valley, the option to harvest grasses
when it is available in abundance in this
region (starting from Aug. when grasses
become mature and attain maximum height) is
also limited for short period of time. Not all
the households get involved in the collection
and sale of grasses. Women folk are mainly
responsible for collecting these grasses
initially from nearby mountain slopes (Aug.-
Sep.) and later they gradually proceed to
distant locations like Pulna (Oct.-Nov.) to
cover as much area till the beginning of
snowfall. This involves tremendous hard work
(women spend about 3 – 4 hours daily on this
grass collection activity) and risk as every year
few women are injured and reported even
2-84
dead due to fall from the mountain slopes.

Most of the collected grasses become dry, as
they are collected during the end of the season,
however, if the grasses are green they are sun
dried and stored, as green grasses fetch lower
prices. Introduction of tested high yield can
save the women folk from the drudgery of
time-consuming grass collection activity, so
that they can be gainfully involved in other
economic activities (like various activities
discussed in Chapter 10 & 11 in which during
the study Mahila Mandal has shown interest)
as well as being a provider of nutritional
grasses will improve milch cattle yield.
Improving the breed /health management of
cattle is also an area of concern that needs
intervention and assistance from the state’s
Department of Animal Husbandry.
Since the grasses are collected from the Van
Panchayat land, Rs. 3000/- is charged from each
interested household per Aug.-Nov. period of
availability of grass. While Van Panchayat may
also donate/share such amount collected with
the Gram Sabha in a ratio decided as per
mutual understanding in a particular grass-
harvesting year, for the purpose of welfare
2-85
works in the village. In practice, these

families/households sell their rights to the
contractors by bidding and the contractor with
highest amount in the bid is granted the
contract, and these families may earn
additionally about Rs. 10000-15000/- in this
activity. The current rates reported are given
below:
• The villagers sell dry grass at Rs. 7/- per kg to the contractor, while the
contractor in turn sells it to mule operators at Rs. 10/- per kg at Ghangharia.
• The villagers sell green grass at Rs. 4/- per kg to the contractor, while the
contractor in turn sells it to mule operators at Rs. 6/- per kg at Ghangharia.
Telecommunication Services
There are 3 PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booths at
Ghangharia connected to a Satellite Telephone
Exchange of Department of
Telecommunications. At Govind Ghat also few
PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booths exist
connected to Satellite Telephone Exchange at
Pandukeshwar. These booths are good source
of earning due to presence of large number of
tourists and limited number of such booths.
Such facilities do not exist enroute the trek
path or at Bhyundar or Pulna.
2.8.2 Agro-based Economy
Agricultural Harvests
2-86
Unfortunately, there is a scarcity of fertile

agricultural land and the feasibility of growing
crop species are also reported to be low in this
valley. Thus, people of Bhyundar/Pulna have
very low agricultural land holding per
household (about 1/2 ha or less). At Bhyundar
by Sep. end wheat is sowed in villagers’
owned fields across the river Bhyundar Ganga
and the small plant shoots of the crop get
covered under snow from Nov./Dec. and again
starts growing in Mar./Apr. after snow melts
and is ready for harvesting in Jul. after which
some vegetables are grown on these field and
later these fields are left vacant during snow
till next Mar./Apr. While the fields (that
remain vacant during snow) near the village
settlement are sown with potato in Mar./Apr.
and get harvested in mid-Sep. and after that in
these fields wheat is sown in Sep. end to be
harvested in next Jul. This cycle of growing
only one crop in either of these fields and
leaving them vacant on alternate season basis
continues every year, with the exception that
those households who have very small
holdings and get hardly an yield of wheat
would normally prefer to grow potato in both
2-87
seasons. This traditional variety of potato that

grows here has a good demand outside this
valley.
Similarly, at Pulna village the agricultural
fields of the villagers are only on one side of
the river Bhyundar Ganga, i.e. at the village
settlement side of the valley. Here potato is
sown in Mar.-Apr. and harvested in Sep. After
that, by Sep. end either wheat is sown or
vegetables is sown and later the fields are left
vacant when under snow and grow in next year
Chaulai/ Mandwa/ Rajma as per the need of
the household in May-Jun. and harvest the
same in Nov. Flour is prepared from Chaulai
grains (called Ramdana) and from Mandwa
grains (called Koda-black seeds). The snow
falls from Jan.-Feb. till Mar. and wheat is
harvested in Jul. Other lentils and spices are
bought from market from Joshimath, etc.
The residual of agricultural crops is not sold in
market and is rather stored for own
domesticated animals for winter, which is the
lean period as far as fodder, and feed is
concerned.
Horticultural Harvests
2-88
To supplement the agricultural income,

villagers have started planting fruit trees near
their homesteads/fallow land/land not suitable
for crops. The market for local fruits and
vegetable has also grown at Bhyundar/Pulna
and in markets of Ghangharia & Govind Ghat
village, and during the tourist season, tourists
absorb fruits like pears, plums, and apples and
these are available in few stalls. Apart from
potato, vegetables like onion, garlic, cabbage,
beans, chilli, coriander is grown in summers
and good quality cabbage, mustard, and
spinach is harvested in winters before snow
period. Thus, agro-forestry which suits to the
local settings and which do not hamper the
basic crop yield may be promoted in these
villages of Bhyundar/Pulna or in vacant Van
Panchayat lands. This activity will also result
in availability of another avenue of fodder and
fuel to individuals mostly from their own
fields to save them from the drudgery of
fodder and fuel wood collection and thereby to
reduce pressure on the nearby reserve forest
areas.
2.8.3 Fuel Type & Usage
2-89
Cooking Fuel
Cooking fuel is normally used for cooking,
heating water for bathing/washing, and
lighting fire to get warmth in cold nights.
Though 80% of the households of
Pulna/Bhyundar village have LPG connections,
the share of LPG as cooking fuel is about 35-
40%, while the consumption of fuel wood
(fallen wood branches/twigs collected by
women from Van Panchayat land or Forest
land) is about 55-60%, and rest about 5% share
is of kerosene as cooking fuel. Women
normally collect fuel wood twice a week and
wood collected in one 6-hour effort lasts about
3 days. One LPG cylinder also gets consumed
within a month.
During the tourist season, most of the
tea/snack stalls enroute and at
lodges/restaurants at Ghangharia use LPG and
Kerosene. Gurdwara’s have more Kerosene
stove burners than LPG burners. Kerosene
costs about Rs. 20/- per litre while LPG
cylinder costs Rs. 250/- at Govind Ghat. When
transported through mules, the LPG cylinder
costs approximately Rs. 300/- at Pulna, Rs. 350/-
at Bhyundar, and Rs. 400/- at Ghangharia.
2-90
Similarly, Kerosene per litre costs

approximately at Rs. 22/- at Pulna, Rs. 27/- at
Bhyundar, and Rs. 30/- at Ghangharia. For
these commercial establishments the
percentage share of kerosene as
cooking/heating fuel is again high and would
be about 60%, while 30-40 % share would be of
LPG. Some wood is also used for lighting fire
to get warmth at Hemkunt Sahib Shrine, and
in cold nights by labours/porters.
Generator Fuel
Gurdwaras at Govind Ghat, Ghangharia and
Hemkunt Sahib are the main establishments
that use diesel generators for getting sufficient
power. These consume about 800 litres of
diesel in 2 days (about 400 litres at Govind
Ghat, 300 litres at Ghangharia and 100 litres at
Hemkunt Sahib). Some other establishments
also keep small 5 KV generators run on
kerosene. Usage of wood and diesel fuel adds
to some air pollution in the Bhyundar valley,
but the level seems to be low enough to be
absorbed by the nature.
As the money has started flowing in this valley
due to arrival of large number of tourists, the
impending desire to earn more money has also
2-91
increased amongst the local community. Their

character has turned into a typical business
community, which does not want to loose any
knocking opportunity, due of availability of
market for various activities/services during
the tourist season. This has also affected in
turn their educational growth and most of the
youngsters discontinue further education after
high-school level due to pressure to earn more
and as early as possible from the tourist
season. Thus, the dependency of these local
communities has shifted from marginal
farming, indigenous agro-forestry and rearing
livestock to tourism based economy to a very
high extent. Each family is able to earn in this
tourist season approximately from Rs. 40,000/-
to Rs. 1,00,000/- based on the tourism business
they undertake, which even with the help of
limited agricultural produce/residual fodder or
sale of grass on contract for mule consumption
during tourist season is not able to ease the
difficulty in providing an average quality of
life. So, in off-season months either these men
folk support agriculture, herd cattle, or work as
civil contractors, masons, labourers, etc. to earn
additionally so that they can live an average
2-92
quality of life. Very few people are there who

are employed in defence, or other full time
professions.
7.9 Current Tourist Circuits and Routes
Some of the existing tourist circuits to visit in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region
and other nearby tourism centres are listed in Table 2.3 below:
Table 2.3: Current Tourist Circuits and Routes
Sr. Entry Route Exit Near by Total
No Tourist Duration
Airport / Entry Exit Airport /
Centres (Days)
Rail Head Point Point Rail Head
1. D’Dun / Govind Dehra Dun/ Haridwar / Govind D’Dun / Rishikesh, 10 (excl.
Haridwar Ghat Rishikesh– Ghat Rishikesh Kedarnath, Auli)
& Rudraprayag– & Badrinath/
Rishikesh Gaurikund– Kedarnath- Haridwar Mana,
Gaurikund– Pandukesh
Rudraprayag– -war, Auli
Joshimath– Govind Ski Resorts
Ghat– Badrinath/Mana
– Govind Ghat-
Ghangharia- Valley of
Flowers– Ghangharia-
Hemkunt– Ghangharia-
Govind Ghat–
Joshimath–
Rudraprayag– Rishikesh
/Haridwar/ Dehra Dun
Note: Combined Tour
possible from mid-May to
September
2. D’Dun / Govind Dehra Dun / Haridwar Govind D’Dun / Rishikesh, 7 (excl.
Haridwar Ghat / Rishikesh – Joshimath Ghat Rishikesh Kedarnath, Auli)
& – Govind Ghat – & Badrinath/
Rishikesh Ghangharia -Valley of Haridwar Mana,
Flowers Ghangharia - Pandukesh
Hemkunt – Ghangharia -war, Auli
- Govind Ghat – Ski Resorts
Badrinath/Mana –
Govind Ghat –
Joshimath – Rishikesh /
Haridwar / Deharadun
3. Rishikesh Joshim Rishikesh – Joshimath – Govind Rishikesh Panch 8 (incl.
ath / Govind Ghat – Ghat / Prayag, Auli)
Govind Ghangharia -Valley of Joshim Badrinath/
2-93
Sr. Entry Route Exit Near by Total

No Tourist Duration
Airport / Entry Exit Airport /
Centres (Days)
Rail Head Point Point Rail Head
Ghat Flowers Ghangharia - ath Mana,
Hemkunt – Ghangharia Pandukesh
- Govind Ghat – -war, Auli
Badrinath/Mana - Ski Resorts
Joshimath – Auli –
Joshimath - Rishikesh
4. Delhi (By Joshim Delhi – Haridwar – Govind Delhi (By Panch 10 (incl.
Road) ath / Rishikesh – Ghat / Road) Prayag, Auli first
Govind Joshimath/Auli – Joshim Badrinath/ or last)
Ghat Govind Ghat – ath Mana,
Ghangharia - Valley of Pandukesh
Flowers Ghangharia - -war, Auli
Hemkunt – Ghangharia Ski Resorts
- Govind Ghat/
Badrinath/Mana -
Joshimath/ Auli –
Rishikesh – Haridwar -
Delhi
5. Delhi (By Govind Delhi – Haridwar – Govind Delhi (By Panch 9 (excl.
Road) Ghat Rishikesh – Joshimath – Ghat Road) Prayag, Auli)
Govind Ghat – Badrinath/
Ghangharia -Valley of Mana,
Flowers Ghangharia - Pandukesh
Hemkunt – Ghangharia -war, Auli
- Govind Ghat – Ski Resorts
Badrinath/Mana -
Joshimath – Rishikesh –
Haridwar - Delhi
6. Delhi (By Ghat/ Delhi- Haridwar- Govind Delhi (By Ghat, 20 (incl.
Road) Govind Deoprayag- Srinagar- Ghat Road) Ramni, Trek
Ghat Ghat- Ramni- Jhenjipani Jhenjipani, from
- Pana- Dhakwani- Kuari Pana, Ghat to
Pass - Auli- Parsari- Dhakwani, Auli and
Joshimath- Govind Kuari Pass, to
Ghat- Ghangharia- Panch Joshimat
Hemkunt Sahib - Prayag, h)
Govind Ghat – Badrinath/
Badrinath/Mana- Mana,
Gopeshwar- Rishikesh- Pandukesh
Delhi -war, Auli
Ski Resorts
Based on one’s tour plans and time availability and interests, some more
destinations in Chamoli district like, other Panch Badris, other Panch Kedars,
Nanda Devi Sanctuary (A National Park and core zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere
2-94
Reserve (NDBR), Bedni Bugyal, Ali Bugyal, Roopkund, Homkund, etc. can also
be explored mostly by long treks.
7.10 Tourists/Visitors Arrival

The tourist season begins from 5th of June every year after the snow period is
over and road accessibility on Badrinath route for Govind Ghat is open by end of
Apr. Gurdwara’s at Ghangharia and Hemkunt Sahib start getting ready from last
week of May for the coming tourist season. The visitation to this area normally
ends by 5th October when the Hemkunt Sahib Durbar closes and 8th Oct. when
the Govind Dham Durbar at Ghangharia closes before the start of oncoming
snow period. The numbers of pilgrims to Hemkunt Sahib have been steadily
multiplying from the time of its discovery in the 1930's until today. It is reported
that in 1977, there were only about 500 odd visitors. The incredible growth of the
sacred journey in a short time, and the way the newly discovered sacred place
achieved legitimacy in the minds of the pilgrims, are fascinating subjects of study
in themselves.
The tourist flow in this area within the short 4-months of tourist season has
increased significantly over the years, as listed in the Table 2.4 below. The
visitation to Valley of Flowers as per the 15th Sep 2003 figures from the Forest
Range Check-Post shows a record visitor arrival of 6321 persons with the average
annual growth since 1993 being 27.2%. However, the major share of the visitors
goes to Hemkunt Sahib and the share has been increasing from 85% in 1993 to
98.4% as per the figures of 2003 season. In the 2003 season till end of September
month, 388108 persons visited the Hemkunt Sahib Shrine, thus the average
annual growth of visitors since 1993 being 65.4%.
2-95
Table 2.4: Tourist Arrival figures in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt in past one decade
Year Valley of Flowers Hemkunt Sahib Ghangharia Base Govind Ghat Base
IND SDS GOS FOR Total IND FOR Total IND FOR Total IND FOR Total
1993 2033 171 2204 12500 125 12625 14550 350 14900 49000 25 49025
1994 1345 150 1495 10200 0 10200 12300 150 12450 48814 156 48970
1995 1052 38 1090 15222 143 15365 13590 0 13590 50005 143 50148
1996* 934 66 384 89 1473 16231 89 16320 50454 89 50543
1997* 1094 11 151 49 1305 72157 34 72191 225600 142 225742
1998* 340 88 33 461 101378 98 101476 108372 145 108517
1999* 503 267 7 777 109246 52 109298 109923 102 110025
2000* 804 277 13 1094 327550 0 327550 180890 40 180930
2001* 1959 851 134 2944 210980 0 210980 95482 40 95522 62763 41 62804
2002*^ 3250 0 713 41 4004 340578 0 340578 179301 52 179353 86091 66 86157
Jun 64 5 0 69 148252 0 148252 102460 0 102460 48266 15 48281
Jul 435 23 5 463 95258 0 95258 50212 8 50220 18517 12 18529
Aug 1307 133 16 1456 80623 0 80623 15631 18 15649 10466 12 10478
Sep 471 552 10 1033 12200 0 12200 9432 8 9440 8240 15 8255
Oct 973 10 983 4245 0 4245 1566 18 1584 602 12 614
2003** 5316 116 0 889 6321 388108 0 388108 279462 68 279530 164566 84 164650
Jun 233 11 16 260 162297 0 162297 120322 16 120338 68232 12 68244
Jul 3116 86 770 3972 83246 0 83246 65240 20 65260 28462 16 28478
Aug 1672 18 88 1778 80245 0 80245 45260 22 45282 37642 52 37694
Sep 295 1 15 311 62320 0 62320 48640 10 48650 30230 4 30234
Note:
The main source for tourist arrival data in general is Tourist Bureau, Gopeshwar & Joshimath. However, the figures for Valley of Flowers is cross checked
with DFO, Joshimath (as in "The Landscape Management Plan of NDBR").
* 1996-2001 data for Valley of Flowers is from "The Landscape Management Plan of NDBR" collected from DFO, Joshimath.
*^ 2002 data (from Jun to Sep) for Valley of Flowers is obtained from Conservator & Eco-Tourism Officer, Dehra Dun, while for Oct it is added from Tourist
Bureau, Gopeshwar.
** 2003 data for Valley of Flowers is obtained from Forest Range Office Check-Post at Valley of Flower Entrance & it does not include Govt. Officials as
visitors and last updated data available is till 15th Sep 2003. For other visitors to Hemkunt Sahib, or staying at Ghangharia and Govind Ghat the figures till
Sep 30 as available with Tourism Bureau Office, Joshimath. Other blank cells indicate data being not available.
2-96
7.11 Tourist Infrastructure

2.11.1 Transportation
From Hardwar/Rishikesh/Dehra Dun, buses (State Roadways/GMOU for about
11 hours ride to Joshimath and further 1 hour ride to Govind Ghat) and shared
taxis (for 9 hours ride to Joshimath and further 1 hour ride to Govind Ghat) are
available till Badrinath through Joshimath and Govind Ghat from where the trek
to Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt region starts.
Note: From Joshimath to Govind Ghat buses and shared taxis are allowed from
6:30 am to 4:30 pm (in intervals) as per the "gate system" and the gates remain
closed after 4:30 pm for all vehicles. Every day in the tourist season, this is done
to regulate traffic as one way for a period in either direction and regulating
traffic flow on the treacherous route. For Govind Ghat to Joshimath, the gates
open at 7:50 am (in intervals) and last time at 5:45 pm. Also, there are no buses
from Rishikesh to Joshimath or vice-versa after 9.00 pm, since vehicles do not ply
on these roads after dark.
Trek path improvement was taken up after Rs. 30.00 lakhs was sanctioned in Dec 1998
and in 2001-2003 about 90% of the amount has been spent by PWD on cement
concrete work in stone kharanja, new side walls, repair of side walls, slip repair, stone
benches, MS railing, etc. from the Govind Ghat cable suspension bridge end to 7 km
point. Shelter sheds were also planned in this budget but could not be constructed.
2.11.2 Guides, Porters, Mule, & Palki/Dandi Services
From Govind Ghat ponies/mules, porters, and palkies/dandies can be hired.
Though the charges for transport services on trek trails are fixed by Zila
Panchayat, Chamoli, they are normally negotiable and can vary depending on
the destination for which these services are hired, like from Govind Ghat-
Ghangharia, Ghangharia to Valley of Flowers, Ghangharia- Hemkunt or Govind
Ghat-Hemkunt and back. Mules are generally available from midway also.
About 800-1000 mules operate on this trek path in peak season (about 500-600 at
Govind Ghat and 300-400 are available from Ghangharia). Palkies are available at
about Rs. 5000/- charge to and fro from Hemkunt Sahib. If the mules are hired
from Govind Ghat, or Ghangharia to Hemkunt Sahib or return to Govind Ghat,
the operators have to pay an eco-fee of Rs. 20/- when starting from each such
location at the respective EDC Check-posts. Refer Table 2.5 for the rates for
hiring porters/mules/palki services fixed by Zila Panchayat as applicable for
tourist season in year 2002-2003.
5-97
Table 2.5: Rates fixed for Hiring Mules/Porters/Palkies or Dandi in 2003

Sr. Particulars of Trek Weight Labour Service Total Night
No. (kg) Charge Fee Fee Rest
(Rs.) (Rs.) (Rs.) Charge
(Rs.)
A. Govind Ghat to Hemkunt Sahib &
Back to Govind Ghat
1. Porter Up to 50 520.00 20.00 540.00 100.00
> 50 780.00 20.00 800.00 100.00
2. Mule/Pony Up to 60 780.00 20.00 800.00 200.00
> 60 1040.00 20.00 1060.00 200.00
3. Palki/Dandi – Carried by 4 Person Up to 60 3250.00 20.00 3270.00 300.00
Palki/Dandi – Carried by 6 Person > 60 4940.00 20.00 4960.00 400.00
B. Govind Ghat to Ghangharia and
Ghangharia to Hemkunt Sahib &
Back to Ghangharia – Rates are
same
1. Porter Up to 50 325.00 20.00 345.00 -
> 50 455.00 20.00 475.00 -
2. Mule/Pony Up to 60 390.00 20.00 410.00 -
> 60 585.00 20.00 605.00 -
3. Palki/Dandi – Carried by 4 Person Up to 60 1560.00 20.00 1580.00 -
Palki/Dandi – Carried by 6 Person > 60 2600.00 20.00 2620.00 -
C. Ghangharia to Valley of Flowers &
Back to Ghangharia
1. Porter Up to 50 390.00 20.00 410.00 -
> 50 520.00 20.00 540.00 -
2. Palki/Dandi – Carried by 4 Person Up to 60 455.00 20.00 475.00 -
Palki/Dandi – Carried by 6 Person > 60 650.00 20.00 670.00 -
Source: Zila Panchayat, District Chamoli’s Rate Display Board at Govind Ghat.
(Separate charges for return from Ghangharia to Govind Ghat is not mentioned in the above display board,
and the normal rates charged are Rs. 100/- by porter, Rs. 150/- by mule, and Rs. 1500/- by palki, excluding
Rs. 20/- as Service Fee).
Mules are however are not permitted for trek

travel in Valley of Flowers National Park. For
Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt nature visit, EDC
trained guides from local community (of
Bhyundar/Pulna village) are available for a
charge of Rs. 500/- per day.
5-98
Mule Sheds and Food Arrangements

There are no proper mule sheds enroute. There were hardly 1 or 2 instances where the
concerned stall enroute had provided a polythene sheet canopy across the stall for
mules to rest. At Govind Ghat / Ghangharia / Hemkunt Sahib mules rest in temporary
sheds with walls and roof cover of polythene sheets with kutcha floor filled up with
stinking dung & urine. At Ghangharia, the vacant government land is utilised by Zila
Panchayat and since the infrastructure is not developed on this land, mule operators do
not pay any fees for this temporary mule shed facility at present.
Each mule consumes per day about 0.5 kg of jaggery and 2 kg of gram (chana), 8-
10 kg of local grass and about 10 litres of water. The mule operators buy the grass
from local contractors at Ghangharia at the rate of about Rs. 10/- per kg of dry
grass, and green/wet grass at about Rs. 6/- per kg.
A Note on What to Carry, while Trekking?
• Always carry a torch or flashlight if you are out walking after sunset or before
sunrise. Also carry one when you go up to Hemkunt Sahib. You may need it
on the way back down. For many people, the journey takes much longer than
they expect, and they end up walking after dark. Matches and candles are
available in for purchase, but consider bringing some with you as well, as no
path lighting arrangements exist in last stretches when trekking near
Ghangharia or Govind Ghat during dark/bad weather.
• Carry a mix of sweets, chocolates, dry fruits, and nuts for consumption, as
you would need high energy on the trek. Make certain each person carries his
or her own in case your group becomes separated on the path. And do not
forget to carry water. It is easy to become dehydrated during strenuous
exercise, and the local water supply is not reliable/hygienic at present to
drink. Beverages like, tea, coffee, cold drinks, and bottled mineral water,
while available along the trail, are quite expensive and prices vary as one
treks up. Consider bringing some extra sweets to hand out to those others
along the way who may need them. But remember to throw any wrapper/plastic
waste only in waste bins or try to keep with yourself and carry them back to plains. In
no case you should litter the trek path/surroundings.
• Using a walking stick will help you to keep your balance and your rhythm
while you are walking. These sticks are available at Govind Ghat and
Ghangharia base settlements.
• Bring some first aid supplies and medicines with you for headache, fever,
cold, asthma, vomiting, dizziness, other painkillers (gel/spray), antibiotics,
cough medicine, indigestion, dehydration, antiseptics, cotton/gauze, tape,
bandages, etc. Though there are medical clinic/dispensary facilities available
at Govind Ghat and Ghangharia, and an Army hospital in Joshimath, one
should be aware that medical care in the region is very basic and limited.
5-99
• Precautions: Altitude sickness is a very serious risk along the journey to higher
altitudes like, Hemkunt Sahib. Try to spend as much time as possible in the
hills before going all the way up to Hemkunt. Your body adjusts to the
altitude slowly. Don't let yourself become chilled or dehydrated. Dress in
warm, dry clothes and drink plenty of beverages - tea, water, juice, or soft
drinks. Try not to become over-tired. Watch for the following symptoms of
altitude sickness: headaches, difficulty breathing, cold extremities, dizziness,
disorientation, vomiting. If you or members of your group have these
symptoms, please go back down where more oxygen is available in the air to
get alleviation from these symptoms and getting relief. Altitude sickness can
be life-threatening.
2.11.3 Accommodation & Food Arrangements
Accommodation for Visitors
Enroute & at Base: Sikh Gurdwaras, managed by the same trust that oversees the
operation of the pilgrimage to Hemkunt Sahib, offer food and lodging at
Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, and Joshimath enroute to Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt Region. For night stay Joshimath has GMVN TRH facility (2 TRH’s)
available. Govind Ghat also offers a Gurdwara, few private lodges and forest rest
house for night stay.
Ghangharia is the base settlement offering accommodation facilities to the
tourists for night halt either for onward travel to Valley of flowers and Hemkunt
Sahib or return travel to Govind Ghat. At Ghangharia the accommodation
facilities are:
• Forest Rest House
• GMVN Tourist Rest House (lodging facilities on pre-reservation)
• Private Lodges: Room Tariffs vary as per the facilities and in-flow of tourists.
• Govind Dham Gurdwara: Open to all, but one has to sleep on floor
(mattresses and blankets provided) with other fellow travellers/pilgrims.
• Own tents can also be pitched in vacant (flat/terraced) Van Panchayat land at
Kanjila (a hew hundred meters before Ghangharia) by individual tourists /
tour groups on a nominal fee to Van Panchayat.
Though the accommodation in rest houses/lodges has attached
bathrooms/toilets with piped water supply (direct/continuous intake from
Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream and supplied through pipes provided through
own arrangements of these establishments), hot water that is must at these cold
temperatures is unavailable through piped means. But water separately heated
on large kerosene/gas stoves are provided by these establishments at a cost of
about Rs. 20.00 per bucket for the needy.
5-100
At Site: At Valley of Flowers, being declared the National Park night stay is not
permitted. Similarly, at Hemkunt Sahib accommodation facilities are only for
Gurdwara Staff and Lokpal staff in the Gurdwara and small Dharamshala
respectively and they do not encourage general stay for those who are not
acclimatised to staying at such heights due to conditions of severe cold and
relatively low level of oxygen. Hence, visitors need to return back and stay at
nights in Govind Dham Gurdwara/other accommodation at Ghangharia.
Facilities for Holy Bath (Ishnan) at Hemkunt Sarovar: The Sarovar water is
frigid/cold. The bathing space for men and women are completely different and
separated. Men take bath by the side of the lake behind the Gurdwara. There is a
roofed structure with sides open by the side of the lake where men change
clothes. For women, a small diversion from the Sarovar passes through a small
room (totally covered and within the lower storey it is a part of Gurdwara itself)
providing water where women take bath and change clothes, and which
cascades down the slope joining Lakshman /Hem Ganga which flows
downstream towards Ghangharia. There were no lifeguards observed, however
the Gurdwara staff (many of them young volunteers/sevadars) were expected to
take care of emergency requirements.
The existing accommodation capacity is listed in the Table 2.6 below.
Table 2.6: Existing Accommodation Capacity
Sr. Settlement Facility Type No. of No. of No. of Beds
No. Facility Rooms incl.
Dormitory
Base Settlement
on Trek Route*
1. Govind Ghat** Gurdwara^ 1 Small & Big 6000
Halls
Private Lodges/Hotels 10 119 414
FRH 1 2 4
Sub-Total 6418
2. Ghangharia Gurdwara^^ 1 Small & Big 3000
Halls
GMVN TRH 1 15 62
FRH 1 2 4
Sub-Total 3717
Total 10135
Base Settlement
on Motor Route
5-101
Sr. Settlement Facility Type No. of No. of No. of Beds

No. Facility Rooms incl.
Dormitory
1. Joshimath Gurdwara 1
GMVN TRH (New) 1 20 68
GMVN TRH (Old) 1 20 68
FRH 1 3 6
Total 1268
Note:
* Pulna (about 3 km from Govind Ghat) and Bhyundar (about 9 km from Govind Ghat) are the
only villages, which can offer shelter (by local residents sharing their dwelling units) in an
emergency of trek path getting blocked or Camping in tents is provided with the permission of
DFO, Joshimath through EDC assistance, if on Forest land of the non-core zone area.
** Though Govind Ghat is also on motor route, it is the settlement from where normally the trek
starts in the morning during onward journey to Ghangharia/Hemkunt Sahib and the return treks
end at Govind Ghat in the evening.
^ Gurdwara at Govind Ghat can accommodate upto 6000 persons comfortably.
^^ Gurdwara at Ghangharia can accommodate upto 12000 visitors in rush season (Jun-Jul). All
the visitors have to sleep on floors for which enough mattresses and blankets are available, even
to meet the needs of rush season.
Rest Shelters Enroute
There are no rest shelters enroute. Only very few stone masonry benches exist. One
normally rests at various Chak and Chatti stalls enroute, if required.
Eateries & Other Facilities for Visitors
Numerous small teashops, snack bars, and temporary sheds have come up
between Govind Ghat, Pulna, Bhyundar, Ghangharia, and Hemkunt Sahib to
cater to the needs of tourists during summer. Food is also available at many
restaurants at Govind Ghat and Ghangharia, while the Gurdwaras at Govind
Ghat and Ghangharia offer free food at the Langar facility. Similarly at Hemkunt
Sahib free hot khichri & tea and prasad is served to all the visitors. For quenching
thirst with hygienic drinking water one has to mainly depend on the packaged
mineral water or soft drinks (mostly in plastic bottles, with exception of tetra
packaging for thicker fluids like fruit drinks/juices).
Accommodation for Mule Operators/Porters
Mule operators/porters live in temporary sheds with walls and roof cover of polythene
sheets with no toilet facilities. Food is normally said to be provided free from the
Gurdwara Langar facility.
For various facilities/services provided by Department of Tourism, Uttaranchal State in
its Garhwal region, one can contact GMVN Head Office at Dehra Dun, Yatra Office at
Rishikesh, many District Tourist Bureau/Offices within Garhwal region of Uttaranchal
5-102
State, and many Public Relations Offices (PROs) within India. (Refer websites
http://ua.nic.in/uttaranchaltourism/index.html and www.gmvnl.com)
2.11.4 Solid Waste Management System
In more than past two decades, till the year 2002, the cleanliness of the trek path
and solid waste collection was done by various agencies, like by the State
Department of Health (DoH) and by Zila Panchayat with some contribution from
Mahila Mandal/Pulna village for a distance of some 6 km from Govind Ghat
upto 3 km before Bhyundar in Oct-Nov, and Youth Valley Development
Committee (YVDC)/Yuvak Mandal till 1999-2000 before the EDC took over
cleaning task since June 2003. However, much more concerted efforts were felt
necessary and after EDC took over the task of collection of solid waste and its
temporary disposal, it has done a commendable job by collecting more than 4000
sacks of non-biodegradable/harmful waste (i.e. all plastic waste, batteries, etc.) in
Jun-Jul 2003, which included lot of uncollected waste accumulated over many
years, and has stacked them near Forest Rest House at Govind Ghat. But at the
Govind Ghat itself it’s the Zilla Panchayat that has been responsible for
cleanliness at the time of the study. During the study, one could easily see lots of
plastic waste littered along the banks of river Alaknanda at Govind Ghat.
However at the time of revision of the report, the Director NDBR has informed
that EDC, Govind Ghat was formed since 2004.
EDC cleaning staff continues to collect about average 2-3 sacks of non-
biodegradable and harmful waste per day per km for the Govind Ghat –
Ghangharia – Hemkunt stretch. Attempts are being made to bring down all of
these to Govind Ghat on regular basis through mules on contract (these are those
mules which normally bring food/ration supplies for various establishments
from Govind Ghat and when returning they carry non-biodegradable waste
sacks to Govind Ghat). For instance, each mule carries about 5 sacks and charges
Rs. 150/- per mule from Ghangharia to Govind Ghat (20-25 such trips are made
per day) and Rs. 250/- per mule is charged from Hemkunt Sahib to Govind Ghat
(12-15 such trips are made per day). However, at the end of the tourist season it
was observed that these were not enough and some sacks are still lying around
the trek path, Ghangharia and Hemkunt Sahib apart from additional litter which
is still to be collected in sacks (which got littered in few days after EDC stopped
cleaning the path by end of Sept 2003) and needs to be picked up for bringing
them down to Govind Ghat.
Bio-degradable solid waste is currently disposed off at Hemkunt Sahib by
dumping behind the Gurdwara’s Langar facility and also from the
kitchen/utensil cleaning area it flows down from the pucca open drains and falls
into the Lakshman/Hem Ganga stream. One can easily see non-biodegradable
plastic waste litter in this water stream near the water intake at Ghangharia, and
many locations downstream. At Ghangharia bio-degradable waste is disposed
5-103
off by dumping in open pits/lands by respective establishments like Gurdwara,

GMVN TRH, FRH, restaurants, etc. either within their premises or just outside
the premises. At the village settlements of Bhyundar/Pulna the bio-degradable
solid waste is normally consumed when mixed with cattle feed and the waste
from kitchen/utensil wash flows down through open drains to small local pits.
While at Govind Ghat, bio-degradable waste is disposed off by dumping in open
lands and kitchen/utensil cleaning area it flows down from the open drains from
respective establishments like Gurdwara, restaurants, etc. behind their premises
at the banks of river Alaknanda. Solid waste is assumed to be generated at the
rate of 0.5 kg. per person per day and about 10 kg per pair of mule per day.
For proper collection of solid waste in the first place, EDC has provided either
small canisters or empty fuel drums/paint cans throughout the trek route from
Govind Ghat-Ghangharia-Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib. For small
waste collection canisters / empty drums & paint cans “waste bin” signage is
painted shabbily in blue or yellow coloured background with text in red colour.
Another area of concern to be addressed is the provision of proper/affordable
accommodation for the EDC cleaning staff during the tourist season.
Planned Management Initiatives
• EDC, Govind Ghat under the provisions of State’s Joint Forest Management
Rules and as part of the biosphere management.
• During the study, Revenue sharing arrangement of EDC was expected to be
increased to 60% for EDC, Bhyundar share and only 20% for Zila Panchayat
till EDC, Govind Ghat was formed. So that about 5-10% savings could be
possible to utilise as revolving fund (apart from some funds made available
through the world bank Forestry Project) - for vocational training/
education/ exposure in tourism industry for the EDC, Mahila Mandal, and
other members from the local host community of Bhyundar/Pulna for on-
season and off-season employment.
• Community based tourism training is being planned by DFO (may take 15-20
days to facilitate, document the training needs, and getting feedback before
finalising the training content)
• EDC/Forest Department is constructing many waste collection pits of
random rubble stone masonry in various sizes (e.g. 4 ft x 4 ft x 1 m deep, 4 ft x
8 ft x 1 m deep, etc.) depending upon the space available enroute the trek
path from Govind Ghat –Ghangharia – Hemkunt Sahib.
2.11.5 Water Supply System
Govind Ghat
Govind Ghat has shortage of water supply. Currently Govind Ghat gets piped
water supply through gravity from a tank across river Alaknanda.
Bhyundar/Pulna village
5-104
Bhyundar has an old covered water tank system for piped water supply through
gravity from a stream source upstream of village. The water from Bhyundar
Ganga is mostly fetched for regular use. Similarly, piped water supply (2” dia.
pipeline and later 1” dia.) through gravity exists from a stone masonry pit water
tank, which collects water from a stream at a distance of about 4.6 km upstream
of Pulna. These pipes run underneath the trek path. Water posts with taps are
erected at some places enroute the trek path and at present the water supply is
free. Pulna has a ground storage tank (RCC CWR) of about 50 KL capacity.
Ghangharia
Jal Nigam’s water supply arrangement is not operational at Ghangharia. This
facility currently has a stone masonry water tank about 300m up from
Ghangharia on Hemkunt route and 2 x 2” & 1 x 1 “ GI pipeline is already laid
from this tank till the first embankment of broken bridge on Lakshman Ganga
near Ghangharia. The current system of supply in use is temporarily laid and
managed by local establishments themselves. The intake system currently is few
GI pipes of 3”& 1-1/2’ sizes directly connected at one end to the Lakshman /
Hem Ganga stream and other end pours through a rusted strainer into 2 small
rusted drums and one open small square shaped stone pit about 200 m away and
the head would be about 50’ above the Ghangharia settlement. From these drums
and the pit few GI pipes of 3’’, 2”& 1-1/2’ size supply water through gravity to
various local establishments. These pipes are running over the ground till the
start of Ghangharia settlement and thereafter over the trek path/along the open
drains within the Ghangharia settlement/market. There is no provision for
treatment of this water before supply.
Also there is distinct possibility of contamination of this piped water, as it is exposed to
stagnated dirty water/effluent (storm water/tap water/surface overflows from small
streams getting mixed with mule excreta & urine, other solid waste litter, etc.) in many
places either when underneath or along the trek path at many locations enroute.
2.11.6 Sewerage Disposal System & Toilets
Govind Ghat
Sewage is mostly disposed through individual septic tanks and soak pits. Other
effluents from kitchen/utensil wash flows down through open drains along the
slopes into the river Alaknanda. Just at the start of the Main Parking on the road
before entering Govind Ghat a new Toilet complex (2 seat & 2 urinals for men
and 2 seat for women) has been built, but it was not yet operational during the
study period.
Pulna/Bhyundar
Sewage is mostly disposed through individual septic tanks and soak pits. Other
effluents from kitchen/utensil wash flows down through open drains along the
slopes. However, hardly 40% of the households have in-house toilets at Pulna,
5-105
while at Bhyundar only 20% of the households are reported to have access to in-
house toilets. Rest of the populace uses open fields for the daily routine.
Ghangharia
One public toilet building (2 seat for men and women each) is under construction
near the entrance to Ghangharia. Sewage is mostly disposed through individual
septic tanks and soak pits. Other effluents from kitchen/utensil wash flows
down through open drains along the slopes into open pits/rock pits.
Hemkunt Sahib
At Hemkunt Sahib, it was reported that

provision exists for a 5-unit toilet and an urinal
for men, and a 5-unit toilet for women as well,
though not in very hygienic conditions.
Sewage is mostly disposed through individual
septic tanks and soak pits. Other effluents
from kitchen/utensil wash flows down through
pucca open drains along into Lakshman /Hem
Ganga. Urine & detergent for washing linen/
bags & bathing by female visitors and
Hemkunt staff also adds (as observed) to some
pollution in the Lakshman /Hem Ganga
stream, and its difficult to digest the fact that
this happens at a place that is supposed to be
sacred and this Lakshman / Hem Ganga water
flows down and gets used for water supply at
Ghangharia/Bhyundar/Pulna.
Toilets Enroute
• EDC has installed 5 urinal toilets (for men) made up of pre-fabricated
wooden board body fixed on thin MS angle frames. The floor and roof panels
are empanelled with metal sheets. Each unit has only one temporarily hand
made GI sheet funnel shaped urinals, fixed in the cabin. Though the water
5-106
supply pipe is fixed to the cabin there is no connection or taps for the same
and no flushing mechanism as well. In some toilets on the Hemkunt Sahib
route even the urinals were missing and the entire floor of the toilet was filled
with defecated filth.
• The State Department of Health (DoH) has also installed urinal facility with
natural stone/earth base (no urinal/WC seat) and wall enclosure on three
sides as that that of poly sack material shabbily painted as a urinal facility.
These facilities are provided enroute from Govind Ghat to Ghangharia and
Hemkunt Sahib, as well as at 2 locations within Valley of Flowers (as the only
toilet facility). This facility is neither aesthetic nor maintained hygienically at
all, as visitors defecate in the same, while there is no disposal mechanism.
2.11.7 Electricity Supply System
Govind Ghat
The Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust has also made
arrangements for 5-diesel generator sets to meet the electricity requirements,
which consumes about 400 litres of diesel in 2 days (i.e. it adds to some air
pollution), though the metered power supply through state electricity grid is
available at Govind Ghat. The common complain is low voltage and insufficient
hours of supply.
Pulna
Metered power supply through state electricity grid is available till Pulna.
However, the voltage is low and power supply is also inconsistent. The electric
poles and wire line further extend towards Bhyundar/Ghangharia but is
damaged due to avalanche at few locations leading to discontinuity of power
through grid in those areas for quite sometime. Pulna has its own pole mounted
small electric transformer, and few streetlights.
Bhyundar
Power supply through state electricity grid is not available. The power line is
broken at various places due to avalanche points near Bhyundar. Five solar
streetlights are installed by UREDA at Bhyundar for community use of which
one is not functioning at present. Bhyundar has its own pole mounted small
electric transformer. Similarly, at the end of Kanjila at 12 km point another pole
mounted small electric transformer exists before Ghangharia.
Ghangharia
Power supply at Ghangharia is through a Micro-Hydel Power Plant
(commissioned in 1992-1993) which generates power, being connected to the
piped water head of the Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream. There is one 15KL
water tank about 300m above Ghangharia settlement, which needs to be filled up
5-107
from Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream whenever direct water pressure is less in
the pipe normally in May-Jun months before the rains. Two turbines, each of 50
KW capacities are installed and alternatively run, while one acts as a standby.
This plant was set-up by UREDA and handed over to the Gram Sabha for
operating, undertaking preventive and minor breakdown maintenance, and
collection of revenue from the consumers. The estimated load per day is 30 KW
for the Ghangharia market/commercial establishment, while Govind Dham
Gurdwara and the small telephone exchange requires about 12 KW load. Hence,
the load is reported to be sufficient by UREDA, while the Gurdwara complains
the shortage of power and hence the justification to use diesel generators (4
generator sets) most of the time for their power supply requirements, thus
adding to some air pollution (as they consume about 300 litres of fuel in 2 days).
The supply is currently not metered, and the charges are collected monthly from
consumers as Rs. 35/- per bulb point connection. Minor preventive maintenance
is done by Gram Sabha staff (who is trained by UREDA) every day before
starting the turbine and any post-breakdown maintenance (e.g. damaged
bearings, couplings, etc.) is also done and the cost is adjusted in the revenue
collected from the consumers.
Full season (4 months) contracts are also done by Govind Dham Gurdwara for
Rs. 80,000/- if it wants to receive power fully from the above micro-hydel plant.
Hemkunt Sahib
The Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust runs its own micro-hydel
power generation system of 15 KW capacity, complete with piped water supply
head and turbine. The Trust has also made arrangements for a diesel generator to
meet the electricity requirements for the cold environment, which consumes
about 100 litres of diesel in 2 days (i.e. it adds to some air pollution).
Street Lighting
Path/Street Lighting: UREDA has installed 22 Solar Street Light Systems for
lighting of trek path and establishment complexes from Bhyundar to
Ghangharia. Bhyundar has 5 lights (1 faulty at present), 1 light at 10 km point
near steel bridge, 2 lights at the entrance of Ghangharia and GMVN TRH
complex, 2 lights at GMVN TRH, 2 lights at FRH Complex, 4 lights at Govind
Dham Gurdwara, 3 lights between Govind Dham Gurdwara to broken bridge on
Lakshman / Hem Ganga, and 3 lights near Valley of Flowers Check-
post/entrance (2 faulty at present).
Each solar street light unit includes 2 pole mounted PV panels each of 37 W, a
12W 75AH battery, and 1 CFL of 11W, which can glow for 12 hours from the
daily solar charge. Each street light unit costs approx. Rs. 24,700/- in Uttaranchal
on which Govt. of India gives a subsidy of Rs. 11,000/-.
5-108
While at Pulna and Govind Ghat, few conventional streetlights connected to state
electricity grid are available.
2.11.8 Telecommunication
Govind Ghat
Telephone connectivity at Govind Ghat is through the Satellite Telephone
Exchange at Pandukeshwar. A few PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booths also exist
and operate only during the tourist season. However, connectivity is poor at
times.
Pulna
Telephone connectivity at Pulna is through the Satellite Telephone Exchange at
Pandukeshwar. About 10% of the households have telephone connectivity, but
there is no PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booth. Moreover, connectivity is poor at
times.
Bhyundar
No telecommunication connectivity exists at Bhyundar.
Ghangharia
A Satellite Telephone Exchange has been set up by Department of
Telecommunications at the GMVN TRH complex. There are 3 PCO Local
Call/STD/ISD booths at Ghangharia connected to this exchange and operate
only during the tourist season. These booths are good source of earning due to
presence of large number of tourists and limited number of such booths.
However, connectivity is poor at times.
Planned Management Initiatives

Ghangharia: BSNL CellOne Services is also planned to be started from next season
onwards.
Valley of Flowers - Hemkunt Sahib
No communication facility exists at present for visitors However, the staff of
Forest Range have access to wireless communication facility and which can be
utilised for communication in cases of emergency.
2.11.9 Health Care Facilities
Govind Ghat
Govind Ghat Gurdwara has 1 dispensary and 2
ambulances. As part of awareness programme,
5-109
apart from giving the message of keeping the

trek path clean, Gurdwara management have
reported that they announce after every
“ardaas” (prayer) that all those who are –
children below 10 years age, patients with
Asthma/Cardiac problems, persons above 70
years of age, physically handicapped should
avoid to travel on this trek path to minimise
medical emergencies.
In cases of any deaths along the trek journey, the Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib
Management Trust facilitates and bears the cost voluntarily for carrying the body down
to Govind Ghat on a palki/dandi, informing Patwari at Pandukeshwar through
phone/wireless to arrange for post-mortem and inform Police Chowki at Govind Ghat for
any assistance required, and providing facility of Gurdwara Ambulance to carry the body
to the place of choice of their relatives within India, irrespective of the deceased person
belonging to any faith/nationality. There were some 23 casualties reported for which
Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust had provided assistance during the
last tourist season in year 2002. This season (year 2003 during the study) the number of
mishaps were reported to be significantly less.
Two Private Clinics-cum-Chemist shop also exist in the Govind Ghat market.
Ghangharia
Govind Dham Gurdwara: A 24 hours facility of 1 dispensary room, with 1 doctor
and 2 beds for nursing the patients are available. The Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt
Sahib Management Trust replenishes medicines, as required. 3 cylinders of
Oxygen and Glucose/Saline are also available. Normally visitors may suffer
from altitude sickness, breathlessness, physical enervation, dehydration, etc.
Chances of cardiac arrest in old persons/those with fear of high altitudes, or any
accidents due to mule/persons falling down on trek path due to slippery surface,
minor land slides/snow avalanche, etc. also exist.
Govt. Dispensary: 1 small govt. dispensary with 1 doctor exists near the Govind
Dham Gurdwara in a temporary tin shed room provided by Govind Dham
Gurdwara. For this dispensary within the Gurdwara an additional room with 3
beds is provided for nursing the patients.
5-110
Hemkunt Sahib
There is a first aid centre at Hemkunt Sahib with a doctor providing emergency
medicines. Mostly people face altitude problems, enervation, etc. The Gurdwara
also keeps additional blankets for people for use in severe cold at that altitude.
Bhyundar
No medical facility available. During tourist season, most of the Pulna villagers
migrate to Bhyundar and they avail the facilities at Ghangharia.
Pulna
After the tourist season is over in early Oct.,

the government dispensary gets re-located at
the dispensary premises at Pulna. During the
tourist season those elderly villagers/school-
going children that remain at Pulna, avail the
medical facilities available at Govind Ghat.
2.11.10Veterinary Hospital /Clinic
No such facility existed in Govind Ghat-

Ghangharia region/route during the study. It is
reported that about 800-1000 mules operate
every day during peak of the tourist season. It
seems since local vegetation is not allowed for
grazing, only grasses are available for mules
apart from little jaggery and grams for food.
Most of the sickness of the mules is reported to
be related to stomach problems and there is
high rate of casualty (in year 2002 about 150
mules reportedly died in the 4–month tourist
season) amongst mules due to lack of
veterinary treatment facilities. However, the
5-111
Director, NDBR recently informed that a

veterinary camp service has been started from
the tourist season of year 2004.
2.11.11Security Infrastructure
Govind Ghat
One Police Chowki exists, but it does not have
jurisdiction in Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt
region (which basically falls under the
jurisdiction of Patwari, Department of
Revenue based at Pandukeshwar). Any
accident happening in Valley of Flowers –
Hemkunt region is to be attended/recorded by
the Patwari and the Police Chowki at Govind
Ghat is only informed for any assistance, if
required.
Ghangharia
One Police Chowki (housed in a temporary tin shed room provided by Govind
Dham Gurdwara) exists and which works under the jurisdiction of Patwari,
Department of Revenue based at Pandukeshwar.
Department of Forests also has its Beat staff deployed in the region under the
local charge of Forest Ranger with wireless facilities and they are based at
Ghangharia and Govind Ghat FRH complexes.
2.11.12 Management Regulations for Access and Facilities for National
Park
Following the establishment of the Valley of Flowers National Park, access to the
region is controlled at the entrance to the gorge just above Ghangharia, either for
5-112
the purpose of the visit or collecting samples for botanical research. Access is
prohibited for livestock, and visitors pay a nominal entry fee (Rs. 40/- for
Indians for 3 days and Rs. 350/- for 3 days for foreign tourists) at Forest Ranger’s
Check-post. There are no charges for non-professional cameras, while
professional cameras / filmmaking requires charges and security fee to be paid.
Refer Table 2.7 for details of entry fee charges applicable at Valley of Flowers.
Table 2.7: Entry Fee Structure for Valley of Flowers
Sr. Description Indian Tourists Foreign Tourists
No. (Rs.) (Rs.)
1. a) Entry Fee per person for first three days 40.00 350.00
b) Entry Fee per person for additional three days
2. Camera Fee
a) Still Camera (non-professional) Free Free
b) Still Camera (professional) 100.00 100.00
c) Movie / Video Camera (non-professional) Free Free
d) Movie / Video Camera (professional) 100.00 100.00
3. Filming Charges
a) For Feature Film per day 20000.00 20000.00
b) For Documentary Film per day 2500.00 5000.00
4. Security for Filming Charges
a) For Feature Film per day 50000.00 100000.00
b) For Documentary Film per day 25000.00 50000.00
No camping is allowed within the valley beyond the VOFNP entrance point and
for any study or research prior permission is to be applied to/obtained from the
Chief Wild Life Warden (CWLW), Department of Environment & Forests, Dehra
Dun as per Sec. 28 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, who also intimates the
same to Conservator of Forests & Director, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
(NDBR), Gopeshwar and Divisional Forest Officer, Nanda Devi National Park,
Joshimath. The Secretary, Department of Environment & Forests, Govt. of
Uttaranchal, Dehra Dun is also to be informed if a study or research is being
undertaken.
Signage Enroute and in Valley of Flowers
PWD has put masonry signage milestone to indicate the distance till Hemkunt
Sahib but the same is not visible in many locations. The Department of Forests
and local NGOs have put up signages to make tourists aware of the eco-
sensitivity of the region and solid waste disposal issues. These signages are
formal (painted mild steel sheet display boards & walls of stone masonry pits) as
5-113
well as informal (at most of such signage location, information is shabbily

painted on rock faces). Some overhead cloth banners put up by the Department
of Forests and EDC, Bhyundar were also observed.
It was observed that
green/red mild steel
boards painted with
white text exist at
many places
indicating botanical
names of the flora at
the beginning of trek
to the Valley of
Flowers, but inside
the main valley such boards are insufficient making it difficult to relate to the
species around, in the absence of any coloured pamphlets/brochure that may be
carried by visitors. Also, there is no signage to indicate the way to Ms. Joan
Margrett Legge’s grave, which is an important spot in the Valley of Flowers. In
1939, Joan Margrett Legge from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, England visited
the Valley of Flowers for plant collection. Unfortunately while collecting plants
she fell off a cliff and died on July 4th. The scripture at her tomb `I will lift up
mine eyes unto the Himalaya from whence cometh my help' raised by her sister
in 1940 reminds us of her faith in the Himalayas. This tomb was vandalised over
the long period and was rebuilt recently, though not very aesthetically, as any
pucca construction in National Park is banned.
The visitors entering the Valley of Flowers National Park will have to abide by
the following rules and regulations in general:
• The visitors as individuals/teams shall ensure that the necessary clearances
from the competent authorities have been obtained.
• Entry will be restricted to holders of valid permits.
• All visitors shall travel along the permitted route only and no deviations will
be allowed.
• Staying overnight inside the national park is not allowed.
• The visitors shall ensure proper disposal of garbage and also ensure to bring
back non-biodegradable waste with them. They must also refrain from
polluting the waters with human and any other kind of wastes.
• The visitors shall not enter the national park with weapons which can injure,
harm or kill any wild life or indulge in hunting and poaching of animals or
5-114
kindle fires or leave burning embers, or destroy or remove any wild life, trees,
herbs, shrubs, sign-posts, etc. within the National Park area.
Existing Code of Conduct for Visitors / Do’s & Don’ts for visiting Valley of
Flowers
1. Do not camp or stay for the night inside the park.
2. Do not destroy, trample, collect or remove any plant and animal specimen
whether live or dead or any geological specimen.
3. Do not carry and introduce any alien seeds or propagation material of any
plant species and don’t carry and introduce any exotic animals or pets.
4. Do not kindle fire, throw lighted matches, and cigarette or bidi butts.
5. Don’t go for mountaineering, climbing, swimming, or any type of
adventure activity.
6. Don’t carry instruments, implements, tools, arms, firearms or chemicals
harmful to wildlife and vegetation.
7. Don’t shout, hoot, play audio /videotapes or transistor/radio inside the
park.
8. Don’t try to feed any wild animal.
9. Don’t damage, break or distort the facilities provided by the park
authorities.
10. Don’t deface, put signboards, write or paint on the tree trunks / rocks, or
any infrastructure (boundary walls / boundary pillars).
Any onward treks from this Govind Ghat- Valley of Flowers route like, the trek from
Bamani Dhaur in Valley of Flowers to Khunt Khal pass to Hanuman Chatti on
Badrinath motor road or the trek from Bhyundar village to Kagbhushandi Lake to Vishnu
Prayag motor road via Painka village, would be governed by the general rules of eco-
tourism in Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve as given below. Such trekkers would have to
take prior permission from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Joshimath and go
through the slide show presentation on awareness to Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve at
the fully equipped nature centre in DFO’s office complex.
Some of the simple rules of eco-tourism in Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve are:
• The party contacts the local DFO first to get the permit and the names of the
guides/porters and for the payment of eco-fee before undertaking the trek.
• A fee of Rs. 50/- (Rupees fifty only) per head, applicable for the number of
party members and guides / porters going along is charged as eco-fee from
the party in form of bank drafts and this money is directly deposited in the
bank accounts of Different EDCs. Care is taken that if 2 or more villages fall in
the same route in which a particular trekking / expedition party is set to go,
5-115
then the eco-fee is equally divided in all the concerned EDCs and in case there
are more visitors/more teams the fee will be given to EDCs on rotation basis.
• In case of mountaineering a security deposit of Rs. 10000/- (Rupees ten
thousand only) is taken from the party in the form of Bank Draft. This
security is returned to the party when they ensure and prove that they have
brought back all the solid waste generated during the trip.
• The Reserve being situated in the border area in many treks inner line
permissions are required. The local intelligence and local district authorities
will issue inner line permits, only after the party gets permission letters from
the DFO’s office. For this good liaison will be maintained with the local police
and Department of Revenue.
• The visiting trekkers will not be allowed to go inside the Core Zones of
Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve until they get special permission from the
competent authorities and in no circumstances mountaineering activity will
be allowed inside the core zones.
• The party which has been granted permit to go to a particular site / mountain
hires guide / porter from the local villages which fall in the trek route. In no
circumstances hiring of guides or porters from outside are allowed.
In the code of conduct for trekkers/mountaineers, the following directives are highlighted:
• The party should bring adequate warm and dry clothes and ensure that staff
and porters have proper trekking/mountaineering gear.
• They should wear good hiking shoes or boots as trails could be slippery and
rocky. Don’t go off the trail as it leads to soil erosion. The party/Team Leader
or Liaison Officer deputed by the Indian Mountaineering Federation / State
Govt. / Local DFO will have to keep strict vigil on the activities of the porters.
Any breach of rule by the porters will be the responsibility of the Team
Leader and the Liaison Officer.
• The party should plan days for proper altitude acclimatisation when
ascending, should know how to identify and treat high altitude illness, and
how as to provide/seek emergency rescue.
• The party will have to follow only the approved route. No deviation will be
allowed. The mountaineering expeditions on return will have to give a small
report about their experience, giving details of the halting places to the local
DFO.
• The party should get their entire list of articles they are carrying checked by
the local EDC. They should deposit a list of all non-biodegradable items and
other items with EDC, and on return should again get the carried back items
checked.
5-116
• The party will have to avail all village based infrastructural facilities
(boarding, lodging, and transport) available with the local people throughout
their expedition. The tents are permitted for pitching only when the place of
halt is away from such village-based facilities. These rural facilities should be
paid for a required fee (as decided/fixed by the Department of Forests/local
EDC) so that the locals can be benefited.
• They should pay fair prices for lodging, food, and services. The tourist will be
told that buying local products benefits the local economy, but buying any
antiques/artifact robs Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve of its culture.
• The party should take responsibility for hired staff by providing them
adequate warm clothing, sleeping cover, shoes, snow gear, food/cooking
stoves & fuel, and should periodically train all staff in first aid, guide
responsibilities, sanitation, etc.
• They should use established campsites and kitchen sites, and avoid trenching
around tents.
• They should not make fires for cooking/warmth, even from fallen wood.
• The party will have to abstain from using fuel wood and only use LPG
cylinder/kerosene oil for the cooking purposes and should religiously avoid
any damage to the environment or local population during their treks. They
should follow safety rules when carrying, storing, and using kerosene and
gas.
• They should practice conservation by avoiding cooking fuel-consumptive
menu items (e.g. baked foods & large menu selections), repackage food into
re-usable plastic containers to reduce waste, and reduce waste in general by
de-and re-packaging.
• They should be respectful towards others’ peace and should speak quietly on
the trail and at overnight stops.
• They should dress properly, and have respect for local beliefs, people, and
religious sites. When visiting sacred spots, they should not talk loudly, smoke
or litter.
• The party should not carry any firearms and will have to abide by all
National and State level Forest / Wild Life Conservation Acts & Rules.
• They should not give anything to begging children, as it teaches them poor
habits.
• All expeditions shall ensure that the solid waste that they generate are
removed by them and they shall undertake to abide by such terms and
conditions as may be stipulated by the Department of Forests for this
purpose. Should carry a bag for collection of solid waste and other litter. Pack
5-117
out all non-biodegradable waste, burn papers carefully, should not drop
cigarette buts candy wrappers, and set a good example for children. The
brought back waste can be deposited at designated trash sites or for recycling
from base stations/towns.
• The party should not leave plastic mineral water bottles in the mountains,
and should use iodine to treat drinking water in re-usable bottles. Also,
properly treat the uncooked vegetables.
• They should teach all staff about personal hygiene, sanitary, kitchen, and
camp routines.
• They should use toilets wherever available, and where not, they should use
toilet tents on all treks set-up in an environmentally sound manner so as to
avoid any pollution of water sources (at least 100 m away). Also, only use
biodegradable soaps and bury all toilet waste and paper.
Valley of Flowers Information Centre at Ghangharia
One fully equipped nature interpretation-cum-information centre at Ghangharia
is available in the Forest Rest House complex. At this nature interpretation
centre, regular (30 minute) slide shows on Valley of Flowers and wild life are
held in the evening hours (from 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm) throughout the 4-5 months of
tourist season. Currently this slide show is conducted by few nature enthusiasts
/ interpreters / guides from the EDC members/local host community of
Bhyundar / Pulna village trained by the office of the DFO & Deputy Conservator
of Forest, Nanda Devi National Park, Joshimath. A nominal fee of Rs. 5.00 per
person is charged for this show and these trained guides are available for hire by
visitors while visiting the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region at a charge of Rs.
500.00 per day.
Planned Works
• The above nature interpretation show fee of Rs. 5.00 is planned to be
associated with a visitor information/interaction programmee known as
“Friends of Valley of Flowers” in a formal way from next tourist season
onwards.
• Short Documentary Films are also planned to be introduced from next tourist
season onwards for nature interpretation shows.
Nature Interpreter / Guide Training Program
Under the aegis of the Department of Forests, initiative has been taken to train
the members of EDC and other members of the local host community for nature
interpretation/guide services, so that they can actively participate in nature
5-118
interpretation activities either at the Department of Forests’ Valley of Flowers

Information Centre at Ghangharia as well enroute to & at site of Valley of
Flowers and Hemkunt region.
Four of the EDC members from the village are trained guides in nature
interpretation services, but they take up this activity only partially, as they have
their businesses (photo studio, lodges/restaurant) also to look after as other
means of livelihood opportunity, which can be taken-up during the tourist
season to compensate for the slack in the remaining/off-season months.
Publicity/Information Services on Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt
It was observed that the publicity of this Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region is
not very widespread. Moreover the Brochures/pamphlets currently available
with the Department of Forests are basically copies in black & white and not
prints in colour or of very high quality design/appeal. Since, the destination is
attractive purely for sightseeing interest and pilgrimage in a limited tourist
season, its topology and lack of proper infrastructure could be the other reasons
for the low visitation to the region.
7.12 Disaster Management Plan
No disaster management plan for Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region exists per se.
During the tourist season, which is part of the monsoon season, the likelihood of some
small-scale disasters like minor landslides, rolling over of large stones along slopes, etc.
is not ruled out. In such cases of emergency and rescue enroute the trek path between
Ghangharia and Govind Ghat, based on the nearest village from the site of incident, the
tourists are normally requested to be accommodated by Villagers of Bhyundar / Pulna
for shelter till the path is cleared by the PWD staff/local host community/Forest/Army and
other local support.
7.13 Land-use
Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Destination
Of the 87.50 sqkm area of the Valley of Flowers National Park, Satellite Imagery
data reports following break-up:
- 63.58 sqkm under perpetual Snow and Glaciers (72.66%)
- 05.29 sqkm under Forests (6.04%)
- 18.63 sqkm under Alpine Meadows (21.30%)
Refer Exhibit 2.3 for Vegetation & Habitat Types in Valley of Flowers National
Park Region. Based on the altitude, aspect and climatic conditions the vegetation
of the park is divisible into three broad climatic zones as discussed in section 2.6
of this chapter.
While, at Hemkunt Sahib complex, the total somewhat levelled land area
including and around both the shrines/related facilities would be about 2-2.5 ha.
5-119
Exhibit 2.3: Vegetation & Habitat Types in Valley of Flowers National Park
Source: Wildlife Institute of India Report (RR-98/003)

Ghangharia
The development at Ghangharia has happened in a haphazard manner over a period of
more than past three decades. The development in about 2.638 ha (area of current
developed land under encroachment) has mostly happened in a linear fashion along the
trek path within Ghangharia settlement. Department of Revenue Joshimath has
conducted a survey of the land holdings in Nov. 2002 and has prepared a revenue map
of Ghangharia settlement – a step towards the process of regularisation for diversion of
land with forest cover, as per the requirements of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.
This survey map was in the draft state at the time of this study.
It is observed that nearly 50 percent of the current developed land is under the claim of
private holding. Private holdings mostly relate to the development of hotels & lodges,
restaurants, small tea/snack stalls, other shops like - souvenirs, photo studios, woolens,
telecommunication booths, etc. These private establishments account for the 85 percent
ownership of the total 53 survey plots.
The next biggest land/survey plot holder is the Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib
Management Trust, which manages the Govind Dham Gurdwara complex covering
23.5% of the developed land. GMVN TRH Complex and Department of Forests FRH
Complex covers 10.3 percentage and 4.5 percentage of the developed land respectively.
While, the state government has about 8.4 percent of vacant land and about 2.4 percent
under trek path. Utilities like water supply and electricity supply are over the trek path,
and UREDA micro-hydel plant is main utility that covers about 1.5 percent of the
developed land. Refer Table 2.8 for the Land-use break up at Ghangharia and Exhibit
2.4 for Land-use map at Ghangharia settlement.
Table 2.8: Land-use Break-up at Ghangharia
Category Survey No. No. of Units / Area Percentage
5-120
Establishments (Ha) Break-up

State Govt. Land
Vacant Land 3 1 0.220 8.3
Trek Path 46 1 0.063 2.4
Dept. of Forest 15 1 0.120 4.5
Land
GMVN Land 6, 11, 12 3 0.273 10.3
UREDA Land 43 1 0.040 1.5
Gurdwara Land 45 1 0.620 23.5
Other Commercial 1-2, 4-5, 7-10, 13-14, 16- 45 1.302 49.4
Establishments 42, 44, 47-53
Total 53 2.638 100.0
There are 10 more plots surveyed (survey No. 54 to 62) as encroachment spread over
0.13 ha, but were reported not to be considered for regularisation. However, this land
may be considered for regularisation and pooled/retrofitted with existing vacant Govt.
land to provide some future proposals with temporary tin slope roof structures, like
community toilets, cheap dormitory for labour, EDC Store-sum-Education Centre-cum-
Disaster Relief Shelter, Medical Clinic, Veterinary Clinic, mule sheds, etc.
Exhibit 2.4: Land-use at Ghangharia Settlement
Forest
Forest
3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF TOURISM

The present chapter discusses the environmental quality of the regionNot
along
to with
Scale
an initial assessment of environmental impacts of the tourism developments.
Forest
5-121
3.1 Introduction
The purpose of the current initial environmental assessment is to assess and
ensure that development is environmentally sound and sustainable, and that any
environmental consequences are recognised early and taken into account in
project design. It also includes avoiding, mitigating or compensating for adverse
impacts.
Environmental analysis has to be integrated with all stages of the eco-tourism
project life cycle, to facilitate incorporation of the findings into selection of sites,
designs and implementation plans. Environmental review includes monitoring
the project’s environmental performance and compliance with relevant
conditions. After implementation, evaluation of the impacts that actually
occurred and the effectiveness of mitigation measures should be done.
Integration of IEE (Initial Environment Examination) and EIA with feasibility
studies and planning work at the master plan level is essential so that
alternatives, which might be desirable from an environmental viewpoint, can be
considered realistically. Thus the objective is to influence or modify project
planning so that the project will, within the limits of feasibility, avoid
environmental damage and use positive measures to offset unavoidable damage.
The feasibility of the project should be determined based on an assessment of all
costs, including the specific provisions needed for minimising or offsetting the
adverse effects on the environment.
A detailed impact analysis could be carried out by a reputed scientific agency
like the Wildlife Institute of India, National Botanical Research Institute etc. All
necessary clearances under the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980, Indian Forest Act
1927, Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 must be sought and allied rules from the
MoEF, Govt of India and the Hon. Supreme Court of India should be considered
before implementing any development proposal in the region.
3.1.1 Methodology Adopted in the Study
The study was carried out as detailed below:
• Secondary literature to find the status and major issues in the valley and
related areas.
• Field trip - Detailed investigations including observation, discussion with
locals, sampling, digital recording etc. were carried out.
• Laboratory analyses of the samples of water, soil, organic matter collected
from the site. Some GPS observations were attempted at the study site.
Various parameters including microbial cultures to assess microbial load
were also examined.
5-122
• Discussions with officials of the Department of Forests, Tourism, Water

Supply, Telecommunications, UREDA, EDC, Mahila Mandal, Gurdwara Sri
Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust, etc.
• Surveys and interviews with locals at various spots enroute to Valley of
Flowers and Hemkunt region.
• Brain storming sessions organised at Dehra Dun with experts who have been
doing research in the Valley and surrounding region to get expert opinion on
state of affairs, opinion on controversial issues, etc. Suggestions of those who
have done research over years were obtained. A gist has been included in the
report.
3.1.2 Selection of the Sites for Ecological Sampling

• The sites selected for study were in settlements at Bhyundar, Pulna,
Ghangharia; Valley of Flowers (four sites in Valley of Flowers); Hemkunt and
ten points enroute.
• The sites selected for water sampling, microbial sampling and soil sampling
are given in respective table of analyses of water samples.
3.2 Identification of Stress Areas

The stress areas have been identified and rated in terms of priority. The causes
and dimensions of identification of stress are:
3.2.1 Stress mainly due to Environmental Specificity

18. Sensitivity of the eco-region in terms of biodiversity
19. Biodiversity loss or disturbance in the biodiversity set up
20. Disturbances in the ecosystem due to Tourism
21. Uniqueness of biodiversity in the region and need for its protection
22. Abundance of medicinal plants that are either rare or in great demand. Since
these plants are not available at other places, there is an added attraction to
steal these from this region due to good market available for these resources.
23. Remoteness of the region where proper surveillance throughout the year is
not possible
24. Steepness of slopes prohibiting provision of broad roads or trek paths,
separate mule paths, motor-able roads etc.
25. Risky paths, treks, steep slopes prohibiting tourists to wander in the open.
3.2.2 Stress due to pressure on Specific Points
26. Hemkunt Sahib site is an attraction for religious sentiments and hence is
under greater stress in terms of tourists.
5-123
3.2.3 Stress due to Environment Concerns

27. Environmental hazard to the local ecosystem; risk of pollution including
odour pollution
28. Health hazard to the tourists and the locals due to contaminated water,
waste left by the tourists, waste dump sites, other forms of pollution
29. Excessive use of mules in a specified path or region
30. Visual annoyance to the tourists, any factor that may become deterrent to
tourism
3.2.4 Stress due to Management Concerns
31. Disposal of waste is a major stress area. With number of tourists increasing
every year and likely to increase further in the coming years when eco-
tourism will become a major attraction of the region, this problem will
assume an alarming dimension. This waste includes:
− Degradable mule excreta
− Degradable organic waste
− Non-degradable plastic & other waste
− Degradable human excreta
32. Ecological disturbance due to the large number of visitors. Though the vast
area of Valley of Flowers has tremendous scope to accommodate more
tourists than the current numbers, the same will be feasible only if the
ecology is managed properly. The thumb rule is that nothing carried from
outside is left in the park area and nothing is carried from park area to
outside (except any waste generated during such visits).
However, in the present case, food, bottles, waste is being brought from
outside and left in the area. Movement of plants and other things from the
area has been checked effectively to a great extent, yet there are unconfirmed
reports of plants being taken away in off seasons when guarding is not as
strict or not there.
Dumping of mule excreta and other waste into the environment is another
area that needs management. Solid waste dumping and disposal needs to be
addressed.
33. Water availability through stream source is not a problem, however risk of
water getting polluted due to improper collection, current storage and
supply is a stress area. It was observed that water supply pipes criss-cross
the area especially over the trek path and where toilets are located. This has
to be managed immediately to avoid any outbreak of disease due to
possibility of water getting contaminated.
5-124
34. Limited number of tourists to Valley of Flowers compared to the importance

of the area. These numbers can be increased with additional recommended
activities, better publicity, better management, more vista points, and better
education in terms of awareness and orientation to environmental protection
and conservation. This will promote eco-tourism if principals of eco-tourism
are adopted. However, the focus is not to increase merely the number of
tourists to Valley of Flowers; instead it is to create awareness among
environment lovers and researchers, thus focusing on the sensitised tourists.
Status
The status of stress has been discussed in relevant sections. Water and soil have
been examined and data given in tables. The water and soil analyses showed that
there is no stress of pollution at this stage. Other stresses have been assessed
from number of tourists per day and per season as well as number of mules per
season.
3.2.5 Mitigation of Stress
Suggestions for mitigation of stress are given in the respective sections. The
management of tourism and tourists has to be addressed in terms of:
• Fragility of biodiversity
• Sustainability of ecosystem
• Empowerment of locals to benefit from the eco-tourism
• Utilising the devotion of Hemkunt Sahib amongst tourists for educating
about environment and biodiversity and thus promoting eco-tourism
• Health of the tourist, locals, animals etc.
• Ecological issues that have long term impact such as growth of dominating
species (like Polygonum polystachyum, impatiens sulcata, etc.), variability in
abundance and density of natural plants, agro-biodiversity of the region,
promoting horticulture in the lower belts to support population and tourism.
• Modifying the natural ecosystem to eco-tourism worthy ecosystem on
scientific and sustainable principles.
• Following norms of CBD, Biodiversity Act of India (2002), and Plants
varieties and Farmers Rights Act of India (2001).
3.3 Identification of Ecological Parameters & Impact of Tourism:

Current scenario
As mentioned earlier Valley of Flowers National Park (VOFNP) is one of the core
zones of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and is located in Chamoli district of
Western Himalayas and spread across 87.50 sqkm area.
5-125
3.3.1 Route & its Ecology

Govind Ghat located at 1828 meters from the sea level is the last motor able
station from where visitors start trekking to the valley after crossing a cable
suspension bridge over the river Alaknanda. The path is zigzag piercing through
an ascending valley. One can enjoy the view of fields typical of hill sites on the
way. The picturesque beauty is bewildering. Informal clusters of tea/snack stalls
at a small village settlement named Pulna offer a good resting point after which
one can have glimpse of snow - clad peaks and rocky mountains.
Bhyundar is the next village after Pulna that can be reached after trekking for
another 6 km and after another 3.5 km one reaches Ghangharia, which is the base
camp for onward treks to Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib. Enroute one
can find water falls and Bhyundar Ganga stream in some small stretches, is
flowing close to the trek path offering beautiful view. The impressive Hathi
Parvat can be glimpsed from Bhyundar on clear days.
Ghangharia is located at an altitude of 3048 meters above sea level. It is usually
cold particularly in wet months like Aug-Sep. There are few lodges to stay apart
from Government Tourist Rest house (GMVN) and Forest Rest House. Since
camping and overnight stay is not allowed in the Valley of Flowers, Ghangharia
is the logical base camp for this trek. Mules are not allowed after Ghangharia in
Valley of Flowers and hence one has no other option but to trek to VoF. One has
to be aware of the concerns of the ecosystem beyond this point as restrictions are
implemented seriously.
After crossing a temporary bridge over the Lakshman Ganga, 0.25 km from the
end of Ghangharia settlement, and after trekking another 0.15 km the route of the
Valley of Flowers separates from that going to Hemkunt Sahib. After crossing the
Forest Rangers’ Check-post at the entrance of Valley of Flowers, the trek
continues along river Pushpawati. At 0.9 km point ahead, the river Pushpawati is
crossed over to its right bank on another steel truss bridge and this trail goes up
to the Valley of Flowers.
The Guru Govind Singh Gurdwara at Hemkunt Sahib located at an altitude of
4329 m above MSL is currently the major attraction located at a trek of 6 km from
Ghangharia; and is an internationally recognised tourist-cum-pilgrimage
destination.
3.3.2 Tourism & Trekking
Most of the tourists to the Valley of Flowers as well as Hemkunt trek the rigorous
path with excitement, dedication, and fun. The trekking has been facilitated by
many ways such as mules that carry the luggage as well as the visitors, starting
from Govind Ghat. There are about 800-1000 mules plying on this path during
the peak season. Sufficient numbers of porters are available to facilitate the visit.
Those who are not able to trek can make use of carrying carts or Dandi (Palki),
5-126
which are rather expensive but provide easy access and avoid the tough trekking
for those who are not able to trek.
The trek path presently is uneven, rough, and is a bridle path paved with stone
kharanja. There are many resting points in the form of tea/snack stalls all along
the way where one can get refreshments. The tourists usually carry their own
water bottles, as they do not rely on the quality of piped/stream water as
available at these stalls. There is a helipad in a grassy field maintained by army
officials. This is located at Kanjila, which is less than a km before Ghangharia.
The Valley of Flowers lies between the main valleys of Alaknanda and Dhauli
Ganga in the Zanskar ranges of the Garhwal Himalayas in Chamoli district of
Uttaranchal. River Pushpawati, which flows through this valley, has its source in
the Tipra Glacier, which extends up to Gauri Parvat peak. The most convenient
and easy entrance to the valley is from the south where the river Pushpawati
flows through a deep gorge. Besides, there are two more approaches /outlets,
but preferred by shepherds and other mountaineers. The one on the western side
leads to Hanuman Chatti (a small hamlet on Badrinath road), through Khunt
Khal Glacier Pass, and the other on the eastern side goes to Ghamsali via
Lakshman pass. Both these places are of 3 days-trekking distance from the valley.
The river Pushpawati meets the river Lakshman Ganga that originates from
Hemkunt (Lokpal / Hemkunt Sarovar), at Ghangharia (Govind Dham), where it
takes the name Bhyundar Ganga and which later joins the river Alaknanda at
Govind Ghat.
During the trekking from Ghangharia to the main valley in the Valley of Flowers,
the path climbs steeply and the vegetation changes to tall massive conifers –
Abies pindrow, and Taxus baccata and the smell of decaying leaves of broad leaved
mixed forest is replaced by the warm incense of resin. The lower forests up to
2100 m are full of insects while the upper forests are known for their silence.
The villages of Pulna/Bhyundar and their establishments’ enroute and
Ghangharia have been catering to the tourist needs, but in a haphazard manner,
and the developments at Ghangharia are encroachments basically that came up
in 1960-70s as the visitation started to grow up from just few hundred visitors.
3.3.3 Local Initiatives
The uniqueness of this area is that villagers are quite aware about the
sensitivities of their region including the need of conservation. Forest officials
with the help of local villages of Bhyundar/Pulna have established an Eco-
Development Committee (EDC) since 2001 (as per the provisions of state
government’s Joint Forest Management guidelines and some funding assistance
from The World Bank Forestry Project). Prior to EDC another local organization
Youth Valley Development Committee (YVDC)/Yuvak Mandal was working for
the cause since 1999 and provided dustbins, sign posts and facilitated solid waste
5-127
cleaning along the path, apart from workers of Health Department and local
Mahila Mandal members. EDC, Bhyundar is working as ‘motivators’ to motivate
the villagers and the tourists to keep the environment clean especially of Valley
of Flowers-Hemkunt region. With the help of the Forest department, EDC
members organise slide shows informing the tourists about flora and fauna of
the Valley of Flowers. NCC cadets have also worked in the area, as is evident
from certain sign boards displayed by them for convenience of the tourists.
Though the development along the trek path and Ghangharia did not happen in
a regular manner, off late, the Forest officials of the region have brought sea
change in the attitude of the local people, awareness about fragility, uniqueness
of the environment, and some regularisations of establishment control in the
form of Chaks and Chatties. There is a change in the way the area is viewed today.
However, since the tourists in this region visit mostly for the pilgrimage purpose,
and are very well aware of the sacred value of the destination, orientation to
environmental education/awareness, protection and conservation is quite
lacking.
3.3.4 Sanitation and Ecological Concerns: Limiting Factors
Several temporary toilets have been installed by the health department and
recently by EDC. There are several temporary dustbins placed all along the path
to Valley of Flowers as well as Hemkunt, though not at regular/frequent
distances. The tourists use not all of these toilets and waste bins properly. Often
the toilets are very dirty and many waste bins were found damaged.
People carry plastic bottles and litter the same all along the path. On several
occasions, these bottles are thrown into the valley / stream, by visitors and even
some stall keepers.
Visitors also throw the plastic wrappers of the foodstuff in the valley or on the
way. There was plenty of solid waste littered on way to this pilgrim destination.
Cheap quality plastic raincoats (which get easily torn during travel) used
frequently by tourists to protect themselves and their luggage from rain, are also
littered after use or when torn.
EDC workers and sweepers collect the solid waste and bring it down to
dumpsite at Govind Ghat covering a length of one km of trek path by the
individual cleaning staff/sweeper. However, quite an amount of such waste is
remaining to be collected that is stacked & dumped behind the Hemkunt
Gurdwara Langar facility, and which slowly keeps falling & gets mixed with the
Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream that emanates from the holy Hemkunt Sarovar.
The sweepers collect non-biodegradable waste material only and sweep the
biodegradable solid waste or mule excreta along sides of the trek path.
5-128
3.3.5 Number of Tourists

The number of tourists each year to Hemkunt Sahib has grown and it exceeded
in the study year (2003) to over three lakhs eighty eight thousand in the four
months period from June to September. However, despite been made famous by
the writings of Frank S Smythe, it seems that Valley of Flowers is still not
popular enough to attract tourists. Those who are curious to visit, do so but
only/hardly half way up to the glacier point (about just over 2km) due to the
hectic/narrow & relatively steep pathway and risk of landslide along the entry
path itself as the main valley starts only after 3 km point (Bamani Dhaur) and
continues till another 2 km, accessible by a narrow (about 3 ft wide) bridle path.
Though the valley extends further but is inaccessible for tourists due to lack of
proper bridle path and spread of boulder debris ahead.
Lack of shelter for visitors to stay for a while and to take rest or hide them from
rain, which is very common every day in monsoon period (Jul. - Sep. are quite
wet months), further prohibits visitors from frequenting the Valley of Flowers to
the fullest extent.
3.3.6 Pollution Status
A lot of solid waste is produced by the tourists, either at the base of settlements
or along the trek path. This is in the form of plastic bottles (mineral water or
beverages), wrappers (toffees, chocolates, wafers, plastic carry bags etc.), which
are frequently used by the tourists. Other than the packaged plastic products, the
disposable cheap plastic raincoats are a major source of waste dumped on the
way. People prefer these raincoats due to their cheap cost and easy availability.
These are thrown away after use or when torn along the path itself or after
reaching base establishments such as Ghangharia and Govind Ghat.
The urinals remain very dirty as there are poorly designed and have poor
arrangements to flush/clean them. The urinals are misused as toilets as there are
insufficient arrangements for toilets. These render the urinals stinky and dirty
forcing the following visitors to urinate anywhere and at places other than the
designated ones. There is poor cleanliness in such toilets and they present a sorry
state of tourism to the excited visitor venturing into the Valley of Flowers or on
Hemkunt pilgrimage, not to mention the foreign tourist who is very cleanliness
conscious. These toilets also do not have any septic tanks, and the effluent is
disposed through underground waste pipes and flows down the slope.
With nearly 4 lakh tourists, urine waste is a considerable enough to call
management concern. It is also observed that pilgrims as well as Gurdwara staff
urinating in river Lakshman / Hem Ganga instead of using the designated toilet
facility at Hemkunt Sahib or washing using detergents in Lakshman / Hem
Ganga.
5-129
Mule excreta are another major problem on the face of this beautiful site. Though
there is a routine, where the mule owners make their mule to urinate in between
the trekking path or where the mules can rest and ease themselves, however it is
not a friendly sight (where many a times the whole width of the path is covered
by accumulated mule urine and one has to walk through it) and smell for the
tourist who has come to enjoy the virginity of nature.
The odour emerging from the mule excreta and urine is annoying. It is common
all along the path as mules are companions to the tourists facilitating their
journey. It becomes a necessary evil. On a common sense ground, the mule
excreta is degradable and should not cause any harm, however, in a sensitive
ecosystem as this one and with nearly 4 lakhs tourists per season, it assumes a
dimension that calls for concern.
There are no vehicles or source of noise pollution in the upper valley area
beyond Govind Ghat. The sounds of nature can be heard in the VoF and
surrounds. This itself is an indicator of near zero noise pollution. Noise pollution
is a physical pollution, while odour pollution is a chemical pollution. There are a
large number of tourists visiting Hemkunt site but the noise pollution models do
not consider the noise from humans (pilgrims or curious tourists) or animals a
cause of serious concern. The only sound (rarely) heard at Ghangharia is from
the loudspeaker at Hemkunt Sahib shrine, as well as some sound is generated
from the diesel generators used at Ghangharia / Hemkunt Sahib Gurdwaras.
Analysis of Soil, Water & Air
The soil and water samples were collected during September 2003 season from
various places in and outside of the Valley of Flowers and Ghangharia, and were
analysed.
The soil analyses were undertaken to monitor extraordinary increase in pH,
salinity, sodium levels, nitrates etc. It was also monitored to see if there is an
alarming decrease in microbial biomass.
The results are presented in the Tables 3.1 to 3.5 below.
Table 3.1: Chemical Analysis of Soil Samples

Sr. Sample PH EC in Na in K in Available Nitrat MBC
No Site µs/cm ppm ppm Phosphate e in in
. in µg/gm ppm µg/gm
1 Bistoli 6.1 52.9 8.97 11.48 1.753 - 436.36
Garh
2 Composite 4.6 40.3 11.26 8.92 1.699 0.378 472.72
sample
3 S-1 4.7 18.64 9.17 6.39 - - 181.81
5-130
Sr. Sample PH EC in Na in K in Available Nitrat MBC

No Site µs/cm ppm ppm Phosphate e in in
. in µg/gm ppm µg/gm
4 S-2 4.5 22.3 11.4 4.08 0.73 - 181.81
5 Mule 7.3 160.9 10.18 36.53 16.89 0.893 763.63
Excreta
6 G-2 6.6 39.9 9.21 10.43 16.27 0.011 181.81
Table 3.2: Chemical Analysis of Water Samples from various Sites

Sr. Sample PH EC Cl Fl in PO4 NH Total Hardnes
No in in pp in 3 in alkalinit s
. µs/c pp m ppm pp y in ppm in ppm
m m m
1 TW-1 6.64 17.70 ND 0.03 ND ND 10 30
2 Bistoli 6.48 21.60 ND 0.06 ND ND 20 35

Garh
3 TW-2 6.43 13.77 ND 0.04 ND ND 10 30
4 G-2 6.67 19.90 97.4 0.04 ND ND 10 20
5 Dev26 5.88 21.30 ND ND ND ND 20 20
6 Lakshma 6.37 16.35 ND ND ND ND 20 20

n Ganga
7 HW-1 6.46 17.21 0.21 ND ND ND 10 25
8 HW-2 7.0 13.18 ND ND ND ND 10 30
Table 3.3: Primary Water Quality Criteria for designated Best Use Classes
Sr. Parameter Water Quality CPCB India / IS 10500: 1991
No.
1 PH 6.5 - 8.5 IS 10500: 1991
2 EC 2250 ms CPCB India
3 PO4 0.25 ppm CPCB India
4 Cl 250 ppm IS 10500: 1991
5 NH3 1.2 ppm IS 10500: 1991
6 NO3 45 ppm IS 10500: 1991
7 Total Hardness 300 ppm IS 10500: 1991
5-131
Table 3.4: Total Bacterial Counts from Water Samples of various Sites
Sr. Sample site Total bacterial count in CFU per
No gm
.
1 Valley of Flowers GPS 7.0 x 104
2 S-1 2.6 x 105
3 S-1(II) 2.0 x 105
4 S-II 1.6 x 106
5 Garh V of 2 4.0 x 105
6 GPS-II (near stream) 9.0 x 106
7 Mule excreta 2.9 x 108
Table 3.5: Total Bacterial Counts from Soil Samples of various Sites
Sr. Sample Site Total bacterial count in CFU per
No gm
.
1 Pushpawati 12.0 x 105
2 H.K.1 5.6 x 103
3 H.K.2 2.4 x 104
4 LXG 5.1 x 102
5 LG1 13.1 x 104
6 G-2 5.7 x 104
7 TW1 1.7 x 102
8 TW2 6.0 x 103
9 DEV26(GPS) 3.8 x 103
10 Pulna 3.7 x 104
So far, the level of pollutants is found within the safe specified limits and the
water was not found to be graded as polluted, though visible pollution in the
form of plastic litter mixed with stream water can be observed at many locations
enroute.
5-132
The water analyses also indicate that the water quality is within the threshold
limits (limits provided as per CPCB IS 10500: 1991).
No alarming changes were observed in the soil. As is indicative of a rich forest
site, the data indicate that the area is fertile enough to nourish natural vegetation.
The Consultants team have monitored many other forest areas where the data
are alarming and the sites can be classified as fragile, however, the VoF sites (six)
where sampling was done are yet quite stable. Higher salinity or substantial
decrease in microbial biomass would indicate a condition where the site may not
be able to support its traditional vegetation. Dominating species/weeds start
invading such site as the natural vegetation density alters. The indicators of soil
data do not point to the direction that the soil is not able to nurture its traditional
vegetation as at this stage.
Soil samples collected from the Valley of Flowers and other places were found to
be fertile enough to nourish wide variety of organisms. The microbial biomass of
the mule excreta was quite high. Bhyundar Valley is in it self a sufficient natural
unit that is fertile enough to nourish its vegetation.
The air quality in the region is well within thresholds. The typical air pollution
generating components like vehicles and very large generators are totally absent
in the region. In absence of vehicular pollution and pollution by generators, the
only other causes could be burning of wood or incineration etc. The area is well
managed by the Forest Department, EDC volunteers etc in terms of uncontrolled
burning of wood in the forest or burning of plastic.
The air sample was analysed from the air sample brought from the site. It had
SOx, NOx and Total suspended Particulate Matter far less than the threshold.
These were rather negligible. Hence there is no problem of air pollution.
Gas analysis is done by on-line monitoring thereby gases are absorbed in the
solution viz. Tetrachloromercurate for SOx, and 0.1N NaOH for NOx. These
gases get fixed in the solution and can be analyzed calorimetrically by using UV
Vis Spectrophotometer. The method is universally adopted and approved by
CPCB, India. For TSPM (Total Suspended Particulate Matter) filter paper number
GF/A 2000 manufactured by Whatman is used. This is designed to adsorb most
of the TSPM. Table 3.6 shows the standards for air quality approved by Central
Pollution Control Board, Delhi and the air sampling results.
Table 3.6: Standards for Air Quality

Sr. Parameter Threshold Sampling Results
No.
1 SOx 80 ppm in ambient air Traces
2 NOx 80 ppm 10 ppm
5-133
Sr. Parameter Threshold Sampling Results

No.
3 TSPM 150 ppm Not detected
No SOx was detected as there are hardly any pollutants that will produce SOx.
Minor quantity of NOx could have been produced by microbial and forest
decomposition activity. It was a rainy period when the samples were taken, also
there are few causes of production of particulate matter as there are no vehicles,
no soot and hardly any wind turbulence. Pollution due to gases, noise, odours
are minimal.
Thus, no gaseous pollution was found in the area that may warrant and alarm
even in the projected state as long as the current status is maintained. However,
if the sources of pollution such as generator number increases (due to insufficient
availability of electricity through micro-hydel means or non-restorability of
electricity supply through grid), one has to monitor the gaseous pollution, as it
will then become a critical factor.
The Lichens that are indicator species were quite profuse in their growth; lichens
are usually considered as indicators of air pollution. When air is polluted, lichens
show the effect in the form of damages in their morphology.
3.4 Identification of Ecological Factors Affecting the Area

The issues identified to be addressed as crucial to the area:
1. Environmental Issues
2. Biodiversity Issues & Conservation Strategy
3. Conservation Status
4. Pollution Issues
5. Flora And Fauna
6. Water Management
7. Solid Waste Management
8. Carrying Capacity
9. Tourist Vista Points
10. Special Issues Such as Health of Animals
11. Capacity Building
12. Developmental Issues
13. Hazard Mitigation Plan & Safety Measures
5-134
3.1.1. Environmental Issues

The area cannot be called polluted from the yardstick of ‘settlement effected
pollution’, as very few inhabitants are located here and the local management
has also taken sufficient steps to guard that off. However, certain issues need
immediate debate and remedial measures for the following reasons:
• The area currently is and is being developed as a eco-tourist attraction
• When state of the art alternatives are available, this must be translated to this
prime site of attraction as well as cultural heritage of Hemkunt destination.
The “local management” consists of:
Local community institutions refer here include: EDC, Bhyundar and proposed
EDC, Govind Ghat (already formed at the time of revision of this report), Van
Panchayat, Gram Sabha, Mahila Mandal, Zila Panchayat, Department of Forest
officials, District Administration, with assistance from other Local Community
& Gurdwara Volunteers/Sevadars , Training staff, etc.
Organic Debris
• Organic debris is left due to tourism. The fact that the almost entire pilgrims
eat at Hemkunt, Ghangharia, and Govind Ghat Gurdwara sites; a lot of waste
that is mainly organic in nature is generated. This waste generated can be
classified in the following categories:
o Waste food normally dumped behind Langar halls. Kitchen drains
have their outlets to river Lakshman Ganga (at Hemkunt), to an open
pit behind utensil wash area within Govind Dham Gurdwara complex
(at Ghangharia) and to river Alaknanda (at Govind Ghat).
This waste can be usefully employed for generation of energy and scientific
disposal at the waste generating site/village sites itself.
o Waste at toilets etc. This has been covered under Pollution category.
o Waste left by tourists on trekking path. This waste is minor like fruit
peels, litter of cooked food, biscuits, dry fruits carried by tourists,
empty beverages tetra packs, empty paper cartons from shops or stalls
etc. and is usually clubbed with other waste and is not separated for
conversion.
o Waste of mule excreta, which is a hazard as it emits a bad smell (odour
pollution), is littered on the way and is swept and dumped on the
sides, into the valley and the forest area along the trek path. A good
portion of this would reach the rivers. Though decomposable, proper
management of this debris can be a resource; and a relatively clean
look can be provided to the visiting tourist. Mules cannot be
prohibited as that is the only easy way for tourists who cannot walk
5-135
through the route. (This aspect has also been covered under Pollution
category).
Plastic Waste
• Plastic bottles, wrappers, rain coats, carry bags, storage bins and other waste
generated mostly due to tourism, and some by local inhabitants. The mode of
disposal, their quantum (would increase tremendously with increase in
tourism), the current modes of piling at specific site and final disposal
including utilization have to be addressed.
(Suggestions for management have been given in Solid Waste Management Section
3.4.7).
Pollution
Air Pollution
• Air pollution is not a matter of concern in the valley. The ambient air quality
is good and does not call for any immediate measures. There are no motor
vehicles in the region. Power is provided by electricity either through main
grid or through local micro-hydel scheme, but the supply is insufficient with
low voltage. A few generators of large capacity (being used mainly by the
three Gurdwaras) and some small 5 KVA capacities by in use by the local
establishments were observed. Power supply should be improved so that
people are discouraged from extensive use of diesel or kerosene fuel based
generators.
Odour Pollution
• There are no major issues related to air pollution in the area except Odour
pollution. It is major nuisance in the area. It is mainly due to mule activity
and the same needs better management. There are no laws that govern the
quality or quantity of odour pollution. However this mode of pollution is
indeed a source of concern particularly for this area since it is a tourist area
and also a pilgrimage area, which should be free of pollutants including
odour pollution.
• Odour Pollution is a matter of serious concern. Odour emancipating from
mule excreta and other waste is annoying. Suggestions have been given in
other Section 3.4.4 to mitigate this problem.
Noise Pollution
• It is not a matter of concern in the valley. The tourists, so far, are disciplined
in this respect as, majority of tourists are pilgrims (to Hemkunt) and
naturalists (to Valley of Flowers). However, during peak season when, on an
average 50 to 100 persons might visit Valley of Flowers in a day, it is reported
that a cacophony of some visitors due to awe inspiring beauty may be of
some concern to those who would prefer serenity and want to enjoy the
5-136
beauty in a much quieter way. Loud speakers are placed at Gurdwaras, this
acts as a strength and inspiration for trekking pilgrims. This noise pollution is
not found a major issue as the area has a large capacity to absorb this noise.
Minor noise is generated by diesel generators as well.
Water Pollution
• This problem is not alarming as there is plenty of natural water yet, there are
several issues observed that need attention. Almost all the pilgrims who visit
Hemkunt Sahib carry the Sarovar water back home. When the water is
revered and carries that importance, any pollution of water for use
downstream even of the minor nature is alarming.
o Drinking water system is unstructured. Even with such large and pure
resources available in plenty, drinking water system needs to be better
managed. Pipes carrying drinking water and wastewater have to be
separated. The cold months do pose a major problem when pipes
burst, and may need to be laid underneath or re-laid before next
season.
o These problems are compounded in areas like Hemkunt, Ghangharia
and not particularly in Valley of Flowers.
• A proper lay out plan of water supply system plan needs to be prepared.
Special attention is to be paid to avoid wastewater and drinking water pipes
getting closer to each other.
• The microbial load at several places was more than the standards provided.
The increase is not alarming but needs care, as increase in number of tourists
will compound this problem.
• Management of toilets/urinals is an immediate concern. People urinating
openly and near water bodies especially, the stream originating from
Hemkunt, which ultimately the Ghangharia & village settlement downstream
use for drinking water has to be checked immediately. This can be done by
providing more efficient urinals and toilets, as well as awareness education.
• People going to Hemkunt Sarovar should clean themselves before taking a
dip. Though instructions exist, yet these are not followed.
• Urinals’ waste / kitchen waste / utensil wash waste should be managed so
that the disposal does not mix with system openly.
Plastic pollution
• It is a major problem identified in the area. Suggestions have been given in
Solid Waste Disposal section 3.4.7.
5-137
Health Concerns
• The stalls serving tea and snacks are not being managed as per standards
expected at a prime tourist place. Though most of the items sold there are
packed or bottled, yet a minimum standard of quality in terms of preparation
of eatables like tea and coffee, cleanliness of utensils and serving cups,
healthy handling of supplies etc. is expected. It is obligatory that the stall
owners are trained and model canteens are set up so that, there is a choice for
tourists, as well as, examples are set for healthy handling of eatables that
takes care of health of tourists.
3.1.2. Biodiversity Issues & Conservation Strategy
• The area has a variety of species that are endemic to the area. Many of these
are endangered, at risk of exploitation and in the threatened category. The
Division of Department of Forests, Joshimath (DFO), and Nanda Devi
Biosphere Reserve Authorities have taken good care and management is
cognizant of the fact that there is no further depletion, however, this issue
needs scientific inputs.
Biodiversity & its Accessioning
• Biodiversity is the real attraction for the Valley of Flowers and the Eco-
tourism in this region partially depends on this aspect (apart from the revered
Hemkunt site attraction).
• National Bureau of Plant Genetics Resources (NBPGR) has undertaken
surveys and has partially accessioned some of its biodiversity; however a
complete accessioning with conservation objective would be an ideal
proposition for the site.
Germplasm Bank of Endangered Species of VoF (ex-situ conservation)
• It is proposed to put up a shadow garden / demonstration nursery, which
simulates species of Valley of Flowers at other sites nearby Ghangharia, and
which will be a good demonstration of the biodiversity of the Valley. This
demonstration nursery can be named as Germplasm Bank of Endangered
Species of VoF (as suggested by Chief Wildlife Warden, Uttaranchal or be
known by any other name by DoF as felt appropriate).
Refer Section 6.2.2 under Chapter 6 on Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
Development Plan for details of this proposal.
Educational Component
• It is a principal of eco-tourism that there has to be good educational material
support for the eco-tourist. Even when the tourist visits as a pilgrim and not
an eco-tourist, he or she is mentally ready to imbibe information when
exposed. Thus, this is an important component. Although there are efforts to
5-138
initiate this activity through various means as listed below, much more needs
to be undertaken:
o Camps of NCC or other organisations - Here not only the cadets have
been educated but they in turn have tried to educate others
(However, the efforts are casual and not in a structured way; the signage
displayed on rock surfaces are not aesthetically good).
o The local organisations have been sensitised and educated.
o Very few guides, who are also EDC, Bhyundar members have been
trained and sensitised. More guides need to be trained for the purpose.
(Yet published information, displays, slide shows, CDs and other forms of visual
information like colour pamphlets/brochures/booklet, etc. will enhance the tourist
activity as well as help in conservation).
o There are displays of list of plants at the entrance of the valley displayed
prominently.
• A good garden has to be having an educational component. Though the
names have been shown with the plants at the demonstration garden, we
recommend a complete booklet (preferably in colour to have a good visual
effect) that gives information about the plants, salient features, possible use,
traditional uses and other information associated with the plants,
conservation status and efforts made by the Authority to conserve, multiply
and promote the concerned plants. This is cardinal to the concept of eco-
tourism.
• Forest Department has listed the names of the species that occur in the area,
however these could be displayed more aesthetically, with colourful booklets,
brochures and pictures that can be sold at commercial scale. The products can
be supplemented with CDs, Floppies, Film strips, not of pictures only but
information generated on scientific lines and for all target audiences such as
schools, colleges, amateurs, entrepreneurs and professionals.
• The brochures, CDs and other forms of educational material should cover as
much information as possible, including the controversial issues like that of
control of dominating species as mentioned earlier.
Population Studies
• Currently, some population studies have been undertaken by Dr C. P. Kala
and others through research programs of the Ministry of Environment &
Forests as well as through independent efforts of Universities and institutes.
Many of these works have been published too. However as proposed, a
multi-institutional sponsored program that will provide convincing solutions
followed by brain storming meeting to reach a consensus based on scientific
evidence and hypothesis.
5-139
• A population study has to be undertaken where population of the concerned

plants in the Valley are studied with indices of distribution so that
evaluations can be made from time to time about their status and remedial
measures can be taken. This will be useful for eco-tourism as well as for
conservation of the site. The studies already in progress should be promoted
and supported. However, it is recommended that instead of solitary studies, a
co-ordinated effort should be made involving more than one institutions and
brain storming meetings be organised to chalk out the plan of study and
establish milestones.
• Issues of dominating specie growth should be debated and tackled with the
best of expertise available in the country.
• The dominating species have to be defined into various categories:
1. Plants of the region that have overgrown in proportion and assumed
weedy growth as compared to a situation few years ago when grazing
was permitted in the region. These plants belong to the local population
and the ecosystem and thus are in tune with the local environment. These
are not detrimental to growth of the other plants unless these overgrow
the smaller and less dominant species.
− These plants have to be managed so that the sustainability of the
system is maintained.
− The controversial issue if these plants are weedy or not needs attention
and scientific assessment.
The issue was discussed at length in brain storming meetings organised
during the course of this study by inviting experts on the subject area.
There were opinions that these plants grow big only when associated
plants have flowered and seeded and hence these are not weedy. It was
opined that earlier this aspect was noticed and it is only now that we are
observing this and hence it is not an issue.
There have been no studies on if these plants are weedy, what species
have been suppressed by these dominating plants, if at all. Others pointed
out that these plants only grow on the fences and margins and hence it
appears that the whole are has been taken over by them, but once one gets
deeper into the valley, the situation is different. However others opine
that these dominating species have grown all over and need to be
addressed.
Actions to remove these species by up rooting were stopped since that can
cause erosion and do more harm than good. Moreover, such species are
dominant and come up again vigorously once the area is cleared. Efforts
were done to prune these species to reduce their impact.
5-140
Refer Section 6.2.1 of conservation plan on flora and fauna of the study
region.
2. Dominating species that do not belong to the region and ecosystem but
have crept into the ecosystem. These are dangerous and harmful species
and/or weeds. Ecologists are aware of Parthenium hysterophorus and
Lantana weeds. Lantana has taken over lower hills and is spreading into
higher altitudes.
− Cuscuta europaea specie has been reported from the region.
References of other weeds have also been cited in this report. These
weeds need immediate check and studies for the reasons for their
emergence need to be undertaken.
− Tourists carry food items and other belongings, which are not
quarantined. It is not practically possible to quarantine all the
belongings and food items carried into the region but awareness of the
problems can lead to partial check.
− Also early detection, monitoring and reporting of such incidence can
lead to appropriate studies and remedial measures.
− Many times introduction of such weeds is due to change in ecology of
the region, which automatically invites weeds. For example, complete
denudation of the land, disturbance due to activities such as road
construction etc. invites other plants that are weedy as these are
vigorous and compete with the locals and take over. There are no such
major disturbances, however caution must be taken while constructing
new roads and paths when excavation or removal of topsoil is
undertaken.
− This is one reason why there should be no up rooting of the existing
plants even when these assume weedy growth.
3. The third category is of certain plants that may increase in number due to
managed ecosystem where grazing or other disturbances are checked.
Certain plants may grow in number or density. This may happen at the
cost of others plants whose density or abundance may decrease. No such
studies have been undertaken at the valley sites. Also even if minor
changes of this category take place, it should be left to the ecosystem to
adjust and manage and human intervention may not be good unless it is
supported by long-term field studies based on population analyses and
population dynamics studies.
3.1.3. Conservation Status
• Medium to long-term conservation of seeds or propagules of all the species
must be ensured. Some of the species are being multiplied in tissue culture or
5-141
other modes at Almora, High Altitude Centre Garhwal and other institutes.
These should be promoted. However, it is a crucial point to note that there
are varietal differences in the plants and Valley enjoys a unique position.
Plants obtained from valley should be multiplied and restored when and
where necessary. This will come under the Global Strategy for Conservation
of Endangered or threatened species; and several from the valley fall in this
category. In certain cases, the plant species as such may not be threatened, as
the same species exist at other places in Kashmir etc. However the genotypes
and phenotypes that valley supports are unique and must be conserved either
in-situ or ex-situ (as proposed above in the form of Germplasm bank /
demonstration nursery near the Valley of Flowers site at Ghangharia or other
possible sites).
• Listing of species that are threatened, endangered, or extinct in the region
with respect to their distribution in the country (similar habitats in
Himalayas) or in the world should be undertaken and published.
• There have been efforts by Himalayan Institute and others to raise in-vitro
cultures of some of the endangered species. Such species and studies have to
be recorded and made use of in Conservation strategies.
• National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow has launched a
program on ‘Investing in Nature’ where Botanical Gardens are developing a
mandate to conserve the -dwindling diversity.
• Nearly 31 species are listed in literature that are endangered or threatened in
VOFNP. It calls for immediate assessment of the diversity. Studies should be
undertaken to assess the -dwindling diversity and measures taken to counter
the same.
• Currently several institutions like that at Almora, Wild Life Institute of India,
H. N. Bahuguna University and others are undertaking laboratory studies yet
the following arrangement in a structured and planned way should be
initiated;
− Accessioning of diversity with IC (Indian Collection) numbers
− Listing of endangered and threatened species with references from red
data book (international as well as regional prepared by BSI though
Ministry of Environment and Forests).
− Outsourcing information and protocols from existing institutions on in-
vitro culture status of plants of Valley of Flowers (H. N. Bahuguna
University has several thousands of Pycrorhiza plants).
− Getting endangered plants cultured in large number by providing mother
plants from Valley of Flowers area and not sources from other places.
5-142
− Reintroduction of cultured plants in the areas where depleted following

population biology protocols and principals.
− Development of Germplasm Bank / Demonstration Nursery
− Undertaking population studies to assess the role of dominating species
and endangered species
− Undertaking studies on grazing and impacts.
• Locals and migratory pastoral communities often view the Alpine meadows
as important grazing resources. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve authorities
have taken this issue seriously and are managing the problem. However
institutional studies to monitor the impact will find better answers to the
vexed problem.
IPR & Bio-prospecting
• This may appear controversial but once accessioning has been done, plants
have been multiplied in sufficient numbers in nurseries outside Valley, these
can also be provided to concerned institutes and industry for developing
products and processes so that bio-prospecting can be ensured. Mere
conservation without development will not lead to economic development.
• Protection of geographical site preference of Valley of Flowers should be
protected from IPR exploitation. It may be stated here that Basmati rice has
been patented with minor modifications. Many have patented Vedas term.
Similarly protection of the site under geographical site protection may be
useful in the long run.
• As pointed out earlier, the varieties or chemovars or ecotypes of Valley be
identified and highlighted so that tourist can appreciate the uniqueness of the
Valley or adjacent areas. Literature search, opinion of the experts, scientific
examination can be undertaken to arrive at this uniqueness with
authentication.
• The official VoF web site and other means information must highlight the
conservation status of the Valley and adjacent areas.
3.1.4. Pollution Issues
Issues
• There are nearly 4 lakh tourists visiting Hemkunt and taking a dip in the
Holy waters. Water pollution need to be addressed.
• The facilities for natural calls of the tourists are insufficient and need further
inputs.
• The number of tourists to Valley is still below optimal and the issue of their
being supra optimal was not observed at this stage. (The current numbers of
5-143
tourists to Valley of Flowers is too small as compared to similar facilities at other

places in the world; looking to the importance of the education available at the site,
population of the country, and interest in biodiversity of the nation, prospects of eco-
tourism in the region, potential to revenue that can be generated by way of eco-
tourism; and number of tourists that go to Hemkunt and not visit Valley of Flowers)
• Pressure of tourists in the lower areas was supra optimal looking to the
facilities available on the way.
• There are no issues of air pollution as the management has taken good
precaution, there is no pressure of petroleum use, and the area enjoys natural
vastness to accommodate minor pressures.
• There is no pressure of sound pollution.
• Odour pollution is a concern and must be addressed to as apart from
nuisance, the cause can also be a health concern.
A study was made of water quality at Hemkunt site. No major pollutants were
observed in the water as sampled from various sites and the results are discussed
in earlier sections (refer Tables 3.2 - 3.4 in earlier section).
• Facilities for urinals and toilets are a matter of concern. Urinating near the
water bodies or sites frequented by other persons can be a health hazard
apart from visual pollution.
• The current urinals are tin funnels that get stinky from frequent use and poor
cleanliness.
• Unmanaged disposal is a serious concern as water pipes cross the village sites
and often these are not managed properly and get infection from the urinals
and latrines. Several of such points were observed which could be the
possible source of infection for the villagers and unprepared visitors.
• Poor hygiene at the site compels the tourists to carry water bottles, as they
cannot depend upon the natural water otherwise available in plenty at the
sites.
• The stalls serving tea and snacks are not being managed as per standards
expected at a prime tourist place. Though most of the items sold there are
packed or bottled, yet a minimum standard of quality in terms of preparation
of eatables like tea and coffee, cleanliness of utensils and serving cups,
healthy handling of supplies etc. is expected. It is obligatory that the stall
owners are trained and model canteens are set up so that there is a choice for
tourists as well as examples is set for healthy handling of eatables that takes
care of health of tourists.
• Mule excreta are a very prominent source of pollution. Though there are
arrangements for its cleaning by the sweepers arranged by local authorities
but the arrangement neither reduces odour pollution nor is ecologically
5-144
sustainable since all the dried or mulled excreta is thrown all around the
natural forest. A protected forest in the true sense should be least disturbed.
However, 800-1000 odd mules’ excreta is sprayed along the trek path and
establishments in the Bhyundar valley and rivers for good four-five months.
• It is an expensive suggestion to collect all the excreta yet it is a resource that is
rich in organic matter. It can be utilised as manure in the nearby agriculture
fields if collected and processed. It is strongly recommended since it is
causing odour pollution and a nuisance on the way where tourist is trekking.
• Since it is not practically possible to train mules to leave excreta at specified
points (although designated rest points with disposal pits may be planned), a
scheme of incentives may have to be introduced where the sweepers or mule
owners are encouraged to collect excreta along the trek path and deposit at
designated sites. These sites should have arrangement for vermi-composting
or manuring. This fertiliser can be utilised in the proposed gardens or
agriculture fields. Help of local community volunteers may have to be
sought.
• Management of mule excreta will solve ecological disturbance, odour
pollution, excreta trashed on the trek path, and utilisation of organic resource.
3.1.5. Flora and Fauna
As per the conservationists and forests officials, the biodiversity of valley
including more than 521 vascular plant species out of which 499 are flowering
species, is under threat. Recent efforts of the Department of Forests have created
great awareness among locals as well as visitors yet the ecosystem is fragile and
needs conservation measures.
Issue of Dominating Species/Weeds
The issue of occurrence of dominating species has often been debated. There are
contradicting reports that protection of grazing causes occurrence of such
species. On the other hand naturalists argue that the weed the critics are pointing
out is a part of natural vegetation and is not limiting the growth of species; and is
thus not endangering any of the species. Dr. C. P. Kala who has surveyed the
area and is studying for the last several years claims that he has not observed loss
of any species due to the so called weeds. This issue was discussed in the brain
storming sessions specially convened for this study.
It was suggested that the growth of dominating species comes up after the
species have flowered and thus does not shadow the species in its vicinity.
Moreover the dominating specie of Polygonum polystachyum grows only on the
sides of the valley and not all over the valley. It looks very prominent because of
its tallness, however is not overtaking the entire valley. The critics propose that
controlled grazing should be allowed to keep such dominating species in check,
5-145
otherwise there is a risk, they believe, that near extinct plants may have their
resurgence.
It is recommended that grazing may not be allowed and this aspect be studied in
the form of sponsored project in a multi institutional mode since it is not difficult
to observe the spread of a dominating specie and the dangers it may cause in a
controlled study.
The Dominating Species Polygonum polystachyum and pinkish Impatiens sulcata
take over the parts of valley in the month of September. These species are
supposed to suppress the growth of other flowering species. Polygonum
polystachyum, which is commonly called, as “Saran” tends to suppress some of
flowering herbs and hinders a good view of the flowers. Polygonum grows
mostly at an elevation of 3,300-3,500 m on disturbed habitats such as eroded
slopes, boulder areas, avalanche prone areas and fragmented tree line zones.
Flowering plants, on the other hand, dominate stable undulating areas and
slopes. From the views of guides and earlier researchers the mode of dispersion
of seed is quite unique and if not disturbed, remain as such on its location
forever.
Details of the vegetation in the Park as falling under various zones are described
earlier in Chapter 2.
The Tree-line
This is the most prominent ecological boundary in the Himalayas where the sub-
alpine forests terminate. The forests below tree line are classified as under sub
alpine forests of Betula utilis and Rhododendron campanulantum. The sub-alpine
forests have been further divided into western Himalayan sub-alpine birch-fir
forests (Betula – Abies) and eastern Himalayan sub-alpine forests (Champion &
Seth, 1968). Generally the fir – birch community develops on the morainic
environs while the birch rhododendron community comes mainly on the rocky
substrates.
The alpine meadows develop mainly on the smooth and stable slopes between
3500-4500 m above MSL. A large number of herbaceous communities e.g.
Potentilla–geranium, Cortia-Ranunculus, Kobresia – Carex etc.develop in the alpine
region depending upon the stability of the slopes, soil depth, biotic pressure and
exposure. The meadow vegetation is quite often a mixture of stunted, much
branched, tufted herbs and shrubs spreading close to the ground and forming
matted cushions with deep penetrating rootstocks and perennial underground
stems. The continuous herbaceous vegetation is interrupted only by outcrops of
rocks, mountain streams, marshlands or other terrain types. This compact and
herbaceous vegetation does not continue beyond 4500 + 100 m above MSL as it is
replaced by more xerophytic communities such as members of Crassulaceae,
Saxifragaceae, lichens, and mosses.
5-146
Alpine meadows are locally known as `Bugyal’ in Garhwal and Kumaon regions
of Uttaranchal. These areas are well known for their scenic beauty, floral
diversity and repositories of a number of valuable medicinal herbs.
Apart from the flowering, alpine meadows also include the wild variety of non-
flowering ones such as Osmundaterm clatoniana. Apart from these there are
several ferns, lichens, fungi and algal species that also need intensive study,
inventorisation, digitisation, and conservation.
A few studies exist on the ecology of alpine meadows in the areas adjacent to the
Indian Himalayas.
Prompted by these needs, Wildlife Institute of India (WII) conducted an
ecological study in the Valley of Flowers National Park (VOFNP) and adjoining,
areas of Garhwal Himalayas. The National park status of the Valley of Flowers
grants total protection to the area and provides an opportunity to collect the base
line data on the various attributes of alpine vegetation, which can be monitored
on the long-term basis to see the effect of protection.
Climatic Zone Altitude Range Soil pH Species Diversity

Index
Sub-alpine 2800 - 3800 m Acidic 3.23
Lower alpine 3525 - 3800 m Acidic 2.86
Higher alpine 3880 - 4650 m Acidic 1.88
Source: Wild life Institute of India, August

1998(Report: RR-98/003)
The alpine meadows in the Valley of Flowers appear to be more diverse. Right
from the start of trekking from the Ghangharia to the valley the forest is covered
with tree species such as Acer indicuum, Pinus species, Taxus baccata, Betula
species.
Grazing
Livestock grazing although has been banned already but some researchers justify
grazing practice. They claim grazing as an essential part to maintain species
diversity. However, livestock grazing and its impact on alpine meadows of
Valley of Flowers has been a subject of considerable debate among ecologists. It
has been reported that livestock grazing may encourage the growth and
distribution of certain species including dominating and less desirable herbs.
Grazing animals affect plant communities in several interrelated ways, including
plant defoliation, nutrient removal and redistribution through excreta and
mechanical impacts on soil and diversity through trampling.
5-147
During recent years some authors opined that live stock grazing is necessary to
maintain the floral diversity in alpine areas because it suppresses the over
growth of a few opportunistic herbs such as Osmenda claytoniana, Impatiens
sulcata and Polygonum polystachyum.
Department of Forests once initiated uprooting the dominating species like
Polygonum polystachyum, but soon it was stopped because the roots of this herb
go deep inside the soil and act as a good soil binder, and uprooting these could
lead to soil erosion. Since then National Park authorities are trying to suppress
this herb from selected areas by cutting the grass to restrict its growth.
Tourists also damage some plants by trampling and otherwise like, by plucking
to collect as souvenir or so as observed by the consultants during the site visits.
Thus, education of the tourists to sensitise them to the environemtn is the best
remedy.
Wild life (Valley of Flower-Hemkunt Region)
The National Park is full of faunal diversity. Himalayan pit viper and cobras are
some of the reptiles that can be seen frequently. Himalayan Bear are common;
leopard is also sometimes observed; and it is suggested not to go any where at
night because evening is the time of maximum wild life movement.
Environmental Awareness and Education
Tourism as such may not pose any direct impact on the Ecology of Valley of
flowers. There is no need to reduce the number of tourists visiting the valley at
present, rather they should be given awareness as it is a means of education,
vacation, income for locals and necessary part of civilisation. However, this
should be managed in a controlled/regulated manner for handling the visitation
load in the Valley of Flowers & through proposed Germplasm Bank /
Demonstration Nursery reducing future pressure on the Valley.
The Nature Interpretation Centre at Ghangharia is run by the trained guides and
the workers of EDC (Eco-Development Committee) who inform the interested
tourists by showing slide show presentation. However, a better equipped and
innovative centres and systems need to be developed and tourists should also be
educated about the protection and conservation issues.
3.1.6. Water Management
Water is in plenty in the region and as such this should not be an issue, however,
two aspects are worth consideration:
• Maintaining the status of water in the region, &
• Making clean water available to the tourists.
This aspect can be classified into the following categories:
• Pollution of water by visiting tourists by throwing solid waste
5-148
• Pollution of water due to release of human and animal waste into streams
such as toilets waste drained off without processing; animal waste let off
without management etc.
• Polluting Hemkunt Sarovar water by bathing without washing, releasing
waste by way of cleaning clothes, utensils, mixing of stacked solid waste
behind Langar facility, etc. which subsequently affects Lakshman / Hem
Ganga that emanates from the Sarovar.
Details of these aspects have been covered under various sections. Management
of urine and toilet waste of about 4 lakh visitors camping at various sites (refer
Table 2.4 in Chapter 2 for details of number of tourists visiting the region),
regular staff at Gurdwaras, villagers of Pulna, Ghangharia and Bhyundar and
other floating population of various establishments including mule owners, and
that of about 800-1000 mules is an identified area that needs attention.
Similarly drinking water needs of all these people have to be addressed in such a
way that tourists should be able to get clean drinking water (with a purity
confidence) at the sites rather than to carry drinking water bottles from the base
camps (and then in turn litter the plastic bottles on the way).
Refer Environment Management Plan for wastewater - Sec 5.2.5 for details of
recommendations.
3.1.7. Solid Waste Management
There are several issues related to solid waste management pointed out in the
report above. Following measures are proposed.
Existing Solid Waste Management System
Refer section 2.11.4 in Chapter 2 for the description of the existing scenario of the
Solid Waste Management in the region.
Solid Waste Management – Main Concerns
• How to dispose of the significant amount of non-biodegradable waste already
collected and brought down at Govind Ghat till Jul 2003, and which further
continued to litter till the closure of this season?
• How to collect the non-biodegradable waste that is littered but not collected
during the tourist season and which got accumulated including that littered
in the early month of Oct 2003 after the EDC services for cleaning the path
was stopped by end of Sep 2003?
• How to improve inadequate remuneration, supporting infrastructure, etc.
offered currently to the cleaning staff?
• Can all the tourist traffic of which the religious tourism is anyway expected to
have a majority share be charged, say a nominal/total/per visit eco-
development fee per person at the 1 km point EDC Check-post after Govind
5-149
Ghat for trekking enroute to Ghangharia-Hemkunt Sahib and staying at

Ghangharia?
• Definition of clear roles of various agencies working in this area henceforth
like, EDC, Mahila Mandal, Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust,
Department of Forest, Van Panchayat, Gram Sabha, Department of Forests,
Department of Tourism, etc.?
Valley of Flowers
Some of the tourists/visitors and people’s perception reports that in the recent
years there are fewer flowers and that species diversity is decreased in the valley
of flowers. In the absence of quantitative data from the past studies it is not
possible to infer whether species diversity has increased or decreased after the
declaration of the park and resultant ban on livestock grazing since 1982. The
issue of control of growth of dominating species (like Polygonum polystachyum,
Impatiens sulcata, etc.) or its removal is still a sensitive subject. Proper
environmental orientation / eco-awareness amongst all those who visit is also an
issue w.r.t. the protection of the natural heritage and proper solid waste disposal.
Hemkunt Lake & Shrine
Each year, the four-month yatra to Sri Hemkunt Sahib brings more than 3-4 lakhs
people to the Bhyundar Valley. Along with these visitors come some serious
environmental impacts to this remote mountainous region.
Refer Environment Management Plan for solid waste management: Sec 5.2.4 for
details of recommendations on the same.
3.1.8. Carrying Capacity
Carrying capacity depends upon the resource available, number of consumers
dependent upon the resource and capacity of the system to replace the lost
resources. In this case, both water and space are in plenty in the region, however,
the fragility of biodiversity is the concern.
Valley of Flowers
The area currently available for tourists is very limited and all the components of
this spot are precious. Any trampling, removal or damage is limiting to the
system. Not that the system is not capable of replenishing it but the
replenishment of the lost species is usually not with the same and similar species
but usually with more aggressive and competitive species. In such a case, the
structure of the community will be different if the lost components (species in
this case) are continuously replaced by dominating species or components or
associations different from the natural or original ones.
Already there is a concern of growth of dominating species due to restrictions on
grazing. There is a debate on if grazing should be allowed as in past so that the
such species are kept in check. However, we strongly feel that grazing will also
5-150
remove other components that are rare and may be lost with grazing or
trampling due to grazing activity.
Even trampling and plucking of flora by tourists may be detrimental. Thus,
tourists path need to be defined with movements restricted.
Number of tourists has increased as compared to previous years. The growth of
domestic tourists had been 63% in 2003, however it is observed very limited
(nearly 1.17 % in 2002 and 1.63 % in 2003) number of persons visiting Hemkunt
Sahib visit Valley of Flowers.
A 10 sq.km area of the main valley that is visible cannot stand lakhs of tourists
moving on a limited pathway space of 0.6 ha / 1.5 acres in a small season of four
months. Its carrying capacities don’t permit that. The physical space for tourists
to move around in the Valley of Flowers is limited and higher the number, more
chances of damage to the precious biodiversity components.
At present the numbers of tourists visiting the Valley of Flowers are quite below
the carrying capacity and these numbers can be increased by proper
management and education as elaborated in other sections of this report. Kindly
refer Chapter 6 for further details.
Hemkunt Sarovar
This site has nearly four lakh visitors in a season. This site is somewhat better
managed in terms of organisation of space for Gurdwara, bathing area, toilets,
Langar facility, etc. Details of these impacts have been discussed in other
chapters. Refer Chapter 6 for details.
3.1.9. Tourist Vista Points
• Vista points be developed which are clean, have sitting space, give a good
look of the landscape, have telescopes, arrangements for digital photography
(may be on cost) and have detailed educational information. This place can
also be used to educate on the efforts of the management to keep the area
clean and other notices.
• Cost for such services can be fixed on “no profit-no loss” basis. Calculating
the possible number of users, depreciation costs etc., the local authorities can
fix cost per shot. Normally it should not exceed Rs. 5 so that it remains
attractive to use this facility. Usually hill stations have telescopes installed at
such points to visit far off peaks etc. Refer Chapter 6 & 8 for details of
proposals on Vista Points.
3.1.10.Health of Animals
Mules in the region are not healthy, are sick, several die per year as per the
observations during this study.
• Mule diet is not balanced and they are fed only to get work.
5-151
• Their diet must include sufficient fibre, green and should be balanced.
• Arrangement to grow green fodder and providing the same is to be made.
This will avoid unmanaged grazing and give good health to the mule.
• The mule operators buy green or dry grass from contractors who get contract
to cut grass from the wild and sell.
• Health check of mules should be mandatory. Sick mule is not allowed to ply
in the area.
• Mule Stand in the area is full of their urine and filth. Healthy clean areas for
mule be developed. This is also important for health of the persons who use
mules, sit on them, and touch the mules.
• Mule urine, particularly at trained urinating spots be collected in pits and
cleaned by passing the urine through cleaning tanks containing gravel, sand
or as recommended for such cleaning. This will reduce the risk of urine
contaminating water bodies and soil in the area.
• Two temporary structure - Veterinary clinics should be provided in the
tourists season, one each at Ghangharia and Govind Ghat keeping in mind
the large number (800 to 1000) mules operating in the region. This number
may increase as the tourist number increases.
3.1.11.Capacity Building
It is very essential to develop education centres that are run by locals. These
centres should be equipped, have organised training where scientific information
is provided in simpler language and resources be provided for continuous
education and training to local community members, EDC members, Mahila
Mandals, mule operators, establishment owners, etc. Initially a batch of local
community members/stakeholders can be trained by the Department of Forests
and the Department of Tourism, at the Centre for Eco-tourism and Sustainable
Livelihoods, Chunakhan (Ramnagar) under Department of Forests or fully
equipped interpretation facility at the office of the DFO, Joshimath. NGOs
working in Uttaranchal state can be invited to train these locals/share their
experiences from time to time, along with the Defence Authorities, Forest Staff,
etc. who can train for the requirements /preparation for emergency response &
rescue system.
Refer section 6.4.1 under Chapter 6 and Chapter 9 for details.
3.1.12.Development Issues
Development of Toilet Clusters
It is very essential to develop toilet clusters and individual toilet facilities. The
yardstick is that any place where more than 25 persons are supposed to stay at a
given time must have a toilet. These structures are critical at Hemkunt Sahib, all
5-152
rest places, rest/guest houses and village sites. Details have been given in
relevant sections under Chapters 6 - 8.
Facilities at Ghangharia
This place is an important settlement. It must have all necessary facilities in
terms of health care, toilet facilities, market, medicines, animal health care
(veterinary) centre, information on environment regulations, biodiversity
conservation centre, tourist information, souvenirs etc.
Mule Sheds
This point has also been detailed in Chapters 6-8. Mules that are about 800-1000
in number in a peak season is a good enough number to have proper sheds with
sanitation facilities, mule waste collection centre etc.
Rest/Rain Shelters
These are just spots at present and do not facilitate the tourist. Shelters where
more than 15-20 persons can rest or protect themselves from rain, and shelter
with toilet facilities should be developed at regular intervals, say nearly every 1
to 1-1/2 km of the trek path. There may be very few such but smaller shelters
within Valley of Flowers till 3 km point of difficult terrain.
These can be combined with tea stalls/kiosk clusters (excluding in Valley of
Flowers area).
Tea stalls
Clean and large tea stalls or canteen at planned clusters should be developed, as
has been developed at Vaishno Devi site. These canteens should have clean food,
proper washing facility, toilet, rest area where people can also eat from their own
eatables (carried by them), waste disposal arrangement, waste compressing
arrangement etc. These are important requirements and many tourists measure
the facilities from availability of eating-places.
These should also carry fixed prices displayed properly, have healthy food,
ecological sustainable packing, degradable supplies (as far as possible), filtered
water so that people can rely on the quality of water and need not carry their
bottles. These can function as resource centres with education, displays about
things they are going to visit, dos and don’ts.
Upgradation of Trek Path
The trek path definitely needs improvement. In the Valley of Flowers, people
were seen walking over plants since the trek path was not clear and demarcated.
The trek path in VoF has to be upgraded/relayed wherever required in dry stone
kharanja including the surface of vista points clearly demarcating the area of
movement. Similarly, the trek path has to be widened/ugraded with cement
concrete (1:2:4) and with side railing protections in rest of the trek route. It
5-153
should also have proper displays through standardised signages (that blend with
the environment) and not casual writings about facilities ahead, toilet sites, site
for disposing waste, compression sites, do’s and don’ts, etc.
Parking
The facilities of parking at Govind Ghat base camp are not adequate. Proper
facilities need to be developed so that tourist comes with a confidence and there
is an order even in small details.
Development of Demonstration Gardens
Need for demonstration gardens / Germplasm bank to reduce pressure (act as a
more resilient site/area) on Valley of Flowers, help conserve bio-diversity, help
in better education (even to those who don’t go to Valley of Flowers and visit
only Hemkunt), research, etc. are suggested.
This will become an interpretation point. It can be used for education of the
tourists. Interpretation is a major pout in eco-tourism. Managers of eco tourism
sometimes omit this important requirement of interpretation. A termite mound
can be seen and appreciated as such but an interpretation note on its age and its
properties can help disseminate the information. It can also be used to convey
biodiversity information. The same cannot be done at the original VoF, were
even pitting a sign board will go against sustainability.
If the site is developed at a relatively convenient site where more tourists can be
encouraged, it will help cover higher numbers to educate pilgrims about
biodiversity without pressurising VoF area. The suggestion is to support
education about VoF. It is our duty and commitment to educate people, in this
case, pilgrims on Biodiversity, provide an alternative venue which not only
serves conservation but education. We are committed to educate people on
biodiversity. People travel miles to see museums, on the other hand, this site
becomes a favoured spot as many tourists are visiting this site and to avoid the
general religious segment (who are not serious eco-tourists) from disturbing the
Valley.
Also, need to combine horticulture with tourism is advocated. This will give
additional revenue and vocation to the locals particularly in off seasons. This will
also help in eco-tourism. However all such activities have to be state of art,
organic and need based. There is a great scope for cultivation of medicinal
plants, ornamental plants, dehydration of plants to develop the same as
souvenir, etc.
3.1.13.Hazard Mitigation Plan & Safety Measures
The Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region is prone to landslides, avalanche, etc.
Moreover it falls in the higher range of Seismic Zones as well. Refer Chapter 9 for
details on Hazard Mitigation Plan.
5-154
4. ECO-TOURISM DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

This chapter details the eco-tourism development strategy for the proposed
developments in the Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt region.
4.1 Emerging Issues
The major emerging issues are summarised below in the Table 4.1 to arrive at an eco-
tourism development strategy.
Table 4.1: Major Emerging Issues in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt
Sr. Issue Type Issue / Impact
No.
VALLEY OF FLOWERS
1 Ecological • Spread of dominating specie Polygonum polystachyum
Issues • Growth of other dominating plant species like, Impatiens sulcata,
other weeds, etc.
• Risk of reduction in flora and medicinal plants
• Illegal removal of ripe plant seeds/ biomass/ medicinal herbs by
members local community immediately after the tourist season
2 Development • No proper trek trail after 5 km
Related • No smaller trails to flowering patches & elevated rock points and
to reach the same visitors trample the vegetation
• No signage to indicate way for Ms. Legge’s Grave/old Helipad
(as reported)
• No safety railings where trek /trail path is very steep
• Limited Nature Interpretation signages
• No Warning (like, landslides) signages
• Wrong Siting of Toilets & Improper Design
• No Proper View Points
• No Rain Shelters-cum-Rest Sheds
• Waste collection bins are neither easily evident nor attractive
• No proper bridges on smaller streams in the beginning of the
trek like over Gushadhar Garh, and in the main valley like, over
Dev Mangri Garh and Bistoli Garh
• No bridge on river Pushpawati near main valley to access the
other areas of the main valley (e.g. Nag Tal area) where Mr.
Smythe had camped during his detailed study of the Valley of
Flowers.
5-155

No.
3 Tourists’ • Plucking of flowers
Related • Littering waste (incl. non-biodegradable waste)
• Dirtying the temporary urinal toilets with human excreta
• Creation of cacophony and noise by some of the visitors (reports
of such noise observed in past) which disturbs those who want
quite solitude while enjoying the beauty of Valley of Flowers
• Trampling the plants/flower species to access natural view
points/rocks for view and rest to enjoy the beauty of Valley of
Flowers
• Defacing of tree trunks/rocks by engraved writing/writing in
paint
• Damaging whatever waste bins are currently provided
• Vandalising Ms. Legge’s grave, and this has already destroyed
the original grave stone as commemorated by Ms. Legge’s sister
in 1941
4 Management • No Warnings/ Compulsory Orientation of Tourists, porters, etc.
Related • No Proper System to check safe return of all tourists
• Not many trained guides/nature interpreters available
• Strict patrolling is difficult after tourist season is over / during
extreme winters
HEMKUNT SAHIB COMPLEX
1 Ecological • Pollution of Lakshman/Hem Ganga stream at Hemkunt Sahib
Issues through wastes from kitchen, other solid waste, detergents, non-
biodegradable wastes, sacks stacked behind Langar hall, and
activities like urinating by the visitors’ and Gurdwara staff.
• Plucking of Brahmakamal (Sassurea obvallata) a high altitude
flower of Himalayas, for puja/after Nandashtami.
• Use of diesel generator at Hemkunt Sahib Gurdwara complex
(about 100 litres of diesel fuel is consumed every alternate day in
the extremely cold weather, while the micro-hydel plant capacity
at Hemkunt becomes insufficient
2 Development • Toilets Facility not in hygienic condition for visitors
Related • No community Toilet Facility for mule operators/porters/palki
carriers
• No proper Shower/Changing facility for men and women near
the Hemkunt Sarovar with the message/signages to orient
visitors to take shower before and after taking dip in the
Hemkunt Sarovar to maintain hygiene or safety of bathing areas
• No bio-degradable solid/kitchen & utensil wash waste disposal
mechanism
• Non bio-degradable waste is stacked in sacks behind the Langar
hall, which with wind breeze keep falling in the Lakshman /
5-156

No.
Hem Ganga stream channel below
• No Safe Drinking Water Facility
• No proper Mule Sheds
• No Rain Shelters-cum-Rest Sheds
• No visibly attractive, turntable, easy to use Waste Bins
• Lack of Nature Interpretation signages
• No Telecommunication Facilities
3 Tourists’ • Plucking of Brahmakamal flowers at Hemkunt
Related • Littering waste (incl. non-biodegradable waste)
• Urinating in the Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream
4 Management • No Safety Warnings/ Compulsory Orientation of Tourists to take
Related shower before and after taking dip in the Hemkunt Sarovar to
maintain hygiene and safety of bathing areas
• Lack of life guards in case of emergency of a visitor drowning in
the Hemkunt Sarovar (instances of deaths have been reported in
past)
• No Proper System to check safe return of all tourists
• Not many trained guides/nature interpreters available
• Strict patrolling is difficult after tourist season is over / during
extreme winters
GOVIND GHAT - HEMKUNT TREK ROUTE
1 Ecological • Much lesser vegetation/flowering species remains along in the
Issues beginning till Pulna as well as later in many stretches of the trek
path
• Mule excreta is normally swept to the sides of the path, while
urine remains on the trek path or flows down the slopes without
any soak pit filtration
• Human waste including urine from temporary toilets gets
disposed directly along the slopes
2 Development • Poor Condition of Trekking trails/path
Related • Safety railings are provided at bare minimum locations and
missing at places where path is very steep
• Mules path and trekkers path are same
• Paths full of mule excreta at most of the places and urine at some
places
• Fodder available only at Govind Ghat (brought from
Ramnagar/Haldwani markets) and at Ghangharia (bought from
local contractors who get the same from local villagers with
rights to cut and sell grazing grass from Van Panchayat lands)
5-157

No.
• No proper Toilets/Soak Pits & Improper Design/Mechanism for
disposal
• Lack of high quality restaurants/dhabas/stalls enroute
• No aesthetics/pleasing architecture of the structure enroute
• No Rain Shelters-cum-rest sheds (tea stalls/dhabas premises
provide places of rest)
• No Visibly Attractive , turntable, easy to use Waste Bins
• No Telecommunication Facilities
• No Directional/ Informatory signages
• No Warning (like landslides/avalanche) signages
• Shabbily painted eco-awareness signages over rocks
• Damaged provisions of electricity supply through grid
3 Tourists’ • Littering especially Plastics all through the trekking path
Related • Damaging whatever waste bins are currently provided
• Defacing of tree trunks/rocks by engraved writing/writing in
paint
• Plucking of Brahmakamal flowers enroute to Hemkunt
4 Management • No Emergency Response System
Related
GHANGHARIA BASE SETTLEMENT
1 Ecological • Destruction of valuable trees for Construction leading to
Issues receding tree line at Ghangharia
• Use of diesel generator at Govind Dham Gurdwara complex
(about 300 litres of diesel fuel is consumed every alternate day).
Other establishments also use small 5 KVA generators as the
electricity supply is reported to be insufficient from the
Ghangharia micro-hydel plant
2 Development • Poor Condition of Trekking trail/path within the Ghangharia
Related settlement
• Mules path and trekkers path same, paths full of mule excreta
• Lack of high quality Accommodation & Restaurant facilities
• No aesthetics/pleasing architecture of the structure in the
settlement
• No proper Community Toilets for mule operators/ porters/palki
carriers
• No Visibly Attractive, turntable, easy to use Waste Bins
5-158

No.
• Insufficient Telecommunication Facilities
mechanism
• Insufficient electricity
3 Tourists’ • Littering especially Plastics along the trek path in Ghangharia
Related • Improper self-behaviour in a public location as the limited
telecommunication facilities have heavy load at Ghangharia
4 Management • Most of the establishments in Ghangharia are encroachments.
Related The structures have been constructed in a haphazard manner
along the 8-10 ft. wide trek path in Ghangharia settlement
• No Warnings/ Compulsory Orientation of Tourists towards
environmental conservation and safety
• No Emergency Response System, however some free
treatment/patient beds is possible in the Gurdwara dispensary
or on payment in Government dispensary (for which the
additional patient beds facility is provided in Gurdwara
complex).
GOVIND GHAT BASE SETTLEMENT
1 Ecological • The non-biodegradable and bio-degradable solid waste is
Issues observed finding its way directly to river Alaknanda and
polluting the same
• About more than 4000 sacks of non-biodegradable waste
collected from the entire trek path during the study season (2003)
was still piled up near the Govind Ghat Forest Rest House
• Impact of blasting in the nearby mountain slopes to widen the
roads and parking
• Use of diesel generator at Govind Dham Gurdwara complex.
About 200-250 litres of diesel fuel is consumed every day here.
Other establishments also use small 5 KVA generators as the
electricity supply is reported to be insufficient from the grid
2 Development • Insufficient Parking Facility arrangements especially during peak
Related season
• Lack of high quality Accommodation & Restaurant facilities
• No aesthetics/pleasing architecture of the structure in the
settlement
• No proper Community Toilets for mule operators/ porters/palki
carriers
• Lack of Proper Drinking Water Facility
• Lack of proper Toilet Facility (the one near the Main Parking
Facility is not yet operational)
5-159

No.
• Insufficient Telecommunication Facilities
• Government Dispensary building is still not operational
• No Visibly Attractive , turntable, easy to use Waste Bins
• Lack of trained guides/nature interpreters
mechanism
• Insufficient electricity
3 Tourists’ • Littering especially Plastics along the trek path in Govind Ghat
Related
4 Management • During the study in 2003 Govind Ghat was maintained by Zila
Related Panchayat, and recently in 2004 EDC, Govind Ghat has become
functional
• No Compulsory Orientation of Tourists at the start of trek from
Govind Ghat towards environmental conservation and safety
• No Registration of Mules/ Structure of Operation/Control over
what is charged by the mule operators/porters/palki carriers
• During an emergency, some free treatment is possible in the
Gurdwara dispensary or on payment in local clinics. Gurdwara
provides free ambulance services.
GENERAL ISSUES
1 Management • Registration of Services (like guides, mule operators etc) and
Issues Eco-certification
• Management of Religious Tourism at this destination. VoF-
Hemkunt region has limited capacity it could handle in the 4
month season, hence a guideline required on this. This should be
part of a larger religious tourism policy that the Govt of
Uttaranchal State need to develop.
4.2 The Development Considerations

The Development Strategy takes into consideration the environmental, social,
economic and administrative aspects of the region that create either
opportunities or constraints for the development of tourism and defines the
macro-level policy.
The Tourism Development Strategy emphasises on:
• developing Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region as a quality eco-tourist
destination in a sustainable manner, and
• developing tourism to ensure the overall development of the region.
The following principles underpin the Tourism Strategy for Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt
region as outlined below.
5-160
4.2.1 Conservation of the Environment

Tourism needs to be sustainable.
Any long-term diversification strategy requires careful consideration of the
environmental and social effects, such a strategy will have on the amenity of the
area. Tourism is not different in this respect than any other industry.
• Conservation of Environment
If eco-tourism is to thrive in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region, it is essential to
consider the impact on the environment, while suggesting developments to be
planned ones and ensuring that the tourist visitation is regulated. This is one of
the most important considerations given the ecological sensitivity of the region.
• Categorisation of Areas & Eco-certification of Services
To plan the development of the region, the tourist destinations should be
categorised into activity zones. Also different identity should be maintained for
the zones/ clusters along the trek path and at the destination. Hierarchy of
environmentally sensitive and least development spaces need to be maintained
like inside Valley, not any new physical development to take place.
All these structures for the cluster facilities should be temporary in nature and
which should be disassembled and stored after the tourist season is over in early
Oct. and re-assembled just before June when the tourism begins, every year.
However, a few GI sheet structures at Ghangharia (like toilets for labour
community, cheap dormitory accommodation, health acre/veterinary clinic, etc.)
within the area of land pooling may not necessarily be required to be dismantled.
The service providers should be registered and attempt should be made to certify
eco-tourism products/services they offer. The eco-certification should be a result
of participatory process involving local community and community-based
organisations (e.g. EDC), tourism business, NGOs, government departments (e.g.
Forests and Tourism), etc. To start with, the International Eco-tourism Standards
(IES) may be followed to get a basis for assessing baseline environmental
management performance standards for eco-tourism products & recognising the
best practices. The eco-certification is expected to help in the following ways:
− Provide tangible benefits to tourism service providers & means for
tourists to choose freely.
− Provide tangible benefits to the local community and to conserve the
nature and culture.
− Sets minimum standards and encourages best practices.
− Recognises establishments for technical/financial assistance.
− Provides motivation for continual improvement – both of the
service/product or firm certified.
5-161
• Conservation of Cultural Heritage

The local community culture should be carefully protected and showcased.
• Formulation of Development Plans
A tourist destination should have attractions, good facilities, infrastructure,
accessibility, information availability and hospitality. These aspects need to be
developed for a site to become a tourist destination especially by tourist
facilitation. These are described subsequently.
• Standards for Maintenance of Environmental Balance
The implementation of standards for the planning, layout, and design of
pathways, accommodation or facilities will optimally blend these developments
with the surroundings and minimise any degradation of the environment. This
should be done keeping in mind the sensitive environment of Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt region and it being part of a Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) as well.
• Formulating Circuits
As there are lots of tourist destinations outside the region and nearby, potential
of developing circuits with Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt belt needs to be
explored. This would help in attracting more tourists to Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt region and increasing their duration of stay. Circuit(s) should be
developed in a way that tourists can choose the circuits they want to visit
depending on the duration of their stay.
4.2.2 Boost to the Economy
Employment for Locals.
Tourism is a service industry. When travelling to sensitive natural areas, the
responsibility of improving the welfare of the local people is as important as conserving
the environment, from the perspective of eco-tourism. Training locals and providing
incentives to the local community for entrepreneurship would meet this requirement. The
locals should also be provided platform for exhibition and sales of their craft produce,
orchard produce, running stalls, etc.
4.2.3 Unique Selling Proposition
Tourism is about uniqueness and attractiveness of the destination.
• Market Positioning
Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt region already have unique attractiveness.
The region positions itself as a specific religious tourism segment as well as a
high quality eco-tourist destination. This would position itself well with an
advantage in the target segment.
5-162
• Perspective Vision for Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt region’s Tourism

Development
Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt region needs to develop a vision for its tourism
development from a long-term perspective. This perspective vision would
envisage the overall developments for making Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt
region an ideal and sought after eco-tourist destination.
4.2.4 Quality Experience

Tourism is also about quality experience.
• Creation of a High-quality Product
Tourism industry is highly sensitive toward quality of products being offered.
Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt region’s speciality is in its natural resources.
Therefore, it is necessary to establish a mechanism to ensure that good quality
services are offered to tourists. Hence, with the creation of brand equity for
the product, a high-quality product will have to be created which is
environmentally sensitive and community driven from the eco-tourism point
of view.
The provision of a quality experience requires very fundamental attention

right from the basics itself, whether it is the quality of infrastructure that is
durable*/safe/hygienic/well presented, quality of food, quality of
linen/cleanliness or tourist friendly behaviour/assistance.
4.3 Development Strategy

The Eco-Tourism Development Strategy is two sided:
• Tourist Facilitation in a Visitor Experience Enhancement Objective
• Conservation of Nature with Community-based Tourism
*
For example, when concreting the trek path, using rounded pebbles/aggregates is one of the
fundamental causes (apart from actual mix ratio followed, consistency, curing, etc.) which does
not provide adequate binding properties, thus leading to quick damage to the concrete surface
with regular use by the pedestrians & mules, as could be easily observed from the trek paths
where such upgradation had been undertaken earlier.
5-163
Management Options
The various management options which the consultants have analysed for the eco-
tourism management plan of Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt are:
• Limits of Acceptable Change (LAC)
• Visitor Experience and Resource Protection (VERP)
• Visitor Impact Management (VIM)
• Management by Objectives (MBO)
• Benefits-Based Management (BBM)
Limits of Acceptable Change Model
Limits of Acceptable Change model has been adopted for analysing the various
development alternatives and in the decision making process for the sustainable
development of the region. The 9 steps to LAC process as illustrated in Exhibit
4.1 are:
Exhibit 4.1: Limits of Acceptable Change Model
1. Identify area issues and concerns

2. Define and describe opportunity class
5-164
3. Select indicators of resource and social conditions

4. Inventory of existing resource and social conditions
5. Specify standards for resource and social indicators for each opportunity class
6. Identify alternate opportunity class

allocations reflecting area issues and existing
socio-economic conditions
7. Identify management actions for each alternative
8. Evaluate and select a preferred alternative
9. Implement actions and monitor conditions.
4.4 Objectives and Management of NDBR & VOFNP

The development strategy takes into consideration the NDBR and VOFNP
guidelines, which are detailed below:
Principle & Objectives of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
In India, 12 Biosphere Reserves have been formed of which the Nanda Devi
Biosphere Reserve is the second one in India formed in 1988, the first one being
Nilgiri. It is also the oldest reserve in the Himalayas with a basic objective of
maintenance & conservation of social, ecological, anthropological, cultural, and
religious heritage of the whole area and the respects the national/international
objectives as well. The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve has identified the
following objectives for it’s functioning:
• To ensure the conservation of landscapes, ecosystems, species, and genetic
variations not only in the two core areas but also in the buffer and transition
zone areas.
• To encourage the traditional resource use systems in the buffer area.
• To promote at the local level, economic development which is culturally,
socially, and ecologically sustainable.
• To develop the strategies leading to improvement and management of
natural resources in the buffer area.
• To provide support for research, monitoring, education and information
exchange related to local, national, and global issues of conservation and
development.
• Sharing of knowledge generated by research through site-specific training
and education.
5-165
• Development of community spirit in the management of natural resources,

keeping alive the traditional knowledge and experience.
• Encourage community owned/based tourism in the buffer area in general
and also in the core areas (in a very restricted and regulated way).
Aim of Popularising Eco-tourism in Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
As discussed earlier in Chapter 1, eco-tourism refers to ecologically sound
tourism that seeks to balance the goal of biodiversity conservation with
culturally sensitive, community-based tourism. It is thus by and of the people
and encourages a decentralised tourism that does not require much
infrastructure development. The aim of the eco-tourism activity in Nanda Devi
Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) will therefore be to achieve the following basic
objectives:
• Increase environmental awareness of hosts and visitors such that it results in
a clean and green environment.
• Provide the visitors full information about Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, its
significance and importance in the regional, national, and international
context.
• Give the visitor an enjoyable and safe visitor experience through a strategic
approach to visitor management consistent with protection and promotion of
Reserve’s values, while maintain the privacy.
• Make a positive contribution to conservation of nature, natural, and cultural
resources and stimulate private conservation efforts.
• Promote local development and sharing of economic benefits in a fair manner
at national, regional, and local levels.
• Empower local communities to manage eco-tourism and generate incentives
for conservation through alternate and additional livelihood options.
• Provide management support fees to the local committees like Eco-
Development Committee (EDC) and where these committees are yet to be
formed in those villages the Mahila Mandal/Yuvak Mandal who take the
responsibility of the eco-tourism in the areas, which are situated nearby their
village or for those areas in whose route their village falls.
• Give rise to employment generation for the local employed youths.
• Through eco-tourism activity all the infrastructures and private houses,
which are not being gainfully used throughout the year, can be used for this
activity and in return it gives some economic benefit to the owner.
For achieving the above mentioned objectives and for practising all the inherent
principles of eco-tourism, the NDBR management has plans/taken various steps
5-166
and has devised & implements rules/regulations/code of conduct for

visitors/do’s & don’ts for visitors, controlled access to National Parks, site
planning improvement of quality of visitor experience, etc.
Objectives of Valley of Flowers National Park
The objectives of the Valley of Flowers

National Park are:
• Though there are many valley of flowers reported in the Nanda Devi
Biosphere Reserve, but it is the Valley of Flowers that is located ahead of
Ghangharia along river Pushpawati surrounded by many peaks, which offers
much more natural beauty and rare bio-diversity.
• Medicinal herbs and rare gene pool need to be conserved.
• Address the issues of sustenance of people residing in this area, to find their
dependence other than on forests and forest produce.
• Portraying Valley of Flowers as tourism attraction magnet for the overall
Nanda Devi Biosphere’ Eco-Tourism Zone.
• To ensure that the eco-sensitivity and abundant beauty of Valley of Flower is
not endangered, and which has also been nominated as a World Heritage
Site, awaiting UN recognition.
Current Management of Valley of Flowers National Park
The management of the Valley of Flowers

National Park by the Department of Forests
has been based on the following objectives
and considerations:
• Keeping control on the extent and wide spread growth of the fast growing
and pioneering flowering herb – the Polygonum polystachyum.
• Development and upkeep of the trek route within the tourism zone of the
park.
• Maintenance of the park and keeping it free from any kind of polluting
material.
• Providing impetus to the tourism and providing local employment.
• Strict control on illicit removal of herbs and on poaching.
• Infrastructure development.
5-167
The habitat management works and other patrolling and related works are
carried out from the funds received under management of “Parks and
Sanctuaries” from the Department of Forests every year.
5. ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

This chapter discusses the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for various factors
like Spatial Development, Products and Services, Waste Management, Water & Waste
Water, Sanitation, Energy, Air & Noise Pollution, Environment Orientation, Monitoring,
etc.
5.1 Environmental Management Plan - An Overview
Environment Management Plan (EMP) is an action plan prepared to ensure that
the recommendations for enhancing positive impacts and limiting/preventing
negative environmental impacts are implemented during the life cycle of a
project.
Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region presents a unique scenario with rich, yet
highly sensitive environment on one side and two distinct seasonal tourism
attractions on the other. Only about 2% of the visitors to the region are hardcore
environment lovers, hence there is a need for a structured and institutionalised
Environment Management Plan so that the other 98% of the visitors could also be
partners in the development of responsible, environment friendly tourism in the
region.
A sustainable eco-tourism master plan is critical to ensure overall environment
improvement in the region. This master plan was developed and is planned to be
implemented in collaboration with all the stakeholders in a participatory
manner. Environment criteria is being incorporated into the master plan in terms
of – land use, planning, building and construction, facility operation, solid waste
management, tourist facilitation, protected area management, visitor
management, etc. The master plan also emphasizes creation of environmental
awareness among the visitors, the host community, and other stakeholders that
support the tourism like mule operators, porters, Gurdwara staff, etc. as one of
the most important sub-aspects of the overall environmental management in the
study region.
5.1.1 Objectives of EMP
The objectives of preparing an EMP for the Eco-Tourism Plan of Valley of
Flowers- Hemkunt region are:
• To set out the mitigation measures and environmental specifications which
are required to be implemented for all phases of the project in order to
5-168
minimise the extent of environmental impacts, to manage environmental

impacts and where possible to improve the condition of the environment
• To provide management solutions to improve the environmental status
• To develop the region through participatory management involving the local
host community.
5.1.2 Methodology
An Environment Management System (EMS) helps to evaluate, manage and
reduce the environment impacts of the development measures by providing a
methodology to integrate environment management into tourism operations in a
systematic manner. The steps involved in the same are:
• Conduct an Environment Status Review to identify all resource
characteristics, inputs and outputs particularly on the pollution front
• Establish environment objectives
• Implement EMS through an environment management programme
• Establish environment performance monitoring and data collection
procedures
• Internal environment communication, delegation and training
• Environment-related communication to visitors.
Refer to Chapter 3 for the Environment Status Review and Environmental
Impact of Tourism.
An environment management programme for tourism typically consists of the
following action areas:
• Reducing waste output & managing solid waste
• Purchasing environment-friendly products
• Reducing water use and wastewater output
• Lowering energy consumption
• Lowering air and noise pollution
• Internal communication, delegation and training to local stakeholders
• Environment education/orientation to visitors
• Monitoring and documenting the changes.
The Environment Management Plan is structured across EMP for Spatial
Development, EMP for Products and Services, EMP for Waste Management,
EMP for Water & Waste Water, EMP for Energy, EMP for Air & Noise Pollution,
Environment Orientation and Environment Monitoring.
5-169
5.2 EMP for Spatial Development

Spatial Management is a critical area in ensuring sustainable environment
management. This is particularly true about the project region as it is widely
spread from Govind Ghat to Ghangharia and to Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt
with varying conditions, topography and sensitivities.
Hierarchy of environmentally sensitive and development oriented sub regions is
identified and environment management measures suggested specific to each
sub region with respect to spatial development.
The 5 sub-regions identified for specific strategies are:
• Valley of Flowers
• Hemkunt Sahib and Ghangharia-Hemkunt Stretch
• Govind Ghat to Ghangharia
• Ghangharia
• Govind Ghat
The Environment Management Plan for Spatial Development covers the
following:
• EMP for Land Management
• EMP for Built-up
• EMP for Construction of Roads/Parking/Trek Paths
5.2.1 EMP for Land Management
The guidelines for land management in the sub regions are:
Valley of Flowers
• Maintain Spatial Spread of Flora and Fauna
• Retain most of the existing paths, make minimum inpaths (the only one being
the path to Ms. Legge’s grave site)
• No change in the land use pattern from the entry gate onwards.
Hemkunt Belt
• Highly sensitive geology, hence not to be disturbed, no cutting of rocks for
amenity development with minimal cutting may be undertaken for trek path
widening.
• Essential tourist facilitation services to be provided enroute Hemkunt with
minimal impacts on environment.
5-170
• Better spatial management at Hemkunt.

Govind Ghat to Ghangharia
• Clusters of tourist facilities to be developed enroute Ghangharia and
Hemkunt at optimum intervals subject to availability of land.
• Minimal cutting may be undertaken for trek path widening
• Minimal disturbance to the agricultural land use of the settlements (avoid the
agricultural land conversion for creation of any support infrastructure and
minimise land conversion for ferry parking at Pulna if the road from Govind
Ghat to Pulna is built)
Ghangharia
• Land organisation and regulation of development for better experience to
tourists
• No new land to brought under construction
Govind Ghat
• Land organisation for increase of parking and other facilities
• Minimal disturbance to the agricultural land use of the settlement.
Refer Chapters 6,7 & 8 for details of proposals at the above regions.
5.2.2 EMP for Built-up
Sustainable design involves buildings that need fewer natural resources and
materials to build, occupy and maintain, and are more comfortable and healthy
to live and work in. In the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region, this impact is
significant in terms of its disturbance to topography, vegetation, use of materials,
resource depletion, etc as part of the National Park as well as Nanda Devi
Biosphere Reserve.
Tourism service buildings need to be regularly repaired and refurbished due to
the intensity of use, varying extreme climatic conditions and seasonality of
usage, and which involves further impacts.
Site Selection
Site selection is the first step in the sustainable design process. The site must be
compatible with the purpose of the proposed development and be suitable for
building. A multi-disciplinary approach with input from planners, ecologists,
architects, construction engineers and environment specialists tried to determine
the appropriateness of the sites for enroute and other base settlements
development. Site selection for any physical development was examined taking
into consideration the following factors:
• Ecological characteristics of the site
5-171
o Geology of the site

o Rate of soil erosion and if soils are stable enough for building
o How fragile and valuable is the topography
o Extent of disturbance to environment
o Present and planned land use.
• Special Socio-Cultural Significance of the site
− Is the site of cultural, religious or archaeological significance?
− Will there be social conflicts if the land is used for the proposed
development?
− To what extent can existing structures be preserved and enhanced by the
proposed development?
• Alternate Land Use
− Given the ecological and cultural significance of the site, should it be used
for the proposed development?
− Advantages and Disadvantages of the site vis a vis other alternatives
− How will future land-use plans for the areas surrounding the site influence
the proposed development?
• Is the site near existing infrastructure such as roads, power lines, water
supply and waste disposal sites?
− This question is crucial to determine the multiplier impacts. If the site is
remote from existing infrastructure, what will be the impacts of extending
essential infrastructure to it?
− Can the proposed development be built as a self-contained unit in terms of
water, energy and waste disposal?
• What is the state of the environment of the site?
o Waste Management status
o Presence of any sensitive vegetation
o Does the vegetation on the site show any signs of stress?
The amenity clusters are recommended at distances, which have relative
availability of land/ better siting prospects with minimal environmental impacts.
Building Placement
Once the site is identified and ways to minimise environment impacts analysed,
the placement of the building assumes significance.
5-172
o They need to be placed responding to the tourist travelling path.

o Placing should take advantage of natural land formations.
o The building might be terraced to suit natural grading patterns, rather
than having the site flattened and levelled.
o They can be placed to maximise aesthetic views, but still provide
privacy and security, if required even on stilts. The exteriors of this stilt
component shall be painted in dark green to blend with the
environment.
o Some pucca/permanent structures may be allowed at the Govind Ghat
settlement for tourism purpose, while most of the structures proposed
would be temporary structures at Hemkunt, Ghangharia, Bhyundar,
Pulna, Govind Ghat and along entire trek route. Along the trek route
only slope roofed temporary structures with corrugated GI sheet roof
& wall – all painted in dark green would be permitted. All these
structures would be disassembled at the end of tourist season and can
be kept in EDC Stores at Ghangharia, Bhyundar and Pulna and would
be reassembled before the next tourist season.
o No permanent construction shall be permitted beyond Govind Ghat
till Valley of Flowers/Hemkunt Sahib (except the requirements of the
village community developed on its village land).
Tourism Amenities
Consideration is given to providing visitors, the opportunity of optimising the
visual attributes of the scenic landscape. This is proposed to be achieved through
the establishment of view sites and visitor information centres at strategic
locations along the route. Refer Chapter 8 for details on the number, location and
type of these sites along the travel path within the region.
5.2.3 EMP for Construction of Roads / Parking / Trek Paths / Ropeway
Direct impact of road projects results from construction, maintenance and traffic
use. The most significant construction-related impacts are those related to
clearing, grading or roadbed construction, loss of vegetative cover, foreclosure of
other land uses, modifications of natural drainage patterns, soil erosion, air
pollution, changes in groundwater elevation, and interference with movements
of wildlife.
Socio-economic benefits provided by the road include all-weather reliability,
improved access to markets for local produce and products, access to new
employment centres, employment of local workers on the project itself, better
access to health care and other social services and strengthening of local
economics.
5-173
The development proposals on accessibility and movement pattern broadly

cover motorising the road from Govind Ghat till Pulna, subject to a detailed
techno/socio-environment feasibility and improvement to trek paths throughout
by possible widening and overlaying the existing path with cement concrete
surface (in a similar way as already planned in PWD proposals), drainage, safety
measures, etc.
Installation of an aerial ropeway from Govind Ghat till Kanjila (near Ghangharia)
has been considered by the NDBR as an alternative to the 12.5 km trek portion.
An initial examination into by Consultants showed that the project is not feasible
(Refer Chapter 8 for details of same). However, a detailed techno-economic as
well as socio-environment feasibility study have been proposed before arriving
at a final conclusion.
Certain aspects have been suggested to be weighed by the government for the
feasibility study, as discussed in Chapter 8. If found plausible in consideration of
the technical expectations and the containment of the environmental impact, the
feasibility study need to be followed with a detailed project report (DPR) that
would explore the technology options. Such design report would be dependent
on alignment, slope length, vertical rise and fall, span distance, capacity, wind
performance, terminal/angle points also based on alignment, architecture, etc. It
would also determine specifications for safety/rescue/emergency response
mechanism, which are necessary. It would also include the geological feasibility,
availability of power/accessibility for ropeway construction & construction
modes (i.e. either using helicopters or creating a parallel material ropeway for
carrying construction material). The environmental impacts would also be
necessary to be known apart for the requirement of diversion of Reserve Forest
Land & Van Panchayat Land (created out of Reserve Forests) for setting up of
ropeway system (poles, terminal/intermediate points & other related utilities,
rescue evacuation access paths/space), like impact on species of flora for which
this valley is famous, disturbance to fauna, air/water/noise pollution during the
construction (with relatively longer duration of construction period), air/noise
pollution near the terminal/intermediate points during operation due to use
diesel generator sets and the capacity/power of ropeway drives, etc. Refer
Chapter 8 for details of transportation proposals.
The various issues that could arise at various stages and the mitigative measures
for the same are as follows:
Earthworks and Layerworks
As far as possible, steep or unstable slopes as well as areas of high erosion
potential identified along the route should be avoided in determining the final
road alignment, as well as the location of any toll plazas, eco-fee counters,
access/haul roads, construction camps and borrow pits/quarries.
5-174
Extensive cuts into side slopes should be avoided as far as possible since these
cuts are difficult to rehabilitate naturally and can be visible from great distances.
Spoil from cut areas should be used in the construction of the road (where
appropriate), for the in-filling of existing erosion gulleys, or in the rehabilitation
of borrow pit sites.
Spoil Areas
Where possible, spoil sites should be identified and approved during the design
phase. In determining the appropriate location of these spoil areas, cognisance
must be taken of sensitive and no-go areas, particularly within the new sections
of the route. Spoil areas should not negatively affect surface drainage, nor should
they alter the topography to the extent that they become visually intrusive. Spoil
areas must be re-vegetated and rehabilitated.
Site Camps
The final design of the road must include the appropriate siting of all
construction camps (i.e. site camps and worker accommodation camps, where
required). In determining the location of these construction camps, cognisance
must be taken of sensitive and no-go areas, particularly within the new sections
of the route. It is proposed that all the site camps will be to temporary
construction only without much clearing of land.
Drainage from the Road Surface

Effective storm water control measures are required in the design of the road and
should be installed and maintained along the road route throughout the life cycle
of the project in order to minimise potential impacts on hydrological systems.
The proposed road, as well as access/haul roads should be designed such that
surface water reaching the road from upslope areas is contained and dispersed in
erosion proof channels, and allowed to discharge slowly and naturally.
Storm water flow detention should, however, be provided where positive
drainage is required, and where the presence of the new road will increase
natural (existing) flows by more than 10%. The effect of the road may include
the catchment area of any cutting or embankment as well as additional
catchment areas intercepted by the road. This must be determined during the
design phase.
Drainage under/across the Road
5-175
In designing culverts along the proposed route, it must be ensured that drainage
systems are kept as natural as possible. Natural drainage should be retained,
and normal flow ensured at all times.
Erosion Control Measures
The road design should include appropriate erosion control measures in order to
reduce flow velocities to prevent the loss of topsoil. In addition, drainage
systems should be kept as natural as possible, and no erosion should occur at the
storm water inlet point of rivers/streams.
The terminal stations, angle points/towers should have proper foundations and
properly embanked in case of ropeway installation if the project takes off at a
future date.
Cut and Fill Slopes
Slopes should be cut to gradients that will ensure stability, as indicated by a full
slope stability analysis. Areas in which such an analysis will be required must be
defined and specified in the detailed design stage. All new cut and fill forms
should be rounded on the edges to allow them to blend with the surrounding
landforms, and should, as far as possible, reflect the natural form of the
landscape to reduce visual intrusiveness. Slopes with a constant gradient from
top to bottom and across the face must avoid the so-called butter-knife cut. Cut
slopes must be self-sustaining. Where it is necessary to use retaining structures
or gabions they must be designed to minimise visual intrusiveness. In areas
where the road intersects ridges or spurs, the exposed rock face and soil must be
stepped back in a manner that mimics natural rock faces as far as possible. Cut
and fill slopes will be minimised.
Access across the Road
Though not much chances of provision in the route, if at all access across the
road is required to be provided for communities, landowners and/or livestock, it
should be done without excessively hindering the current movement patterns.
Safety Features
Trek path design and road design (if built till Pulna) should include safety
features such as fencing of the road reserve, appropriate signage,
guardrails/stone masonry barriers/ CC Pillar barriers, etc. along the entire
length of the route. In addition, lighting and traffic calming measures (such as
solar powered/electric - traffic signages/amber lights or stop streets) should be
provided. No tourist traffic movement will be permitted beyond 8 pm in Pulna-
Govind Ghat stretch and beyond 7.00 pm on other stretches (while returning to
Ghangharia).
Dust Control Management Measures
5-176
Appropriate dust control management practices and procedures must be defined

during the design phase to ensure the effective suppression of dust during all
future activities. The road shoulder on both sides should be made pucca (CC or
rough tarred sub base) to avoid damage to the road edges and as well as any
opportunity for open ground shoulder to generate dust. Dust control measures
should also be adopted when constructing the ropeway terminal and angle
points / towers (if the project takes off at a future date).
Noise Impact Management Measures
Road/Parking/Trek Path widening/Ropeway construction (if found feasible)
with any blasting activity and use of heavy machinery creating noise should only
be taken up in the ‘tourism off-season’ periods. Post-construction additional
plantation activities (of the local species) should be taken along the path/hill
slopes for improving the stability of slopes, increasing the green cover as well
which acts as a noise/pollution absorbent.
Visual Quality
Site-specific management measures may disturb areas or natural features in the
immediate vicinity that might have a high or unique visual quality.
5.3 EMP for Products and Services
Environment management programme is proposed for purchasing
environmentally preferable products and services as well. Along with waste
management, purchasing is an easy and visible area to start environment action.
Using environmentally preferable products demonstrates the region’s
commitment to environment, tourists, and it helps avoid and reduce waste.
The objectives are:
• Implement environmental purchasing policies
• Give preference to environmentally certified products and those with eco-
friendly packaging
• Give preference to stronger, longer-lasting products
• Invite suppliers to suggest environment-preferable alternatives
• Make efforts to reduce paper and other office materials
In the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region the following management action
points are proposed:
• Ban on sale of raincoats made of cheap plastics
Presently the raincoats being sold are made of cheap plastics (Rs.10-20 per piece)
and are a major contributing factor to the non bio-degradable waste spread
throughout the region. Instead, it is proposed that rain coats of good quality be
made available on rent (with security deposit of Rs. 250/- which would be
5-177
refunded on returning the rain coat and showing the receipt, and Rs. 10/- can be
deducted as service charges to clean for reuse). To discourage any idea of not
returning the raincoats, the raincoats could be specially procured with the
“Valley of Flowers” and “Sri Hemkunt Sahib” logos embossed on the front and
message of “Keep Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt Region Clean” printed at the
back. These could be on sale also for those interested in buying them.
• Ban on use of Cheap Plastic Bags
Eco-labels are of particular interest given the nature of tourism and the region.
Visitors can deposit any cheap plastic/polythene carry bags and can avail the
facility of Carry Bags/Hand Bags woven out of Ringal grass/Jute bags (jute may
be procured from outside but bags shall be crafted by the local community) to
carry lighter belongings/food items.
It is advised that local trade community/ EDCs/ local management may work
out the actual amount of security deposits based on the procurement costs,
service charges, and any penalty charges in built for loss/damage, at the time of
implementation of the above proposals.
5.4 EMP for Waste Management
Waste Management is one of the most critical areas in the total Environmental
Management Plan. The waste generated in the region is dealt with in the
environment status review. This can now be used to identify products that can
be:
• Replaced with alternatives, which avoid waste or generate less waste
• Reused for the same or another purpose
• Sorted and collected for recycling under waste recycling schemes /
incineration
• Used for longer periods.
Waste management follows the following hierarchy:
1. Avoid
2. Reduce
3. Reuse
4. Recycle
The recommendations are:
• On an average a trekker consumes about 2 litres of water a day, and if this is
packaged mineral water then it means 2 bottles of plastic waste generated
every day and if he/she stays 3 days in this region it means 6 plastic bottles
discarded. In addition there is the question of cost. 6 bottles of mineral water
5-178
at an average cost of Rs. 15-20 per bottle in this Govind Ghat to Hemkunt trek
region would cost 100 rupees, and so money goes out of the region to further
down to plains. While boiled and filtered water may cost a fraction of this
and iodine may cost about Rs. 15-20, which is enough to purify 50 litres of
water. So, the money saved by an individual/ family/ group could instead be
spent on souvenirs/ handicrafts/ local produce made/grown by the local
host community, thus contributing to their economy. Hence, tourists should
be encouraged to use more environmentally sound methods of treating eater
such as iodine for carrying potable water or use boiled and filtered water
from local establishments/stalls, and for which these local
establishments/stalls should be encouraged to make such an arrangement of
providing potable water. Wherever, electricity is available the local
establishments may also install water-purifying arrangements like
Aquaguard, etc., if centrally treated water supply is not available.
• The solid waste compression equipment units are placed at several points in
Govind Ghat, Ghangharia, Hemkunt and at other village sites such as Pulna
as well.
• It is proposed to provide 1 waste compression equipment unit each at Govind
Ghat, Ghangharia, Pulna and Hemkunt site. The waste may also be sorted at
these locations as required for plastic waste disposal or organic waste
composting.
• Waste collection area is managed more scientifically with arrangements for
stacking the compressed bags in Iron Cage pits that can be easily assembled,
maintained, facilitate easy removal, and contain some 50 sacks or more. Iron
cages were preferred from the plastic cages from the perspective overall
durability. Plastic mesh cages are susceptible to get damaged as they would
get brittle in open over time and may also get burnt in accidental fires, if
somebody throws a lighted match stick or cigarette/beedi. The MS iron cage
pit will be made of mesh with 2” x 2” holes with MS angles on the
corners/sides to provide support. The size of the cage pit will be 4 m long x
1m wide x 1 m high. The cage will be kept on a 1 m high platform of masonry
in such a way that on one side the bottom of the cage is at level with ground
so that the person can walk to the level of the cage and lower the bags into the
container, while on the other side, the cage will have a window of the size of
3 ft. x 2 ft. at the bottom of the cage and at 1 m above the ground level so that
the sacks/bags can be easily taken out and put on the kandis/any other holding
arrangement tied to mules. The gradient of the land has to be such that on one
side it is nearly 1 m high as compared to the lower side or else to facilitate
loading on higher side, steps/earth or stone filled ramp can be created. Once
sack can contain about 70-80 compressed - plastic bottles/other wastes
weighing about 3 - 4 kg. Refer details of locations of such waste collection
cages in Chapter 6, 7, & 8.
5-179
• An Incinerator is already planned to treat the waste at Govind Ghat (in no

case the location of the incinerator be shifted up in the valley towards
Ghangharia) and the same has been sanctioned for a project cost of Rs 25
lakhs. The consultants presume that the issue of likely impact of gaseous
emissions and handling residue released is already studied by the
agencies/authorities, at the time of proposing the requirement of the
incinerator at Govind Ghat. It is also presumed that since most of the waste
collected enroute is expected to be plastic waste, environmentally sound
conditions would be ensured for the incineration of plastics, under high
temperature and the appropriate abatement techniques for flue gases have
been thought off. Also, incineration with the aim of energy recovery may be
preferred as plastics waste has calorific value higher than that of coal, as
compared to landfilling or incineration without energy recovery. With nearly
four lakh tourists already visiting this region, at an average of 1-2 plastic
bottles/other plastic waste expected per day, such compressed waste load on
an average per day would be about 70 – 80 sacks or over 280 kg at Govind
Ghat. With the expected incineration capacity of 25 kg/hr, the incinerator will
have sufficient waste load per day for a minimum eight-hour operation.
While, any excess load can be auctioned for recycling to clear any
accumulation of waste at Govind Ghat, at the end of tourist season.
• Feasibility of an incinerator at Ghangharia / Bhyundar was checked as that
would ease out the trouble of carrying all waste down. However, this was
rejected due to the following reasons:
o Ghangharia / Bhyundar being located/surrounded in a valley itself,
an incinerator here may result in stagnation of some gaseous
pollutants in the air and the issues of handling residues so close, which
may affect the quality of environment at Valley of Flowers and
Hemkunt Sahib destinations which are near Ghangharia and at higher
altitudes in rather narrow valleys. Some of the gaseous pollutants like,
dioxin are particularly worrisome pollutants because they can cause or
aggravate a wide variety of extremely serious health effects, are toxic
at very low levels of exposure, and are ubiquitous in the environment.
o No suitable land is available due to the land belonging to Reserve
Forests/Van Panchayat land (created from Reserve Forests) till
Ghangharia, and any possibility of land away from Ghangharia is only
near Bhyundar, but it was observed that most of the vacant flat land
near Bhyundar village falls in snow avalanche prone zones.
• Waste that should and should not be incinerated in the Govind Ghat
incinerator is to be segregated at the time of collection of waste from the trek
path/waste bins itself along the route or those of the establishments/stall
enroute. Refer Table 5.1 for the indicative details of types of plastic waste and
5-180
recommendations for disposal. Due to most of the plastic waste being a good
fuel and has non toxic outputs (except PVC and polystyrene - foam items and
plastic items that handle food) for incineration that burns the impurities at
high temperatures, which leads not only to the increased efficiency of the
incineration as well as leads to hardly a 10% of ash residue with low
harmfulness that can be easily landfilled for final disposal. Metal containers
or glass items also should not be meant for incineration but for recycling. The
non-combustible plastics items, metal, glass, etc. have to be separated and
their bags should be marked for recycling before transporting down. . Toxic
items like, batteries etc. should also be separately sorted, accumulated and
disposed at the retail battery centres.
While, any minor food waste collected from the trek path/waste bins should
be separately collected and marked & contributed for vermi-composting to
produce manure near village sites/agricultural lands.
Codes to identify plastic types (polymer/resin content) are generally
moulded into plastic product and are often found on the bottom of the plastic
product/container within the “chasing arrows” triangle. This plastic coding
system is a voluntary coding system accepted internationally, like by The
Society of Plastics Industry (SPI), USA which introduced its coding system in
1988 and which is adopted by Canada (Canadian Plastics Industry
Association - CPIA), Japan, New Zealand (Plastics New Zealand since early
1990s), Australia (Plastics and Chemical Industries Association – PACIA since
1990), Hong Kong (Environmental Protection Department since late 1990s),
etc. Europe also follows similar coding systems for plastics but not identical,
though the British Plastics Federation (BPF) and the Association of Plastics
Manufacturers in Europe (APME) recommend the use of SPI coding system
since mid 1990s. This notation does not necessarily indicate that the product
can be recycled, unless claimed. While, the empty notation with only the
triangle indicates that the product is made of recycled waste. However,
Cleaning Staff/Incinerator Staff/EDC Members, etc. should be trained to
understand these notations and to identify those which do not have these
notations through literature available, to help them facilitate segregation of
plastic waste by type from trek path/waste bins along trek path & those with
local establishments/stalls enroute (in our case which is collected at source
itself and can be sorted/segregated too either enroute or at waste
compression location). For segregation, sacks with separate colour marks can
be distributed to the EDC staff like, “red colour mark may mean waste for
incineration”, “green colour mark may mean waste for recycling”, “brown
colour mark may mean waste for vermi-composting, and “yellow colour
mark may mean sack for toxic waste disposal like, batteries”. The whole
waste management will function on the principal that ‘handle waste only once’,
and segregation at source/ collection will help in this.
5-181
Major plastic types with their “chasing arrows” type voluntary notations
accepted in many countries are illustrated below to help EDC staff when
trained to identify those plastics that can be incinerated:
The huge amount of waste (more than 4000 sacks) that is already transported
down and accumulated at FRH Complex, Govind Ghat without any
segregation, may be auctioned for recycling to clear the site, and tenders may
be called for the same.
It is proposed any recycling from the plastic wastes shall be strictly
undertaken as per the specifications of the Bureau of Indian Standards
provided in IS 14534: 1998 – Guidelines for Recycling of Plastics.
5-182
Table 5.1: An indicative list of Plastic Waste that can be incinerated at Govind Ghat / to be Recycled
S. Plastic Type Products/ Properties/ Features Means of Environmental Recommendations End-use if
No. Applications Disposal Impacts Recycled
1. Polyethylene Beverage/food Clear, tough, Recycling On incineration mainly Recommended for Fibre for carpet/
Terephthalate containers: Plastic barrier to gas & Can be water and carbon incineration at pillow/ sleeping
(PETE or soft drink/ sports moisture, solvent incinerated dioxide are produced, Govind Ghat, bag filling, tote
PET) drink/ mineral resistant softens at with leaving trace levels of though ideal for bags, clothing
water bottles, mouth 800C heating ash with low recycling/reproces (geotextiles/
wash bottles, butter, Clean & recycled value harmfulness, which can sing to recover polyester), soft
salad dressing PET flakes/pellets equivalent be safely be disposed costly PET resin. drink bottles,
containers, biscuit are in great to ½ kg of off in a landfill. The Any excess waste furniture,
trays, Ovenable foils demand oil amount of greenhouse beyond the mouldings
or film/ pre- gases (carbon dioxide) capacity of
High cost plastic
prepared food trays, generated by its incineration at
audio & video tapes Density = 1.39 combustion is not Govind Ghat
g/ml significantly different should be
Suitable fuel for from that formed auctioned for
incineration plants during combustion of recycling.
and increases the any other fossil fuel.
efficiency of waste
incineration
2. High Density Containers for milk / Stiff/Tough to Recycling On incineration only Recommended for Liquid laundry
Polyethylene juice/ water/ ice semi-flexible, through water and carbon incineration at detergent
(HDPE) cream/ liquid resistance to remelting, dioxide are produced, Govind Ghat, containers, oil
detergent & fabric chemical & although leaving trace levels of though good for bottles, buckets,
softener & moisture, there is a ash which can be safely recycling. vitamin bottles,
chemicals/ permeability to gas, quality loss be disposed off in a Any excess waste recycling/
shampoo/ laundry waxy surface, Can be landfill beyond the compost bins,
soap/ motor oil, opaque butt easily incinerated capacity of benches, floor
trash/ freezer bags, coloured, softens at with incineration at tiles, drainage
crinkly shopping/ 750C heating Govind Ghat pipe, outdoor
retail bags (stiff type Low cost plastic value should be plastic
that crackles, equivalent auctioned for tables/lumber,
Density = 0.95 to
buckets, soft drink/ to ¾ kg of recycling. traffic cones
0.97 g/ml
5-183

milk crates, rigid Suitable fuel for oil
agricultural pipes, incineration plants
children’s toys and increases the
efficiency of waste
incineration
3. Polyvinyl Vegetable oil bottles Versatile, tough to Recycling When PVC is PVC wastes have Packaging,
Chloride with handles, flexible, can be Incineratio incinerated strong only to be binders, film &
(PVC or V) transparent clear, resistance to n is the hydrochloric acid sent/auctioned for sheet, panelling,
containers for non- grease/ oil/ worst emanates, and an recycling and is flooring, cables,
fizzy drinks chemicals, solvent option with incomplete combustion not at all hoses, floor mats,
(squashes), cosmetic welded, softens at heating can develop poisonous recommended for mud flaps
containers, electrical 800C value dioxin. Also it incineration at
conduit, cable Low cost plastic equivalent significantly increases Govind Ghat.
sheathing, medical to ¼ kg of the amount of leachate Diverting PVC
Density = varies
transparent tube, oil from, and leachable from incineration
blood bags & tubing, Not a suitable fuel salts in, the resulting always leads to
surgical spirit, watch for incineration residues to be environmental
straps, shoe soles, plants landfilled. improvements.
plumbing pipe &
fittings, garden hose,
blister packs, wall
cladding, roof
sheeting, flooring,
wrapping film
4. Low Density Carry-out sacks, Tough, flexible, Recycling On incineration only Recommended for Compost bins,
Polyethylene wrapping foil for easy to seal, barrier through water and carbon incineration at Carrier bags/
(LDPE) packaging, lids for to moisture/ most remelting, dioxide are produced, Govind Ghat, trash can liners,
food containers, organic solvents & although leaving trace levels of though it can be trash cans,
plastic bag (soft type chemicals (except there is a ash which can be safely recycled. panelling, pallet
that does not ones with aromatic quality loss be disposed off in a Any excess waste sheets, outdoor
crackle), bread bags, or chlorine Can be landfill beyond the plastic lumber,
frozen food bags, dry content), waxy incinerated capacity of garden furniture
5-184

cleaning bags, surface, with incineration at
squeeze bottles, translucent, heating Govind Ghat
garbage bags/ bins, scratches easily, value should be
black irrigation tube, softens at 700C equivalent auctioned for
ice cube plastic bag Low cost plastic to ¾ kg of recycling.
oil
Density = 0.92 to
0.94 g/ml
Suitable fuel for
incineration plants
and increases the
efficiency of waste
incineration
5. Polypropylen Curd/ margarine/ Tough but still Recycling On incineration only Recommended for Bins, trays,
e (PP) spread/ ice cream flexible, Versatile, Can be water and carbon incineration at brushes, pallets,
containers or tubs, resistance to incinerated dioxide are produced, Govind Ghat, flower pots, pipes,
hand cream chemicals/ grease/ with leaving trace levels of though it can be oil funnels, video
dispensers, potato oil, barrier to heating ash which can be safely recycled. cassettes, plastic
chip bags, straws, moisture, waxy value be disposed off in a Any excess waste wheels, ice
lunch boxes, blue surface, softens at equivalent landfill beyond the scrapers,
packing tape, 1400C to ¾ kg of capacity of automotive battery
garbage bin, suit Low cost plastic oil incineration at case
cases kettles, Govind Ghat
Density = 0.90 to
medicine bottles, should be
0.91 g/ml (lowest
rope, children’s toy auctioned for
in density amongst
bins recycling.
other plastics)
Suitable fuel for
incineration plants
and increases the
efficiency of waste
incineration
6. Polystyrene CD cases, food Versatile, clear, Recycling On incineration mainly Recommended for CD case, coat
5-185

(PS) service applications hard, brittle, Can be water and carbon incineration hangers, coasters,
& plastic cutlery – insulated, light incinerated dioxide are produced, (excluding foam light switch plates,
foam egg cartons/ weight, energy with leaving trace levels of items, and plastic rubbish cans,
cups/ glasses/ absorbing, easily heating ash, which can be items that handle insulation,
plates, spoons/ foamed, affected by value safely, be disposed off food) at Govind horticulture trays
trays, foamed fats & solvents, equivalent in a landfill. However, Ghat. and plastic office
polystyrene hot softens at 950C to 1 kg of much of the foam will Any excess waste accessories, white
drink cups, foam Low cost plastic oil have been tinted, and beyond the ware components,
based protective or some types of ink capacity of playground
Density = 1.05 to
cushion packaging release the heavy incineration at equipment, traffic
1.07 g/ml
for fragile items, metals cadmium and Govind Ghat signs, park
imitation “crystal Suitable fuel for lead, both of which are benches
should be
glassware”, low cost incineration plants toxic. auctioned for
brittle toys, cassette and increases the
Also, with the addition recycling.
& video cases efficiency of waste
of chlorine donors as
incineration
simple as table salt as
part of that plastic
product which handles
food, it is inevitable
that combustion of
polystyrene in
municipal solid waste
incinerators will
contribute to the
formation of highly
chlorinated polycyclic
compounds like
dioxins, furans,
hexachlorobenzene,
and chlorophenols.
7. OTHER Citrus juice / Includes all other Recycling On incineration mainly Recommended for Custom products,
(often a ketchup/ water resins and multi- Can be water and carbon incineration at brushes, scrapers,
mixture of cooler bottles, rain materials (e.g. dioxide are produced, Govind Ghat, plastic lumber,
5-186

layers, may proof cover, laminates) incinerated leaving trace levels of though it can be automotive parts
include packaging, appliance Properties with ash which can be safely recycled.
Polyamide- parts, waste pipes, dependent on heating be disposed off in a Any excess waste
PA/Nylon, kitchen gadgets, plastic resin or value landfill beyond the
acrylic, etc.) electronics & combination of equivalent capacity of
computer cases, plastic resins to ½ kg of incineration at
automotive parts oil Govind Ghat
High cost plastic
should be
Density = varies
auctioned for
Suitable fuel for recycling.
incineration plants
and increases the
efficiency of waste
incineration
Source: SPI Plastic Container Coding System, The Environment and Plastics Industry Council (EPIC), CPIA, Canada; The Plastic Identification Code,
Plastics New Zealand; Plastics: Recycling and Marking Codes; Recommended by British Plastics Federation (BPF) and the Association of Plastics
Manufacturers in Europe (APME); Economic Evaluation of PVC Waste Management and The Influence of PVC on the Quantity and Hazardousness of Flue
Gas Residues from Incineration – A Greenpeace Brief on the Report, Published by the European Commission; www.designinsite.dk;
www.services.juniata.edu; www.ejnet.org
5-187
• The plastic waste should be compressed and transported down for utilisation
in recycling/reprocessing programs run by various companies and that
provide an opportunity for poor/informal sector employment. The recycling
unit should not be at the eco-tourism sites discussed above. Contracts for
purchase of this waste can reduce government cost of collection and
transportation.
• Better incentives may be offered to the waste collectors/cleaning staff. Also,
each collector may be given less than 1 km (may be 0.750 km each person)
stretch for waste collection while keeping the same wages as given for 1 km
stretch. Also try increasing the number of persons of cleaning staff per km
range. It should be two person for every quarter of km in the sensitive and
busy areas preferably (e.g. 2 persons at Hemkunt, 4 persons at Ghangharia, 2
persons at Pulna, and 4 persons at Govind Ghat), at least 1 person each where
waste compression equipment unit will be installed at above sites, and 1
person for operating the Incinerator (existing proposal) at Govind Ghat. Thus,
the future strength of cleaning staff could be 40 persons instead of the current
deployment of 20 persons (this includes the provision of cleaning staff as part
of EDC, Govind Ghat later).
• The commission per bag may be increased substantially to say Rs 15 per bag
for non-biodegradable waste & compressed waste and little higher for mule
excreta waste (to be decided by EDC and local management under the advice
of DoF).
• Separate toilets for males and females be arranged.
• Mule excreta should also be collected at several sites, particularly near
villages, in bags by the sweepers as mule organic matter. Separate coloured
bags to be provided to the collectors.
• Vermi-composting be practised at collection sites so that the excreta can be
converted into manure. Vermi-composting in colder climates may be a
problem. Appropriate worms and technology may have to be adapted.
Institutional arrangements may have to be made to achieve this.
• Education be provided to locals, collectors, mule owners about conversion of
this waste to fertilisers; and use of fertilisers for agriculture. A demonstration
by officials may be planned at Ghangharia for this purpose.
• Mule owners be educated about collection of excreta and its conversion.
Remuneration to mule owners for collecting and supplying at collection
centres may be offered. They can collect mule waste and can carry the same
on their mules, and can deposit if educated. Remuneration will be an
incentive. Even if a remuneration of Rs 10 per bag is offered, it would be
economical as the waste can be decomposed in planned way and the produce
CONSULTANCY SERVICES LIMITED

10-188
can be sold as fertilisers to the nearby farmers; or utilised by the Forests

department in its activities.
• Special arrangements may be made at Hemkunt site to collect the kitchen
(Langar) waste and decomposed in a biogas plant.
• Even in the leanest season (September 2003) about 62000 pilgrims have
visited Hemkunt at an average of 2100 per day eating one meal at Hemkunt.
The numbers in the peak region is 5400 (June 2003). This will provide
sufficient raw material (waste food) for a biogas plant at Hemkunt.
• If this waste is in small quantities, it could be converted into manure by
Vermi-composting. Currently most of this waste is left to rot or pushed down
the valley letting it mix with water stream at Hemkunt as well as at Govind
Ghat.
• Trash collection bins should be large and of good quality that do not weather
out in a season. Usually the bin should be of the size that never spills, and is
airy too. It should have the capacity to accommodate more than 50 bags of
litter.
Waste Sorting
It is proposed that waste be sorted at source itself. Waste sorting is proposed in
the shops as well as the rooms. The measures proposed for the same are:
• Place separate waste containers in hotel kitchens, restaurants, shops etc.
• Place bulk containers for separate waste disposal at Cluster A locations - 3 km
intervals along the path till Ghangharia and 1.5 km intervals along the path to
Hemkunt/may also use the stone masonry pits already constructed by the
Forests department enroute.
• Place separate waste containers in rooms and request guests to use the
containers as labelled.
• Request guests to sort out waste such as batteries for separate collection and
disposal.
Composting
Composting is the use of micro-organisms to break down organic waste
(vegetable clippings, leaves, seeds, skins, shells, rinds, garden waste, etc) into
inorganic form, which can then be used to improve the nutrient and water
retention capacity of soil. Composting techniques range from simple backyard
heaps to in-vessel systems.
As composting waste is wet, backyard heaps need to be layered with dry bulking
materials such as wood, sawdust, hay, leaves or shredded paper. Commercial
compost activators can also be used. A small amount of nitrogen fertiliser can be

10-189
added to increase energy content and speed up decomposition. Compost heaps

need to be kept moist and thoroughly mixed to ensure waste breaks down
rapidly. An unturned pile will become anaerobic (lack oxygen) and would smell.
In-vessel systems allow waste to be composted in enclosed vessels, reducing
composting time to less than 30 days. As the composting takes place in enclosed
vessels, they can be installed indoors (in kitchens and corridors, for example) or
outside without the problems of smell, space or leakage. These systems have
loading and screening devices, computerised or mechanical aeration systems,
and mixers to turn the piles. Most composting systems recommend that only 15%
of the waste heap consist of meat, and in-vessel systems have partly overcome
this disadvantage.
Compostable Materials
It is understood that the quantities of organics existing in the waste streams in
India is higher compared to some of the developed countries. Quantities in the
range of 40% to 45% have been quoted. The key issue will be how much of this
compostable organic material is currently sent for disposal in the existing
landfills. An attempt should be made to identify the compostable materials
existing in the solid wastes of the base settlements and quantify them. The
common compostable materials are paper, food wastes/kitchen & utensil wash waste,
vegetation (including flowers and plant trimmings), wood, and mule excreta.
Food Waste
The methodology to utilise waste food is similar to biogas plants. However, since
in this case majority of waste is food, one has to add farmyard manure, mule
excreta and bacterial cultures to have enough inoculum to decompose the waste.
There may be a problem of temperature since the place is cold and water has to
be heated. A composite system where energy from this system can be utilised to
heat up the system to the required temperature is required. Ministry of Non
Conventional Energy Sources (MNES) provide instructions based on the
quantum of waste. Local MNES contacts of Uttaranchal state (UREDA) should be
contacted to provide details. The department also has provisions to put up
demonstration units as well as provide addresses of the parties who will not only
install, but maintain the facilities.
Waste Storage Depot
As the incinerator is proposed to be located in Govind Ghat and as the distance
to transport is large, transfer of waste is partially to take place between smaller
collection units to bigger units, waste storage depot in the form of collection pits
(presently few are constructed by Forests department). The collected waste is
transferred from source to place of compression equipment unit (for non-

10-190
biodegradable waste) and/or to waste storage cage/depot. Subsequently, the

same can be transferred to the location of final disposal / treatment.
Transportation of Solid Waste
After effective and efficient collection of various segregated wastes,
transportation assumes an important role in waste management. The well-
packed waste from the waste storage depot/ collection points would be brought
down till Pulna on mules from where public service van would carry the same to
the incinerator at Govind Ghat (only if the Govind Ghat - Pulna road is
developed).
Preparation of Waste for Recycling
If waste is to be successfully prepared and used for recycling, it must be
uniformly sorted and cleaned, and free from unwanted material like bottle-caps,
metal, plastic, etc. Compactors/compression equipment units are proposed to be
used to reduce waste volume at Ghangharia, Hemkunt Sahib, Pulna, and Govind
Ghat. This lowers the space required to collect and store waste and increases its
value as a recyclable material.
Thin/cheap plastic (if not incinerated) and paper waste usually needs to be baled
and compacted before collection for recycling. Advice needs to be obtained from
nearest local municipal bodies/other well established EDCs/ZP for waste
collection and recycling schemes, on the preparation of waste, use of compactors,
baling specifications, and the market price for recyclables.
The other waste disposal option is landfill, which has significant environment impacts in
terms of inability of non-biodegradable waste to decompose over short-time and also food
waste attracts the wildlife. In an effort to reduce landfill waste volumes, landfill levies
and taxes have risen significantly over recent years and legislation aimed at restricting
the building of new landfill sites is being enforced in many countries. In the light of these
trends, recycling is expected to gain new ground in the future. As large generators of
post-consumer waste, the hospitality industry has a key role to play in increasing
recycling volumes and the market for recyclable products.
5.5 EMP for Water & Waste Water
Water management in tourism facilities includes:
• Maintaining water source
• Managing water storage and distribution works
• Reducing water use
• Reducing wastewater output
• Purifying water
• Monitoring water consumption

10-191
• Reusing treated wastewater

• Maintaining water supply quality.
Most countries have water quality standards, and ensuring compliance with
them is important. As discussed in the Environment Status Review in Chapter 3,
the water tests conducted in the region show that water is within potable quality
standards. However, there is a need to ensure better water quality and quantity
in view of the waste mixing, drainage and water supply mixing, and human
pollution into water, which were observed during the study. This calls for two
activities: one to improve the water supply system in terms of quantity and safe
supply, and second, awareness creation among users on respecting the water
sources and ensuring that the water is purified at individual
establishments/stalls that offer tourist services. The availability of potable water
at these establishments/stall at regular intervals will facilitate avoiding the need
to carry/disposal of mineral water bottles waste, which normally is a good part
of the waste collected from these locations and trek path.
Water Supply System
An expansion is already proposed to the existing ‘make-shift’ arrangement of
water supply in the region.
Ghangharia: At Ghangharia, Uttaranchal Jal Sansathan, Chamoli district has
proposed a Repair/Upgradation of Water Supply Scheme under the
Development Area of Joshimath region sanctioned under Border Area
Development Programme-BADP to be completed in 2004. A part of this new
arrangement has already been laid earlier by Jal Nigam and handed over to Jal
Sansthan. This facility currently has a stone masonry water tank about 300m up
from Ghangharia on Hemkunt route and 2 x 2” & 1 x 1 “ GI pipeline is already
laid from this tank till the first embankment of broken bridge on Lakshman
Ganga near Ghangharia.
Pulna-Govind Ghat: Uttaranchal Jal Nigam is preparing a scheme for providing
piped water supply via Pulna to Govind Ghat. This scheme will contain one
French Well type intake in Bhyundar Ganga river about 300 m above Pulna and
then a 1-1/2” diameter x 5.5 km long GI pipeline laid via Pulna and later along
the trek path, which will flow down the water through gravity to a 30KL capacity
cylindrical Clear Water Reservoir (CWR). This arrangement will meet the
requirements of about 5000 persons per day for a horizon period of next 15 years.
This scheme is targeted for completion by next season in 2004.
Also, water supply system (intake water source and distribution) for supply to
Bhyundar and Pulna villages needs to be upgraded for which Jal Sansthan
should prepare schemes in addition to above scheme at Ghangharia.
Some of the guidelines to be followed in general while water supply systems are:

10-192
• Storage tank openings, if any should be covered and protected from

stones/dust, pests, and other sources of contamination
• Inlet and outlet valves should be placed to avoid the build-up of stagnant
water
• Tanks should be cleaned before the beginning of every season, and exterior
and interior scale build-up removed
• Tanks should be regularly checked for leaks and accumulation of stones/grit.
• Ensure regular maintenance of distribution pipelines to avoid leaks, spills
and back siphonage between drinking and non-drinking supplies.
• Ensuring that distribution pipelines are laid away from drains/waste pipes.
• Funds for such recurring annual maintenance should be budgeted in the Jal
Sansthan’s annual budgets.
Management of Drinking Water
The pipes carrying drinking water should in no case be in contact with toilets
and urinals or pipes carrying that waste from one place to another.
Natural sources of drinking water should be provided with a tap with proper
labels. There should be proper slopes for draining the wastewater so that it does
not accumulate at disposal points.
There should be periodic testing of drinking water provided through pipes at all
places including the Gurdwaras. As mentioned earlier it should be ensured that
all establishments that offer tourist services have arrangements to purify water
(like, Aquaguard systems) and have separate, clean/hygienic & covered storage
for potable water, and this should be regularly tested by Jal Sansathan /
Department of Health officials every tourist season.
Hemkunt Sarovar water should not be polluted at any cost. The following
provisions should be made:
• Cleaning feet and body before taking a dip
• Not to wash linen in the Sarovar water or use soap/detergent for
bathing/washing linen
• Not to urinate in the Sarovar water
• Not to drain the food waste and other waste in the rivers
• Not to allow mule urine to drain off unmanaged (manage the mule urine in
the same way human urine is managed)

10-193
• Not to let mule excreta drop near the vicinity of rivers while sweeping from
the trek path (it has to be collected, carried and decomposed to make
manure).
Reducing Water Use
Good Housekeeping and Maintenance Options for Reducing Water Use
• Repair leaks and dripping pipes
• Place plastic containers filled with water in toilet cisterns to reduce flush
water volume
• Collect/Harvest rainwater for some non-drinking uses
• Place tent cards in bathrooms inviting guests to save water.
Repair and Retrofit Options for Reducing Water Use
• Place volume reducers in toilet cisterns for half and full flushing needs/use
water saving cisterns that have separate knobs/mechanisms inbuilt for half or
full flush requirements
• Install pressure flush valves on toilets and urinals. This can reduce flush
water by 30%-50%
• Install chemically purified urinals that do not use water especially enroute the
trek.
Monitoring Water Consumption
Since water is directly linked to the level of occupancy/activity, it is best to
monitor and benchmark water use on the basis of guest nights or visitor
numbers. Water meters are essential for the monitoring of water use. Meter is
suggested to be established at the Gurdwara, and all the lodges at Ghangharia
including GMVN TRH and FRH. Different business establishments could be
metered for the collection of more specific data.
Purification of Water at Community Storage level
There are several environment-preferable techniques used for purification of water. Use
of chlorine or other chemicals is the easiest one. Another technique is ionisation, the
release of metallic ions (usually copper and silver) into the water. Before release, low-
voltage electricity is passed through electrodes to generate positive and negative ions.
They kill algae, bacteria, and other micro-organisms. A small amount of chlorine (or
other oxidiser such as bromine) is however needed to eliminate water-clouding elements
such as suntan oil and dust, which are not affected by ions. Ionisation reduces chlorine
use by almost 80%, and eliminates eye-sting and bleaching effects.
Another technique involves ozone, which has been used for many years in
industrial water purification and wastewater treatment plants throughout the
world. Ozone is a very reactive form of oxygen, which can destroy a variety of

10-194
liquid waste materials, toxins, micro-organisms such as viruses, bacteria, spores,

and some chemical impurities. Every season, there will be a snap check
conducted at the hotels and restaurant for checking quality of water. It is
proposed that fine be imposed at those not complying standards and on second
reporting, license to operate be cancelled.
Reuse of Treated Wastewater
Treating wastewater and reusing it is not a viable proposition in the Valley of
Flowers-Hemkunt study area due to spread point inputs of wastewater and the
usability of the same.
5.6 EMP for Sanitation
• Urine from urinals may not be allowed to drain into rivers or natural
ecosystem of the protected area but a system of its purification should be an
in-built option. The urine from urinals should be filtered through pits
containing sand, soil and gravel mixed proportionately before the urine is
drained out.
• Similarly toilets should be properly managed, cleaned frequently, should be
made of material like China that can be cleaned efficiently. Chemical
toilets/Dry toilets are available in international markets, may be similar ones can be
explored/developed locally too.
• The toilet waste must go deep into pits where it can decompose rather than
leave near the surface where it may join the water pipes that are quite
frequent and run on the surface very close to the existing toilets. Caution has
to be exercised to keep water pipes and waste pipes separate.
• It is an expensive suggestion to collect all the mule excreta yet it is a resource
that is rich in organic matter. It can be utilised as manure in the nearby
agriculture fields if collected and processed. It is strongly recommended since
it is causing odour pollution and a nuisance on the way where tourists are
trekking.
• A scheme of incentives may have to be introduced where the sweepers or
mule owners are encouraged to collect excreta and deposit at designated
sites. These sites should have arrangement for vermi-composting or
manuring as discussed in the previous section. This fertiliser can be utilised in
the proposed gardens or agriculture fields. Help of local volunteers may be
sought too.
Technology to convert waste to manure using vermi-composting is well known.
Earthworms are used for conversion of waste to manure. The waste is converted
to good manure. The same can then be sold and used in organic cultivation in a
sustainable way.

10-195
Management of Urinals
The urinal waste should not be let off to pollute soil and water, rather it should
be cleaned before it reaches main stream. The urine should be passed through
tanks of gravel and sand (e.g. 2.5 meters to 2 meters with a depth of 2.5 meters
and capacity to hold 2 cubic meters) provided at various sites. These tanks can be
covered, with a provision to clean these whenever necessary. The sand and
gravel of these tanks has to be serviced, cleaned or replaced on periodic basis.
This may add to the cost but clean the waste to a large extent and the waste
going to streams and soil will not pollute the water. There can be several bacteria
and contaminants that can cause havoc if mixed with drinking water.
Management of Toilets
Apart from providing sufficient toilets, the excreta from roadside toilets should
be disposed in deep pits that have concrete lining (e.g concrete lining for 2
meters and a depth of more than 4 meters for waste to fall off). This should be
mandatory since toilet waste can mix with water and can pollute soil as well as
water.
5.7 EMP for Energy
The settlements/travel path in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region face shortage of
electricity. As discussed in Chapter 2 and 3, the causes are many, including need to
undertake regular maintenance of micro-hydel plant at Ghangharia, and its ancillary
intake structures before/after every season, proper attention to be given to preventive
maintenance of power line and poles (to avoid getting damaged due to avalanches in
winters) to provide electricity through grid connection all along the travel path, limited
success of solar lighting, etc. Environment Management Plan for energy becomes
extremely significant in view of this energy dynamics in the region.
Energy efficiency not only reduces diesel / kerosene fuel (to run generators and
heat water) and electricity bills, it also increases the overall comfort of the
visitors.
Proposals on Power Sector
It is suggested to upgrade the existing Power line & Pole system connected with
grid via Govind Ghat till Ghangharia, which can be easily maintained if proper
attention is paid in time by Department of Electricity through some
regular/documented process of preventive maintenance to avoid the system
getting damaged at few places. The power supply system through grid becomes
defunct just due to damage at few places to the power line and poles. It is
proposed that proper attention is paid to dis-assemble the power line from
avalanche prone sites (from start of Bhyundar village at about 8.75 km, 9.25-9.35
km point, 9.60-9.75 km point, and at 11.10-11.15 km point) after the end of tourist
season and before the start of snow, to avoid the power line getting loaded with
snow deposit making it susceptible to getting damaged during an avalanche.

10-196
This power line can then be easily assembled before start of next season and the
electricity supply can be restored till Ghangharia. This will also ensure that
sufficient power is available along the trek path/ at Pulna/ Bhyundar/ Kanjila
area and at Ghangharia, including the supply from micro-hydel plant, thus
minimising the dependence/need of using diesel/kerosene generators that add
to some air pollution at Ghangharia.
Once this power supply system is restored, the street lights can be provided from
the junction of route to Valley of Flowers / Hemkunt Sahib till next 1.5 km
cluster of facilities on the Hemkunt route to facilitate safe return of visitors in this
stretch, which may be dark sometimes due to bad weather (from 13 km to 14.5
km point and should be switched off by 7.00 pm by which time the traffic is
expected to cease for the day), and from Kanjila till Ghangharia entrance (11.75
km to 12.5 km point) and these lights should be switched off by 9.00 pm, by
which hour it is expected that all those staying at tented resorts would be back
for sleep after having their dinner at restaurants in Ghangharia. Upgradation of
street lighting at Bhyundar may be taken up. It is proposed that the trek path till
Pulna be lit by streetlights (connected to main power supply system through
grid) till late evening (till say 8.00 pm by which time the traffic is expected to
cease for the day) during and even after the tourist season. This would facilitate
the few tourists who prefer to trek down to Govind Ghat by end of the same day
of their visit as also for the host community at Pulna.
The proposed road from Govind Ghat till Pulna, if developed should also be lit
by streetlights (connected to a new main power supply system through grid) till
late evening (i.e. say 8.00 pm by which time the traffic is expected to cease for the
day). Also, driving on this road in the night will not be permitted between 8.00
pm – 6.00 am, unless it is an emergency requirement of village Pulna.
The local host community - EDC members/Mahila Mandal/Yuvak Mandal,
Gurdwara Sevadars, Forest department staff, PWD, etc. may share this
responsibility for putting on & off these street lights.
Also, funds for such recurring annual maintenance should be budgeted in the
annual budgets of UREDA (for micro-hydel plant at Ghangharia) and State
Electricity Board (for grid line connectivity upwards of Pulna till Ghangharia)
while some initial funds are budgeted in the report for the project
implementation duration.
Maintenance or ‘Good Housekeeping’ Options
• Power shut down during the daytime may be observed.
• Shut down power in sections of the building that is not in use. This can be
done through the use of Building Management Systems (BEMS), discussed
later in this section.

10-197
• Insulate all hot water tanks, pipes and boilers.

• Seal gaps in walls, windows, doors, roofs and floor to control heating/
cooling loss and penetrating damp.
• Make visitors aware of the importance of energy conservation. Request them
to switch off equipment and lights when not required.
• Train staff to use less hot water and to save energy by switching off
equipment when not needed.
• Ensure boilers and beverage chillers are regularly serviced to maximise
efficiency.
Repair, Retrofit and Refurbishment Options
A number of repair, retrofit and refurbishment options are presented below:
• Automatic load-shedding control systems
• Controls for Heating and Hot Water
The right controls are crucial for the efficient operation of hot water and
heating/ cooling systems. These include:
o Room thermostats, which switch-off boilers when rooms are heated to
a set temperature;
o Hot water cylinder thermostats to switch off boilers when water is
heated to a given temperature;
o Storage water controls, used for storage or combination heaters: they
include such features as automatic thermostats (to control heat storage
and output according to peak demand loads and tariffs windows),
convector-control room temperature thermostats, and external timers.
• Sealing and Stripping
Badly fitted doors and windows are a major source of heating and cooling
loss, but are cheap and easy to repair. Sealing and stripping materials include
silicon strips, blade seals, brush piles and fillers, and rubber, PVC and
aluminium seals.
• Controlled Ventilation
While sealing and stripping is important, so too is controlled ventilation. There
are several types of controlled ventilation suitable for tourism establishments:
o Background ventilation systems such as trickle vents
o Rapid ventilation systems such as extractor fans
o Ducted systems including heat recovery.

10-198
• Low-Energy Lighting
Low-energy lighting is easy to install and can reduce energy costs by 10-15%.
Low-energy lamps include compact fluorescent light (CFL) tubes, and
tungsten halogens.
• Renewable Energy Options
Renewable energy is a source of energy that can be produced at the same rate
or faster than it is consumed, and therefore does not deplete natural
resources. Renewable energy technology for tourism and hospitality includes
solar water heating, photovoltaics (PV), mini-hydro systems, wind turbines,
bio-fuels (explained later) and geothermal heat pumps.
• Wall, Roof and Floor Insulation
Around 80% of cooling and heating is lost through external walls. In
conjunction with heating/cooling controls, wall insulation also reduces
condensation and damp. Many recycled and more environmentally-
preferable insulating materials are available and should be given preference.
Formaldehyde should be avoided.
The types and methods of roof insulation depend on the roof pitch (sloping or
fl at), boulders, eves, rafters, weatherproof coverings, etc. The most
commonly used insulation materials are plastic (mainly polystyrene) and
mineral wool.
Floor insulation is best done when floors are being replaced or extensions
built. If insulation is laid above existing floors, care should be taken that the
extra thickness does not affect existing fittings and skirtings. Floor insulation
is especially useful to reduce heating and cooling losses in buildings with
suspended wooden floors. Insulation materials include mineral wool,
polystyrene and foam glass.
• Bio-fuels
In addition to addressing the issue of electricity in the region, energy options
need to be considered of which bio-fuel is a feasible option in the project
region. Bio-fuels include a wide range of energy resources derived from
biomass – all living matter and the many products and by-products that are
derived from it. The main sources of bio-fuels are:
- Straw and Crop Waste
Straw and corn waste burning systems can be used for cooking, and
heating. The only processing required is drying and shredding the waste.
It is critical that the waste is dried, as burning wet plant residues releases
nitrous oxide - a major contributor to acid rain. In some countries these
wastes are available as dried, shredded and compressed briquettes, which

10-199
offer the added advantages of being easier to package, transport, and use,
especially in smaller domestic heating systems. As wet waste, straw/crop
residues can also be digested to produce biogas.
- Nursery, Garden and Kitchen Waste, Damaged and Surplus Food
These wet wastes are good fuels for digestion and biogas production.
They are an interesting fuel option for tourism, as kitchen and garden
wastes can make up almost half the volume of a business’ waste output. It
may be noted that many hospitality businesses can compost kitchen and
garden waste and use the resulting residue as fertiliser.
- Slurry/ Mule Excreta
Slurry (a mixture of animal bedding, urine, faeces and water) is an
excellent fuel for anaerobic digestion as it is wet and rich in nutrients.
However, as slurry is wet, and carries a strong and unpleasant odour, it is
difficult to collect, transport and handle. If not managed carefully, slurry
can run into surface water bodies and percolate into aquifers where the
groundwater table is high.
• Incineration with Energy Recovery
Large-scale solid waste incineration with heat recovery is becoming a
valuable ‘waste to energy’ option for many countries. The heat generated by
the incineration process is used for generating electricity. The residual ash is
used in road building. The advantage of incineration is that it reduces the
demand for landfill sites and landfill related environment issues. The
disadvantages of incineration are that modern state-of-the-art incinerators are
very expensive, and their operation needs to be very carefully managed to
avoid harmful emissions of acids, metals, organic compounds and ash
particles. Environment experts also oppose incineration at a large scale as a
sustainable waste and energy option, as it drives down the impetus and
viability of recycling programs/networks and removes the incentives for
waste minimisation.
Energy Alternatives for Villages
• Mostly during the non-tourism season i.e. from Oct. – Dec. and Feb. – May,
the sky in this area remains free from cloud with intense & clear sunshine.
This good source of solar energy can easily be harnessed by the help of solar
cookers/solar lanterns/solar heaters. Training to individuals in the local host
community for use of these equipments & maintenance can be provided by
UREDA/NGOs, and funding through micro-credit to procure the same is a
plausible option for harnessing the solar energy during the above period. A
maintenance fund may be created through nominal deposits of the
beneficiaries at the village level that can be managed by the Gram Sabha,

10-200
which already looks after the maintenance of the micro-hydel plant at

Ghangharia.
5.8 EMP for Air & Noise Management
As discussed in Chapter 3, the ambient air quality is good in the project region.
However, environment management initiatives are required to ensure that there
will be no air related pollution in the region in future also.
Environment Management Programme for Emissions Control
Emissions from tourism facilities expected in the region with the proposed
development would be mainly from vehicles running till Pulna (if the eco-
friendly ferry system is not in place) and from the burning of fossil fuels used for
space and water heating, cooking, and generating additional electricity (at
Hemkunt Sahib, Ghangharia, and Govind Ghat). It is proposed that environment
friendly fuel vehicles (gas based or battery operated light motor vehicles) be
deployed for ferrying the tourists till Pulna if the road is built.
Presently any pollution due to the generators in operation at Ghangharia is
expected to reduce/diminish with the proposed restoration of power supply
system connected to grid. Regular maintenance checks should be conducted on
boilers and generators. Filters and scrubbers should be fitted to exhaust fans, and
be regularly cleaned and maintained.
The use of vehicles, boilers and generators that can operate on ethanol blends
and bio-diesel should be considered.
Environment Management Programme for Managing Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air pollutants including combustion gases such as carbon dioxide, nitrous
oxides and hydrocarbons, tobacco smoke, volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
asbestos, ozone, dust and particles, CFCs and radon need to be controlled to
provide that extra clean experience to the visitors.
Environment Management Programme for Noise Management
Good housekeeping options for Noise Management
• Use rubber mountings to soundproof isolated machines
• At night, switch off machinery located near guest rooms
• Ensure delivery and waste-removal vehicles switch off their engines while
loading and unloading at Govind Ghat and Pulna (at Pulna only if the road is
developed from Govind Ghat to Pulna)
• Ensure that ear protection is worn by employees involved in very noisy work
like construction, etc.

10-201
• Ensure any construction/development work is only taken up in pre-tourist or

post-tourist season only (this availability of such time period will also depend
on the weather suitability)
Repair And Retrofit Options For Noise Management
• Install quieter motors and fans in equipment
• Encapsulate machinery with damping materials (e.g. elastic panel mounting)
• Install reinforced foundations for heavy equipment
• Install automatic door closing in guest rooms
• Install double-glazed windows
• Install quiet toilet-flush tanks (that also use less water).
Refurbishment options for Noise Management
Together with architects and engineers, property design and construction
improvements, such as:
• Installing sound-absorbing inner walls, or insulating walls and floors; with
mineral wool, fibreglass or rubber, and
• Use of sound-absorbing building materials may be considered.
5.9 Environmental Orientation
Sensitisation of tourists, local host community and other stakeholders like mule
operators/porters/palki carriers, tour operators, NGOs working in the region,
government departments, etc. towards environment preservation is very
important to implement the sustainable management plan.
Internal Environment Communication, Delegation and Training
If an environment management programme is to be successful, EDC members
and other volunteers like guides/porters, Mahila Mandal, local youth, etc.
(including Gurdwara Sevadars who must be brought into this environment
management fold) must be motivated and trained to integrate reducing resource
use and waste into daily operating procedures. It is these people who are in
contact with the tourists and the local host community, who create the
experience, and who deliver the service. If they are well informed and motivated
to achieve environment objectives and safety of humans/animals, this will reflect
in their working practices and improve service quality.
Communicating Environment Performance to Tourists
The preliminary environment status review provides initial insight into the
environment awareness and demands. The various means of sensitising the
tourists and capacity building of other stakeholders are dealt with in the

10-202
subsequent chapters and in Chapter 11. A few general communication methods

are indicated below.
Suggestions for Environment Communication Methods
• Hang a framed copy of the environment policy statement in reception areas
of each establishment whether a hotel/lodge/rest house or a small eating
stall, etc.
• Include the environment policy and information about the on-going
environment management programme in brochures, guest information
packages, and on the in-house television channel
• Inform guests about the importance of saving water and energy, and proper
waste management
• Provide information on local environment issues
• Invite guests to participate in local interactive sessions
• Stress on how guests might participate in maintaining and improving
environment quality, both during their stay and when they get home (e.g.
current regular slide shows/documentary film shows as planned in future at
the Nature Interpretation Centre)
Assign Environment Responsibility
Most tourism businesses appoint an ‘environment champion’, supported by an
environment management team. The environment management team should
include representatives from top management and from all departments. This
will ensure that the environment burdens of the entire business are identified
and included in the EMS. The environment champion, as a representative of EDC
team, and the management team including Forest officials, Dept. of Tourism
officials should have the skills to understand and implement the EMS.
5.10 Environment Monitoring

Monitoring and Documenting the Progress of the Environment Management
Programme
‘You cannot manage what you cannot measure’. Monitoring and documenting on-
going environment, establishment, and individual service provider performance
will enable the tourism business to:
• Yearly Assess whether targets and objectives are being met after each season
• Identify action plans that are not being successfully implemented

10-203
• Identify the corrective and preventive actions needed to improve

performance.
Monitoring should be regular. A standardised environment-monitoring format
helps standardise data-collection and record-keeping across the organisation.
This will form a mini Environment Monitoring Audit.
Refer Chapter 6 for details on environment monitoring recommendations for
Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt region.
Incentive/Reward Programs
Based on the monitoring, at the end of season, incentives and rewards should be
given to recognise those establishments and individuals who have been most
successful in offering quality service (in terms of accommodation/food & potable
water/guide service, etc.) to tourists; contribution to eco-awareness; contribution
to environmental protection and conservation on their own in general as well as
for any threatened flora/fauna; porter/mule operator/palki carrier those who
provide best service/good behaviour or whose mules are best in health; cleaning
staff whose stretch of trek path is most clean, best Sevadars, best para-medic &
emergency rescue staff, best officials, etc.
Even tourists those who show exemplary behaviour in not indulging in any activity like
throwing the waste on trek path/carrying back all its non-biodegradable waste/ not
plucking or damaging the flora & fauna in the Valley of Flowers & enroute, not
shouting/creating noise in the Valley of Flowers, etc. can be recognised as “Eco-tourist”
and their eco-development fee be refunded as a goodwill gesture and their names
highlighted in the “Friends of the Valley of Flowers” Programme website for all to know &
emulate.
Also, those if found flouting the eco-rules whether tourists or local stakeholders
should be penalised by imposing a fine for a tourist or revoking the registration
license of the concerned local establishment/ stakeholder.
6. VALLEY OF FLOWERS & HEMKUNT

DEVELOPMENT PLAN
The previous chapter outlined the overall Environment Management Plan. The
present chapter outlines the specific management plan required for Valley of
Flowers and Hemkunt region (including the trek from Ghangharia), which are
the tourist destinations.
The objectives of Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Management Plan are:
• To improve visitor experience under eco-tourism framework

10-204
• To conserve the environment.

6.1 Sustainable Development and Carrying Capacity Concepts -
Minimisation of Impacts
Eco-Tourism incorporates sustainable development principles. Carrying capacity is
fundamental to environmental protection and sustainable development. It refers to the
maximum use of any site without causing negative effects on the resources, reducing
visitor satisfaction or exerting adverse impact upon the society, economy and culture of
the area or in other words depends upon the resource available, number of consumers
dependent upon the resource and capacity of the system to replace the lost resources.
The concept of carrying capacity relates resource use to environmental support.
Reaching a carrying capacity for a population infers that there is a balance between the
supply of resources and the impacts sustained as a result of that supply. It is true of all
economic development that there is a carrying capacity, beyond which further
development causes declines in resource availability and environmental integrity. In this
case, pressure above carrying capacity will result in decline of the environmental
balances disturbing the ecology and risking major hazards. It is not just the carrying
capacity of a region that accounts for the resources utilised, but also mainly the overall
management of much larger environment.
Similarly, for managing the regions such as Valley of Flowers, Hemkunt,
Ghangharia etc. one has to account for not only the region confined by these
three spots but the total area from where resources can be imported to these sites.
Tourism carrying capacity includes physical, biological, social and
psychological/ perceptual aspects of the tourism environment. There are three
distinct types of aspects that need attention: Biophysical (ecological) - which relates
to the natural environment, Socio-cultural - which relates primarily to the impact
on the host population and its culture and Facility - which relates to the visitor
experience.
Carrying capacity is not merely about a number. It varies according to season
and over time, factors such as the dynamic character of the environment,
tourists’ behavioural patterns, facility design and management, and the changing
attitudes of the host community.
6.1.1 Factors influencing Carrying Capacity
• Volume of resources required
• Intensity of pressure on the resources
• Non renewable resources
• Utilisation of local resources
• Renewable resources like sun, water, wood, air etc.
• Flux of renewable resources

10-205
• Environmental loading
• Behavioural pattern of tourists
• Visitor Management at site and enroute
• Waste generation and disposal
• Ecological patterns
• Social changes
• Ratio of non-renewable energy to renewable energy, called an Environmental
Loading Ratio (ELR) and provides an upper limit to carrying capacity
• Availability of support area (The carrying capacity indices are expressed as
land area required to support an economic activity. This required area will
called as “support area.”)
• Landscaping etc
Resources required
• Purchased sources
• Services
• Local non renewable resources
• Imported non renewable resources (concrete, steel, fuel, electricity,
furnishings)
• Imported renewable resources (potable water, vegetables, fruits, raw food)
• Local renewable resources (Water, wood, air, solar energy etc.)
• Fuel
• Electricity
• Labour
• Goods and material
• Potable water
• Food
• Animals & fodder
• Human resources
The resources required are converted into energy as also cost in currency to
calculate consumption per tourist and total load. This helps to calculate carrying
capacity.

10-206
The situational analysis of the tourism in the region (presented in Chapter 2); the
Environmental Status Review and Environment Impact of Tourism (presented in
Chapter 3) clearly suggests that the project region is unique. In this case, both
ecology and tourism attractions are in the region, however, the fragility of
biodiversity is the concern.
The area currently available in VOFNP for tourists is very limited and all the
components of this destination are precious. Any trampling, removal or damage
is limiting to the system. Not that the system is not capable of replenishing it, but
the replenishment of the lost species is usually not with the same and similar
species, but usually with more aggressive and competitive species. In such a
case, the structure of the community will be different, if the lost
components/species are continuously replaced by dominating species or
components or associations different from the natural or original ones.
Already there is a concern of growth of dominating species like Polygonum
polystachyum, etc. due to restrictions on grazing. There is a debate on if grazing
should be allowed as in past so that such dominating species are kept in check.
However, the consultants strongly feel that grazing will also remove other
components that are rare and may be lost with grazing or trampling due to
grazing activity. Even trampling by tourists may be detrimental, and thus
tourists path need to be defined and restricted.
Number of tourists has increased as compared to previous years. The growth of
tourists to Valley of Flowers had been about 60% from 2002-2003, however, the
percentage share of visitors to Valley of Flowers is very low - nearly 1.7 % in 2003
of nearly 4 lakhs total tourists to Hemkunt Sahib (it is assuming that all the
visitors in this region during the tourist season visit Hemkunt Sahib and a part
also visit the Valley of Flowers).
6.1.2 Valley of Flowers
Existing Scenario
Valley of Flowers - Hemkunt region is part of a highly eco-sensitive zone.
Following factors were considered while estimating carrying capacity and
making recommendations:
• The purpose of the visit is mainly eco-tourism or ecological study
• Valley of Flowers trek is basically 5 km long from Ghangharia up to the end
of the main valley near Donagair Garh or stream. There is only a 3 ft wide
trail that feeds this area for the tourist to trek (except the initial 0.9 km stretch
that is relatively wider upto 6 ft wide). In addition to this there is a 0.5 km
long & 3 ft wide trek path that leads to Ms Legge’s grave and to some old
Helipad reported near the grave.

10-207
• Though the vast land in Valley of Flowers can be fancied for visit, the actual
space for movement at the Valley of Flowers is very limited, in fact, nearly 0.6
ha or 1.5 acre only (covering the 5.5 km long trek path which is about 3 ft.
wide with some more open space currently available where visitors were
observed to reach and move around) as the tourists are not allowed to stray
away for environmental reasons.
• River Pushpawati flows along the sides giving it a very pleasant view. In
addition, there is a 2 km length of the main valley.
• This area has a limited carrying capacity for eco-tourists. Although, tourists
demands for calculating carrying capacity in terms of use of non renewable
and renewable energy resources is negligible as the tourists neither stay
overnight nor utilise the resources present at the valley site, yet the factors
such as space to move, flowers plucked on return, waste left at the site such
as water bottles, used wrappers, trampling on the sides of the trek limit the
pressure.
• Nearly one to two bottles of water may be consumed per tourist per day.
Although the education system proposed to be imparted to the tourists and
the fact that a majority of tourists at the Valley of Flowers are
environmentalists or environment protection conscious, yet there is a risk that
a good number will leave the water bottles, wrappers etc. Many tourists are
found to disturb the ecosystem by stepping down to plants causing damage
by trampling of plants in the urge to get better views or access places for
relaxation on rock boulder tops. Sensitisation of tourists / eco-guide
monitoring means to minimise such impacts is extremely essential.
• Proper interpretation boards and proper education of the significance of each
point with ecological explanation to avoid damaging sensitive values, with
the help of local eco-guides proposed to accompany a team can facilitate the
tourist orientation. The visitation flow shall be restricted with guided tours,
but at the same time guides should be trained to be visitor friendly while they
control the visitor movement on well-defined paths & spots for panoramic
view/relaxation, and during such accompaniment the guide service shall
avoid a sense of control, while the tourists appreciate the point of interest.
• It is environmentally fragile as well as ecologically sensitive. It needs
management to save ecological damages. These management issues have
been elaborated elsewhere in the report. The main ones are: no dumping of
waste bottles and wrappers (if dumped, proper immediate collection), no
plucking of flowers or uprooting of plants, no trampling on the sides of the
trek, no straying into the fields, no grazing in the protected area, no throwing
of seeds such as those of oranges or other eatable, no throwing of peels such
as those of banana or other eatable (there is a misconception and a tendency

10-208
to throw eatable assuming that these are degradable and will not effect the
system). An eco-deposit shall be taken at the time of entry to VOFNP, and
refunded if the tourist carries back the wastes and plastics, etc. Also, the
proposed management is through education, sensitisation prior to taking the
trip, signboards along the path, education to guides and publication of
booklets on environmental issues at Valley of Flowers.
• An alternative site (a more resilient site/area) with similar pattern and
components with attractions is proposed to be developed outside the Valley
as a demonstration nursery/ shadow garden which could be named
‘Germplasm Bank of Endangered Species of VoF’ (as suggested by Chief Wildlife
Warden, Uttaranchal or be known by any other name by DoF as felt
appropriate), the details of which are described in the following section. The
name - Germplasm Bank gives a notion of more of being a conserved area
and not an area where tourists can also visit. However if the purpose is well
defined and clarified by DoF, this is a good proposal.
A 10 sq.km area of the main valley that is visible cannot stand lakhs of tourists
moving on a limited pathway space of 0.6 ha / 1.5 acres in a small season of four
months. Its carrying capacities don’t permit that. The physical space for tourists
to move around in the Valley of Flowers is limited as mentioned earlier and
higher the number, more chances of damage to the precious biodiversity
components. It is observed that the number of domestic tourists in the Valley of
Flowers has grown from 2033 visitors in 1993 to nearly 5500 visitors in 2003,
while the number of students/government officials/foreign tourists in the Valley
of Flowers has grown from 171 visitors in 1993 to nearly 1000 in 2003. As the
numbers of high quality/serious eco-tourists and researchers has been gradually
increasing, and to ensure that the carrying capacity of the Valley of Flowers does
not reach an optimal limit, it is imperative to attract preferably only the high
quality eco-tourists in the main valley per se.
The current numbers of visitation were observed to be an average of 128 visitors
per day in one peak season month of July 2003. Increase in support area cannot
increase the carrying capacity of the region. It is observed that maximum impact
to environment was caused by the tourist’s behavioural pattern and lack of
management controls and not based on the number of visitation. This suggests
that it is not the number, which affects, in the present scenario, but it is the
environment orientation and sensitisation of tourists and the local host
community coupled with well-planned management measures within the Limits
of Acceptable Change Framework, which will minimise the impacts in the Valley
and would contain any erosion of its carrying capacity.
The DoF/DoT/local management, etc. shall also ensure that only consistent
information is displayed that is supported by the official line, whether it is

10-209
through signages/information boards/print media/electronic media/internet

media, etc.
A case study of Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA was done to understand the
development and management of the same. This is presented in the following Box-1
along with a study of present status of Valley of Flowers from the visitation loading
perspective.
Box-1: Case Study (2003 Season)- Valley of Flowers and Joshua Tree National Park
Valley of Flowers National Park, Joshua Tree National Park,

Uttaranchal, India California, USA
Legal Status: Legal Status:
Human Visitation: Since ancient times by near Human Visitation: Inhabited since 5000 years,
by local communities the trade route trail to but increased visitation due to explorers,
Tibet passed through this natural valley cattlemen, miners, etc. began in 1800’s
Discovered in Modern Times: 1931 by British Proclaimed National Monument: 10 Aug 1936
Mountaineer & Expeditionary Frank S Smythe
Designated as Biosphere Reserve: 1984 & later
Declared National Park: 6 Sep 1982 designated as National Park on 31 Oct 1994
Local Management: Under Department of Local Management: National Park Service,
Forests (DoF) and for eco-tourism by Eco- USA with a non-profit partner Joshua Tree
Development Committee (EDC) under National Park Association which is dedicated
guidance of DoF. The aim of EDC is to keep the to assist with preservation, education,
trek trail clean, keep this valley region free historical, and scientific programs for the
from polythene/plastics, provide employment benefit of the park & its visitors.
opportunity to rural unemployed, and
conserve the environment of this valley region.
Salient Features: Salient Features:

National Park Area = 87.50 sq km Gross Area = 789,745 acres
Main Valley Area (as visible during the tourist Main Movable Area (approx. space
season) = 10 sq km (approx.) along designated paved / unpaved
Main Valley Area (approx. movable roads & trails for different activities,
space* along designated trek path) = campsites) = about 600-650 acres
0.6 ha or 1.5 acres (derived out of data available on web)
Altitude Levels: 3200 m – 6700 m above Altitude Levels: 1000 ft. – 5000 ft. above
MSL MSL
Tourist Season: Jun– Sep every year Tourist Season: Throughout year
(120 days) Number of Visitors: 1.26 Million
Number of Visitors: 6400 (approx.) (approx.)
* Initial trek path of 0.9 km length till river Pushpawati bridge is approx. 6 ft wide, and thereafter remaining trek path
(including the path till Ms. Legge’s grave) of about 4.6 km length is approx. 3 ft. wide, while view point/relaxation area
proposed is an additional 175 sqm in area along the trek path. The additional uncovered benches provided to rest during
the initial difficult trek cover an area of 26 sqm, while single unit toilet covers 1 sqm. Thus, total movable space is as
follows:
Total Movable Space (Area) = 900x1.8+4600x0.9+175+26+1 = 5962 sqm or 0.6 ha or 1.5 acres

10-210

Nature of Park: Located in northern Nature of Park: Located in parts of
Himalayas, part of NDBR, high Mojave & Colorado (high & low)
altitude, snowy region, gets abundant Deserts interspersed with rugged
rainfall, with great diversity of flora & mountains, limited rainfall, with
some fauna species accessible for only varying vegetation, fan palm oases,
daily visitation permissible in limited other desert vegetation accessible
period of 4 months throughout year except for camping
Species of Flora: 521 [of which 499 are limitation from Oct-May
flowering plants (Angiosperms), 4 are Species of Flora: Joshua tree, Creosote
non-flowering plants (Gymnosperms) bush, fan palm, spring wildflowers,
and 18 are ferns (Pteridophytes)] other desert vegn.
Endangered/Medicinal Species: 31 / 13 Species of Fauna: Numerous birds,
Species of Fauna: 13 wild mammal mammals, insects, and lizards & snakes
species, more than 11 bird species, & Endangered Species: 7 Flora & 9 Fauna
insects/butterflies Other Protected Items: 501
Source of Water: River Pushpawati and archeological sites, 88 historic
numerous small streams/rivulets structures, 19 cultural landscapes
joining it Source of Water: > 120 (e.g. springs,
Potential Hazards: Sickness due to seeps, oases, wells, & one short
difficult trek, landslides, seismic perennial stream)
activity, illegal flora/herb removal Potential Hazards: Dehydration,
(before/beyond tourist season), etc. Seismic activity (many fault zones in
Permissible activities: vicinity), flash floods after
Only walking along the designated thunderstorms, fires, insect/snake
path and few defined open relaxation bites, organic waste left cannot
spots (if prepared as proposed) decompose, etc.
including photography (professional Permissible activities:
photography permitted at a charge); Movement along designated paved /
while camping/ night stay/cooking unpaved roads with vehicles and
/mule service, etc. activities are not identified trails for mountain biking /
permitted hiking / horseback riding /Nature
Present Park Load: Walks, Camping/cooking (carry fuel &
Capacity of persons per acre of area water) etc. at 9 designated campsites
exposed to visitation = 2.6 (average per (30 day limit) including stargazing &
annum of tourist season) photography
Capacity of persons per acre of moveable space Present Park Load:
per season = 4267 (average per four months of

10-211

tourist season) Capacity of persons per acre of area
Capacity of persons per acre of moveable space exposed to visitation = 1.6 (average per
per season per day = 36 (average) annum of tourist season)
Capacity of persons per acre of moveable space Capacity of persons per acre of moveable space
per season per day = 87 (average in peak per season = 2016 (average per annum of
visitation month in July) tourist season)
Capacity of persons per acre of moveable space
per season per day = 5.6 (average)
Capacity of persons per acre of moveable space
per season per day = 13.5 (average in peak
visitation month in April)
The case study shows that Joshua Tree National Park, CA, USA has only 5.6
visitors per acre of movable space per day. But it is a huge park with motor able
roads paved & unpaved inside, with permissible vehicular traffic, numerous
trekking trail / climbing routes, horseback riding at designated paths, and
limited camping. In reality Joshua Tree National Park is a highly dynamic,
constantly shifting ecosystem. Wind and rain have had the greatest effect in
shaping this ecosystem. While wildfire and human caused factors such as air
pollution and off-road vehicle use can change the landscape very quickly. The
park is a dynamic living laboratory affected by natural forces & human activities
in the Park, while the desert is immense and infinitely variable and seems
unwelcoming in brutal heat of summers, yet delicate and fragile, and it thus has
an extremely high safety factor (as the Park is within 3 hours drive away from an
18 million population) to handle within its capacity the additional future
visitation load per person vis-à-vis movable space. Visitors are sensitised in
visitor centres at multiple entrance/exit locations and waste/garbage generated
is brought back by the visitors in plastic bags under the principle of “Leave No
Trace”.
Most of such large parks have motor able roads and large area, facilities for removal of
garbage, toilets and other amenities and can handle large visitation loads along
designated paths at a time, except camping sites with limited capacities and for limited
duration.
Source : www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm
www.joshua.tree.national-park.com
www.joshuatree.org

10-212
Carrying Capacity Approach & Calculation

The calculations of the carrying capacity load have been made on certain
assumptions. As mentioned earlier, carrying capacity is the amount of activity
that can be accommodated in a specific site without causing unsustainable
impacts. It is a popular approach to visitor management and is an attempt at
determining the maximum number of visitors that is sustainable in ecological
and social conditions. Yet carrying capacity is among the most controversial
topics in recreation management*.
Too often tourism development adds to the environmental stress, crowding of
the visitors and negative impact on the habitat. In particular when the
development of tourism exceeds the carrying capacity of the tourist spot, it
causes a variety of negative impacts. The carrying capacity is calculated not
merely on the basis of space available but includes biological and sociological
issues. The ideal definition of carrying capacity is a "level of recreational use an
area can withstand while providing a sustained quality of recreation".
A spatio-temporal approach has been adopted to estimate the optimum number
of tourists in VoF. The details of options explored are as follows:
Fluid carrying capacities: This model is used when resources can be replenished
and regenerated. Fluid carrying capacities is an anthropomorphic view that
carrying capacities can be increased by hardening a site or improving it's
capacity through improved transportation or facilities.
Fixed carrying capacities: Fixed carrying capacities, on the other hand, are used if
the area is extremely vulnerable; if no information exists to define an areas
potential carrying capacity; if visitor responsibility and awareness levels are low
or unknown; or there are no resources to increase carrying capacity. If visitor
demand exceeds an area's carrying capacity, then a quota or limit must be
imposed to protect the site. Combinations of fixed and fluid capacities are used
in many protected areas. However for VoF fixed carrying capacity has been
recommended.
The objective of this rationing system is not only to physically manage the space
available at VoF but also to see the diversity is protected and not tampered. Most of the
computer models that are used to calculate the carrying capacity take into account
physical access, transportation and pollution caused by the activity, etc. There are
several models to calculate the carrying capacity, however on has to observe the tourist
behaviour, tourist movement over the entire year (season) to put layers to develop the
model. It was not in the scope of work to do that in-depth study due to limited project
duration, and moreover the number of tourists at present is within the threshold limits.
*
Sustainable Tourism, F. D. Pineda, C. A. Brebbia & M. Mugica (Editors) , 2004, WIT Press, www.witpress.com, ISBN 1-
85312-724-8.

10-213
The following criteria were considered to arrive at the optimum number that can
visit the VoF area in a season:
Use Levels: The actual use levels by the tourists of the facility at the VoF site are
fairly low, and the tourists are not permitted to camp/stay at the VoF overnight.
They only visit the site, enjoy the panoramic view and leave. The actual impact in
terms of needs to cook, ease and relax is very minimal. The formulae to calculate
carrying capacity where tourists have to cook, camp etc. include requirement of
wood to cook and camping requirements including water & other amenities,
pollution load due to excreta, etc. These have not been considered here.
The VoF is too small and very fragile in terms of accommodating needs of
tourists. In order to maintain the relationship of use levels the tourist number has
to be rationed.
Transportation to reach the Site: There are models available where pollution loads
are calculated on the basis of vehicular pollution, horse/mule rides and, impact
due to transportation to reach the site. Carrying capacity gets limited when the
impact crosses threshold. As far VoF is concerned, this is not critical as there is
neither vehicular movement possible nor mules are permitted, and tourists reach
the site only on foot or palki/dandi. With respect to transportation to reach base
station/destination, the main load is for Ghangharia & Govind Ghat/Hemkunt
site.
Recreation Opportunity: Recreation opportunity is density dependent. However,
the VoF is not visited for recreation of the type that will warrant consideration of
factors usually considered for purely recreational tourist sites. Hence, traditional
models to calculate carrying capacity were not considered for this site.
Desired Resource Conditions: The main criterion at VoF is sustainability in terms of
impact of tourists to biodiversity, and the changes that impact of tourists may
cause on biodiversity. Estimation of impact of tourists depends upon the number
of tourists, their education, and sensitivities towards biodiversity and time
period spent at the site. The proposed model of fixed carrying capacity is based
on the assumption that time spent is negligible (no camping/night stay as
discussed above), the sensitivities are moderate for only serious tourists visiting
the site, and others are /further would be trained for a high level of sensitisation
before they visit the VoF site, and there would be strict vigilance on the number
of people going in and coming out of the VoF and their activities.
The Acceptable Level of Impact: The limits of acceptable change recognises the value
judgements involved in identifying appropriate levels of impact and use
intensity. The area has special values, issues, and concerns. The unique and
precious biodiversity needs special attention. The numbers have to be monitored
on the basis of indicators of resource changes. The numbers can only be
increased if there are alternative opportunity allocations. The numbers projected

10-214
in carrying capacity are based on the space required for tourists to move around
in such a way that there is no trampling, the tourists can gaze at the nature
without physical impacts. There is a limitation in this model, the ecological
behaviour and visitors (local community) if any during the off-season (when
snow is still not there) have not been accounted for as enough data for that
period is not available. However, intrusions of locals or visit of grazing animals
during off-season is a distinct possibility, if forest patrolling is not sufficient
enough.
Parameter taken into consideration while arriving at the above suggestion
S. Activity Load Remarks

N
o.
1 Solid waste Average is 2 bottles per head Minimally calculated in
such as bottles per day this case assuming that
the visitors are trained
and well sensitised
2 Excreta of Approx. 400 g per day per head Minimally calculated in
visitors this case assuming that
the visitors are trained
and sensitised, and the
requirement of number
of users may be very
less
3 Urination by Approx 1-2 liters a day Considered as a load in
visitors the current calculations
4 Food waste 400 gm per day (waste) Not calculated in this
and plastic of including plastic wrappers case assuming that the
food packets visitors are trained and
sensitised, and would
carry back the waste
5 Noise pollution Negligible
6 Disturbance to Unexpected, but may be acute Considered as a load in
diversity including trampling, plucking, the current calculations
removing and brushing
7 Removal of Unexpected, but possible Considered as a load in
plants the current calculations
8 Chemicals Negligible, but could effect Considered as a load in

10-215
S. Activity Load Remarks

N
o.
(perfumes, diversity the current calculations
odourants and
others that
come with
human
visitors)
9 Disturbance to More tourists will scare away This parameter is
animals the animals visiting (naturally) considered as a
the area negative effect of
tourists as the serenity
is disturbed when
humans will frequent
the area
10 Disturbance to More tourists will disturb the This parameter is
birds and insects birds and insects. considered as a
This being flowering and negative effect of
fruiting season, many tourists as the serenity
butterflies and insects apart is disturbed when
from birds will be common in humans will frequent
the area, these insects are the area. Humans are
crucial as they help in breeding scary of bees and
(pollination) of the flowers. insects and higher
Reduction in number can numbers can cause
adversely effect the population adverse effects.
of the insects and birds
frequenting the VoF
11 Introduction of More visitors increase the risk This parameter is
alien fungi and of introduction of alien considered as a
microbes microbes negative effect of higher
number of visitors
12 Introduction of More visitors increase the risk This parameter is
alien weeds of introduction of alien weeds considered as a
negative effect of higher
number of visitors
Thus, out of above, major considerations are the impact on biodiversity. Load as in items
1 and 2 are minimally considered to the extent of contribution by less than 5% of visitors
and item 4 is not considered as the visitors are expected to be trained, and well

10-216
sensitised & informed before they visit. In case these are also to be considered in a
situation of minimal sensitisation, then the VoF will be considered extremely fragile and
the normal load will have to be calculated at a higher multiple instead of 10 as adopted
now.
Since the limited capacities are proposed at VoF, the option of extending prior
reservation to visit the main valley site may also be thought off for quality visitors
(serious nature enthusiasts, research scholars, etc.).
Conclusions
Valley of Flowers National Park, is a highly sensitive ecosystem due to its unique natural
phenomenon of growth/seeding of a great diversity of flora without any human
assistance in this phenomenon in a cyclic manner & in a limited period post snow times,
and due to its physical location in fragile Himalayan geology, apart from Himalayan
fauna as well. Though movable space is limited, due to its topography & eco-
sensitiveness its not possible/advisable to increase the movable space in the main
valley, even if the climate during visitation is very pleasant.
To maintain the present good quality of the environment with minimal levels of pollution
load & ecological disturbance in the valley, the normal load impact per person in terms of
space required in recreational mode is about 4 sqm and the same is proposed to be
increased by 10 times factor* for the sensitive eco-system of Valley of Flowers, yet
which also has a relatively static environment of snow cover for most of the year, with
only dynamicity happening during very few months of summer-monsoon season. Thus,
for the available movable space of 0.6 ha or 6000 sqm in the main valley, and at the
sensitised per person load of 40 sqm, the number of persons limited for the visitation in
the main valley at any point in time would be 150 persons (also due to movable space of
just 1.5 acres this translates to a visitation limit of 100 persons/acre at any point in time).
At any given point in time, the number of sensitised tourists inside the Valley should be
limited to 150 persons at the rate of 100 persons per acre of the movable space. The
Forest Department Personnel located at the VOFNP Entrance gate should take this into
consideration before letting new groups in. Moreover, DoF may ensure that this limit is
not exceeded, and especially during the peak visitation periods, any excess load flow
per day shall be diverted from the main valley to the more resilient area of Germplasm
Bank/ Shadow Garden/ Demonstration Nursery as proposed in the report. However, this
number has no meaning unless effective sensitisation is done (visitors shall be well
informed that they have to remain on fixed path, the behaviour expected from them w.r.t.
when visiting such eco-system, and ensuring that they understand it very well and also
are guided appropriately during visitation) and the tourists within the valley are quality
environment lovers. Thus, with the present behavioural patterns, the carrying capacity
could be much less.
Also, it is emphasised that if the visitor is not sensitised extremely well, if the increased
fuel consumption is not controlled (i.e. if electricity arrangements are not upgraded
through grid line/properly maintained micro-hydel plant), if solid waste disposal
*
Normally a person takes nearly 4 sqm of space if he/her has to walk, take off coat and spread arms. At such an eco-
sensitive place where movable space is very limited /to minimize any eco-disturbance due to human activities/impact
beyond hazard management abilities over visitors during visitation, etc., the human load is calculated 10 times higher.
This accounts for the environmental and pollution loading of a person and more space requirement for enhanced visitor
experience. Less than 10 times load in this context would create pressure on the ecosystem. Accordingly 40 sqm space per
person factor has been adopted to derive the visitation limitation per day.

10-217
mechanism/capacity is set in place at Govind Ghat (in terms of existing proposal of

incinerator, and recycling auctions), if the forest patrolling specially before the start of
tourist season (when the snow has almost melted in May) and after the end of tourist
season (before the snow begins) as the area is still accessible to local communities and
continued sensitisation of local communities in this regard, etc., then the safety factor of
10 times as mentioned above may not hold really good and may have to be increased
further to ensure that the carrying capacity of the main valley is not eroded.
Thus more visitors may be handled as mentioned above, only if proper management,
education efforts, and adding of new demonstration nursery /Germplasm banks as
elaborated in other sections of this report is taken up and sustained.
6.1.3 Hemkunt
The following observations are made for understanding the region:
• The visitors go only for the day for few hours and return back the same day
• As this is a pilgrim destination, which is open for just 4 months, it is not easy
to control and reduce the number of visitors; however proper visitor
management is essential in improving the quality of the destination.
• At Hemkunt Sahib complex, the total somewhat levelled land area including
and around both the shrines/related facilities would be a total of about 2-2.5
ha. The pressure is maximum at this point, reported about 15,000 during peak
day.
Also, in the Hemkunt destination perspective, plucking of Brahmakamal
(Saussurea obvallata) flowers is an issue. Several tourists were observed carrying
Brahmakamal flowers in hand as a souvenir. Also it was reported that this flower
is available for sale for worshipping as well as for sentimental reasons after
Nandashtami (annual fair in August). Though there are plants at areas other than
the valley and near Hemkunt site, yet the numbers are not inexhaustible. This
has to be managed in several ways:
• Educating people about its importance and need to avoid misuse at Nature
Interpretation Centre & Govind Dham Gurdwara at Ghangharia
• Educating Hemkunt Sahib Gurdwara and Lokpal Temple staff not to allow
persons to pluck the flowers and offer with prayers
• Souvenirs could be developed with flowers packaged. The technology to
preserve the flower, its colour and shape could be accessed through
government institutions like, NBRI.
• Cultivation of flowers for commercial purpose at sites other than the tourism
area
• Removal of flower does not kill the plants. Need to protect (not necessarily
conserve) the flowers from excessive exploitation and education to appreciate
the flowers in nature and not hold for a few minutes.

10-218
Main pressures are as below:

• One to two bottles of water are consumed by an average tourist while
trekking the path. Each waste bottle weighs nearly 50 gm when empty and
thrown in the dustbin or thrown away. There is a load of nearly 100 gm of
non-biodegradable waste per tourist (incl. other wrappers, boxes, biscuit
packets) and with nearly 15000 tourists on a peak day; this load comes to 1500
kg per day.
• Human waste with consumption of 2 litres of water per day adds to the
liquid and solid waste that the site has to carry and absorb in its system.
• Disposal of eatables, left over food, seeds and peels add to solid waste, which
is not huge in terms of mass, but of concern since some of these can germinate
in the area and others can cause pollution of water and foul smell.
• Animal waste at the rate of nearly a kg dry weight adds another dimension as
the number of mules per day and number of trips per day is increasing with
the increase in number of tourists.
• With nearly 2-2.5 hectare area available at this site, the number of tourists
(even floating per day) needs management in terms of waste factors
discussed here as well as in Chapter 5. These measures should particularly
include:
o Use of green alternatives for food, management of liquid and solid waste,
management of waste of animals, removal of waste from trekking path to
avoid visual repulsions and odour pollution, education to tourists so that
they carry back their waste in the bags they have brought to the site. An
ideal eco-tourism scenario will be no waste left at the site (all bottles and
wrappers are carried back, no eatables are thrown or dropped, no seeds
are left in the wild, no plants are plucked or trampled, the human waste is
chemically reduced or decomposed in ecologically safe way, animal waste
is converted into manure, the animal feed includes no weeds so that the
seeds of the weeds are not thrown open to environment causing
disturbance). The ideal situation can be realised to 75 percent possibility
by proper management and education.
o At the same time, the total environment load is not acute and hence in
terms of energy requirement, the area has the necessary carrying capacity
of the tourists as visiting currently as long as the waste and services
provided are managed.
• The visible impacts of tourists are: production of waste, crowd effect because
of numbers or the mules in operation, lesser approach paths to the target site
etc.

10-219
• Since, ratio of support area to developed tourist area is crucial for calculating
carrying capacity, it is important to understand the intensity of tourist activity
and plan managing the tourists, resources and the services. Management will
reduce the intensity and thus lesser support area will be required thus
enhancing the carrying capacity.
• All efforts should be focussed reducing the environmental loading ratio and
thus facilitating a dynamic balance.
6.2 Valley of Flowers Management Plan
The Valley of Flowers management plan is a mix of Conservation Plan for the
valley, management measures and minimal development measures.
6.2.1 Conservation Plan for the Valley of Flowers
Flora and fauna
• Conservation of threatened flora and fauna is one of the important aims of
the management plan. The threatened resources suffer from two types of
threats, viz. over exploitation, illicit collection/ poaching and ecological
changes and natural extinction whose number has drastically gone down in
the wild. Conservation of those threatened natural resources, specially the
medicinal herbs require special attention and care. There is a need to build up
the general perception of the local community members about the threatened
species & their importance in the ecosystems.
• It is recommended that grazing may not be allowed to address the issue of
control of dominating species like Polygonum polystachyum, impatiens
sulcata, etc. The overall conservation plan can be summarised as
development of proper packages by:
o Studying the growth pattern of such dominating species in a season
(July-Sep for Impatiens sulcata, Polygonum polystachyum, Cuscuta
europaea, etc.); the species that are getting suppressed; the seed
behaviour of dominating species, so that time of pruning and extent of
pruning be estimated etc
o Prepare appropriate packages of practices based on scientific
observations
o Devise means where their spread is checked by reducing their
biological population
o Educate the locals about the issues in conservation
o Find alternative means to utilise the pruned foliage.

10-220
• Polygonum polystachyum shall not be removed from the slopes and fresh
soil erosion areas (that occur as result of glacial actions), as it is a good soil
binder and can bind any such areas of erosion.
• A study is proposed to be commissioned to investigate Polygonum’s current
impact on biodiversity, develop methods for monitoring that can be
implemented by technical staff (of research/study group involving one or
multiple institutions like Department of Forests, Wildlife Institute of India,
High Altitude Plant Physiology Research Centre of HNB Garhwal University,
etc.) and review the role and potential impacts of machine tools or other
improved method of removal in place of physical removal for use in areas of
high conservation status.
• It is proposed to undertake a study on the occurrence of Polygonum in the
nearby areas/ valleys where grazing is practised and relation of sheep with
spread of this particular shrub.
Soil Conservation Measures
• The transition area needs to be developed with soil conservation measures to
prevent soil erosion and one of the aims should be to encourage and extend
visitors appreciation of the different landforms and landscape types in the
reserve.
Participative Conservation
Local Community Participation
• Joint Forest Management (JFM): Participatory consultation and planning in
the Reserve Forest areas and Civil Forest areas as per the concept of “Care
and Share Philosophy” in buffer & transitions zones (non-core zone areas)
and under the State’s Rules on Joint Forest Management. Any local host
community/EDC involvement in the core zones (VOFNP area) has to be in a very
restricted and regulated way as decided and directed by the Department of Forests.
• Involvement of Local Community and Eco-Development Committee (EDC):
All the soil conservation works and masonry works and even pruning of
dominating species are labour intensive in nature. The local villagers of
Bhyundar/Pulna and the EDC members must be involved to carry out the
job. This will provide local job opportunity and will also win local goodwill
and support.
• Involvement of local people for finding out the changes in the ecological
pattern and the probable causes of depletion of resources (use of traditional
knowledge).
VOFNP Management

10-221
General Rule that may be added for abiding by Visitors to VOFNP

• It is mandatory to hire at least one registered eco-guide/nature interpreter,
unless the visitors have already availed/hired a registered porter-cum-eco
guide option. Any group with more than 10 persons should hire one more
eco-guide at every 10 persons.
• Porters who accompany tourists to the Valley will also have to compulsorily
undergo a training session on environmental orientation. It will also be their
responsibility to maintain the environmental balance and act as porter-cum-
eco guide in a limited way. Training to them will serve the twin purpose of
increasing their remuneration and as well as to get them aware of
environmental protection issues and this in turn will make the porter-cum-
eco guide to be responsible/accountable for environmentally aware tourist
behaviour from tourists who they accompany.
Items that may be added in existing Do’s and Don’ts list for Accessing VOFNP:
1. Modify existing Rule no. 2 as given in Chapter 2 as “Do not destroy,
trample, collect or remove any plant and animal specimen whether live or
dead or any geological specimen – Take only memories”.
2. Always walk on designated trek trail/path. Do not trample flora to climb
rocks for rest or scenic view.
3. Use designated toilets only. If required bury human waste and toilet
paper about 30 m away from water sources (river Pushpawati and
numerous big & small garhs/streams).
4. Avoid using pollutants such as any soap/detergents in river/streams.
5. Carry back all biodegradable waste and non-biodegradable litter. Batteries
should not be thrown away and should be carried back for proper
disposal.
6. Patronise tour operators who think green.
7. Listen to your guides and porters to follow conservation measures.
Revision of Entry Fee
The basic entry fee applicable to access the VOFNP shall be revised and should
include the cost of 1 coloured brochure/booklet (listing major 54 floral species
and major fauna species with their pictures, bloom period, any other brief etc.
printed on a glossy A-2 paper of size 18” x 23” printed on both sides and with 12
folds or any other suitable design) & 1 Trek Map with Flower Composition brief
on one side and Do’s & Don’ts/any other instruction on other side (printed on
good A-4 sheet of size 9” x 11” in black & white or any other suitable design) per
head, which must be provided to the visitor along with the entry permit at the

10-222
VOFNP Entrance Gate Check-post. Cost for such informational material is

initially budgeted for the 4-year project implementation period. Thereafter, the
cost shall be borne by the DoF/EDC through its resources.
6.2.2 Development Measures
Landscape Proposals
Germplasm Bank of Endangered Species of VoF (ex-situ conservation)
• It is proposed to put up a demonstration nursery / shadow garden, which
simulates species of Valley of Flowers at other sites, and which will be a good
demonstration of the biodiversity of the Valley.
• Department of Forests has also put up a small demonstration site that has
names of the plants displayed near the entrance gate of Valley of Flowers.
However, it is very small in size/area and only symbolic and not a
demonstration garden for eco-tourism purpose. The Valley of Flowers site is
more than simply an eco-tourism site. It is a nature’s laboratory even for the
trained botanist. A scientific demonstration nursery as a Germplasm bank of
Endangered Species of VoF/ Demonstration Nursery should be built up at
the site (about 5 ha of area is available as informed by the Director, NDBR)
between Ghangharia and VOFNP gate. For further high altitude species
including Brahmakamal etc. a small garden site (about 0.25 ha) could be
developed at Hemkunt area on the land of Forest Department.
• The Germplasm Bank/ Demonstration Nursery would be similar in pattern
and components, scientifically developed maintaining abundance, density,
frequency and diversity indices of biodiversity. This site, as has been
recommended, should also have a nursery for easy replenishments;
replacements and refilling of lost material, and also have potential to provide
certain plants that can easily be generated. This garden / nursery will have
the following advantages:
o Providing additional attraction for the tourists
o It will be a manmade garden and will be a unique option to study
succession and environmental impacts
o It will be an educational garden
o It will provide research data for controversial issues that can be
researched here and the same can not be experimented at Valley of
Flowers
o It will provide an alternative site to visit and help understand
population growth to the scientists /eco-tourists

10-223
o Also this new destination would handle greater visitors outreach in

terms of general tourists to enjoy biodiversity, without disturbing the
main VoF thereby reducing possible future pressure on Valley of
Flowers
o Since we cannot manage the Valley to a great extent in order to keep
the natural profile, the demonstration nursery / shadow garden can be
managed to keep the desired population levels
o It can provide a boost to entrepreneurs who may like to cultivate some
of the plants for bio-prospecting
o It will beautify the area
o This will also be a unique conservation strategy, which looks like ex-
situ yet will be close to the site.
o This garden can have labels, notes and information provided at the site
while we cannot do the same manipulations in the protected Valley of
Flowers site.
• The proposed garden should not have only the flowering plants planted as in
an exhibition but planted along with the associated plants, depicting the
natural ecosystem keeping frequency, dominance, associations etc. as close to
natural one as possible. The dominants and co-dominants should be brought
out by their prominence and numbers. This will give a natural look. A garden
as proposed can be designed and landscaped by ecologists or natural
resource botanists.
• The proposed garden (or gardens at other vintage sites) should have names of
the plants.
• The number of plants be grouped in a manner that it gives a picture of the
valley (also provides a breeding population of the plants, for example 12 to 25
plants depending upon canopy and height of shrubs as well as availability of
space) etc.
• This Demonstration Nursery/ Shadow Garden can be named as Germplasm
Bank of Endangered Species of VoF as suggested by NDBR.
Paths/Trails
• It is proposed to carry out maintenance and partly laying the paths in dry
stone kharanja (RR masonry) over soil/bridle path within the Valley. Where
there are steep slopes, it is proposed that railing painted in dark green must
be provided (about a total of 2.5 km stretch). PWD has already planned works
with a project cost of Rs. 2.00 lakhs to be taken up on priority basis for safety
and securing the trek path within 2 km stretch of landslide prone area
between the VOFNP entrance and the 3 km point at Bamani Dhaur.

10-224
• Foliage that covers from both sides about 2/3rd of the already narrow path
should be regularly pruned so that full 3 ft. wide path is accessible and visible
in case some visitors find themselves lost which is a high possibility when
they try to venture within Valley of Flower but beyond Donagair Garh.
Bridges
The river Pushpawati already has a dark green painted permanent steel truss
bridge at 0.9km point after Ghangharia. The deck of this bridge needs repair for
which PWD has already planned works with a project cost of Rs. 1.5 lakhs.
• Three other strong rivulets - Gushadhar Garh, Dev Mangri Garh and Bistoli
Garh require folding bridges. PWD has already planned construction of a
new folding bridge on Dev Mangri Garh near 3 km point at Bamani Dhaur
with a project cost of Rs. 3 lakhs to be taken up on priority basis.
Vista Points
• Open Vista Points are proposed to be developed which are clean, have sitting
space, give a good look of the landscape, have telescopes & arrangements for
digital photography (may be on nominal cost, to be managed by EDC/ local
community) with temporary small umbrella cover and have detailed
educational/nature interpretation information (with small pictures &
accompanying text) on painted MS angle/sheet framed boards. This place can
also be used to educate the visitors/groups by guides/nature interpreters on
the efforts of the local management (Department of Forests, EDC) to keep the
area clean and conservation issues, and the responsibilities/contribution of
visitors towards the same. 4 Open Vista Points located at higher
elevation/offering good view are proposed in the Valley of Flowers – one at 2
km point (near the small glacier) in 25 sqm spread and two more each in 25
sqm spread in the main valley (these could be at those current locations
which have large rock boulders near which normally tourists trample flora to
find places for relaxation/use as view points), and one around the Ms.
Legge's grave by cleaning the immediate surroundings in a limited way
(about 100 sqm) between these rocks and the existing trek path. This cleaned
up portion can be laid with dry stone random rubble masonry surface, and
fitted with dark green painted precast/welded mild steel benches.
Rain Shelter-cum-Rest Shed
• Temporary sloped roof structures (2.5 m wide x 4 m long) with steel truss
frame and corrugated GI sheet roof/wall with 4 steel benches (2 ft. wide x 5
ft. long) arranged in U-pattern - all painted in dark green (to blend with the
environment) and fitted on soil/bridle floor may be provided at every 0.5 km
interval starting from the VOFNP entrance gate till the 3 km point only (at
Bamani Dhaur) from where the main valley view can be enjoyed without any

10-225
such visual obstruction. All these structures would be disassembled at the

end of tourist season and kept in EDC Store at Ghangharia, and would be
reassembled before the next tourist season.
• Additional set of 2 uncovered benches (2 ft. x 5 ft. size each) painted in dark
green is also proposed to be provided along the trek path at an interval of
0.10 km distance after Ghangharia till the 2 km point in Valley of Flowers (as
this stretch of path is relatively steeper and to ease the trek such additional
amenities are suggested) and to be disassembled after tourist season.
As part of capacity building measures train members of EDC / local youth to assist later
in disassembling & storing of temporary structures at Ghangharia after the end of tourist
season and assembling of the same before the start of the next tourist season.
Toilets
• Only one toilet (unisex) for urinal/WC use may be built at the first vista point
near the glacier (which is half way through the valley trek) towards the upper
hill slope. The siting of this toilet should be done in such a way that it is away
from sensitive flora and also not in the way of good view of the Valley. The
visitor should be made aware of this in the introductory informatory session.
This structure would not be permanent (except its plinth base), would be
painted dark green (to blend with the environment) and should be dis-
assembled at the end of tourist season. Refer Chapter 5 on Environmental
Management Plan.
• It will be the responsibility of EDC to maintain the cleanliness of this toilet.
The toilet shall have water saver cistern. Chemical toilets/Dry toilets are available
in international markets, and may be similar ones can be explored/developed locally
too.
• The effluent should be filtered through pits containing sand, soil and gravel
mixed proportionately before it is drained out.
• The current temporary arrangement sited at good vista points if required
should be relocated at the hillside back and not in between the trekpath and
valley view.
• Effluents may not be allowed to drain into rivers or natural ecosystem of the
protected area but a system of its purification should be an in-built option.
The urine/effluent should be passed through tanks of gravel, sand, and soil
(1.5 m long x 1 m wide x 2.5 m deep for individual urinals) provided at
various sites. This tank can be covered, however with a provision to clean
these whenever necessary. The sand and gravel of this tank has to be
serviced, cleaned or replaced on periodical basis. This may add to the cost but
it cleans the waste to a large extent and the waste going to streams and soil

10-226
will not pollute the water. There can be several bacteria/contaminate that can
cause havoc if they get mixed with drinking water.
• Arrangements for cleaning this toilet should be made so that each tourist at
each time gets a clean urinal/toilet. This is a basic facility that has to be
provided. Factors like cost of use or maintenance can be worked out with the
authorities of VOFNP site, EDC and survey of tourists in a test year.
Signages
Signages will form an important part of the visitor experience enhancement and
education. The following signages are proposed:
• at each km point (5 boards) to indicate the distance within Valley of Flowers
on both sides of the board
• at river crossings to indicate the name of streams/rivers (1 board each for
Gushadhar Garh, river Pushpawati, Dev Mangri Garh, Bistoli Garh, and
Donagair Garh)
• in Valley of Flowers at Bamani Dhaur Junction to Khunt Khal indicating the
trek path bifurcation (including altitude at Bamani Dhaur)
• in Valley of Flowers at the junction of trek path to indicate locations
separately to Ms. Legge's grave and to old Helipad
• Nature Interpretation/Information Board at 3 Open Vista Points in the valley
with small pictures & supporting text (1.5 m x 2 m size) and 1 board at Vista
Point near Ms. Legge's grave (1m x 1m size) made up of MS angles/sheets
• Small nature interpretation signages (of legible size) that merge with nature
along with rare trees and flora on the way is proposed (Assuming 150 boards
displayed alternatively as per the bloom cycle of flora at VoF including those
at Germplasm Bank/ Demonstration Nursery / Shadow Garden between
Ghangharia & VoF Entrance Gate, each of 0.45 m x 0.3 m size made up of MS
angle/sheets).
• Standard Warning/Information Signage Board for Landslide prone
areas/Glacier (6 boards) along trek path.
background & white text, while Nature Interpretation signages would be as per
the current pattern followed by DoF.
• No Waste Bins are proposed inside the Park. The Park will function based on
“Visitor carries Waste” principle as adopted in many international level
National Parks.

10-227
• An Eco-Deposit (Rs. 50/- or as decided by the Department of Forests) may be

collected from the visitors who have to declare the plastic items – polythene,
bags, beverage bottles, etc. carried by them, at the VOFNP entrance gate. This
deposit will be given back to them once they return back and show that they
are carrying back the waste.
• Plastic waste is not incinerated near the Valley, as the poisonous gases are
harmful and should not be left in the sensitive ecosystem.
Other Physical Infrastructure
Other than maintaining/laying the paths and temporary rain shelters/toilets, and folding
bridges, no other physical infrastructure like water supply pipelines, electric supply, and
telecommunication network is proposed within the park. The Forest staff on patrol may
use its wireless in case of any emergencies (like landslides, injury to visitors, etc.) to
communicate/seek assistance from Ghangharia. Water can be collected from nearest
stream/garh (strained at the time of collection itself) and be carried manually in canisters
and filled up in flat FRP overhead tanks fixed underneath the toilet ceiling, regularly as
per need.
For details of the work items and costs refer Annexure C. For all the works inside the
VOFNP area, the permission of Chief Wild Life Warden (CWLW), Uttaranchal under the
provisions of Wild Life Protection Act, 1972 is necessary to be taken up by the
Department of Tourism, GoI. If permitted, the Department of Forests, can then carry out
these works, some which it may get it done through the assistance of PWD, like the trek
path & bridge development work, directional signages, etc.
6.3 Hemkunt Development Plan

6.3.1 Conservation Plan for the Hemkunt Region
Heritage Conservation
Hemkunt has an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Rama’s brother, Lakshman
that had been revered and visited by local people for long. An annual fair on
Nandashtami in August takes place at this location. While, the holy place of
Hemkunt Sarovar (a groundnut shaped lake spread across over 8 ha. area),
where the Sikh’s tenth guru, Guru Govind Singh meditated and realised his
oneness with God, was discovered in 1934.
The sanctity of this Hemkunt region should be maintained, and any new
structure in this area should come up for meeting the infrastructure gaps only
and its architecture/design should be appropriate with the climatic conditions.
The Brahmakamal flower that grows at high altitudes of the Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt region needs to be protected. The flower is revered and offered for
prayers.

10-228
The Lokpal temple conservation and strengthening including painting and other
works is also an important component in the initial years. A lump sum amount is
budgeted for the same. The pamphlet to be distributed among the tourists will
also focus on this temple, which existed much before Hemkunt Sahib was built.
Landscape Proposals
As mentioned earlier, and part of conservation measures, for further high
altitude species including Brahmakamal, etc. a small garden / Germplasm bank
site (about 0.25 ha) could be developed at Hemkunt area on the land of Forest
Department.
6.3.2 Development Proposals for Ghangharia-Hemkunt Route &
Hemkunt
Planned Works
• Upgradation of Ghangharia-Hemkunt Sahib Trek/Pedestrian Path (14 km to
19 km point) was proposed by the PWD in 2002-2003 for an amount of Rs. 211
lakhs. This amount is not yet sanctioned. The work item was cleaning and
upgradation work over existing stone kharanja path in CC 1:2:4 with an
average thickness of 18 cm.
• Rebuilding the damaged retaining walls within various stretches of the path
from 14-19 km (Project Cost = Rs. 1.50 lakhs) is already planned by PWD to
be taken up on priority basis.
• Construction of Folding Bridge near 13 km milestone point after Ghangharia
settlement over the Lakshman/Hem Ganga (Project Cost = Rs. 1.00 lakhs) is
already planned by PWD to be taken up on priority basis.
• During the study (in 2003), it was informed that Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd.
(PHHL) plans to start helicopter services from Gauchar/Joshimath (subject to
permission from government authorities like Army, etc.) to Hemkunt Sahib.
At present there is no Helipad at Hemkunt Sahib. However, the PHHL team
has identified a Helipad site at Hemkunt Sahib during their visit in Oct 2003
and has approached the Government of Uttaranchal to construct the same so
that the helicopter services can be started in Sep 2004. This Helipad size could
be of 30 m in diameter with ‘H’ & Landing & Lift-Off Area (LLA) marked in
highly reflective paint in the centre of the Helipad, public safety area
restriction line marked on ground and other appropriate accessories like,
windsock, CO2 type fire extinguishers, etc. shall be provided. However, the
actual dimensions of the Helipad at the time of execution shall be compatible
with the type of helicopter put in service.
At the time of revision of this report, it was reported that under a MoU with
GMVN and PHHL, helicopter services of PHHL (US manufactured Bell 407

10-229
helicopters) have been worked out from Agustmuni (located in Rudraprayag

District at a distance of 18 km from Rudraprayag on Rudraprayag-Kedarnath
route) to Ghangharia since Sep. 2004. The Agustmuni to Ghangharia and
return helicopter ride is of 35 minutes with a carrying capacity of maximum 5
passengers per ride and air fare worked out on charter as well as per seat
basis is Rs. 12,000/- per head (minimum 5 passengers required). If these
Ghangharia passengers would like PHHL to pick them up next day, the
option is available, and the charges would be the same i.e. Rs. 12,000/- per
passenger for minimum 5 passengers available.
Trek Path-New Proposals
It is proposed that the trek path from Ghangharia till Hemkunt be widened as far
as possible (average 6 ft. wide to accommodate the common path for mules and
pedestrian use) as the hill slopes are steep and current alignment of path at many
places is almost one over another in a zig-zag pattern. For cross drainage 2 small
culverts (for small seasonal stream lines observed) have been suggested. While,
for cross drainage the trek path can act as a drain surface as well, and at regular
intervals (approximately 10 cross drainage points per km) it is suggested to make
small drops under the trek path portion as cross drainage chamber (1’ wide x 6’
long x 1’3’’ deep) and each chamber covered with three removable RCC slab
chamber covers (1’6” wide x 2’ long x 2” thick) with grated openings (openings
should be small enough like 1-1/2” dia @ 4” c/c, so that mule toes don’t get
stuck and there is no danger of mule tripping over it) for water to drop and get
drained across the trek path to the slower slope. The area affected for diversion
of land for trek path expansion and construction of Helipad at Hemkunt is
approximately 8500 sqm or 0.85 ha. Department of Forests may identify land for
plantation in lieu of these diverted lands and can get plantation done with
involvement of local community members – like Mahila Mandal, Yuvak Mandal,
EDC, etc.
The development proposals for the same are:
• Common trek path for Mules and Pedestrians in the Ghangharia to Hemkunt
Stretch.
• Widening of Trek path base in Stone Kharanja/Masonry work (6250 m long
by average 2 ft. or 0.6 m width as far as possible and 9" or 0.225 m deep)
• Pucca CC (1:2:4) trek path upgradation with dimensions 6250 m long x 1.8 m
wide x 0.20 m thick. The top surface would have engraved grooves in
herringbone diagonal / straight pattern with size of each groove pattern as
length - 212 mm, width - 100 mm, and width & depth of groove as 12 mm
each to provide grip for humans / animals while trekking. It shall be ensured
that the quality of the materials used for concreting is appropriate as per

10-230
design and the concreting work is of the highest quality, so that it does not
get damaged easily due to regular use by the pedestrians & mules.
• Construction of 1.15 m high x 6250 m long MS railing along one side of the
trek path and 1.15 m high x 1000 m long MS railing along both sides of the
separate pucca step path to reach Hemkunt – all painted in dark green.
• GI Wire mesh (24 guage /144 mesh per sqm) bracing to hold hill side slopes
up to 4' high along trek path edge (except portion upto 13 km point ahead of
Ghangharia).
• Provision of 3 removable RCC 1:2:4 slab drain chamber covers (1’ wide x 4’ ft
long x 11’’ deep) with grated openings as discussed above at approximate
regular intervals of 10 such locations per km.
• Construction of small culverts (1 m x 0.5 m span) with minor retaining
wing/support walls and RCC 1:2:4 slab (1 m x 1.8 m x 0.15 m size) for cross
drainage from adjacent hill slopes at low-lying areas of the path, where water
flow quantum may be more leading to accumulation and subsequent flow
over the trek path (about 2 small stream lines observed where such small
culverts can be provided).
• Upgradation of two culverts/minor bridges for cross drainage of the larger
streams (till one and half km before Hemkunt including the Lakshman /
Hem Ganga stream)
• Construction of Helipad at Hemkunt.
Note: Wherever the upper hill slope along the trek path side is very steep/almost
vertical, where the widening of trek path by cutting the slope is difficult, there
the trek path may be widened with RCC slabs supported on stilts on the
down/lower side of hill slope, if feasible. The side exterior of this RCC
component shall be painted in dark green to blend with the environment.
6.3.3 Tourist Amenities
Amenity Cluster
It is proposed to develop amenity clusters at regular intervals to facilitate tourists who
are proceeding towards Hemkunt from Ghangharia. The cluster types will have the
following mix of amenities:
Cluster A
• Snacks/ Fast food centre: 4 in numbers, with a seating capacity of 15 people
each (area of each unit = 20 sqm)
• A multi purpose room functioning as tourist information desk and first aid
centre with paramedics (10 sqm)

10-231
• Shauchalaya with 2 toilets each for men and women on ‘pay & use’ facility (4
m x 3 m).
• Covered Rest Shed 1 in number (area 15 sqm) with 5 benches (2 ft. x 5 ft. size)
• The trek path between the cluster to be partially covered (3m x 15 m).
• One large size waste collection pit (dark green painted MS iron cage that can
be easily assembled & removed) to be used by EDC cleaning staff to dump
the waste collected from trek path/sides & enroute establishments, before its
transported down to locations where waste compression equipment units are
placed for waste compression and/or to Govind Ghat for
incineration/recycling. This would be located at 3 km point only after
Ghangharia on Hemkunt route.
Cluster B
• Snacks/ Fast food centre: 2 in numbers, with a seating capacity of 15 people
each (area of each unit = 20 sqm)
• Drinking Water Facility (1000 litre low density polythene moulded tank)
m x 3 m)
• Covered Rest Shed 1 in number (area 15 sqm) with 5 benches (2 ft. x 5 ft. size)
Cluster C
• Covered Rest Shed 2 numbers (each of area 15 sqm) with 5 benches (2 ft. x 5
ft. size) in each shed.
Spatial Spread of Cluster Types
The location of the cluster has been decided based on the average trek distance
coupled with the steepness of the gradient when a person may feel tired to take rest with
smaller clusters located at frequent intervals of 0.5 km – 0.75 km. The availability of any
existing suitable land if very close by to a derived location is also considered, instead of
creating any new space in the Forest/Van Panchayat area by cutting or filling.
Approximately Cluster A will be provided near 1.5 km, 3.5 km, 5.35 km points
after Ghangharia settlement towards Hemkunt; Cluster B near 2.5 km & 4.5 km;
and Cluster C will be near 1 km, 2 km, 4 km, & 5.75 km points from Ghangharia.
• Additional set of 2 uncovered benches (2 ft. x 5 ft. size each) is also proposed
to be provided along the trek path at an interval of 0.10 km distance after
Ghangharia till Hemkunt (as this stretch of path is relatively steeper and to

10-232
ease the trek such additional amenities are suggested) and to be disassembled
after tourist season.
Building Character and Control Regulations
All the amenity cluster spaces are proposed to be of temporary structures (except
for the small plinth bases for cluster amenities/toilets, wherever necessary).
It is proposed to maintain a uniform character of the cluster amenities/toilets. This will be
maintained by following temporary sloped roof steel truss structure with corrugated GI
sheet roof & wall – all painted in dark green (to blend with the environment). All these
structures would be disassembled at the end of tourist season and can be kept in EDC
Store at Ghangharia, and would be reassembled before the next tourist season. Refer
Chapter 5 on Environmental Management Plan.
As part of capacity building measures train members of EDC / local youth to assist later
in disassembling & storing of temporary structures at Ghangharia after the end of tourist
season and assembling of the same before the start of the next tourist season.
Toilets Enroute
• Proper arrangements of toilets (urinals as well as latrines) for both sexes must
be arranged at the site in frequent numbers. Higher frequency (each at 0.5
km) of these facilities may be made for Hemkunt tourists.
• The structure of the urinals should be such that these cannot be used as
latrines providing least scope for sitting at these sites. The toilets shall have
water saver cisterns. Chemical toilets/Dry toilets are available in international
markets, and may be similar ones can be explored/developed locally too.
• Arrangements for cleaning these urinals should be made so that each tourist
at each time gets a clean urinal or toilet. This is a basic facility that has to be
provided. This will be possible as it is to be operated on ‘Pay & Use’ Model.
• The urinal waste should not be let off to pollute soil and water, rather it
should be cleaned before it reaches ground water/stream. The urine should
be passed through tanks of gravel, sand, and soil (2.5 m long x 2 m wide x 2.5
m deep at Cluster A, 2 m long x 1.5 m wide x 2.5 m deep at Cluster B, and 1.5
m long x 1 m wide x 2.5 m deep for individual urinals) provided at various
sites. These tanks can be covered, however with a provision to clean these
whenever necessary. The sand and gravel of these tanks has to be serviced,
cleaned or replaced on periodical basis. This may add to the cost but it cleans
the waste to a large extent and the waste going to streams and soil will not
pollute the water. There can be several bacteria/contaminate that can cause
havoc if they get mixed with drinking water.
Mule Shed

10-233
Mule shed is one of the important components of the Enroute Development Plan
for Hemkunt. These again would be temporary structures with the design as
mentioned earlier. The proposals for the same include:
• Mule Stand to accommodate 50 mules at a time to be developed at Hemkunt
Sahib
• One Mule Shed each to park 20 mules at a time to be developed near Cluster
A.
• One Mule Shed each to park 10 mules at a time to be developed near Cluster
B.
These mule sheds shall be made of temporary sloped roof steel truss structure
with corrugated GI sheet roof & wall – all painted in dark green (to blend with
the environment). All these structures would be disassembled at the end of
tourist season and can be kept in EDC Store at Ghangharia, and would be
reassembled before the next tourist season. These mule sheds are proposed to be
equipped with facilities like drinking water (a long stone masonry/plastered tub
of water parallel to the parking) and fodder for the mules. Mule urine at these
sheds/rest places should be collected in pits and cleaned by passing the urine
through cleaning tanks containing gravel, soil and sand, as recommended for
human urinals. This will reduce the risk of urine contaminating water bodies and
soil in the area.
Signages
Signages form an important part of tourist facilitation especially on a trekking
path. The proposals for Signages on the Ghangharia-Hemkunt route are:
• Standardised Signage Boards:
− at Lakshman/Hem Ganga bridge just after Ghangharia to indicate the
name of river
− at Valley of Flowers - Hemkunt Sahib Junction after Ghangharia
settlement to indicate the trek path bifurcation
− at each km point (6 boards) to indicate the distance from Ghangharia to
Hemkunt and back on both sides of the board (cost estimates already
included as part of total Enroute Development Plan)
− at the Hemkunt Sahib complex to indicate the location of Hemkunt Sahib
(including the altitude), Lokpal Temple, Proposed Helipad, Hemkunt
Sarovar, & Lakshman / Hem Ganga
• Standard Eco-Awareness Message Signage displayed at Hemkunt Gurdwara
premises

10-234
− Punjabi (1 Board each for2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1
request message with 12 text rows)
− Hindi (1 Board each for2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1 request
message with 12 text rows)
− English (1 Board each for2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1
• Standard Information Signage Board at Lokpal Temple to provide brief
history of the temple and Annual fair in August.
• Warning Signages indicating risks on the way like landslide/ avalanches
prone areas, etc. (cost estimates already included as part of total Enroute
Development Plan).
• Small nature interpretation signages along with rare trees and flora from
Ghangharia to Hemkunt (assuming 50 boards) and at Hemkunt (assuming 50
boards displayed alternatively as per the bloom cycle of flora) each of 0.45 m
x 0.3 m size made up of MS angle/sheets.
Corner sidewalls of temporary cluster facilities that are open to view from trek
path may also be used for painting/display of information/eco-signages.
Electric Supply
The Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust runs its own micro-hydel
power generation system of 15 KW capacity, complete with piped water supply
head and turbine. The Trust has also made arrangements for a diesel generator to
meet the electricity requirements for the cold environment, which consumes
about 100 litres of diesel in 2 days (i.e. it adds to minor air pollution but is
expected to be absorbed by the nature’s vastness in the area). Installing a bio-gas
plant as discussed later in the solid waste management section, based on langar
waste could also provide gas for heating/lighting purposes.
It is proposed to provide Street lighting from the junction of route to Valley of
Flowers / Hemkunt Sahib till next 1.5 km cluster of facilities on the Hemkunt
route to facilitate safe return of visitors in this last stretch (13 km to 14.5 km point
after Ghangharia) which may get dark sometimes due to bad weather and after
sunset normally at 6.00 pm. EDC/Mahila Mandal/Forest Dept. staff on
cleaning/patrolling duty or Gurdwara Sevadars should switch off these lights
once the visibility improves or after 7.00 pm by which hour it is expected that all
pilgrims/trekkers would have returned to Ghangharia.
Telecommunications

10-235
• One PCO/STD/ISD booth at Hemkunt Sahib Complex connected to Satellite

Telephone Exchange of Ghangharia.
• Wireless connectivity to EDC members & Gurdwara Managers. One Satellite
Telephone PCO/STD/ISD booth to be provided at 3 km point (at one of the
Amenity Cluster A) between Hemkunt Sahib and Ghangharia for emergency
needs.
Sewage & Toilets at Hemkunt
• Proper sewage disposal system through soak pit, etc. at Hemkunt Sahib for
Kitchen/Langar wash waste which currently falls into Lakshman /Hem
Ganga stream.
• Separate Community Toilet (Pay & Use) to be provided for mule
operators/porters/palki carriers at Hemkunt Sahib complex.
• Upgradation of Toilets/Bathrooms/Change Rooms at Hemkunt Sahib
complex with a new Shauchalaya of 5 toilets each for men and women. These
toilets should be properly/hygienically maintained by the Gurdwara Trust,
unlike the conditions of present toilets.

A main concern in the region is on how to manage collection and disposal of bio-
degradable and non bio-degradable waste.
It is recommended that:
• Very evident and attractive turntable solid waste collection bins be placed at
different points from Ghangharia to Hemkunt (@ 100 m interval)..
• 1 solid waste compression equipment unit be placed at Hemkunt for
compressing the non-biodegradable waste generated at Hemkunt.
• Waste collection area to be managed more scientifically with arrangements
for stacking the compressed bags (large Iron Cage pits that can easily contain
some 50 or more compressed sacks) and in no case these should be stacked
near the Sarovar or streams. These cages should be airy, should not spill, and
neither should weather out in a season (plastic cages were not recommended
due to the reason of these getting brittle in sun and may get damaged early,
these would not be as airy, and would be susceptible to fire as discussed in
Chapter 5 on Environment Management Plan).
• Compressed plastic waste is transported down and used for incineration at
Govind Ghat incinerator (existing proposal)/reprocessing by recycling of any
excess load. Contracts for purchase of this waste for recycling could be given
so that government cost of collection and transportation can be reduced. Also

10-236
sacks if in good condition, should be re-used for collection and transportation

of waste.
• Better incentives be given to the waste collectors; also each collector may be
given less than 1 km (may be 0.750 km each person). With same wages as
given for 1 km. However, the Department of Forests/EDC etc. authorities
may consider the following:
• Increasing the wages as per minimum rate as applicable in the State or as
decided by the local management.
• Increasing the number of persons per km range. It should be one person for
every quarter of km in the sensitive and busy areas, like Hemkunt route.
• The commission per bag should be increased substantially to Rs 15/- per sack
for non bio-degradable compressed waste and Rs. 10/- per sack for mule
excreta waste (to be decided by EDC and local management under the advice
of DoF)
• Mule excreta are also collected in sacks by the sweepers as mule organic
matter. Separate coloured/marked sacks can be provided to the collectors.
• These mule excreta are collected at several sites particularly near villages.
• Vermi-composting is practised at collection sites so that the excreta can be
converted into manure.
• Education is provided to locals, collectors, mule owners about conversion of
this waste to fertilisers; and use of fertilisers for agriculture.
• One demonstration can be planned at Ghangharia by the officials, and where
fertilisers can be provided in the new proposed Ghangharia
Education/Training Centre/EDC Store.
• Mule owners are educated about collection of excreta and its conversion.
centres is given. They can collect mule waste and can carry the same on their
mules, and can deposit if educated. Remuneration will be an incentive. Even
if a remuneration of Rs 10/- per sack is offered, it will be economical as the
waste can be decomposed in a planned way and the produce can be sold as
fertilisers to the nearby farmers or utilised by the Department of Forests in its
activities.
• Vermi-composting at colder climate may be a problem. Appropriate worms
and technology may have to be adapted. Institutional arrangements may
have to be made to achieve this.
• Special arrangements may be made at Hemkunt site to collect the kitchen
(Langar) waste and decomposed in a biogas plant. This waste when plenty

10-237
can be converted in a biogas plant. Statistics show that even in the leanest
season (September 2003) about 62000 pilgrims have visited Hemkunt at an
average of 2100 per day eating one meal at Hemkunt, while the numbers in
the peak season was 5400 persons/day (June 2003). This may provide
sufficient raw material for biogas plant based on waste food. This gas can be
used for heating/lighting purposes.
• When this waste is in small quantities, it is converted into manure by Vermi-
composting. Currently most of this waste is let to rot or pushed down the
valley and that mixes with water stream at Hemkunt.
Health of Animals
• Their diet must include sufficient fiber, greens and should be balanced.
• Arrangement to grow green fodder and provision of the same at Ghangharia
and Govind Ghat should be made. This will avoid any unmanaged grazing
and could give good diet to the mule.
• Health check of mules should be mandatory. Sick mule should not be allowed
to ply in the area.
• Mules currently stand/rest in the area, which gets full of their urine and filth.
Areas planned for mule rest should be developed in such a manner that they
can be easily cleaned/drained and maintained hygienically.
• Mule urine, particularly at trained urinating spots/mule rest areas be
collected in pits and cleaned by passing the urine through cleaning tanks
containing gravel, sand or as recommended for such cleaning. This will
reduce the risk of urine contaminating water bodies and soil in the area.
6.4 Management/ Institutional Measures
6.4.1 Capacity Building
• It is very essential to develop education/information centres that are run by
locals. These centres should have organised training where scientific
information is provided in simpler language and resources be provided for
continuous education and training to local community members, Mahila
Mandals, mule operators, establishment owners, etc. Initially a batch of local
community members can be trained at Center for Eco-tourism and
Sustainable Livelihoods, Chunakhan (Ramnagar) run by the Department of
Forests.
• These centres should have facilities (modern) for educating the tourists in
terms of not only the history, flora and fauna, but also towards the
environment protection and conservation issues. The centres should prepare
the training in such a manner that it should become an attraction (slide &

10-238
video shows of bio-diversity, environmental conservation, Do’s & Don’ts,

Picture Post Cards, Photograph posters & with frames, Souvenir -
flowers/caps/T-shirts/win-cheaters with Valley of Flowers logo, etc.) to visit
and get trained and not a compulsion to visit these centres. But those who
visit this centre will become member of “Friend of Valley of Flowers”
programme (which had earlier started) after paying the nominal fee of Rs. 5/-
for the slide and video shows, and will get benefited by becoming a recipient
for updated information on Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region through a
computerised database and an interactive website where brochures/guide
maps/e-postcards etc. can be accessed.
• The trained staff should carry special certificates so that tourists can
appreciate that the staff and guides are well trained in modern tourism-cum-
environmental issues.
• A proper curriculum of training should be developed that has contributions
from experts so that even trivial issues have a support of state of art
information such as Biodiversity Act, Farmers Rights and Plant Varieties Act,
Pollution norms, etc.
• Training modules should be prepared by DoF on a pilot basis and these
modules should be available for NGOs / EDC / Mahila Mandal or others so
that they can impart training to others. These modules should also be
available at nearby institutions of formal education.
• Special trainings can be organised from time to time so that the motivation
levels for eco-tourism (i.e. complying with principles of eco-tourism),
updating the information and keeping the target groups appraised about
recent developments, new norms, benefits or incentives, if any, etc.
• Also to fund/sustain the EDC resources, the government in mutual
discussion with various departments & stakeholders shall levy a nominal eco-
fee per head payable by all the tourists as discussed in Chapter 8. The tourists
in turn would get eco-guides and other support staff that have an "Eco-tourist
trained staff" certificate. This certificate in the form of a badge/ID-card
should be displayed by all trained staff, guides, volunteers, establishment
owners, etc.
• Monitory fines should be imposed on those who do not heed to the eco-
guidelines or notices of the EDC and Department of Forests. Provisions could
be made for revocation of the registration of those staff, shops, establishments
who do not comply with the eco-guidelines.
• Enhanced revenues can help pay better wages to cleaning staff, hiring local
community staff for eco-patrolling or giving power to Mahila Mandals for the
same till the Bhyundar stretch, for maintaining temporary building structures

10-239
and facilities, for undertaking trainings, and maintaining stores to keep

dismantled temporary structures, street lights, equipments, & use as training
centre/disaster relief centre, etc.
• Department of Forests officers/staff should have state of art education in all
the parameters listed above (Pollution management, solid waste
management, conservation management, biodiversity management, animal
health etc.)
• The management of habitat and associated fauna must be integrated into an
adaptive management approach that takes into account research and
monitoring results as they become available during the life of the Plan.
• Preparation of site specific plans in local language using simple technology so
that the field workers can understand and implement the plan.
• Listing and site mapping of all the threatened bio resources of the Valley of
Flowers National Park.
• Onsite documentation of reasons for their depletion.
• Collection of seeds/ plants from the wild and efforts for their growth in the
nurseries and their re-plantation in the suitable habitats.
• Involvement of scientists and researchers for finding out the causes of
depletion of any particular species and means of their conservation.
• Good participatory documentation of the results of growing and marketing.
• Need to harness energy potential of waterfalls, streams etc.
• Need to look for other sources of household fuel source- solar cookers, solar
heaters, smoke-less stoves, etc. and training programmes on usage of these.
• Research and Monitoring: The information regarding plant communities like
Taxus baccata (for cancer medication), etc. of restricted occurrence need to be
better understood and documented in spatial, qualitative and regeneration
terms.
• There is a need to allocate money for research in the region, this could be
packaged for multilateral or government funding.
• The environmental consequences of traditional firewood and grazing
grass/fodder collection will be addressed as a priority.
• Resource Inventory and annual census works
− The technical staff and researchers from technical institutes will be
engaged for a project for surveying the valley and inventorying the
natural resources and the staff will give training and technical support for
the field level staff.

10-240
− Appropriate census equipments will be bought and training given to the

staff and local EDC members.
− Specialised equipments like light and powerful field glasses, cameras etc.
will be required. Also for analysing the data, computers and statistical
software will be required.
− The findings of census records will be discussed in public workshops so
that people who have some other information of any other occurrence can
be known. The resource documentation format and methodology will be
developed in a workshop involving specialists, local people, officials from
Department of Forests, etc.
− Creation of demonstration plots at public places so that people can be
made aware about the issue of census work and people’s co-operation can
be sought.
− To enhance the knowledge/general perception of the local community
members about the threatened species & their importance in the
ecosystems, Department of Forests/NGOs’ can conduct discussions in
EDC meetings, discussions in local schools, Van Panchayat/Gram
Sabha/Mahila Mandal meetings, etc.
6.4.2 Monitoring
• Patrolling forms a regular feature of the management. Department of Forests
may need to increase the patrolling staff. In the patrolling activity required in
the non-core zones local community/Mahila Mandal/EDC members will also
be associated and they will be given remuneration on daily work basis. This
will create in them the feeling of involvement and inculcate a sense of owning
the responsibility among the local people.
• High altitude gears and necessary equipments like high power torch/ tents/
sleeping bags, rucksacks, wind/water proof jackets or parka coats, trek shoes,
snow goggle, arms are essential item for protection patrolling. Whether this
high altitude patrolling is a short range (spread over 4-5 days) or long range
patrolling (spread over 10-12 days of trekking), forest staff/guards should be
provided with ration and high calorie food (like dry fruits) as well.
• As VOFNP is situated at a high altitude zone, proper high altitude gear needs
to be supplied to the field staff so that they can patrol the remote areas with
extremities of weather. They need to be provided with sleeping bags,
rucksacks, wind/rain proof jackets/ parka coats, trekking shoes, tents, snow-
goggle etc. as mentioned earlier.
• Strict watch and ward involving local youths in the patrolling duties in non-
core zones

10-241
• Institutional mechanism to be developed within the village community to

self-monitor and not to misuse the power of patrolling vested with them.
• Village biodiversity register: In consultation with the local EDC, traditional
ecological information about local flora and fauna will be recorded in the
village biodiversity register and disseminated in accordance with intellectual
and cultural property protocols. The Department of Forests may also engage
local youths to ensure accurate collection and storage of traditional ecological
knowledge.
• Importance will also be given to create awareness among the local settlement,
which falls in the transition/buffer zone to reduce conflict with animals
especially in the nights.
• Growing of medicinal plants in the fallow/ low yield agricultural lands
− Full documentation of each available medicinal herb its present status in
the park, its suitability of growing in the settlement area, its market value
and means of marketing involving the locals, scientists, etc.
• Based on monitoring, individuals who take initiatives on their own for
environmental protection and conservation in general as well as for saving
threatened flora / fauna should be recognised and rewarded through some
special prize/incentives, etc. Also, those if found flouting the eco-rules
whether tourists or local individuals should be penalised by imposing a fine
for a tourist or revoking the registration license of the concerned local
establishment/ individual.
6.4.3 Sensitisation of Tourists & Visitor Information Service
Sensitisation of Tourists and Stakeholders
• Sensitisation-cum-training workshops will be held at the start of the tourist
season (from the month of June) at division level and in the regional level. In
these workshops mule owners/ porters/ palki carriers/transporters/ Hotel
and lodge owners/ Restaurant and shopkeepers will be involved so that they
can be properly apprised with the law and be motivated to guide the tourist.
These stakeholders should be randomly checked for their
diligence/negligence over co-operation on such issues and rewarded/fined
as necessary.
• Many more personnel from the local host community need to be trained for
nature interpretation services / guide work. The few current ones have some
partial commercial business or other to be attended as well, at Ghangharia or
Govind Ghat and many trained guides are available at present.
• Decentralised training camps on various kinds of Forests and Wildlife laws
will be arranged throughout the year.

10-242
• Trainings and capacity building of the beneficiaries.

• The “Friends of Valley of Flowers” programme can keep a computerised
database of all those who visit Valley of Flowers after a compulsory Nature
Interpretation Program. Later on a regular basis it can update them on newer
happenings in the valley, better bloom, newer species of flora and fauna if
sighted, favourable climate, pictures of beautiful landscape with different
flowers as per specie specific bloom periods, e-postcards, conservation issues,
contributors to conservation, facts on monthly & total visitors to valley, state-
wise and nation-wise break-up of visitor profile, visitors who were
recognised as “eco-tourists” due to their contribution in keeping the path
clean and bringing back the waste, etc. throughout the bloom season every
year on web.
• A 30-minute documentary movie is proposed to be built on the Valley of
Flowers- Hemkunt region and shown to interested tourists for which a
separate fee will be charged. It is proposed that a Television and VCR be
made available at the Information Centre.
Environmental Awareness
• A 5-minute awareness training will be conducted to all the visitors to the
Valley of Flowers at the entry point. The objectives of this training will be two
fold. One will be to create awareness about the biodiversity and the spatial
spread within the Valley. In addition to the training, the visitor will be
provided with an indicative map of the Valley aiding them to explore and
experience the same in a better way. The second objective is to make the
tourists aware of their responsibilities towards protection of the area and
waste.
Educational Component
• It is a principal of eco-tourism that there has to be good support educational
material for the eco-tourist. Even when the tourist visits as a pilgrim and not
an eco-tourist, he or she is mentally ready to imbibe information when
exposed. Thus this is an important component. Although there are efforts to
initiate this activity through various means as listed below, much more need
to be undertaken:
o Camps of NCC or other organisations where not only the cadets have
been educated but they in turn have tried to educate others (However,
the efforts are casual and not in a structured way; the displays are not
aesthetically good).
o The local organisations have been sensitised and educated.

10-243
o Guides have been trained and sensitised (Yet published information,

displays, slide shows, CDs and other forms of visual information will enhance
the tourist activity as well as help in conservation).
o There are displays of list of plants at the entrance of the valley
displayed prominently.
• A good garden/nursery has to be having an educational component. Though
the names have been shown with the plants at the current small
demonstration garden near the VoF entrance, its is recommended to provide
a complete booklet that gives information about the plants, salient features,
possible use, traditional uses and other information associated with the
plants, conservation status and efforts made by the Authority to conserve,
multiply and promote the concerned plants. This is cardinal to the concept of
eco-tourism.
• Department of Forests has listed the names of the species that occur in the
area, however these may be displayed more aesthetically, with booklets and
pictures for commercial sale. The products can be supplemented with CDs,
Floppies, and Filmstrips not of pictures only but information generated on
scientific lines and for all target audiences such as schools, colleges, amateurs,
entrepreneurs and professionals.
• The brochures, CDs and other forms of educational material should cover as
much information as possible, including the controversial issues like that of
control of dominating species like Polygonum polystachyum, Impatiens
sulcata, etc.
Valley of Flowers Information Centre at Ghangharia
• One fully equipped nature interpretation-cum-information centre at
Ghangharia is available in the Forest Rest House complex. At this nature
interpretation centre regular (30 minute) slide shows on Valley of Flowers
and wild life is held in the evening hours (from 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm)
throughout the 4-months of tourist season. As mentioned in Chapter 7, this
building should be supported by another temporary sloped roof structure of
20 sqm area for information provision / nature interpretation & orientation
purposes. Also, it should be ensured that this centre is staffed by Forest
Ranger’s staff, EDC members / Local Community or GSHSMT Volunteers, so
that there is always someone ready to answer questions of the visitors and the
centre should be open throughout the day time. The number of slide
show/documentary film show and its timings may be appropriately decided
for enhanced coverage of visitors.
Eco-Awareness/Education at Govind Dham & Hemkunt Sahib Gurdwara

10-244
• After each ardas (prayer) the Manager & Granthi of the Gurdwara should take
the responsibility to announce a special request (Vinti) to all the visitors about
the cleanliness and environmental conservation issues in this eco-sensitive
region. The Gurdwara premises should also prominently display the Do’s and
Don’ts about cleanliness and environmental conservation issues, to be
followed by Gurdwara staff as well as the visitors. Refer Annexure B for eco-
awareness slogan signages and Gurdwara Announcement.
Refer Chapter 11 for Nature Interpreter / Guide

Training Program etc and Chapter 12 for other
Measures including Marketing Strategy,
Visitor Management System etc.
7. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS AT BASE
SETTLEMENTS
The previous chapter outlined the development plan for Valley of Flowers and
Hemkunt. This Chapter details the development plan proposals for the base
settlements of Ghangharia and Govind Ghat with respect to eco-tourism
requirements. Refer Annexure C for the details of work items and costs.
7.1 Development Plan for Ghangharia
Ghangharia as is today, is the result of a haphazard development and is basically
an encroachment. The thrust of Ghangharia development plan is to conserve
environment; regularise development under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980;
facilitate tourist; and put regulations in place for facilities & services.
A. TOURIST INFRASTRUCTURE
7.1.1 Accommodation
Key Issues
The key issues concerning accommodation in and around Ghangharia are:
• Absence of quality accommodation
• Shortage of number of beds of accommodation available at Ghangharia
for tourists in the peak months
• Limited booking facility available prior to travel.

10-245
Needs & Constraints

The peak months in the 4-month season see large shortage in terms of no. of beds
available. The constraints for development of more accommodation lie in the following:
• Land Use and Land Ownership pattern results in unavailability of land.
Most of the land is currently disputed, i.e. whether is under owner ship of
Department of Forests/ Van Panchayat/ Department of Revenue.
• Space Carrying Capacity Limitations
• Forest land nearby
• Permanent construction activities not permitted in the region. Most of the
existing structures/plots are considered encroachments, which have been
surveyed (in 2002) by Department of Revenue and a draft base revenue
map has been prepared, and was due for regularisation during the study
(in 2003).
Recommendations
Planned Works
• GMVN Proposal: Construction of 2 Huts at Ghangharia TRH (Project cost
- Rs. 15.00 lakhs, Amount sanctioned, Project Status - under construction /
on-hold due to Department of Forests objection, Targeted to be completed
by next season in 2004)
Space Carrying Capacity
• Ghangharia has limited additional land (which is relatively flat and
devoid of much vegetation) with very little scope for new development.
This is a sensitive area because of the following reasons:
• Limited area that cannot be expanded
• Thick surrounding vegetation
• Higher intensity of tourists using as a base camp at a single time putting
high pressure on the accommodation
• It has higher transactions in terms of purchases, procurement of supplies,
common entrance for both Hemkunt and Valley of Flowers.
• Stay time statistics are different than those for Hemkunt and Valley of
Flowers.
• With less than 3 ha available at the site near Ghangharia, the space
carrying capacity is limited as high-rise kind of development is not
envisaged in this area due to the environment sensitivity, the character of
the region and as per the rules of Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.
However, with a peak season average of 10,000 people at the place, better

10-246
management and regularisation needs to be followed. Any pressure on

this area will tell upon other sites and reduce carrying capacity of other
sites. Hence the following measures are taken:
• No new land is proposed to be brought under construction or new
development (2.801 ha of land is already occupied of which 2.638 ha is
under consideration for regularisation).
• Regularise and manage the existing land under development through
various mechanisms, which are detailed below.
• Prior booking facility made available through VMS proposed so that the
intensity can be spread across the 4-month tourist season.
New Proposals
The proposals for accommodation at Ghangharia are:
• Since there is acute shortage of new land, which could be brought under
new construction owing to the forest land, sensitive ecology, and
regularisation issues, there is a thrust at accommodation facility. In view
of this only temporary tented accommodation is proposed at two spots at
Ghangharia, during the tourist season as below:
- Development of 2 - temporary tented resorts after the Ghangharia
settlement in current vacant lands on the side of trek path on land rented
every season/short-term leased from Forest Dept. spread over approx.
0.25 ha land - catering to 60 beds capacity in 30 tents and 2 tents for 4 staff
in each resort, all these with attached toilet tents.
- Development of 6 - temporary tented resorts before end of Kanjila in
current vacant lands on the side of trek path on land rented every season
/ short-term leased from Van Panchayat spread over approx. 0.75 ha land
catering to 180 beds capacity in 90 tents and 2 tents for 4 staff in each
resort, all these with attached toilet tents.
- These tents shall be assembled before every tourist season and
disassembled at the end of tourist season, and stored by the local
community owner at its own premises either at Bhyundar / Pulna.
- The tourists staying in these tented resorts would have to avail the
existing food/restaurant facilities available at Ghangharia only.
• Land pooling is proposed (ten temporary plots amounting to 0.13 ha,
which were cut from the list for regularisation) along with the vacant
government land for provision of essential services to tourists and service
providers like for community toilets, cheap dormitory for labour, EDC
Store-sum-Education Centre-cum-Disaster Relief Shelter, Medical Clinic,
Veterinary Clinic, Mule Sheds, etc.). The land at Ghangharia is proposed

10-247
to remain under Forest Ownership/Van Panchayat/Department of

Revenue (once owner ship issue is resolved or if it remains under pooled
ownership) and the tented resorts are proposed to be leased to private
entrepreneurs from the local community. This development is expected to
bring in sufficient economic gains to the community in view of the high
spending capacity of most tourists. Hence, this needs to be a community
driven activity and adequate permissions need to be taken for the same
including from the Department of Forests in conjunction with Department
of Tourism and Department of Revenue (Patwari).
• Regularisation of Accommodation for Standardisation: There is a need for
regularisation of accommodation facilities. Hotels/ lodges need to be
graded based on the standard of accommodation, facilities offered and the
per tourist space. Infrastructure availability to these hotels/ lodges is a
main issue presently. Once the power supply through grid is in place, the
hotels are expected to offer more facilities like heaters, blowers, better
laundry, etc. to tourists. The seasonal rentals (maximum) will be fixed as
per grade (grade/categories defined by Department of Tourism) of hotel/
lodge.
• Development Control Regulations: Based on the character of the region
and its environmental sensitivity, it is proposed that any construction,
new or refurbished, should have sloped roofs and the height of the
structure shall not go beyond 2-storey high (G+1). All the new amenity
spaces are proposed to be of temporary structures (except for the small
plinth bases for these amenities/toilets, wherever necessary). It is
proposed to maintain a uniform character of the new amenities/toilets.
This will be maintained by following temporary sloped roof steel truss
structure with corrugated GI sheet roof & wall – all painted in dark green
(to blend with the environment).
• Any development proposal needs multiple approvals and hence a committee
constituting DFO, DoT, Patwari, Van Panchayat representatives, and EDC
representatives will take decisions on such matters. No new land is proposed
to be brought under new physical construction. However, land pooling and
redevelopment will be considered for further development without cutting
any more trees. To meet additional requirements some Forest Land after
Ghangharia and some Van Panchayat Land at Kanjila may be rented per day
or per season/leased for short term only for temporary tented resort
accommodation as mentioned above.
• A complete ban on use of wood of sensitive trees, like Taxus baccata etc.
in Ghangharia is proposed. It is also proposed that there be checks at the

10-248
beginning of every season for any unauthorised construction carried out

during the off-season.
• As proposed in Chapter 12 on Visitor Management System, booking
facility for hotels/ lodges is proposed to be made available.
Note: Regularisation of shops and hotels/lodges, which have come up in the last
few years is underway under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act,
1980. Department of Revenue is in the process of finalisation of revenue map.
7.1.2 Refreshment Stalls
Key Issues
There are a large number of refreshment stalls of varying sizes, quality standards
and prices spread across Ghangharia. There is no quality check on any of these in
terms of quality of food, services or prices.
Recommendations
The recommendations for the refreshment stalls are:
• Quality Assurance: Quality monitoring at the various refreshment stalls
by means of community based monitoring is proposed to be
implemented. This will include monitoring of inputs, outputs, time frames
and processes. Department of Health may assist in certifying / monitoring
the quality of food and overall hygiene of the services.
• Regularisation of these stalls, and fixing prices as per grades.
• The EDC will audit and monitor the water usage, wastewater and solid
waste management of the shops. It is proposed that the stalls collect all the
organic waste and deposit it at the pit for the same provided at
Ghangharia. The solid waste is to be stored in a waste container in a way
easy for the EDC sweepers to carry it to the disposal site.
7.1.3 Commercial Establishments
Key Issues
The shops/ stalls predominantly sell woollen, rainproof items and souvenirs.
There is no order owing to the haphazard development here.
Recommendations
• Regularisation of shops to be completed by defining the numbers, identity
of shops etc.
• A character shift is proposed for these shops with overhanging roofs on
steel trusses.

10-249
• Each season, the rates of items sold will be regularised across the classes
of the shops.
• The EDC will monitor the solid waste management of the shops. The solid
waste is to be stored in a waste container in a way easy for the EDC
sweepers to carry it to the disposal site. The EDC will inspect the shops in
a season and give incentives in the form of awards to ‘Eco-friendly shops’.
• As discussed in the environmental management plan section, selling of
cheap plastic raincoats is proposed to be banned in the project region.
Instead, good quality raincoats may be made available on rent with a fixed
deposit payment of Rs. 250/- at Ghangharia too for those going to
Hemkunt (in addition to Govind Ghat). On return the tourist can claim a
refund of Rs. 240/- while Rs. 10/- would be deducted as rent/service
charge for cleaning and keeping it ready for re-use. To discourage any
tendency of not returning the rain coats, the raincoats should be specially
engraved with Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt logo in front and Eco-
Development Committee – Bhyundar or Govind Ghat at the back.
• It is advised that the local trade community along with the local management
may work out the actual amount of security deposits based on the
procurement costs, service charges, and any penalty charges in built for
loss/damage, at the time of implementation of the above proposals.
7.1.4 Information Services
Key Issues
Currently there is no information services available except for the not so known
slide show on Valley of Flowers conducted at Valley of Flowers Information
Centre. The Gurdwara acts as the nodal point for the religious tourists.
Recommendations
It is proposed that a tourist information service desk be opened at the GMVN TRH at
Ghangharia. This information centre made of temporary sloped roof structure would
have an area of 20 sqm and will provide information on the nearby tourist spots (refer
Section 8.5 & 8.6 of Chapter 8 on Development Plan for Facilities Enroute), distances
and means to reach there. It will also help the visitors/ tourists in familiarising with the
Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt. This centre will also co-ordinate with the local guides.
Also, the Valley of Flowers Information Centre should be upgraded with another similar
building (about 20 sqm size) made of temporary sloped roof structure added to facilitate
display and sale of Historical Information on Valley of Flowers, Large Photo prints/with
frames, photo post cards, brochures, Souvenirs with Valley of Flowers logo – Caps/T-
shirts/Win-cheaters/desk-calendars, etc. apart from utilised as an interpretation &
orientation centre. The slide projection facility needs upgradation with stand by
arrangement and facility for film projection for short documentaries too need to be
added.

10-250
7.1.5 Recreation Facilities

Key Issues
Majority of tourists who go to Hemkunt return to Ghangharia before dusk and
they return to Govind Ghat the next morning only. Some tourists reach
Ghangharia in the evening for an early morning visit to Hemkunt and early
return back home. In both the cases the tourists who stay at Ghangharia have no
relaxation venues here.
Recommendations
Refer Chapter 6 to see the proposal on the Shadow Garden/ Demonstration
Nursery near Ghangharia as part of development plan for the region. This is
proposed to be positioned as a Germplasm Bank of Endangered Species of VoF
(as suggested by Chief Wildlife Warden, Uttaranchal or be known by any other
name by DoF as felt appropriate)
Development of Landscaped Recreation Plaza
There is a waterfall that is formed due the 14 m deep fall of the Lakshman / Hem Ganga
stream on the way from Ghangharia to the bifurcation point of Valley of Flowers and
Hemkunt routes, which has potential to become a secondary tourist attraction.
Relaxation decks are proposed with a small landscaped plaza around. The details of the
same are:
• 2 covered relaxation decks of area 25 sqm each are proposed to be
developed.
• These relaxation decks/ plaza are proposed to be well maintained, kept
clean, have total sitting space of 24 benches (2 ft. wide x 5 ft. long) with
MS/GI railing along the deck for safety.
• The location will give good view of the mountains, trek paths, Ghangharia
and the beautiful waterfall.
• The transition from deck to nature will be made smooth with ample
landscaping at the interface of the two developing it as a totally
landscaped plaza.
• This will also form base for environment discussions and nature
interpretations.
• The structure of this recreational deck/area will be temporary in nature
with sloped roof structures (3.5 m height at the centre) with steel truss
frame and corrugated GI sheet roof with 12 steel benches (2 ft. wide x 5 ft.
long) with railing on each deck - all painted in dark green and fitted on
plinth base. This is to be disassembled after the tourist season is over and
can be stored in the EDC store proposed at Ghangharia.

10-251
• Presentation of Folk Culture

• The following activities shall be promoted for tourists to get acquainted with
the local culture and take back rich cultural memories:
- The works of art, handicrafts, souvenirs should be presented/displayed
for sale in various shops/establishments including at Nature
Interpretation Centre in FRH Complex and GMVN TRH.
7.1.6 Other Tourist Facilitation
• In addition to the above tourist amenities, two additional Cloak Room of
25 sqm each is proposed to be developed at Ghangharia & Kanjila for the
tourists who do not wish to carry their luggage during the trek. The
building would be a dark green painted temporary tin slope roof
structure.
• Signages will form an important part of the visitor experience
enhancement and education. The signages proposed at Ghangharia would
have information on altitude, location, etc; map of route to Valley of
Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib; map of Ghangharia showing main hotels,
information centre, Gurdwara etc. Also Standard Eco-Awareness Message
Signage can be displayed at Govind Dham Gurdwara premises
− Punjabi (1 Board each for 2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1
− Hindi (1 Board each for 2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1
− English (1 Board each for 2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1
Directional/Locational & Informational signages are proposed with dark
green background & white text, while Nature Interpretation signages would
be as per the current pattern followed by DoF.
• Colour pamphlets/brochures can be procured at Govind Ghat / Check-
post / Nature Interpretation Centre at Ghangharia will provide
information on flora and fauna that may be observed around the
settlement, etc.
7.1.7 Tourist Safety
It is proposed that a small Police Chowki with sufficient personnel/logistics be stationed
at Ghangharia in view of the sudden influx of tourists during the four months of tourist
season. This building of about 50 sqm area will also have similar temporary natured
structure & building regulations as proposed for other structures mentioned earlier.

10-252
7.1.8 Health Care Facility

Key Issues
Government Dispensary at Ghangharia has a doctor’s cabin, which is very small
(basically a tin shed provided by Govind Dham Gurdwara along its boundary
wall) and is not equipped with proper treatment facilities.
Recommendations
It is recommended that a proper First Aid Centre-cum-small Trauma Care Clinic
equipped with essential instruments with treatment area spread over 50 sqm be
developed at Ghangharia. This health centre will also sell essential medicine kits
for those who wish to carry it for their trekking and will include 4 beds for
nursing the patients. This improved facility is to be housed in a temporary
sloped roof building and can move down to Pulna during the off-season to
benefit the local village community. Department of Health shall assist in setting
up the same.
B. SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE
7.1.9 Mule Sheds, Cheap accommodation, Fodder and Food
Arrangements
Key Issues
The present condition of the mule rest in area/shed at Ghangharia is very bad.
This is detrimental to the health of the mules as well and gives a bad image of the
place at the entry/exit of Ghangharia settlement. Even the mule operators and
other labourers live in very pathetic conditions.
Recommendations
• Proper Mule Sheds made of temporary sloped roof structures be built to
station at least 200 mules at a time. These mule sheds will have parallel
running drinking pits and waste cleaning pits at the back, and Mule Waste
collection and disposal infrastructure.
• Fodder should be made available at the mule sheds at a reasonable cost.
• Cheap dormitory accommodation made of temporary sloped roof structures
(to provide stay at night for 150 persons) should also be built for the mule
operators, porters, palki or dandi carriers and EDC cleaning staff.
• Construct pay & use toilet facility made of temporary sloped roof structures
for these labourers.

10-253
7.1.10 Veterinary Clinic

Key Issues
Though around 800-1000 mules operate in the region during the peak season,
there is no facility presently available for the treatment of mules/live stock.
Recommendations
Though the main veterinary clinic is proposed at Govind Ghat, it is
recommended that a small veterinary clinic made of temporary sloped roof
structures spread over 25 sqm be opened at Ghangharia for treating emergency
cases especially on return from the steep and difficult Hemkunt trip.
C. PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
7.1.11 Pathways / Other Accessibility
Key Issues
In Ghangharia market also, the trek pathways are in bad condition without any
recent maintenance and the water service lines criss-crossing the road with mule
dung all over. Whatever maintenance had been reported as undertaken
regarding upgradation of paths with CC surface in past had been damaged
significantly, as observed.
Recommendations
• It is proposed that the paths be upgraded by laying CC 1:2:4 over stone
kharanja (RR masonry) as part of the overall trek path upgradation
proposals (250 m long x 3 m wide x 0.20 m thick) in the Ghangharia
settlement over the existing path surface with a lateral mild slope in path
surface towards centre so that storm water drains out from the drain
running along the centre of the path. The top surface would have
engraved grooves in herringbone diagonal / straight pattern with size of
each groove pattern as length - 212 mm, width - 100 mm, and width &
depth of groove as 12 mm each, to provide grip for humans / animals
while trekking. It shall be ensured that the quality of the materials used
for concreting is appropriate as per design and the concreting work is of
the highest quality, so that it does not get damaged easily due to regular
use by the pedestrians & mules.
• At Ghangharia settlement, the infrastructure services like water supply is
proposed to be laid parallel to the paths independently for usage on both
the sides of the path without crossing the drain, while the storm water
drain (1’ wide x 1’3” deep x 250 m long) is proposed to be constructed in
the centre of the path covered with removable RCC 1:2:4 slab drain covers

10-254
(each 1’6” wide x 2’ long x 2” thick) with grated openings (openings

should be small enough like 1-1/2” dia @ 4” c/c, so that mule toes don’t
get stuck and there is no danger of mule tripping over it) and storm water
to get disposed across the trek path & beyond building portion through
hume pipes (1’ dia x 25 m long) at 50 m regular intervals towards lower
slopes.
• Before the start of the season, maintenance measures are required to
strengthen the condition of the road and for better visitor safety and
hygiene.
• Since there is not much space for widening for a 2-lane trek path separate
for mules and tourists, it is proposed to keep 2 EDC sweepers for the
Ghangharia area to ensure clean environs.
Planned Works
• During the study (in 2003) it was informed that Pawan Hans Helicopters
Ltd. (PHHL) has plans to operate helicopter services to Ghangharia (to
Kanjila Army Helipad) from the Gauchar Airstrip / Joshimath Helipad
field subject to permission from relevant government authorities in
May/June 2004. At the time of revision of this report, it was reported that
under a MoU with GMVN and PHHL, helicopter services of PHHL (US
manufactured Bell 407 helicopters) have been worked out from
Agustmuni (located in Rudraprayag District at a distance of 18 km from
Rudraprayag on Rudraprayag-Kedarnath route) to Ghangharia since Sep.
2004. The Agustmuni to Ghangharia and return helicopter ride is of 35
minutes with a carrying capacity of maximum 5 passengers per ride and
air fare worked out on charter as well as per seat basis is Rs. 12,000/- per
head (minimum 5 passengers required). If these Ghangharia passengers
would like PHHL to pick them up next day, the option is available, and
the charges would be the same i.e. Rs. 12,000/- per passenger for
minimum 5 passengers available. Since, the regular helicopter services
have been planned at the Ghangharia Army Helipad, the authorities must
also ensure that public safety area restriction line/zone is demarcated, and
other appropriate accessories like, windsock, CO2 type fire extinguishers,
etc. are provided.
• Further plans are reported to be underway to start air services from Gauchar
where an airstrip already exists. Fixed-wing aircraft can easily land at
Gauchar and chartered flights from Delhi can be initiated after due clearances
from relevant authorities.

10-255
7.1.12 Water Supply

Key Issues
As discussed in Chapter 2, water supply system is a critical issue in Ghangharia
base settlement inspite of natural availability of water in abundance. This is due
to lack of tapping the potential and an improper system in place.
Recommendations
Planned Works
• At Ghangharia, Uttaranchal Jal Sansthan, Chamoli district has proposed a
Repair/Upgradation of Water Supply Scheme under the Development
Area of Joshimath region which a cost of Rs. 7.00 lakhs (sanctioned under
Border Area Development head in 2003-2004).
In view of the tourists’ dependence on water, the following are proposed:
• The existing planned project of Jal Sansthan is proposed to be
implemented by start of 2004 season, and the same should be taken up on
priority.
• In the year when the Phase-II starts, it is proposed to develop a proper
water supply scheme with covered storage tank and water purification
plant providing ample and safe water for the tourists and local
community alike.
Key Issues
Ghangharia has no proper sewerage disposal system, though individual lodges/ hotels
have septic tanks and soak pits for disposal. EDC is constructing one small public toilet
at the entrance to Ghangharia settlement.
Recommendations
• The groups of hotels, which do not have any kind of sewerage disposal
system, have to go for a joint system with septic tanks, if grouping is possible.
This would ensure that no sewerage reaches the river/ directly to the
environs.
• One more Public Toilet made up of temporary slope roof structure of the
same size as the one constructed at the entrance of Ghangharia can be
developed beyond Ghangharia settlement on Pay and Use category.
7.1.14 Electricity Supply
Key Issues
Electricity Supply, as discussed in the earlier chapters, is one of the constraints
for further tourist facilitation in the region. The main areas of concern are the

10-256
non-maintenance of the electric poles and supply through grid, and non-working
of the solar lighting set up. Acute shortage of power is reported in the region,
leading to use of diesel/kerosene based generators. Due to insufficient and low
voltage supply, higher wattage gadgets cannot be used for heating/drying
purposes in the wet and cold climate during the tourist season. The supply is
also currently not metered and is charged per bulb connection.
Recommendations
Planned Works
Ghangharia: UREDA is providing funds for an amount of Rs. 90,000/- in 2003-04
for channel repair & extension works with additional strainers and cleaning &
repair of water tank connected through pipes to the turbine plant at Ghangharia
as currently, Ghangharia is solely dependent on the micro-hydel turbine
generated power.
The recommendations for electricity supply for the region, in addition to above
initiatives are:
• Urgent repair works for the turbine plant to ensure high efficiency of
turbines.
• Upgrade street lighting at Ghangharia.
• Refer Section 8.3.2 under Chapter 8 for further details on restoring the power
till Ghangharia through grid.
7.1.15 Telecommunications
Key Issues
Currently, the telecommunication scenario is quite poor with just a few satellite
phones only. A Satellite Telephone Exchange is setup by Department of
Telecommunications at the GMVN TRH complex. There are 3 PCO Local
Call/STD/ISD booths at Ghangharia connected to this exchange and operate
only during the tourist season. These limited booths are not able to cater to
demand due to large number of tourists. Connectivity is poor at times.
Recommendations
Planned Works
Ghangharia: BSNL CellOne Services is also planned to be started from 2004
season onwards.
• Mobile connectivity to be ensured by start of 2004 season.
• Better connectivity and more number of PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booths at
Ghangharia.

10-257
7.1.16 Solid Waste Management

Key Issues
The accommodation, refreshment and commercial establishments at Ghangharia
are the major contributors to the quantum of solid waste to be managed.
Recommendations
• Very evident and attractive turntable solid waste collection bins are proposed
to be placed at different points at Ghangharia (@ 15 m interval).
• 1 Solid waste compression equipment unit is proposed to be placed at
Ghangharia for compressing non-biodegradable waste generated from Valley
of Flowers and Hemkunt route to Ghangharia.
• Waste collection area is proposed to be managed more scientifically with
arrangements for stacking the compressed bags in Iron Cage pits that can
easily contain some 50 or more sacks. Two such pits are proposed at
Ghangharia, of which one pit would be located near the Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt route junction on its south-east side that can be used by the visitors
from Valley of Flowers to deposit their waste carried back by them, apart
from using it for stacking waste collected and brought down by cleaning staff
from Hemkunt route. These cages should be airy, should not spill, and
• Compressed plastic waste is proposed to be transported down and used for
incineration at Govind Ghat incinerator (existing proposal)/reprocessing by
recycling of any excess load. Contracts for purchase of this waste for recycling
could be given so that government cost of collection and transportation can
be reduced. Also sacks if in good condition, should be re-used for collection
and transportation of waste.
• As discussed earlier, two EDC sweepers to be put in charge of Ghangharia
market/settlement area at every 0.25 km.
• Mule excreta is also proposed to be collected in bags by the sweepers as mule
organic matter. Separate coloured bags can be provided to the collectors. The
mule excreta will also be collected from the mule shed at Ghangharia and
taken to Bhyundar/ Pulna for vermi-composting.
• Vermi-composting at colder climates may be a problem. Appropriate worms
and technology may have to be adapted. Hence, its is suggested that Vermi-

10-258
composting be practised at collection sites (Bhyundar and Pulna, which are at

much lower altitudes and less colder than Ghangharia) so that the excreta can
be converted into manure. Locals, collectors, mule owners should be
educated about conversion of this waste to fertilisers for use in agriculture.
• A demonstration be planned at Ghangharia by the officials, where fertilisers
be provided in the newly proposed education/training centre/EDC store.
• Mule owners to be educated about collection of excreta and its conversion.
centres can be given at the rate of Rs. 10/- per sack or as decided by local
management/EDC. Remuneration will be an incentive.
7.2 Development Plan for Govind Ghat
Govind Ghat is the base camp before start of the trekking; hence facilitation at
Govind Ghat assumes significance. If a road comes till Pulna, the focus could be
slightly shifted though. The objective of the Govind Ghat development plan is to
make it a regularised quality base and provide necessary facilities to tourists.
Development Control Regulations: Based on the character of the region and its
environmental sensitivity, it is proposed that any construction, new or
refurbished, should have sloped roofs and the height of the structure shall not go
beyond 2-storey high (G+1). All the new amenity spaces are proposed to be of
temporary structures (except for the small plinth bases for these
amenities/toilets, wherever necessary, and the hotels which require larger
spaces). It is proposed to maintain a uniform character of the new
amenities/toilets. This will be maintained by following temporary sloped roof
steel truss structure with corrugated GI sheet roof & wall – all painted in dark
green (to blend with the environment). Any development proposal needs
multiple approvals and hence a committee constituting DoT, Patwari, DFO and
Van Panchayat representatives will take decisions on such matters.
A. PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
7.2.1 Roads & Pathways
Key Issues
Presently the entry to Govind Ghat is very crowded, with vehicles waiting in
queue for dropping and parking and the Badrinath traffic passing by, more so
during the peak season.
Recommendations
Below are the details of already planned works by different agencies:
Planned Works

10-259
• Repair Work of Govind Ghat-Ghangharia-Hemkunt Sahib Trek/Pedestrian

Path and Valley of Flowers Trek/Pedestrian Path is proposed by the PWD,
and was planned for Rs. 7.95 lakhs and Rs. 6.50 lakhs respectively this year,
out of which a total sanction of Rs. 12.00 lakhs has been granted recently. This
work is expected to commence from next season onwards (i.e. April end-May
2004) and has been accorded high priority to make the accessibility
comfortable. The work sub-head planned and related to Govind Ghat is listed
below:
− Repair of Govind Ghat Cable Suspension Bridge (Project Cost = Rs. 2.50
lakhs)
• Tourism Bureau’s Parking Proposal: Construction of additional parking
facility at Govind Ghat (Project cost - Rs. 40.00 lakhs approx., Amount
sanctioned, Project Status - under construction, Targeted to be completed by
2003-2004)
• Refer Chapter 8 on Development Plan for Facilities Enroute for the details on
transportation proposals.
7.2.2 Water Supply
Key Issues
Govind Ghat has shortage of water supply. Currently Govind Ghat gets piped
water supply through gravity from a tank across river Alaknanda.
Recommendations
Uttaranchal Jal Nigam is already working on a scheme for meeting the drinking
water demand at Govind Ghat with a horizon period of next 15 years.
Planned Works
Jal Nigam is preparing a scheme for providing piped water supply via Pulna to
Govind Ghat. The scheme is under estimation and is expected to have a project
cost of Rs. 25 lakhs. This scheme will contain one French Well type intake in
Bhyundar Ganga river about 300 m above Pulna and then a 1-1/2” diameter x 5.5
km long GI pipeline laid via Pulna and later along the trek path, which will flow
down the water through gravity to a 30 KL capacity cylindrical Clear Water
Reservoir (CWR). This arrangement will meet the requirements of about 5000
persons per day for a horizon period of next 15 years. This scheme is targeted for
completion by next season 2003-2004.
Key Issues
Govind Ghat does not have a town specific sewerage disposal system, though
individual Gurdwara and lodges resort to use of septic tanks and soak pits.

10-260
Recommendations
It is to be ensured that no sewerage reaches the river Alaknanda/ directly to the
environs. For this, the group of hotels, which do not have any kind of sewerage
disposal system to have septic tanks, if grouping is possible.
• A public toilet complex made of temporary sloped roofed structure (Pay &
Use) to be built for the trekking tourists near the starting point.
• Separate Sulabh Shauchalaya/ Community Toilet made of temporary sloped
roofed structure (Pay & Use) to be provided for mule operators/porters/palki
carriers.
Key Issues
Currently the telecommunication scenario is poor with no proper connectivity
from the base of the trek- Govind Ghat to Ghangharia or Hemkunt.
Recommendations
• Better connectivity and more number of PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booths at
Govind Ghat.
• It is proposed to provide wireless service between the Gurdwara at Govind
Ghat, Ghangharia and that at Hemkunt for emergency connectivity, with due
permissions from the concerned government authorities. This is very
essential from the emergency response planning point of view as well as
presently Hemkunt is out of all communication reach.
7.2.5 Solid Waste Management
Key Issues
The Gurdwara, accommodation, refreshment and commercial establishments at
Govind Ghat contribute to the solid waste output in addition to the major burden
of all the solid waste brought down from Hemkunt, Ghangharia, and all along
the trek path to Govind Ghat. Already more than 4000 sacks of non-
biodegradable waste has been brought down by 2003 and piled up near the FRH,
awaiting disposal.
Recommendations
Planned Works
• Tourism Bureau Proposal: An incinerator plant with a project cost of Rs. 25.00
lakhs has been sanctioned for installation at Govind Ghat (approx. capacity
being 25 kg of solid waste burnt/hour). Work is yet to start.
It is further recommended that:

10-261
• Proper sewage disposal system be provided through soak pit, etc. at Govind
Ghat Gurdwara and other private establishments for
Kitchen/Langar/Restaurant wash waste which currently falls into river
Alaknanda.
• Very evident and attractive turntable solid waste collection bins to be placed
at different points at Govind Ghat (@15 m interval).
• 1 Solid waste compression equipment unit- to be placed at - Govind Ghat for
compressing non-biodegradable waste generated from Pulna to Govind Ghat
or any other uncompressed waste.
• Waste collection area will be managed more scientifically with arrangements
for stacking the compressed bags in large Iron Cage pits that can easily
contain some 50 or more sacks. Two such cage pits are proposed at Govind
Ghat. These cages should be airy, should not spill, and neither should
weather out in a season (plastic cages were not recommended due to the
reason of these getting brittle in sun and may get damaged early, these would
not be as airy, and would be susceptible to fire as discussed in Chapter 5 on
Environment Management Plan).
• Compressed plastic waste transported down to be used for incineration at
Govind Ghat incinerator (existing proposal)/reprocessing by recycling of any
excess load. Contracts for purchase of this waste for recycling may be given
so that government’s cost of collection and transportation may be reduced.
Also sacks if in good condition, should be re-used for collection and
transportation of waste.
B. TOURIST INFRASTRUCTURE
7.2.6 Accommodation
Key Issues
The key issues concerning accommodation at Govind Ghat are absence of
number and quality accommodation except for the Gurdwara, which is the main
accommodation provider.
Recommendations
The proposals for accommodation at Govind Ghat are:
• 2 quality hotels with capacity of 150 beds each (low-rise 2 storeyed structure)
are proposed to be developed at Govind Ghat. If the road from Govind Ghat
to Pulna via Pandukeshwar is built, some of these hotels may be developed
near Pandukeshwar by the private entrepreneurs of the local communities (if
observed that there are more contenders for such opportunity, the provision
of total bed capacity of 300 beds could be adjusted as 4 hotels with 75 beds

10-262
capacity each, or in any other combination based on the interest/capability

expressed through due financial assistance). This may be taken up in Phase-II.
• Regularisation of Accommodation: There is a need for regularisation of
accommodation facilities. Based on the standard of accommodation, facilities
offered and the per tourist space, hotels/ lodges will be graded.
Infrastructure availability to these hotels/ lodges is a major issue presently.
The seasonal rentals (maximum) are proposed to be fixed as per grade of
hotel/ lodge.
• As proposed in Chapter 12 on Visitor Management System, booking facility
for hotels/ lodges is proposed to be made available.
7.2.7 Refreshment Stalls
Key Issues
There are a few crowded refreshment stalls of varying size, quality standards
and prices at Govind Ghat. There is no quality check on any of these in terms of
food, services or prices.
Recommendations
The recommendations for the refreshment stalls are:
• Quality Assurance: Quality monitoring at various refreshment stalls.
Department of Health may assist in certifying / monitoring the quality of
food and overall hygiene of the services.
• Regularisation of these stalls, and fixing prices as per grades.
• The EDC at Govind Ghat will inspect and monitor the water usage,
wastewater and solid waste management of the shops. It is proposed that the
stalls collect all the organic waste and deposit it at the pit provided for the
same at Govind Ghat.
7.2.8 Commercial Establishments
There are many pucca & temporary shops/ stalls at Govind Ghat, which
predominantly sell souvenir items/grocery/items for trekking needs – bags,
woolens, equipments, etc.
Recommendations
• Regularisation of shops to be done by defining the numbers, identity to shops
etc.
• Each season, the rates of items sold will be regularised across the classes of
the shops, and should be ensured that it is clearly & prominently displayed.

10-263
• The EDC at Govind Ghat will monitor the solid waste management of the
shops. The solid waste is to be stored in a waste container in a way easy for
the ZP sweepers to carry it away for disposal. The ZP will inspect the shops
in a season and give incentives in the form of awards to ‘Eco-friendly shops/
establishments’.
• As discussed in the environmental management plan section, selling of cheap
plastic raincoats is proposed to be banned in the region. Instead, good quality
raincoats could be made available on rent with a fixed deposit payment of Rs.
250/- at Govind Ghat. On return the tourists can get the refund of Rs. 240/-
while Rs. 10/- may be deducted as service fee to clean for reuse. To
discourage any tendency of not returning the rain coats, the raincoats should
be specially engraved on order with Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt logo in
front and Eco-Development Committee – Bhyundar or Govind Ghat at the
back.
It is advised that the local trade community and the local management may
work out the actual amount of security deposits based on the procurement
costs, service charges, and any penalty charges in built for loss/damage, at
the time of implementation of the above proposals.
7.2.9 Information Services
Key Issues
Currently there are no information services available except at Govind Ghat Gurdwara.
Recommendations
• It is proposed that a Tourist Information Centre-cum-Nature Interpretation
Centre made of temporary sloped roofed structure be opened by the
Department of Forests & Department of Tourism at its Forest Rest House
complex premises at Govind Ghat. This information centre, built in an area of
30 sqm, would provide information on the nearby tourist spots (refer Section
8.6 of Chapter 8 on Development Plan for Facilities Enroute), distances and
means to reach there. The centre will hold a 10-minutes eco-awareness
session /short documentary show in future for the tourists on the
environmental sensitivity of the region and need to be partners in
maintaining cleanliness and environmental protection in the region. This
centre may be staffed by Forest Ranger’s staff, EDC members / Local
Community or GSHSMT Volunteers, so that there is always someone ready
to answer questions of the visitors and the centre should be open throughout
the day time.
• The Govind Ghat Gurdwara will also help in creating environmental
awareness session with all the religious tourists to Hemkunt Sahib. After each
ardas (prayer) the Manager & Granthi of the Gurdwara should take the

10-264
responsibility to announce a special request (Vinti) to all the visitors about the
cleanliness and environmental conservation issues in this eco-sensitive
region. The Gurdwara premises should also prominently display the Do’s and
Don’ts about cleanliness and environmental conservation issues, to be
followed by Gurdwara staff as well as the visitors.
Refer Chapter 11 for Nature Interpreter / Guide Training Program etc and Chapter 12 for
other Measures including Marketing Strategy, Visitor Management System etc.
7.2.10 Other Tourist Facilitation
• In addition to the above tourist amenities, a Cloak Room of 100 sqm made of
temporary sloped roofed structure is proposed to be developed at Govind
Ghat for the tourists who do not wish to carry their entire luggage during the
trek.
• Directional Signages are proposed to be provided at Govind Ghat right from
the Badrinath road junction. Also Standard Eco-Awareness Message Signage
can be displayed at Govind Ghat Gurdwara premises
− Punjabi (1 Board each for2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1
− Hindi (1 Board each for2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1 request
− English (1 Board each for2 types of messages with 2 text rows, and 1
Directional/Locational & Informational signages are proposed with dark
green background & white text, while Nature Interpretation signages would
be as per the current pattern followed by DoF.
• Presentation of Folk Culture
• The following activities shall be promoted for tourists to get acquainted with
the local culture and take back rich cultural memories:
− The works of art, handicrafts, souvenirs should be presented/displayed
for sale in various shops/establishments including at proposed Nature
Interpretation Centre in FRH Complex.
7.2.11 Tourist Safety
A Police Chowki exists, but it does not have

jurisdiction in Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt
region (which basically falls under the

10-265
jurisdiction of Patwari, Department of

Revenue based at Pandukeshwar). Any
accident/mishap in the Valley of Flowers –
Hemkunt region is to be attended/recorded by
the Patwari and the Police Chowki at Govind
Ghat is only informed for any assistance, if
required.
It is proposed that, as a safety measure, some police personnel stationed at
Govind Ghat may be attached with the Patwari. They can patrol the trek route
during the four months of tourist season.
Key Issues
Govind Ghat Gurdwara has 1 dispensary and 2

ambulances. In cases of any deaths along the
trek, the Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib
Management Trust facilitates and bears the
cost voluntarily for the ambulance service. 2
Private Clinics-cum-Chemist shops also exist
in the Govind Ghat market.
Recommendations
Planned Works
PWD Proposal: At Govind Ghat for a Medical Relief Centre Rs. 4.12 lakhs were
sanctioned in Dec 1997. The construction began and only 0.25 lakhs have been
disbursed when, on the formation of Uttaranchal state out of Uttar Pradesh in
Nov 2000, the balance budgeted cost was frozen. Since the structural work till
roof is already completed, the balance fund of Rs. 3.87 lakhs with some (say 10%)
escalation has to be requisitioned again. Department of Health shall assist in
setting up the same.
C. SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

10-266
7.2.13 Mule Sheds, Cheap Accommodation, Fodder and Food

Arrangements
Key Issues
There is no formal mule stand/shed at Govind Ghat though this is the starting
point for trekking and hiring Mules.
Recommendations
• Registration of Mules, Porters, and Palki owners/operators with EDC,
Govind Ghat. Most mule owners/operators are from Najibabad, Ramnagar,
Haldwani etc. and the porters and palki carriers are mostly from Nepal, who
cross from Nepal through near by districts for employment.
• Proper Mule Shed made of temporary sloped roofed structure may be
provided for a handling capacity of 300 mules at a time with proper Mule
Waste Disposal infrastructure. These mule sheds would have parallel running
drinking pits and waste cleaning pits at the back.
• Fodder may be made available at the mule shed at a cost.
• Cheap dormitory accommodation made of temporary sloped roofed structure
(to provide stay at night for 200 persons) should also be built for the mule
operators, porters, palki carriers and EDC cleaning staff.
• Construct pay & use toilet facility made of temporary sloped roofed structure
for the labourers.
7.2.14 Veterinary Clinic
Key Issues
There is no facility presently available for the treatment of mules/live stock.
Recommendations
A main veterinary clinic was proposed at Govind Ghat during the study. This is
one of the main developments required at Govind Ghat in view of the 800-1000
mules presently operating from Govind Ghat and back. This will also ensure
good health of mules so that they are able to carry tourists without jeopardising
the safety of tourists. At the time of revision of this report, the Director, NDBR
informed that a veterinary camp service has been started at Govind Ghat from
the 2004 tourist season.

10-267
8. DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR FACILITIES ENROUTE

This chapter outlines the development proposals from Govind Ghat enroute
Ghangharia. It also addresses the potential tourist growth centres nearby. Refer
Annexure C for details of the work items and costs.
8.1 Transportation Proposals: Govind Ghat to Ghangharia
8.1.1 Key Transportation Issues
The tourist arrival has steadily increased at Govind Ghat over the years with a significant
increase in the percentage growth of visitors to the Hemkunt shrine. These tourists arrive
in private and hired vehicles such as two-wheelers, cars, multi-utility vehicles, light
commercial vehicles, buses and trucks. The last point of access through road to reach
the Hemkunt shrine or the Valley of Flowers is Govind Ghat.
It was observed that the following issues are of prime concern to the sustainable
• There is growing need to cater to the increasing demand for parking in the
hill settlement of Govind Ghat.
• There is a significant need to enhance access to the two tourist sites and ease
the trekking of tourists and settlement enroute through reducing the actual
distance to be trekked on foot by extending the reach of motorable road.
8.1.2 Parking
The impact of the vehicles has been significant enough to determine the
developmental profile of the area. Being the last motorable point to reach
Hemkunt Shrine and the Valley of Flowers, a large number of vehicles require
off-street parking at Govind Ghat. Since the distance to be covered (and the
resultant time) to reach both the tourist attractions is substantial, most vehicles
are parked for 2-3 days. On street parking also blocks the road and becomes a
bottleneck to the Badrinath bound vehicles, which pass through this route.
Parking therefore, rather than being relegated to an ancillary activity of the local
administration and official tourism agencies, is now being looked upon as a
plausible commercial activity.
Existing Parking
(All data as in 2003 season during which the study was conducted)
The total existing parking available in and around Govind Ghat is observed and
deduced as follows:
Type of Vehicle Estimated Parking (No. of Units)
Two Wheeler 440
Car 422

10-268
Bus 30
The existing parking in Govind Ghat and its surroundings could be categorised into the
following broad categories:
• Government (Local Administration) Parking Lots
A significant parking space has been recently created and run by the local administration
(under the control of Zilla Panchayat) by cutting the mountain slopes and widening
certain sections of the road up to Govind Ghat. Such parking exists in two sections of the
road. The first is before the off-take point for the side road to Govind Ghat Gurdwara.
The second being about 300 meters down towards Pandukeshwar in Badrinath route.
The third one is at the end of approach road to Gurdwara. However, the operation and
management of the same is contracted. The capacity of these lots is:
Parking Lot – I
Location: 500 meters from Govind Ghat on the main Haridwar – Badrinath Road
Total area of parking lot–I is 2830 square meters (approximately).
Car 60
Bus 15
Note: Area for a road width of 10 meters has been removed for through access
on the main road. Another 10% of the remaining area has been set aside for
circulation space.
Parking Charges: The parking charges are given below:

Type of Vehicle Parking Charges (Rs.)
For more than 24 Hrs. For less than 24 Hrs.
Cars (Small Vehicle) 50 per day 10
Bus (Large Vehicle) 100 per day 20
Scooter/Motorcycle 20 per day 5
Parking Lot – II
Location: 150 meters from Govind Ghat on the Main Haridwar – Badrinath Road
Total area of parking lot–II is 2750 square meters (approximately).

Cars 53
Bus 15

10-269
Note: Area for a road width of 10 meters has been removed for through access
on the main road. Another 10% of the remaining area has been set aside for
circulation space.
Parking Lot – III

Location: At the end of approach road to Govind Ghat Gurdwara
Total area of parking lot–III is 390 square meters (approximately).
Car 25
Note: 10% of the area has been set aside for circulation space. It is presumed
that this lot is used for only car parking.
• Institutional Parking Lots

Institutional parking has been the largest parking supply in Govind Ghat,
particularly for smaller private vehicles such as cars and jeeps. This parking has
been largely developed by the local Gurdwara in Govind Ghat. The Gurdwara
also manages the maintenance and upkeep of the parking lots IV & V. However,
the operation and management of the same is contracted.
Parking Lot – IV
Location: Adjoining Govind Ghat Gurdwara along Alaknanda River
Total area of parking lot–IV is 1250 square meters (approximately).
Two Wheelers 200
Car 60
Note: 10% of the area has been set aside for circulation space. This parking is
located in two tiers. The lower tiers has been assumed to be used for two-
wheeler parking
Parking Charges: The parking charges at the lots are as follows:

Two Wheelers 60 for 3 days
Car 150 for 3 days
Parking Lot –V
Location: Adjoining Parking Lot-IV (mentioned above) along Alaknanda River
Total area of parking lot–V is 3300 square meters (approximately).
Two Wheelers 240

10-270
Car 210
Note: 10% of the area has been set aside for circulation space. Two wheeler
parking has been assumed to occupy 10% of the area remaining after removing
circulation space.
Parking Charges: The parking charges at the lots are as follows:

Two Wheelers 60 for 3 days
Car 150 for 3 days
• Private Parking Lots

The ever widening imbalance between the parking demand and supply equation and the
limited ability of the local administration to cater to the problem has encouraged some
local entrepreneurs in Govind Ghat to invest in providing private parking. Currently, two
such parking lots exist in Govind Ghat that can accommodate 8 and 6 cars respectively.
However, interactions with local residents indicate that more such investments are
envisaged as more landowners are considering the option, given the high parking rates.
However, the current private parking spaces in the area are very limited.
The capacity of the private parking lot is as follows:
Private Parking Lot
Location: At the start of side road to Govind Ghat Gurdwara
Total area of private parking lot is 200 square meters (approximately).

Small Car 14
Note: 10% of the area has been set aside for circulation space. It is presumed
that this lot is used for only car parking.
Parking Charges: The parking charges at the private parking lots are as follows:
Cars 150 for 3 days
• Informal & Unorganised Roadside Parking Lots

Apart from the above-mentioned organised parking lots, a few informal parking
spaces too exist in the area mostly along widening on the road. The numbers of
such parking spaces are few and cause more of an inconvenience on the already
narrow hill roads.
Parking Management
It is imperative that the effective parking management measures be exercised to
ensure that the main road is not choked and that people are provided with

10-271
convenient access to the tourist areas. A twin pronged approach is recommended

to the issue of parking which strives to augment the supply by providing
additional parking spaces but also manages the demand.
Parking Supply Management Measures
Supply management essentially focuses on augmenting the supply of parking in
the area through provision of additional parking lots. A few potential locations
for additional parking spaces exist on the slope between the main Haridwar-
Badrinath road and the access road to Govind Ghat. These could be developed
into multi-tier parking slots.
At certain locations, land owned by individuals is being developed into parking
lots, in Govind Ghat itself. There is an urgent need to co-ordinate such efforts to
ensure that the parking problem is effectively addressed.
Small stray efforts by individuals to cash on the demand for parking by
providing private parking lots with no overall co-ordination will result in a
significant wastage of precious space due to multiplicity of access ramps. The
local administration could facilitate groups of small landowners to provide for a
unified parking space on their combined land thus reducing duplicity of access
ramps and optimisation of circulation space. Aggregation of the smaller land
parcels on the hill slopes opens up the potential of providing medium sized
multi-tiers parking spaces that could effectively redresses the parking problem.
To enable aggregation of land parcels into unified parking facilities the local
administration would need to undertake the following:
• Facilitate and co-ordinate between land parcel owners to plan such initiatives
• Provide technical expertise such as structural & parking facility design
• Provide access to capital to fund the initiatives.
However, results through the above measure could be slow and would not
totally meet the additional parking requirements. Alternate parking spaces
would need to be created further down the road in the direction of Haridwar by
cutting of the mountain slopes as has been done in the case of Parking Lot – I &
II. A review of the immediate road section indicates that the options of widening
the road are limited in the immediate vicinity of the town. In light of the above,
alternate parking lots could be explored at locations away from the town
between Govind Ghat & Pandukeshwar, and visitors have to park their vehicles
only between these parking lots.
Park-&-Ride Facility
Park-&-Ride facility is a plausible option that is being actively pursued to
alleviate the parking problem in areas with high parking demand, which is not

10-272
consistent throughout the year. The provision of permanent parking to offset

demand is generally considered against two aspects:
• Ability of an area to provide additional permanent parking
• Sustainable carrying capacity of the area.
Both the above are limited in Govind Ghat. A viable alternative is to locate
parking spots set away from the immediate vicinity of the settlement not
necessarily within easy walking distance. Access to & from these alternate
parking lots to the area around the Gurdwara could be provided by small eco-
friendly ferry services, such as shuttle buses, or through battery or gas based
tempos that would run intermittently. The pricing of the park-&-ride facility
could be integrated into the parking fee.
Parking Fee Management
Pricing of parking facilities has come to be accepted as an effective tool in
attempts to regulate the parking demand. It is recommended that Pricing
Management of parking be effectively used in this case.
Parking space in the hill towns is always at a premium and Govind Ghat is not
an exception. Existing parking rates range between Rs. 50 to Rs.100 per day for
car /bus and these could be revised upwards. The various options that could be
considered are:
• Determining the pricing in four tiers – A, B, C & Z with differential parking
charges.
− Parking Spaces ‘A’ - would be highest priced. The parking lots closest to
Govind Ghat could be designated as ‘A’. Pricing of parking slots in these
areas could go as high as say 4-5 times the existing rates per car, the exact
figures need to be decided by the local administration.
− Parking Spaces ‘B’ - would be medium priced. These would typically be
between ‘A’ & ‘C’. Pricing of parking slots in these areas could be raised
say 2-3 times the existing rates per car.
− Parking Spaces ‘C’ - would be the cheapest priced. These would typically
be the parking lots located farthest from Govind Ghat with adequate park-
n-ride facility. Pricing of parking slots in these areas could be the existing
rates per car.
− Parking Spaces ‘Z’ – would not be permanent parking areas and would be
used as designated spaces for boarding and alighting of passengers from
vehicle used for park-&-ride facility. The parking lot at the end of the side
road leading to the Gurdwara could be designated as ‘Z’. No vehicles
would be allowed to remain standing at these locations. Since access to the

10-273
lots would be restricted to the vehicles used for park-&-ride facility and
emergency vehicles – these would not be priced.
The objective of the upward revision of parking fee would be to deter and
regulate parking in the immediate vicinity of Govind Ghat and is not aimed at
profitability. However, additional funds generated from the proposed parking
management could be utilised towards partial funding of additional parking
capacity.
Planned Works
• GMVN Proposal: Construction of additional parking facility at Govind Ghat
(Project cost - Rs. 40.00 lakhs approx., Amount sanctioned, Project Status -
under construction, Targeted to be completed by 2003-2004)
Proposed Works
• Provision of additional parking space of about 10,000 sqm, which may be
provided at multiple locations along the Badrinath road in between Govind
Ghat and Pandukeshwar
8.1.3 Extension of Motorable Road
The destinations of Hemkunt Shrine and the Valley of Flowers are accessible through a
trek path from Govind Ghat (refer Exhibit 8.1). The trek can be broken up into multiple
legs on the basis of the intermediate settlements as described in Table 2.1 of Chapter 2.
A review of this trek path and the area through which it passes indicates that the
entire area besides being a reserved forest and a bio-reserve is extremely
ecologically sensitive. Vehicular intrusion and the accompanying commercial &
tourist activity along the above trek should be carefully weighed against
probable ecological impacts.
Extending a road on the entire trek route up to Ghangharia is a very sensitive issue in
view of the sensitive ecology, geology, dependent local community etc. This would mean
that a lot of cutting of the rocks, cutting of trees, land filling at places, disturbance to the
settlement, huge negative impact on the dependent community including shopkeepers,
mule owners etc would be involved. The consultants recommend that a detailed socio-
ecological impact analysis of the area be conducted before any such option is
considered in view of the geological sensitivity of the region and the socio-economic
benefits it could accrue to the society. However, pending such a study, the consultants
based on the present study are of the opinion that developing a motorable road in the
initial section of the 3 km long trek path between Govind Ghat and Pulna is a plausible
option, subject to the necessary environmental clearances based on an environmental
impact analysis statement once a DPR is prepared. Such an alignment would improve
the motorable accessibility while limiting the external intrusion in the area. The need of
an investigation on the proposal for the road from Govind Ghat till Pulna as requested by
the then Union Minister Sri. Jagmohan & Pulna Community Members for providing basic
road accessibility for emergent needs of the community and controlling the tourist
vehicular traffic load near Govind Ghat, was communicated to the consultants by the
DoT, Uttaranchal.

10-274
Exhibit 8.1: Indicative Trek Path Alignment from Govind Ghat to Valley of
Flowers-Hemkunt Sahib
3 Kms
Valley of Flowers
4 Kms 6 Kms
Ghangharia
Proposed Motorable
Section Hemkunt
6 Kms
Bhyundar Village Shrine
Pulna
Village
Basic Determinants for a Motorable Road in the Region
Trek Path-3
Kms (approx.)
Govin
Based on d
a preliminary review of the site, the following observations have been
Ghat
made:
• The entire area is an ecological sensitive area
• The mountains comprise of crystalline rock formations with boulders of
various sizes and soil deposits at the bottom
• The area is highly prone to land slides given the nature of rocks and their
geological structure. The river in this section is active with extensive rock
cutting on a continuous basis.
• The slopes are generally steep with exposed rocks making the hill cutting for
a road formation capital intensive, may require blasting as well to make cuts.
The steep slopes also imply that a significant length of the road would need
to be cut into the slope. Construction of retaining embankment walls to
support ‘fills’ would not be viable on all sections.
Design Considerations
Design considerations for the road should include the following:
• Right of Way (ROW)
Right of way should be as per Guidelines for Hill Roads by Indian Roads
Congress. However a minimum ROW width of 5.95 meters should be provided
with adequate provisions for parking of stalled and broken down vehicles, and
proper shoulders and one-side drain should also be planned for.
• Road Signage
All mandatory information and cautionary road signs should be provided on the
route.
• Road Markings

10-275
Road markings assume critical importance on hill roads. All road markings
including lane markings, pavement edge markings, etc should be provided on
the road.
• Other Safety Measures
The road must have a provision for crash barriers, which could be metal plate
design /stone masonry / CC pillars/ Empty tar drums filled with soil or grit, etc.
These must be properly painted (white or colour) for better visibility and
enhanced life of these barriers. Street lighting may also be planned along this
road for travel in dark (sun sets normally by 6.00 pm), but should be ensured
that it is switched off after cessation of traffic between Pulna and Govind Ghat
(say, by 8.00 pm) to avoid creating any distractions for the wild life during night.
The PWD, local host community, EDC members, Mahila Mandal, Yuvak Mandal,
Forest department staff, etc may share this responsibility for putting on & off
these street lights. Also, driving on this road in the night will not be permitted
between 8.00 pm – 6.00 am, unless it is an emergency requirement of the local
community of Pulna village.
Options for Motorable Road to Pulna
A motorable road to Pulna Village connecting it with the road to Badrinath could
be laid along two alignments, details of which have been explored by the
Uttaranchal Public Works Department earlier in the year 2000 as part of the
larger proposal up to Ghangharia.
• Alignment – I: Pandukeshwar (from start of access road on Badrinath motor
road to Yogdhyan Temple) to Pulna (5 km long road)
• Alignment – II: Govind Ghat to Pulna (6 km long road)
The basic determinants to the provision of a road to Pulna Village mentioned
earlier are common for both the road alignments. Not only alignment option-II
appears to be a longer road and the provision of a bridge at Govind Ghat also
makes it difficult and costlier option. This is primarily because Govind Ghat is
situated at the confluence of two rivers and the surrounding geological
structures are susceptible to the simultaneous cutting by two rivers. This would
make the positioning and design of the bridge to cross the river a challenging
task while also increasing the cost. In addition to the presence of two rivers, the
mountain slope opposite Govind Ghat is particularly steep at this location and
may require more number of hairpin bends.
A preliminary review of the alignment of the PWD road indicates that extending
the road to Pulna Village could be possible. However, existing data available for
the alignments considered is preliminary and would need to be supported with
detailed investigations.

10-276
Technically, both the options seem plausible, however, the consultants recommend that
the final decision on the road alignment should be based on a comparison of the two
alignments mentioned above, by the PWD. The comparison would involve extensive
geo-technical surveys required (that includes soil characteristics, local surface
hydrology, etc.) to determine feasibility. Ecological surveys and an Environmental Impact
Assessment Statement by the executing agency PWD would also be required to gain the
necessary approvals from the Department of Forests and conformance to the Forest
(Conservation) Act, 1980 to lay a road from Govind Ghat/Pandukeshwar to Pulna in a
protected biosphere area (the area affected under diversion of land for road purposes (5
km long and about 6 m wide ROW) would be approximately 30000 sqm or 3 ha.
Department of Forests may identify land for plantation in lieu of these diverted lands and
can get plantation done with involvement of local community members – like Mahila
Mandal, Yuvak Mandal, EDC etc.
Planned Works
A proposal for Alignment – I for 5 km long 5.95 m wide ROW road to Pulna
already exists by PWD. However, it was informed that the costing is done at the
old rate of Rs. 14.40 lakhs per km of road stretch based on the rates for motorable
roads fixed by CE (Parvatiya Samanvaya), PWD, Almora applicable since
01/05/1999. Hence, this may be revised with the current rates applicable for
Prime Minister Gram Sadak Yojana, which is about Rs. 20 lakhs per km of road
stretch with 5.95 m ROW. This may also be increased by the average of increased
distance & height index for Govind Ghat and Pulna. The costing for this road &
bridge has been kept in both phases of implementation plan (each phase is of 2
years) with the presumption that it would take at least 1 year for PWD to get all
the clearances and permissions to go ahead with this project. Thereafter in the 2nd
year of Phase-I some work on approach road and bridge near Govind Ghat can
start. And it is assumed that remaining part of the road and the same bridge
should get completed by another 2 years of Phase-II, and become operational.
Proposed works (in the event of developing road till Pulna)
• For further travel of visitors to Pulna, a park-&-ride facility that is eco-
friendly (i.e. driven by gas or battery technology) is recommended to be
arranged to ferry tourists between Govind Ghat via Pandukeshwar to Pulna
(if the road is developed from Govind Ghat to Pulna). No private vehicles
will be allowed on the new road till Pulna if the road is developed. Only ferry
service will be permitted else the thrust on land at Pulna to create additional
support infrastructure will increase.
Financial assistance can be provided under State’s Funding Scheme “Veer
Chandra Singh Garhwali Scheme” for promotion of Tourism to facilitate local
employment generation that may procure such eco-friendly vehicles and run
the ferry services.
• Provision of new parking space for the eco friendly park and ride ferry is
proposed for about 500 sqm near Pulna which will be managed by villagers

10-277
by pooling in their private land (a few of them were reported to be interested

in leasing off their lands).
8.1.4 Anticipated Impact of Extending a Motorable Road to Pulna
A presentation of the options to extend the accessibility of motor vehicles to
Pulna Village and providing motorable accessibility to the only permanent
settlement of Pulna on this route with the end objective of reducing the distance
to be travelled on foot to access Hemkunt Shrine or the Valley of Flowers would
need to be accompanied with an enumeration of the possible socio-economic
impacts.
As mentioned above, while the advantages of extending a motorable road up to
Village Pulna may seem significant, these should be weighed against the possible
impacts on Village Pulna and Govind Ghat. Some of these issues have been
presented and discussed below.
The consultants do not imply that the road not be extended, the purpose of
elucidating these challenges is essentially to ensure that the decision is more
informed and takes into consideration the finer implications of the planned
development of infrastructure in the area. To deal with some of the issues, the
consultants propose that the government agencies (DoT, PWD, DoF, etc.) liase
extensively with the local resident population and adopt a participative
approach before arriving at a final conclusion.
Impact on Pulna
• Increased need of space for parking
The reach of vehicles up to the village would need to be accompanied with
adequate provisions for parking space. In the absence of which this extended
section of the road would remain largely un-utilised and could become a
possible bottleneck. In view of this, only ferry ride and no private vehicles are
proposed on the road.
Also, there would need of space for mules and palki walas as this will in
effect be their new starting point.
• Increased need for ancillary infrastructure
Ancillary infrastructure such as the office of the local administration, the eco-
development committee, police post, fire post, health & emergency care
facilities etc. just to name a few may need to be housed in the village area.
• Increased demand for Boarding and other tourist facilities in the village
Shifting the last motorable point would also lead to a significant thrust for
boarding facilities by the tourists. In other words a mini Govind Ghat would
emerge at Pulna. This would significantly change the existing character of the

10-278
village and have negative impact on the land use pattern and environment if
not planned properly. The intrusion of boarding lodges, small hotels,
dharamshalas, eateries, restaurants, kiosks and ships and the associated space
required by people who service these establishments would be significant
and could alter the character of the area. In view of this thrust, as mentioned
above, private vehicles will not be permitted and base support infrastructure
will still be Govind Ghat alone.
• Increased pressure on waste disposal and management in the village
Waste management on the hill settlements is a major challenge and the ability
of the village to process large amount of waste that would be generated due
to increased commercial and tourist activity would be a concern for
sustainable development.
• Environmental Impact
Constructing a motorable road will invite many impacts to the environment,
some of which may be critical, if not properly planned. Since the trek path is
proposed to be widened to more than twice the width, it may result in
geological disturbances, cutting of trees etc. It will also put pressure on the
flora and fauna of the surrounding region. Clearing area for parking would
have an impact on the land use through use of agricultural land of Pulna
village and may result in changes in the topography. It is proposed that a
detailed environmental impact assessment be carried out once the technical
feasibility is worked out.
• Socio-cultural impact due to the changes in the social fabric of the village
community (Largely due to the intrusion of outsiders in the local social fabric)
The economic and commercial activity would bring a large number of
outsiders seeking economic and commercial gains to the village. This would
alter the character of the village from what it is currently. Though the
negative impacts could be minimised if well managed with active
participation of the villagers and co-operation of the local administration.
Impact on Govind Ghat
• Diminishing importance of Govind Ghat as the last motorable point enroute
to Hemkunt and Valley of Flowers
The shift of the last motorable point to Hemkunt from Govind Ghat to Pulna
would significantly impact the importance of Govind Ghat as the central
focus of all administrative, economic and commercial activity during the
tourist season. Though the impact would largely be dependent on the amount
of economic activity generated at Pulna.

10-279
Some of the amenities and facilities created as part of the extensive tourism
support infrastructure at Govind Ghat could be rendered defunct with the
replication of such facilities at Pulna Village. Until such time that there is
significant tourist inflow to warrant to sustain these facilities, there would be
need to identify alternate uses and ensure adequate upkeep & maintenance.
8.1.5 Trek Path
The trek path as discussed in Chapter 2 is not in good maintained condition,
especially in various stretches. PWD had planned certain upgradation works to
be undertaken along the trek path.
Planned Works
• Repair Work of Govind Ghat-Ghangharia Trek/Pedestrian Path is proposed
by the PWD for which partial sanction has been granted recently. This work
is expected to commence from next season onwards (i.e. April end-May 2004)
and has been accorded high priority to make the accessibility comfortable.
The work sub-heads planned and related to upgradation enroute are listed
below:
− Rebuilding the damaged retaining walls within various stretches of the
path starting from Govind Ghat
o 1 km (Project Cost = Rs. 0.90 lakhs)
Recommendations
It is proposed that the trek path till Ghangharia be widened to about 10 ft with
separate paths - mules (4 ft. wide) and pedestrians (6 ft. wide). For cross drainage
55 small culverts (for small seasonal stream lines observed) have been suggested.
While, for cross drainage the mule trek path being little lower can act as a drain
surface as well, and at regular intervals (approximately 10 cross drainage points
per km) it is suggested to make small drops under the mule trek path portion as
water collection chamber (1’ wide x 4’ long as per mule trek path width x 11’’
deep) and each chamber covered with two removable RCC slab chamber covers
(1’6” wide x 2’ long x 2” thick) with grated openings (openings should be small
enough like 1-1/2” dia @ 4” c/c, so that mule toes don’t get stuck and there is no
danger of mule tripping over it) for water to drop and get drained across the
remaining pedestrian trek path portion through a small hume pipe (1’ dia x 6’
long as per pedestrian trek path width). The area affected for diversion of land
for trek path expansion is approximately 16000 sqm or 1.6 ha. Department of
Forests may identify land for plantation in lieu of these diverted lands and can

10-280
get plantation done with involvement of local community members – like Mahila
Mandal, Yuvak Mandal, EDC, etc.
The development proposals for the same are:
• Separate trek path for mules (4 ft. wide) and pedestrians (6 ft. wide) from
Pulna till Ghangharia is proposed. Meanwhile, till the road is developed from
Govind Ghat to Pulna, this portion of the trek path could also be upgraded to
10 ft. wide. The pedestrian path is proposed to be 10 cm above the mule trek
path.
• Widening of Trek path base in Stone Kharanja/Masonry work (12500 m long
by average 4 ft. or 1.2 m width and 9" or 0.225 m deep)
• Pucca CC (1:2:4) trek path upgradation with dimensions 12500 m long x 1.8 m
wide x 0.20 m thick under pedestrian path and 12500 m long x 1.2 m wide x
0.10 m thick under mule path. The top surface would have engraved grooves
in herringbone diagonal / straight pattern with size of each groove pattern as
length - 212 mm, width - 100 mm, and width & depth of groove as 12 mm
each, to provide grip for humans / animals while trekking. It shall be ensured
that the quality of the materials used for concreting is appropriate as per
design and the concreting work is of the highest quality, so that it does not
get damaged easily due to regular use by the pedestrians & mules.
• Construction of 1.15 m high x 12500 m long MS railing along one side of the
trek path – all painted in dark green.
• GI Wire mesh (24 gauge /144 mesh per sqm) bracing to hold hill side slopes
up to 4' high along the mule trek path edge (excluding portions of Kanjila
flatter land)
• Provision of 2 removable RCC 1:2:4 slab chamber covers (1’ wide x 4’ ft long x
11” deep) with grated openings and cross drainage Hume Pipe (1’ dia x 6’
long) as discussed above at approximate regular intervals of 10 such locations
per km.
• A 50 m long x 5 m wide strong causeway approximately at 9.25 km - 9.30 km
point after Bhyundar village, preferably in RCC is proposed. This spot is the
location of one of the largest avalanche prone areas along the trek path.
• The infrastructure services like water supply and storm water drainage are
proposed to be laid parallel to the paths. Before the start of the tourist season,
maintenance measures are recommended to strengthen the condition of the
path (as it would not be in use for about 5 months in winter and which may
get affected in landslides/avalanches, etc.) and for better visitor safety.
• Construction of small culverts (1m x 0.5m span) with minor retaining
wing/support walls and RCC 1:2:4 slab (1m x 3m x 0.15 m size) for cross

10-281
drainage from adjacent hill slopes at low-lying areas of the path, where water
flow quantum may be more leading to accumulation and subsequent flow
over the trek path (about 55 small stream lines observed where such small
culverts can be provided).
Note: Wherever the upper hill slope along the trek path side is very steep/almost
vertical, where the widening of trek path by cutting the slope is difficult, there
the trek path may be widened with RCC slabs supported on stilts on the
down/lower side of hill slope, if feasible. The exteriors of this RCC component
shall be painted in dark green to blend with the environment.
8.1.6 Installation of Ropeway from Govind Ghat to Kanjila (near
Ghangharia)
Installation of an aerial ropeway from Govind

Ghat till Kanjila (near Ghangharia) has been
considered by the Nanda Devi Biosphere
Reserve Authority, Department of Forests on
the premise that it will contribute to eco-
friendly and sustainable tourism in the area.
This aerial ropeway has been suggested as an
alternative to the 12.5 km trek between the
base settlement of Govind Ghat and
Ghangharia enroute to the Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt Sahib.
Some of the benefits enumerated are:
• It is anticipated to reduce the pressure on the trek trail.
• It is anticipated to make the Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt more accessible
to international tourists.
• The ropeway might open up avenues for winter tourism in the area till
Ghangharia. This would improve access to Bhyundar valley during the
winter months when plenty of wild life viewing can be done.
• Ropeway would facilitate aerial surveillance to protect the biodiversity. This
plays a key role in sustaining eco-tourism in the area.

10-282
In view of the recommendation made by the NDBR authority, a preliminary

examination of the potential and possibilities of a ropeway were carried out by
the consultants. However, a detailed feasibility of the ropeway has been out of
scope of the present project.
An aerial ropeway requires considerable capital investment and the feasibility
needs to be weighed against its advantages and disadvantages.
The consultants recommend that the option of a ropeway between Govind Ghat
and Kanjila should be considered for its techno-economic feasibility before
consideration as a plausible transportation option. The indicative scope of such a
study, though not limited to, should address:
• The techno-economic feasibility of considering an aerial ropeway for the
entire 9 km (approximate) of aerial distance
• Environmental Impact Statement (EIA) that addresses the impact of the
environmental impact of the ropeway besides establishing the basis for the
necessary environmental clearances for natural bio-spheres
• Conduct a willingness-to-pay survey to assess the financial feasibility of the
project
Prima facie, the proposed ropeway system is expected to have the following
basic physical characteristics (approximately):
• 1) Length = 9000m (9 km) - aerial distance between the start and end points
• 2) Vertical Difference = about 1200 m (1.2 km) between the start and end
points
• 3) Altitude (Height) = 1828 m to about 3000 m above mean sea level
The above presents a very challenging proposition for a ropeway that would
have significant impact on its cost and technological feasibility. Following are
few points that may have to be looked upon first among others for a pre-
feasibility understanding by the Govt.:
• The proposed ropeway far exceeds the length of the longest ropeway in Asia
at Auli Ski-resort with a length of about 4 km. Going roughly by the new
"Gondola" type flexible systems (these also have higher capacity & offer
closed cabins for weather protection) of ropeway at ski resorts planned at
higher altitudes in India being of 3-4 km length, the ropeway system required
between Govind Ghat & Kanjila may have to be split-up into multiple
ropeways. This would increase the number of terminal points and angle
points (if the alignment requires an angle between, then an angle point would
be required). These would lead to higher installation costs (instead of a
normal 2 terminals for an average ropeway of 3-4 km in hilly terrain

10-283
destinations). Normally, only when the terrain is flatter and the vertical drop
is very less that the single ropeway can cover a much larger distance.
• Ropeway can primarily be used during the current pattern of tourist season
from Jun-Sep (4 months) to Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt, only from the start
point of Govind Ghat to Kanjila (near Ghangharia) and back. From Kanjila to
Ghangharia-Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt, the visitors have to continue to walk
or take the services of mules (except in Valley of Flowers)/porters/palki
carriers as in the present scenario. Any extension of this tourist season will be
applicable only to scenic viewing of the snow covered hill slopes &
peaks/snow covered flora/wild life (fauna)/water falls. Even if tourist
season in this Bhyundar valley is to be extended, it is possible only by one &
half months for the scenic enjoyment through ropeway ride from Oct. (after
Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt destination is closed) to mid Nov. (when the
visitation to Badrinath is also closed). It is important to note that because after
mid Nov. tourist traffic ends in the region when the Badrinath is closed and
also as a full fledged ropeway-cum-ski resort (all weather destination - hill
station in summer and ski resort in winter) attraction exists at nearby Auli
(just 16 kms away from Joshimath) for winter tourism offering a
complete/longer holiday experience with ropeway-cum-skiing & resort
opportunities, developing this region for the same may not be feasible.
• Also, this 18 km long 2-way ride may roughly take 1.5-2 hours (based on no.
of terminal & intermediate points and other technicalities) and in total this
sight seeing trip may take a minimum of 4 hours duration from Joshimath-
Govind Ghat-Kanjila & back to Joshimath without any halt for refreshment
and with no facilities for stay/refreshment operational during the winter
season either at the start point of ropeway at Govind Ghat and return point of
Kanjila (near Ghangharia). The parking space at this time may also be
covered under snow and may require arrangements to keep it clear of snow
and open for use. Also, some ancillary support for vehicle maintenance
requirement may also be necessary in that case at Govind Ghat. In the current
scenario, due to the availability of ropeway-cum-ski resort all weather
destination at Auli; with accommodation/refreshment/other infrastructural
facilities not operational in Govind Ghat from Oct. onwards and no
possibility of such option at Kanjila; it is not expected to create enough
demand among tourists for visiting the ropeway and for this form of tourism.
• Since any other tourist activity such as professional skiing near Kanjila is not
possible due to its terrain and any attached permanent resort structure is not
possible at Kanjila to compliment the ropeway development (already the
tourist season is limited) as it is a Van Panchayat land created from Reserve
Forests (is part of NDBR buffer zone as well), the likely leverage of an
investment (at a ball park figure based on other Indian projects with lesser

10-284
vertical difference), it could easily be about Rs. 50 crores or more) for such a 9
km long ropeway (one-way length) would have to be understood. General
operation and maintenance costs are about of 20%-25% of capital costs
annually, for a Gondola type flexible system. To make such an investment
where revenue is expected for a short 4-month season only does not prima-
facie look feasible.
• The impact on the dependent community needs to be taken into
consideration while evolving alternate mechanisms. Though it is
understandable, that the availability of helicopter services as planned by
Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd. from the coming season will normally be taken
up by those with higher paying capacities, it may not really effect much on
reduction of load on ropeway system or trek path. However, it is important to
understand that if people prefer ropeway instead of taking mules or trek
thereby reducing the pressure on trek altogether, the local establishments
dependent currently fully on the tourists taking trek path (either using
mules/porter/palki/walk) from Govind Ghat to Kanjila (near Ghangharia)
may get seriously impacted on their business/earnings, affecting the
economy of local host community as well as the livelihood of those mule
operators/porters/palki carriers (even if these economically weaker sections
are from neighbouring regions / outside the immediate local host community
currently) on this stretch which is basically two-thirds of the total trek route
from Govind Ghat to Hemkunt in these short 4 months of tourist season.
• Eco-tourism has been highly effective in instances where it is “by and of the
people” and encourages a decentralised tourism that does not require much
infrastructure development. Since, the Govt. normally intends to play a role
of the facilitator, such a large investment of about Rs. 50 crores and more for
the installation and operation of ropeway as a centralised transport
infrastructure may have to be undertaken by a Private Investor, who in
normal circumstances cannot be from the local host community of this region
(Govind Ghat, and Bhyundar/Pulna). It is a well-known fact that these
communities have very small land holdings, and mostly depend on their
involvement in tourism and other means as provisioned under the joint forest
management programme applicable in the non-core zones of the biosphere
reserve, and would also not have the entrepreneurial wherewithal to run such
a sophisticated transportation system for tourism purposes only. The local
community, which depends on the light commercial stalls put up enroute/ at
Pulna/at Bhyundar, etc will suffer in respect to such earnings once they are
not at the terminal points (and also even for personal transportation) and
people shift away to ropeway as the transportation mode. Also, the local
community members may not be able to afford this ropeway ride for their

10-285
personal use of self/goods transportation, until and unless heavily

subsidised.
• Usage of ropeway for surveillance of the area for bio-diversity protection as
suggested by Department of Forests, may also be an expensive matter if the
pricing of ropeway rides is high and until and unless it is highly subsidised
by Govt. for usage of Department of Forests. Some of the current pricing for
ropeway rides as applicable in other tourist destinations in Uttaranchal is
given below for an indication: Rs. 60 is charged for about 3 km long 2-way
ride at Nainital, Rs. 200 is charged for about 8 km long 2-way ride at Auli Ski-
Resort, etc.
• It has been experience of National Parks in other parts of the developed
world that recreational use began to influence the nature more strongly, than
protection strategies could manage. These National Parks’ administrations
now face the big question how to influence the behaviour of tourists from the
view of nature protection.
• Installation of such a long ropeway is going to affect the Reserve Forest Land
& Van Panchayat Land (created from Reserve Forests) that would be
impacted during the construction and for the actual passenger ropeway
installed is not known and whether it would be permitted by the Ministry of
Forests & Environment under Forest Legislations in this Reserve Forest area,
which is also a part of the biosphere. In case of installation, an environmental
examination needs to be conducted after final design, to evolve mitigation
measures applicable during construction and operational stages.
• The pleasure and dedication of walking for 12.5 km up the hill from Govind
Ghat to Ghangharia is an interesting and adventurous component of eco-
tourism, apart from being able to contribute directly to the economy of the
local community.
The feasibility of an aerial ropeway would need to be weighed against the above
issues. Based on the present study, considering the above, prima facie the aerial
ropeway option does not seem to be feasible.
However, as mentioned previously, a techno-economic feasibility followed by
EIA need to be undertaken. If found plausible in consideration of the technical
expectations and the containment of the environmental impact, the feasibility
study need to be followed with a detailed project report (DPR) that would
explore the technology options. Such design report would be dependent on
alignment, slope length, vertical rise and fall, span distance, capacity, wind
performance, terminal/angle points also based on alignment, architecture, etc. It
would also determine specifications for safety/rescue/emergency response
mechanism, which are necessary. It would also include the geological feasibility,
availability of power/accessibility for ropeway construction & construction

10-286
modes (i.e. either using helicopters or creating a parallel material ropeway for
carrying construction material). The environmental impacts would also be
necessary to be known apart for the requirement of diversion of Reserve Forest
Land & Van Panchayat Land (created out of Reserve Forests) for setting up of
ropeway system (poles, terminal/intermediate points & other related utilities,
rescue evacuation access paths/space), like impact on species of flora for which
this valley is famous, disturbance to fauna, air/water/noise pollution during the
construction (with relatively longer duration of construction period), air/noise
pollution near the terminal/intermediate points during operation due to use
diesel generator sets and the capacity/power of ropeway drives, etc.
While ropeway experts can provide designs, technical details, and costs for the
same; the impact of the development of the same on bio-diversity and eco-
tourism can better be advised by bio-diversity experts, like Wildlife Institute of
India, National Botanical Research Institute, etc.
8.2 Tourist Amenities
8.2.1 Amenity Cluster
It is proposed to develop amenity clusters at regular intervals to facilitate tourists
who are proceeding towards Ghangharia. The cluster types will essentially will
be providing the following mix of necessary amenities:
Cluster A
• Snacks/ Fast food centre: average 8 in number, with a seating capacity of 15
people each (area of each unit = 20 sqm)
• Souvenir Shop, 1 in number of size 20 sqm run by Mahila Mandal. This will
also function as a tourist information desk.
• First Aid Box to be kept with the Mahila Mandal representatives/paramedics
at the Souvenir Shop
m x 3 m).
• One Covered Rest Shed of area 15 sqm with 5 benches (2 ft. x 5 ft. size)
• One large size waste collection pit (dark green painted MS iron cage that can
be easily assembled & removed) to be used by EDC cleaning staff to dump
the waste collected from trek path/sides & enroute establishments, before its
transported down to locations where waste compression equipment units are
placed for waste compression and/or to Govind Ghat for
incineration/recycling. These cages should be airy, should not spill, and

10-287

Cluster B
• Snacks/ Fast food centre: average 6 in number, with a seating capacity of 15
people each (area of each unit = 20 sqm)
m x 3 m).
• One Covered Rest Shed of area 15 sqm with 5 benches (2 ft. x 5 ft. size)
• The trek path between the cluster to be partially covered
Cluster C
• Covered Rest Shed, 2 numbers (each of area 15 sqm) with 5 benches (2 ft. x 5
ft. size) in each shed.
Spatial Spread of Cluster Types
The location of the cluster has been decided based on the average trek distance
coupled with the steepness of the gradient when a person may feel tired to take
rest with smaller clusters located at frequent intervals of 0.75 km – 1 km. The
availability of any existing suitable land if very close by to a derived location is
also considered, instead of creating any new space in the Forest/Van Panchayat
area by cutting or filling.
Cluster A will be provided approximately near Pulna (3 km point), 6 km point,
and at 9.60 km point. Cluster B will be provided approximately near 1.5 km, 5
km, 7.2 km, 8.5 km, 10.95 km and 12 km from Govind Ghat. Cluster C will be
approximately near following points: 1.05 km, 2.10 km, 2.6 km, 3.9 km, 4.3 km,
6.75 km, 8 km, 10.3 km, 11.35 km from Govind Ghat.
Additional set of 2 uncovered benches (2 ft. x 5 ft. size each) is also proposed to
be provided along the trek path wherever the path is relatively stepper at the
following distances (and to be disassembled after tourist season):
• At an interval of 0.25 km distance from Govind Ghat till Cluster B at 1.5 km
point
• At an interval of 0.20 km distance after 1.5 km point till 4 km point
• At an interval of 0.15 km distance after 4 km point till Bhyundar (at 8.75 km
point)
• At an interval of 0.10 km distance after Bhyundar till Ghangharia.
Vista Points
Two covered but temporary sloped roof vista points are proposed along the
route. The structure could be spread in 3 m dia and can make provisions for

10-288
scenic viewing with a telescope facility at each vista point. View information
should also be provided by a display board. These vista points should have clean
toilet facility and waste bin, if they are away from a planned cluster facility.
Building Character and Control Regulations
All the amenity cluster spaces are proposed to be of temporary structures (except
for the small plinth bases for cluster amenities/toilets, wherever necessary).
A uniform character is proposed for the cluster amenities/toilets. This will be
maintained by following temporary sloped roof steel truss structure, with
corrugated GI sheet roof & wall – all painted in dark green on exteriors (to blend
with the environment). All these structures would be disassembled at the end of
tourist season and can be kept in EDC Stores at Ghangharia, Bhyundar and
Pulna as per the nearest location for these structures, and would be reassembled
before the next tourist season.
8.2.2 Solid Waste Collection & Disposal
• Very evident and attractive turnable solid waste collection bins are proposed
to be placed at different points from Govind Ghat to Ghangharia (@ 100 m
interval).
• 1 Solid waste compression equipment unit is proposed to be placed at Pulna
for compressing non-biodegradable waste generated from Ghangharia to
Pulna.
• Waste collection area will be managed more scientifically with arrangements
for stacking the compressed bags in large Iron cage pits that can easily
contain some 50 or more sacks. These cages should be airy, should not spill,
and neither should weather out in a season (plastic cages were not
recommended due to the reason of these getting brittle in sun and may get
damaged early, these would not be as airy, and would be susceptible to fire
as discussed in Chapter 5 on Environment Management Plan).
• Compressed plastic waste is proposed to be transported down and used for
incineration at Govind Ghat incinerator (existing proposal)/reprocessing by
recycling of any excess load. Contracts for purchase of this waste for recycling
could be given so that government cost of collection and transportation can
be reduced. Also sacks if in good condition, should be re-used for collection
and transportation of waste.
8.2.3 Toilets Enroute
Planned Works

10-289
• EDC is constructing 2 pucca toilet complexes (each with 4 seats – 2 for men
and 2 for women) one near Pulna and one at the entrance to the Ghangharia
settlement (Size of each complex = 4.6 m x 2.75 m = 12.65 sqm)
New Proposals
The proposals for the toilets enroute are:
• Management of toilets (urinals) is an immediate concern. People urinating
openly and near water bodies have to be checked immediately as it can be a
health hazard apart from visual pollution. Proper arrangement of efficient
toilets (urinals as well as latrines) made of temporary sloped roofed structure
for both sexes must be made enroute in optimum numbers. The toilet
seats/urinals should be made of material like ceramic that can be cleaned
efficiently. The toilets should have water saver cisterns. One Urinal is
recommended to be provided at every 0.5 km interval. Chemical toilets/Dry
toilets are available in international markets, may be similar ones can be
explored/developed locally too.
• The structure of the urinals should be such that these cannot be used as
latrines providing least scope for sitting at these sites.
• The current urinals are tin funnels that get stinky from frequent use and poor
cleanliness. Urinals should be of the material that can be cleaned easily and
efficiently.
• Arrangements for cleaning these urinals should be made so that each tourist
at each time gets a clean urinal or toilet. This is a basic facility that has to be
provided and would be operated on ‘Pay & Use’ Facility model. Factors like
cost of use or maintenance can be worked out with the authorities like
Department of Forests, Department of Tourism, NGOs and survey of tourists
in a test year.
• Urine from urinals may not be allowed to drain into rivers or natural
ecosystem of the protected area but a system of its purification should be an
in-built option. The urine from urinals should be filtered through pits
containing sand, soil and gravel mixed proportionately before the urine is
drained out. Unmanaged disposal is a serious concern as water pipes are laid
underneath/beside the trek path and cross towards the village sites. Water
pipes were found exposed at many locations or in contact with wastewater
and could lead to infection from the urinals and latrines. Several of such
points were observed which could be the possible source of infection for the
villagers and unprepared visitors. Thus the urine should be passed through
tanks of gravel, sand, and soil (2.5 m long x 2 m wide x 2.5 m deep at Cluster
A, 2 m long x 1.5 m wide x 2.5 m deep at Cluster B, 2 m long x 1 m wide x 2.5
m deep at Cluster C, and 1.5 m long x 1 m wide x 2.5 m deep for individual
urinals) provided at various sites. These tanks can be covered with easily
removable covers, however with a provision to clean these whenever

10-290
necessary. The sand and gravel of these tanks has to be serviced, cleaned or
replaced periodically. This may add to the cost but it cleans the waste to a
large extent and the waste going to streams and soil will not pollute the
water.
• The toilet waste must go deep into pits where it can decompose rather than
leave near the surface where it may join the water pipes that are quite
frequent and run on the surface very close to the existing toilets. Caution has
to be made to keep water pipes and waste pipes separate.
• Separate Community Toilet made of temporary sloped roofed structure
should be provided for villagers who do not have in-house toilet
facility/space and these should be maintained by the villagers
themselves/Gram Sabha at Pulna and Bhyundar.
8.2.4 Mule Shed
Mule shed is one of the important components of the Enroute Development Plan.
The proposals for the same include:
• Mule Stand to accommodate 150 mules at a time to be developed at Pulna
• One Mule Shed each to accommodate 30 mules at a time to be developed near
Cluster A.
• One Mule Shed each to accommodate 15 mules at a time to be developed near
Cluster B.
These mule sheds are proposed to be with facilities like drinking water (a long
stone masonry/plastered tub of water parallel to the mule parking) and fodder
for the mules. Mule urine at these sheds/rest places should be collected in pits
and cleaned by passing the urine through cleaning tanks containing gravel, soil
and sand, as recommended for human urinals. This will reduce the risk of urine
contaminating water bodies and soil in the area.
8.2.5 Signages
Signages form an important part of tourist facilitation especially on a trekking
path. The proposals for signages enroute the Govind Ghat to Ghangharia trek
path are:
• Standardised Signage Boards at:
− each km point to indicate the distance (13 boards) from Govind Ghat-
Ghangharia on both sides
− before Pulna to indicate the name of Bhyundar Ganga river and location
of Cremation Ghat
− Bhyundar Ganga bridge at 10 km point to indicate the name of river
− before Ghangharia at Kanjila to indicate the location of Helipad

10-291
− Lakshman/Hem Ganga bridge just after Ghangharia to indicate the name

of river and at another junction about half a km before Hemkunt
− Standardised Signage Board at Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt Sahib
Junction after Ghangharia settlement to indicate the trek path bifurcation
• Standard Eco-Awareness Message Signages along the trek route
− Punjabi (1 Board x17 types of messages with 2 text rows)
− Hindi (1 Board x14 types of messages with 2 text rows)
− English (1 Boards each for 10 types of messages with 2 text rows, 3 types
of messages with 3 text rows, and 4 types of messages with 4 text rows)
• Standard Warning/Information Signage Board for Waterfalls/Landslide/
Avalanche prone areas (13 boards) /Cluster A Amenity (6 boards)/ View
Information at Vista Points (2 boards)
• Small nature interpretation signages (of legible size) that merge with nature
along the rare trees and flora on the way are proposed (Assuming 200 boards
each of 0.45 m x 0.3 m size made up of MS angle/sheets).
Corner sidewalls of temporary cluster facilities that are open to view from trek
path may also be used for painting/display of information/eco-signages.
8.3 Physical Infrastructure Plan
8.3.1 Water Supply
Planned Works
Pulna-Govind Ghat: Uttaranchal Jal Nigam is preparing a scheme for providing
piped water supply via Pulna to Govind Ghat. This estimate could be around Rs.
25.00 lakhs and is yet to be sanctioned. This scheme will contain one French Well
type intake in Bhyundar Ganga river about 300 m above Pulna and then a 1-1/2”
diameter x 5.5 km long GI pipeline laid via Pulna and later along the trek path,
which will flow down through gravity to a 30 KL capacity cylindrical Clear
Water Reservoir (CWR). This arrangement will meet the requirements of about
5000 persons per day for a horizon period of next 15 years. This scheme is
targeted for completion by next season.
8.3.2 Electricity Supply
Issues
• Availability of adequate sunlight is a problem for Solar Light Systems to be
effective. Since the trek travel is normally over by evening time, the lights

10-292
would not be required along the trek path except for settlement areas of
Ghangharia-Kanjila, Bhyundar, and Pulna - Govind Ghat. If such lights are
provided more in number along the trek path, these lights when on would
attract / infringe on the wildlife activities, which may also lead to possible
attacks from wildlife on the residents of local host community / commercial
establishments / other workers. This concern was expressed by the local
community as well. Also if these lights are not properly handled (properly
switched on/off if street lights connected to grid line or cleaning of Solar
panel glass/maintenance of the battery etc. in case of solar street lights),
frequent breakdowns are a possibility.
• There exists a power line system, which was connected with grid from
Ghangharia via Pulna – Govind Ghat earlier, but is in disconnected state at
present due to damage sustained at avalanche locations. Normally when
power line system is in assembled position, wires get loaded with snow and
when avalanche/heavy snow hits the span of wires and poles it easily
destroys these poles and lines by severe force. While at rest of the places, the
existing line still seems intact.
The proposals for Electric Supply are:
• Street Lighting along trek path from Pulna till Govind Ghat (from 3 km to
Suspension Bridge end) to facilitate those who may get a bit late in the
evening (sun sets normally by 6.00 pm) while returning to Govind Ghat.
EDC staff/Mahila Mandal/ Yuvak Mandal/ Gurdwara Sevadars etc. (as
decided on consensus) on cleaning/eco-patrolling duty should switch off
these lights after a certain period in night (e.g. after 8.00 pm) when usually no
one is expected to be trekking between Pulna and Govind Ghat, unless it is an
emergency need of the residents of the Pulna village. Also, street lighting is
proposed from Kanjila (near the Helipad/Proposed Tented resorts till
Ghangharia entrance (11.75 km to 12.5 km point @30m interval). These lights
should be switched off by 9.00 pm, by which hour it is expected that all those
staying at tented resorts would be back for sleep after having their dinner at
restaurants in Ghangharia.
• Upgradation of Street Lighting at Pulna
• It is proposed that the power supply through grid via Govind Ghat/Pulna be
further extended to Bhyundar, Kanjila and till the entrance of Ghangharia.
Re-erecting the broken poles and line would be required to restore the power
through grid. It will be the responsibility of the Department of Electricity to
ensure through its process that the wires in the four avalanche prone areas
(from start of Bhyundar village at about 8.75 km, 9.25-9.35 km point, 9.60-9.75
km point, and at 11.10-11.15 km point) are dis-assembled before snow time in
mid-Nov and re-installed after the snow period is over in Mar-Apr as a

10-293
simple means of preventive maintenance. Restoration of the power supply till

Ghangharia will help in meeting the current gap/low voltage complaints can
lead to better provision of electrical supply for lighting/heating/laundry
facilities etc. in this wet & cold weather region and would also lead to
avoiding the use of diesel generators & kerosene stoves for heating water.
Also funds for such recurring annual maintenance should be budgeted in the
annual budgets State Electricity Board (for grid line connectivity upwards of
Pulna till Ghangharia), while some initial funds are budgeted in the report for
the project implementation duration.
• Upgradation of Street Lighting at Bhyundar
• Street lighting from Kanjila till Ghangharia entrance (11.6 km to 12.5 km
point)
• A new Satellite Telephone Exchange is proposed at Pulna to provide better
connectivity to Govind Ghat, Pulna and till 6 km point between Pulna and
Bhyundar. One Satellite Telephone PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booth at Pulna
for villagers/tourists enroute and one at 6 km point between Pulna and
Bhyundar for tourists enroute will thus be beneficial.
• One Satellite Telephone PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booth is proposed at
Bhyundar connected to the existing Satellite Telephone Exchange of
Ghangharia for villagers and tourists enroute.
• One Satellite Telephone PCO Local Call/STD/ISD booth near Kanjila
Helipad area connected to Satellite Telephone Exchange of Ghangharia.
Refer 8.2.2 for details on Toilets and Sewerage Disposal system proposed.
Other Issue
Dung and urine waste of mules is a big problem for disposal and sanitation at
Govind Ghat, Ghangharia and Hemkunt Sahib including the trek path. As
discussed in Chapter 6 and Chapter 7, under the section on Solid Waste
Management, the mule dung is proposed to be collected in sacks for depositing it
for vermi-composting to prepare manure at lower altitudes like Bhyundar and
Pulna which would be less colder than Ghangharia.
A Medical Trauma Centre is proposed at

Pulna. However in view of the difficulties the
10-294
trekking tourists face enroute, first aid box is

proposed at Cluster A and B to be managed by
EDC volunteers from Ghangharia to Hemkunt
and by Mahila Mandal members between
Govind Ghat and Ghangharia.
Refer Chapter 7 for proposal of veterinary
clinic at Govind Ghat and Ghangharia.
8.4 Management Controls
Various management controls are proposed for the development and use of the
route to Ghangharia. They are described below:
Regularisation of Development
All development throughout the route from Govind Ghat to Ghangharia is to be
regularised and monitored. The development controls proposed are:
• All construction is proposed to be of temporary structures, which could be
stored and assembled just before the season.
• All clusters to be of same character using temporary steel truss sloping roof
covered with corrugated GI sheet roof & wall – all painted in dark green (to
blend with the environment).
• All the development to be registered with approval from concerned EDCs
/local management or regulatory committee. This committee may have
representatives as EDC/local village/community members, Department of
Forest as Motivator/Facilitator, Department of Tourism, Department of
Revenue, and elected representatives of Van Panchayat / Gram Sabha /
Mahila Mandal / Zilla Panchayat etc. It was also suggested in the
presentation meeting chaired by Chief Secretary, Uttaranchal that this
regulatory committee should have a legal standing and shall be chaired by
the District Magistrate.
• All the physical amenity development to be owned only by the local
community members.
• All the toilets enroute to be maintained by EDC/ EDC appointed person(s)
and to be operated only on ‘Pay & Use’ system.
• No construction on the route to use wood of pine and threatened trees like
Taxus, Baccata, etc.
Timings

10-295
• The tourists who start trekking from Govind Ghat towards Ghangharia
should not be permitted after a certain period of time (e.g. late afternoon say
after 3 pm) taking into consideration time required to reach Ghangharia
before dark, safety aspects, distractions to wild life, limited street lighting
arrangement, etc.
Fees
• It is the religious tourism that has the highest share of tourist traffic in the
Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region, and majority of which spends the least in
local economy as it has the privileges of the free accommodation and food in
the Gurdwaras, except for the mule ride, porters, or palki rides. It is proposed
that all the tourist traffic should be charged a nominal fee, in view of the
impact on the nature and the effort required to maintain the trek route
cleanly. Thus, an Eco-fee for a nominal amount per head to the tune of say Rs.
5/- per head is proposed to be collected once at the 1.4 km point EDC Check-
post after Govind Ghat, from all the tourists using the route. However, it is
suggested that the same should be decided by the government in mutual
discussion with its various departments & stakeholders concerned with the
region (keeping in mind the various costs like, solid waste management,
staff/daily wage salaries, equipments/implements/other overhead expenses,
costs for training/capacity building, plans for emergency insurance cover for
tourists, cost of information material, etc). This is in addition to the mule fee
of Rs. 20/- already being collected. This would help EDC in generating
resources that are enough to pay decent wages to staff, buy
implements/uniforms for better cleaning support, expend on human
resource development, manage waste efficiently, etc. and overall be
sustainable.
Incentives for Eco-tourists
• Those tourists who bring back their non-biodegradable waste can be
refunded their eco-fee as incentive along with a reward of a free postcard
souvenir with stamped recognition as an eco-tourist. Their name and address
would also be posted as an eco-tourist at the “Friends of the Valley of
Flower” programme web database.
The enroute plan from Ghangharia to Hemkunt Sahib and to Valley of Flowers is already
covered under Chapter 6.
8.5 Route till Govind Ghat
• The pristine glory of nature is evident throughout the route to Govind Ghat,
which is dotted with mountains, trees, rivers and flowers, making the journey
a memorable experience. The road (maintained by BRO) passes through the
confluence of the five holy tributaries of Ganga – the Panch Prayags.

10-296
• There are many places of tourist attraction en-route Govind Ghat. Deoprayag
— the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, is known for its Shiva
and Vishnu temples. Gangotri is the source of Bhagirathi and the source of
Alaknanda is near Badrinath. Below Deoprayag, the river is known as Ganga,
along which, the town is mostly confined into the deeply cut valley located at
the junction of the two rivers and tumbles down the hillside. The houses are
almost built on top of one another. At the confluence of the rivers is a bathing
ghat where pilgrims can take a holy dip.
• From Deoprayag, the road is relatively flat till Srinagar and for much of the
way one passes through well-cultivated village lands. At Kirtinagar, the road
crosses the river to the eastern bank. The valley is quite wide here and is
known as the Panai pasture.
• The road from Srinagar to Rudraprayag is again mostly through cultivated
lands. Approximately five km before reaching Rudraprayag, in a grove of
trees by a village, is a tablet that marks the spot where Jim Corbett killed the
Man Eating Leopard of Rudraprayag on 2nd May 1926. Rudraprayag, the
confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini, has temples dedicated to
Rudranath and Chamunda Devi. It is a linear town along a fairly narrow part
of the Alaknanda valley. It is also an important point as tourists can divert
here for Kedarnath or carry on further towards Badrinath.
• Midway between Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag is Gauchar, which is famous
locally for its annual cattle fair. The valley is wider here, providing the local
population with very good agricultural land. An airstrip has also been
developed at Gauchar. Karnaprayag, the confluence of Alaknanda and Pindar
has temples dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Karna.
• Nandaprayag, the confluence of rivers Nandakini and Alaknanda has a temple
dedicated to Gopalji. Vishnuprayag, the confluence of rivers Dhauliganga and
Alaknanda has a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It also has a holy pond
called Vishnu Kund.
• Chamoli is the principal market for the district of the same name. The District
headquarters, Gopeshwar is 10 km away on the opposite hills. The valley's
walls are much higher and steeper, and the road twists and turns more.
• Joshimath town is the last important town enroute Govind Ghat and
Badrinath. The town is also a main base point for various mountaineering
expeditions and is a district subdivision. The town has the temple where the
deity is kept when the temple at Badrinath is closed. Joshimath also has a
large helipad facility, under use of Army.
• The diversion to Auli, the skiing resort destination starts from Joshimath. A
rope way also connects Auli with Joshimath.

10-297
• After reaching Govind Ghat, the access to the valley starts leading up to Valley
of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib.
• Badrinath, the abode of Lord Vishnu, which according to ancient scriptures, is
supposed to be the holiest of the four dhams. Hindu Shastras enjoin that no
pilgrimage would be complete unless a pilgrim visits Badrinath. Guarding it
are the Nar and Narayan Parvat ranges and at a distance towers the
magnificent Neelkanth peak. The word Badri is derived from a wild fruit that
Lord Vishnu is said to have lived on when he did penance at the Badrivan.
Tourists (majority being pilgrims) visit Badrinath during May to November.
An ancient, 8th century temple marks the place where Adi Guru Sankaracharya
is believed to have meditated. A modern temple has been built at this spot.
Badrinath is just 25 km from Govind Ghat, the starting point of the trek to
Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib.
Note:
Various development measures, which are required for the settlements enroute, are
dealt with in the Badrinath Development Plan as part of Char Dham Master Plan
prepared by Department of Tourism, Government of Uttaranchal.
8.6 Tourist Circuit and Growth Centres Nearby
This section delineates the possible nearby circuits, which could be linked and marketed
for attracting tourists to the NDBR eco-tourism zone. This also refers to the regions
nearby which have potential to be tourist growth centres. Refer Exhibit 8.2 for potential
tourist growth centres nearby Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt.
A tourist survey conducted by the Director General of Tourism, Government of
India (GoI), indicated that most tourists prefer to visit more than one type of
destination while on vacation. Therefore, the strategy underlying the
development of circuits is to provide varied experiences (secondary interests) to
tourists around a central theme (primary interest).

10-298
In Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Eco-Tourism Master Plan the focus is not to

increase mere quantity as these two are specialised tourist attractions. Instead, it
is to provide facilitation for the like-minded tourists visiting similar destinations
Exhibit 8.2: Growth Centres near Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt
nearby. This would include the religious tourists to Badrinath and the nature
tourists to Auli. The type of attraction, duration of stay and distance between the
sites become determinant parameters in identification of suitable linkages and
circuit formation.
8.6.1 Badrinath
The temple of Badrinath, situated at an elevation of 3133 m above MSL, and located 44
km away by motorable road to the north-east from Joshimath is considered to be
amongst the most pious Hindu pilgrimage centres. The temple is located in the middle of
a beautiful valley, on the bank of holy river Alaknanda. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the
temple is 15 m in height and is built in the form of a cone with a small cupola of a gilt bull
and spire. Legend has it that the temple was built prior to the Vedic age, although the
present temple is believed to have been established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya. The
temple has been renovated several times due to earlier damages by avalanches and
looks modern now with a colourful "Singh Dwar" or the main entrance gate. It is believed

10-299
that the image of Badrinath had been thrown into the Alaknanda river during the time of
the Buddhist era and later retrieved and reinstalled by Shankaracharya. There are 15
idols in the temple complex. Finely sculpted in black stone, the Badrinath (Vishnu) image
is a metre high. Other images include those of Lakshmi (Vishnu’s consort), Garud
(Vishnu’s mount), Shiva, Parvati, Ganesh, etc.
Special prayers and festivities are held at the temple on the occasion of the birth
of Lord Krishna (Janmashtami) and during Mata Murti Mela during which the
priests of Badrinath Temple worship Mother of Sri Badrinath. The Badrinath
temple is normally open from the month of April-May till the 3rd week of
November every year.
The excursions possible near Badrinath Dham are given below:
Mana Village / Vasudhara Water Fall
Waterfalls have always captivated the human imagination. 3 km from Mana
village (inhabited by an Indo-Mongolian tribe, it is the last Indian village which
is 2 km ahead on the continuing national highway from Badrinath, before Tibet),
towards the west is the Vasudhara fall with a sheer drop of 145 m, set in a
background of snowy peaks, glaciers and rocky heights. Violent wind sometimes
sprays out the entire volume of the water falling and it appears that the water fall
ceases for a minute or two, giving rise to a lot of superstitious ideas to the locals.
Near Mana, Vyasadeva's Gupha (cave) is located. He is said to have divided the
Vedas into four parts and wrote many Puranas here. The front of the cave is
painted white, and there is a deity of Vyasadeva in the cave. Nearby is Ganesh's
cave. There are rocks here that look like layers of paper and are said to represent
his works of writing down the Mahabharata and Srimad Bhagavatam.
Vyasadeva narrated these works, and Ganesh wrote them down, under the
condition that Vyasadeva would not stop reciting. Also near this location, Lord
Siva narrated to the sage Skanda, who wrote the Skanda Purana, the glories of
the Himalayas. The Bhima and Muchkund caves are located just above the cave
of Vyasadeva. Down below is Bhima Pul (Bhima's bridge), which Bhima one of
the Pandava brothers is said to have made from a huge stone slab, so that his
brothers and Draupadi could cross the river Saraswati safely. The river Saraswati
emerges from a glacier north of Mana, touches Vyas Gupha, and merges into the
river Alaknanda near Keshav Prayag, which is 3 km away from Badrinath near
Bhima Pul.
Panch Dharas
(a) Prahalad Dhara (b) Kurma Dhara (c) Urvashi Dhara (d) Bhrigu Dhara (e) Indra Dhara
Panch Shilas
(a) Narad Shila (b) Varaha Shila (c) Garud Shila (d) Markandeya Shila (e) Narsingh
Shila.

10-300
Tapt Kund
Natural thermal springs on the bank of the river Alaknanda, where it is customary to
bathe before entering the Badrinath temple.
Narad Kund
A recess in the river, near Tapt Kund, forming a pool from where the Badrinath idol was
recovered, as mentioned earlier.
Brahama Kapal
A flat platform on the bank of river Alaknanda, where Hindus perform propitiating rites for
their deceased ancestors.
Sheshnetra
1.5 km away is a boulder having an impression of the legendary serpent, better known
as the Sheshnag's eye.
Charanpaduka
3 km away is a beautiful meadow where the footprint of Lord Vishnu is seen on a
boulder.
Neelkanth
A pyramidal shaped snowy peak (6,600 m above MSL) towering above
Badrinath presents a dramatic sight. It is popularly known as the ' Garhwal
Queen'.
A variety of accommodation is available at Badrinath Dham, including rest Houses of
GMVN, Forests, Border Roads, etc. with a overall capacity of about 1000 beds. There
are few good restaurants and several other ordinary restaurants available. Serving of
liquor and non-vegetarian food are prohibited at Badrinath Dham.
Providing ample signages about Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib at
Badrinath and providing tourist information services there is expected to
facilitate the interested tourists to visit the region, especially Hemkunt. In
addition to this, the information material for Badrinath region could include
information on nearby attractions as well.
8.6.2 Auli Ski Resort
In line with the objective of developing adventure tourism in Garhwal hills, a ski
resort and a winter sports complex were developed at Auli, which is located in
Chamoli district at an altitude ranging from 2915 m to 3048 m above MSL. Auli
has enormous potential to be developed as an all weather destination into a
major tourist destination of international standards.

10-301
Auli offers a 180-degree panoramic view of several Himalayan peaks like Nanda
Devi, Neelkanth, Kamet, Dunagiri, Mana Parvat and others. Oak and coniferous
forests flank the snow-capped slopes of Auli. The best season to visit Auli for
enjoying snow & skiing is from the last week of December to March every year.
Tourism infrastructure and related amenities, including ski-training facilities
have been developed at Auli. A 4-km long ropeway links Joshimath with the
upper slopes of Auli. There is a 13-km motorable road linking Joshimath to Auli.
GMVN runs a 110-bed resort & restaurant at this place. Some medical facilities
are available at Joshimath, while the basic telecom services also exist at Auli.
The natural slopes of Auli offer good skiing conditions in which various skiing
events are held. A ski lift carries the skiers back to the top of the slope. There is a
chair lift linking the GMVN resort to the base of Tower-8 of the ropeway, where
tourists generally alight for going to the GMVN resort. In addition to skiing
festivals, official National Championships are also organised at Auli.
In view of the fact that a considerable percentage of tourists to Auli are nature lovers, it
is proposed that through circuit linkage and proper marketing high quality environment
lovers can be attracted to Valley of Flowers.
In addition to these two main attractions the region has many potential tourist
attractions, which can become part of the growth centres/ magnets of the region.
Some of them are described below.
8.6.3 Kagbhushandi Lake Trek
Kagbhushandi Lake is a small oblong lake of emerald green water at an altitude
of above 5000 m near Kankul Pass (5230 m) and is almost a km in length. Myriad
blossoms decorate its banks during the season with some of the wildest
profusion of colours and make one forget the hardships and the exhaustion of
the trek. Set in the lap of Hathi Parvat (6730 m), the lake can be approached
either from Bhyundar village, near Ghangharia or from Vishnu Prayag via
Painka village. The trek from the former is a little easier in gradient than the
latter one, but longer. The trek from Bhyundar passes through thick bear infested
forests, and stretches of stinging nettles without any shelters, except shepherd
huts. It also involves walking on glacial moraines and slippery rocks over long
distances. The Kagbhushandi trail gives immense opportunities for eco-tourism
especially for ecologists, researchers and serious environment lovers. Local
community members serving as guides are available at Bhyundar village.
For the long duration treks, one of the trek routes followed is from Govind Ghat-
Bhyundar trek to Semartoli which has some of the thick dense forests and small
streams can be seen at different locations with an over night stay at tents there.
From there, the next day trek to Rajkharak where large areas are covered with
green grassy land and a stupendous view of the Himalayan ranges of Hathi
Parvat, Gauri Parvat etc. A large variety of flower and other types of fauna cover

10-302
this area in their own ways of decorating nature. Rajkharak forms the base for
over night stay in tents. Trekking from Rajkharak to Kagbushandi lake can be
undertaken on the following day. After a trek of about 14.25 km from Bhyundar
one reaches Kagbhushandi lake.
It is believed that this is the famous mythological place where Yudishthir was
asked 15 questions by Yaksha. A lake surrounded by snow and patches of
different type of flowers dotted in vacant areas are a sight in itself. One could
stay here overnight in tents and return as per route of the initial journey. If one
wants to take the difficult return route via Painka village to exit near Vishnu
Prayag, then this trek would be about 13.25 km long. This trek requires a prior
permission and payment of requisite eco-fee/deposit fee to the DFO, Joshimath
as part of NDBR Eco-Tourism Zone and one has to make its own arrangements
for tented accommodation & food requirements.
8.6.4 Khiron Valley Trek
Khiron Valley falls at 2800 m-5000 m above MSL range. This valley is located nearly 25
km away to the west from the Valley of Flowers. It is approximately 12 km long and 3 km
wide in extent. The landform is undulating with flat plateaus and steep slopes dominated
by a grass Danthonia cachemyriana. The area is bounded by famous Nilkanth peak
(6596 m) in the North. Approximately 4200 sheep and goats in five herds from different
areas reach here in the month of June and stay until September to graze every year.
The vegetation and landforms are similar to VOFNP. This trek requires a prior
permission and payment of requisite eco-fee/deposit fee to the DFO, Joshimath as part
of NDBR Eco-Tourism Zone and one has to make its own arrangements for tented
accommodation & food requirements.
8.6.5 Khunt Khal Trek
Khunt Khal falls within 3700m-4500 m above MSL range. This is a higher valley located
on the north-western part of the Valley of Flowers. An old trail from Bamani Dhaur (3 km
point inside the Valley of Flowers) leads to Hanuman Chatti (2134 m above MSL) near
Badrinath after a trek of about 8.5 km and passes through the Khunt Khal pass. It has
diverse landscapes viz. valley, river bed, steep slopes, alpine scrubs and pioneer
environments. A small patch of birch- rhododendron forest exists on the steep rocky
slopes below Khunt Khal. Rich alpine meadows exist on the northern and western sides.
This area terminates into alpine desert and perpetual snow towards the western side.
This trek requires a prior permission and payment of requisite eco-fee/deposit fee to the
DFO, Joshimath as part of NDBR Eco-Tourism Zone and one has to make its own
arrangements for tented accommodation & food requirements. GMVN TRH is available
at Hanuman Chatti.
8.6.6 Pandukeshwar
Pandukeshwar (1920 m above MSL) is located about 2 km ahead from Govind
Ghat and 21 km from Joshimath on Haridwar/Rishikesh-Badrinath motor road
route.
Yogdhyan Badri Temple

10-303
Pandukeshwar has the Yogdhyan Temple, one of the five (Panch) Badris, the
others being Adi Badri, Vriddha Badri, Bhavishya Badri, and Badri Vishal at Sri
Badrinath itself. It is said that King Pandu, the father of the five Pandava
brothers whose story is told in the Mahabharata crossed over a mountain known
as Hem Kut (pronounced 'koot') during his time of penance in the Hundred-Peak
Mountains. There he did penance at a place named for seven peaks. A temple in
Pandukeshwar commemorates King Pandu's passage through the region.
According to a myth, later the Pandava brothers also retired here, after handing
over the rule of Hastinapur to King Parikshit. King Pandu installed a bronze idol
in a meditative posture called Yogdhyan Badri, and is worshipped as at
Badrinath.
Some famous copper plates carrying old inscriptions, providing valuable
information on the history of the temples and early Katyuri Kings have been
found here. Many devotees and visitors are skipping this place from their
itinerary and the temple is of now local importance only. However, if the
proposed road from Govind Ghat-Pandukeshwar-Pulna can come up, the
importance of temples in Pandukeshwar with relatively easier accessibility may
too get integrated with the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt circuit.
8.6.7 Joshimath
It was established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya, and was named Jyotirmath - the place
of Jyotirlinga of Shiva, which later came to be known as Joshimath. Apart from being a
religious centre, att present Joshimath has an important place as a market, educational
centre, and Defence establishment as well in the region. At Joshimath (1845 m above
MSL), which is an important halting/transit station for pilgrims and is the winter seat of
the Rawal of Badrinath, it is sometimes treated amongst the Panch (five) Badris in place
of Vriddha Badri (which is located 17 km before Joshimath on the Haridwar/Rishikesh-
Badrinath motor road route). A branch of the Tourist Bureau/Office is located near New
GMVN TRH at Joshimath, while District Tourist Bureau/Office is located near Bus
Station in the GMVN TRH at Gopeshwar.
Narsingh Badri Temple
Narsingh Badri is a 2 m high statue of Lord Vishnu in black rock (shaligram), supported
by 4 female figures is of superb appearance and high workmanship and was supposedly
crafted in the eighth century during the reign of King Lalitaditya Yukta Pida of Kashmir.
The Narsingh temple is situated in the heart of Joshimath on the old route to Badrinath
through the Bazaar area. Of all the temples in Joshimath the Narsingh temple is the
most magnificent. The Narsingh legend is a fascinating one related to the
Hiranyakashyap, the demon king who worshiped Lord Vishnu and received from him a
boon that made him invincible and invulnerable to both man and beast, and also
protected him from death, during day and night, indoor and outdoor, on land and in sky.
Thus, assured of immortality, the demon king showed his true color and declared himself
to be a God. To end his tyranny Vishnu assumed the form of Narsingh - Half Man and
Half Lion. He then slew Hiranyakashyap when the sun had just half set, hence the time
was neither day nor night. The act was done at the threshold, making it neither indoor
nor outdoor, and on the thighs of the Lord making it neither on land nor in sky. Legend

10-304
forebodes that the present route to Badrinath will be blocked when one arm of the
Narasingh statue, already thinning, will break loose and Badrinath will be worshipped
thereafter at Bhavishya Badri near Tapovan.
To the south of the big square in front of the Narsingh Badri temple there is a roofed
building housing a stone cistern with two brass spouts known as Dandadhara and
Narsinghdhara between which there are brass idols of Rama and Sita. There are several
temples here, each dedicated to Hanuman, Ganesh, Surya, Gaurishankar and Naudevi
(Durga) respectively. These temples surround that of Vasudeva the black stone idol
installed in it, which is two meters high and stands on a lotus pedestal, being of fine
craftsmanship and being flanked by standing figures of Sridevi and Bhudevi. In the
temple are also the idols of the ten avatars (incarnations) of Vishnu. At a short distance
in front of the temple there is a brass idol of Garud - Vishu’s mount.
Vriddha Badri Temple
Situated at an altitude of 1380 m above MSL and at a distance of 17 km from
Joshimath on the Joshimath-Pipalkoti road route is Animath, the place where
several centuries before the advent of Adi Guru Shankaracharya, the idol of
Badrinath was enshrined and worshipped. When Narada performed tapasya
here, Lord Vishnu appeared before him as Vriddha Badri (Old Badri). The
temple remains open throughout the year.
The traffic to Badrinath is regulated at Joshimath at one side and at Govind Ghat
the other side. The vehicles to Badrinath queue up at Joshimath as per specified
timings. The queue stretches to approximately 250 vehicles. The Valley of
Flowers and Hemkunt tourists also have to line in this queue for proceeding
further.
In view of Badrinath, Auli, Valley of Flowers, Hemkunt and other destinations’
tourists, which may base at Joshimath when they become popular destinations,
this town, which is also a district sub-division, would need effective traffic
management measures to regulate the traffic. Thus, amongst the measures
suggested for the town, development of street sections has a major component
next to augmentation of accommodation facilities since the town is a pivot node
to other attractions like Auli and a major stopover location. There is a proposal
for the construction of bypass to the town, as such the development of facility
nodes at the two ends is also proposed for this township.
The proposed development measures are summarised below.
• Development of facility nodes at ends of bypass
• Formalisation of street sections
• Development of parking lots
• Betterment of road junctions
• Street furniture and Public
conveniences
• Signages.

10-305
8.6.8 Other Destinations in Chamoli District

Chamoli
Chamoli, the abode of Gods, reputed for its shrines and temples, birthplace of
‘Chipko Movement’ with its strategic significance is one of the beautiful hill
districts in the Garhwal Region of Uttaranchal State in India. Untouched by the
pollution and rigmarole of urban life, Chamoli waits to open vistas of Nature in
their pristine glory. Chamoli settlement located at 975 m altitude above MSL is
one of the principal markets, and houses some government departments at
district level, while the main district headquarter is at Gopeshwar.
Gopeshwar
10 km off to the east at Chamoli (off the main road to Badrinath), situated at a
height of 1308 m above MSL amidst beautiful mountain ranges, terrace farms
and small lakes, the picturesque township of Gopeshwar is the district
headquarter of Chamoli. The district’s Tourist Bureau/Office is located near Bus
Station in the GMVN TRH at Gopeshwar.
An ancient temple of Lord Shiva known as Gopinath Temple is the main
attraction of the town and thousands of pilgrims come here throughout the year
to visit the temple. The temple is topped by a dome and 24 doors lead to the
sanctum sanctorum, which is 30 sqft. in area. There are several broken idols
around the temple, which supports the theory that in ancient times there were
several more temples in Gopeshwar. In the courtyard of the temple there is a
trident about five metre high made of eight different metals dating back to the
12th century, and bears inscriptions attributed to Anekmalla, King of Nepal who
reigned in the 13th century. The legend goes that the trident belonged to Shiva
who threw it at Kamdeva (The God of Love) to kill him and it got fixed in this
spot. It is believed that while brute force cannot move this trident, the slightest
touch by a true devotee can cause a tremor in it. The metal of the trident does not
appear to have become weathered by the elements over the centuries. Another
inscription records the erection of a royal edifice by him in Saka 1113 (AD 1191).
Also, four short inscriptions of later times, in Devnagari Script, are cut into the
metal of the shaft but only one of them is decipherable.
Owing to its natural beauty and fresh and serene atmosphere, Gopeshwar is
becoming a major attraction for the tourists. Many well-known tourist spots and
religious centres are spread around this town. According to historians, the name
Gopeshwar has associations with the name of Lord Krishna. Besides the ancient
temple of Lord Shiva, Vaitarni Kund, a group of temples without idols and Oak
View are other places of interest.
In this central region of Chamoli, accommodation facilities of GMVN TRH is
available at Gopeshwar / Pipalkoti / Joshimath (Old & New TRH), FRH at

10-306
Joshimath, Gurdwara of Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust at Joshimath,

Dharamshalas and many small private hotels/lodges are available at
Gopeshwar/Chamoli/Joshimath.
Satopanth Lake
This triangular lake of serene water has a perimeter of about half a kilometer. It is
about 25 km from Badrinath. Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar, the Hindu
trinities are believed to occupy one corner each, and which are named after them.
The trek is hazardous, but full of dramatic scenery. There is no place to rest in
between, except some caves. Cooked food /stove, etc. have to be carried from
Badrinath itself.
Tapovan
In contrast to the annoying hustle and bustle of city life of Joshimath, Tapovan is
a peaceful place known for its hot springs, which are believed to possess
miraculous healing powers and the view of the Tapovan valley towards north is
breathtakingly beautiful. Tapovan is 15 km to the east from Joshimath on
Joshimath-Malari road route. A 9 km trek (sometimes motorable by Jeep for 6 km
and then a 3 km trek) from here leads to Bhavishya Badri, one of the five Badris
and as mentioned earlier.
Bhavishya Badri Temple
Literally, the Badrinath of the future, the temple of Bhavishya Badri is at Subain, about
24 km from Joshimath to the east towards Lata. It is 9 km trek (sometimes motorable by
Jeep for 6 km and then a 3 km trek) beyond Tapovan (which is 15 km from Joshimath on
Joshimath-Malari road route), up the river Dhauliganga. It has an altitude of 2744 m
above MSL and is located in dense forests. The approach along the river Dhauliganga is
stimulating. The name Dhauliganga means white river and truly it is a roaring torrent
almost everywhere upstream from Tapovan and passes through almost perpendicular
cliffs on either side, several hundred meters high and wild in the extreme.
It is believed that on the onset of Kalyug, the ever-withering arm of the Narsingh idol
near Joshimath will finally fall off and the mountains of Jay and Vijay at Patmila near
Vishnuprayag will collapse making the present shrine of Badrinath inaccessible, resulting
in Badrinath’s reappearance and consequent worship at Bhavishya Badri. After Lord
Vishnu, in his incarnation as Kalki, destroys the world, bringing Kalyug to an end, the
Satyug will begin again and the Badrinath Dham will be reestablished at Bhavishya
Badri.
Kalpnath Temple, Kalpeshwar
Kalpeshwar, or Kalpnath is one of the Panch (five) Kedars. Kedar is another
name for Lord Shiva. Mythology says the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva's darshan
and blessings to gain forgiveness for the sin of killing their kin “Kauravas” in the
epic battle of the Mahabharata. But the Lord eluded them by taking the form of a
bull in Kedarnath and when followed further by the Pandavas, he went down
into the earth, shedding the hump there. Other parts emerged at four other

10-307
places - arms at Tungnath, face at Rudranath, belly (navel) at Madmaheswar and

the locks of hair (matted tresses) with head enshrined in rock in the sanctum
sanctorum at Kalpeshwar. The Kalpeshwar sanctum is preceded by a natural
cave passage. Thus, all the four shrines are worshiped as Panch Kedar.
Kalpeshwar can either be reached from Joshimath after 13 km drive in southern
direction to Helong or from Pipalkoti after 21 km drive in northern direction on
the Haridwar-Badrinath main road. Thereafter from Helong after a 8 km long
moderately steep trek climb surrounded by thick forests and terraced fields near
Urgam village (one can stay in rooms provided as lodging facility by couple of
villagers for a night halt) to the north-east of Helong, and then a couple of km
away, across a bridge on a neighbouring hill, beside a sheer waterfall one reaches
Kalpeshwar (2134 m above MSL).
It is a favourite location of meditating sages. Legend has it that the sage Arghya had
performed austerities here and created the nymph, Urvashi. Rishi Durvasa is also
believed to have meditated here under the wish-fulfilling tree, Kalpavriksha. The sage
had given Kunti, the mother of Pandavas, the boon that she could invoke any of the
forces of nature and they would appear before her and grant whatever she desired.
Known for his quick temper, Rishi Durvasa is often recalled in context of the incident
when, along with several disciples, he visited Kunti's sons, while they were in exile. He
indicated that he and his disciples expected food. There was not a grain to cook. An
anxious Draupadi's prayers were answered by Lord Krishna who appeared and
miraculously solved the problem.
Rudranath Temple
Rudranath Temple is one of the Panch Kedars. The face of Lord Shiva is
worshipped at Rudranath temple in a natural rock temple as Neelkantha
Mahadeva. The temple is situated amid thick forest at a height 2286 m above
MSL. From Gopeshwar a 4 km motorable road is available upto village Sagar in
north from where a 22 km tough trek in further north via Panar (12 km from
Sagar and at Panar one may have to camp for night) leads to Rudranath temple.
From Sagar to Panar one walks through a dense Himalayan Forest with streams,
waterfalls, as one gradually climbs out of the tree line to enter a mountain
meadow which would be in full bloom during mid September and starts drying
out by mid October as the frost starts forming. From Panar to Rudranath the
walk would be over an undulating meadow and takes one through patches of
Rhododendron and Juniper bushes. It can also be approached from Joshimath
side as well, by trekking about 45 km to the west. The temple provides
magnificent view of Hathi Parvat , Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghunti, Trishuli and
many others.

10-308
There are numbers of holy Kunds (Tanks) near Rudranath temple namely,
Suryakund, Chandrakund, Tarakund, etc. The Baitarini, the divine river flows
nearby the temple.
Anusuya Devi Temple
From Gopeshwar it is a 19 km drive in eastern direction to Mandal on the
Chamoli-Ukhimath road route, and thereafter it is a 6 km trek in the northern
direction to reach Anusuya Devi Temple at an altitude of 2000m above MSL.
Devi Anusuya is revered as the Goddess who blesses her devotees with children.
A large fair is held in the month of December on the occasion of Duttatreya
Jayanti, when thousands of believers come here to worship the Goddess
throughout the night with lamps ablaze in their hands. The place is surrounded
with dense forest of giant deodars and conifers nestles the tiny settlement of the
temple. At a distance of 2 km from Anusuya Devi is the ashram of Atrimuni, the
husband of Anusuya Devi. The ashram is in the form of a cave temple. The
cataracts of Amrit kund and Amrit Ganga provide a wonderful sight here to the
tourists.
Nanda Devi Sanctuary
The Nanda Devi Sanctuary is a National Park and one of the core zones of the
Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR). It has an average altitude exceeding
4500 m above MSL and is surrounded by many lofty peaks, the Nanda Devi
(7817 m above MSL) being the highest. It is in the form of cup with lush green
meadows, chuting white waterfalls, and rich/wild flora and fauna. Sir Edmund
Hillary described the Sanctuary as a god-gifted wilderness - India’s training
ground for adventure - and truly so. Also, Eric Shipton wrote, amongst many
superlatives for the Sanctuary, “All around us was mountain architecture more
magnificent even than the great southern battlements of Everest “.
Joshimath is the base camp for collection of stores, provisions, porters, guides etc.
One route approaches the Nanda Devi Sanctuary from Lata, on the Joshimath-
Malari Route. One trek from there to Lata Kharak, an open, wild and grassy
hilltop, providing a fabulous mountainscape all around. The Lata Kharak -
Dharansi Pass appears to be a long trek with many ascents and descents yet
everything is forgotten when Nanda Devi comes into view on crossing the pass.
The trek follows a ridge traversing rocky surface till Malatuni Pass, where the
other trek route from Rini (near Lata) following the Rishiganga river generally,
via Kalikuna and Chinwari, meets. It is a continuous descent of about 800 m
through alpine grassland thereafter, before Rishiganga is crossed at Deodi, where
from Trishul - Base camp trek via Bethartoli and Tridang bifurcates. Debrugheta
meadow with its floral designs and the grandstand view of peaks around it is
exhilarating. The Deodi - Ramni trek passes through dense forests of Junipers
and varieties of Rhododendrons. The Nanda Devi Sanctuary opens up there.

10-309
Kuari Pass (Khal)

“Standing at the Kuari Pass (Khal) facing north, the vision sweeps from the
gorges of Trishul in the east to the peaks of Kedarnath in the west - the
Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Kamet, Gauri Parbat, Hathi Parbat, Nanda
Devi, Bethartoli, Dunagiri - all arranged in a stupendous arc. Southwards the
foothills stretch wave upon wave on to the dim haze of the distant plains”. Lord
Curzon went upto the Kuari Pass in the year 1905, and so the trek is also called as
Curzon Road.
One can approach the Pass from Tapovan via Khulara in north, or in north-west
from Joshimath via Auli, Gorson, Chitrakantha; or from Joshimath via Mrig,
Tugasi, Khulara. All the above three treks meet at Gailgarh, only 5 km north of
Kuari Pass. From the southern direction the Pass can be reached from Ghat via
Ramni but is longer than the other three, and of all these the Tapovan route is the
shortest (21 km). Auli and Gorson Bugyals are charming meadows and the
nature - lovers prefer to use this route for outward trek and return by Tapovan
route. The Ghat route is favourite with long distance trekkers. The entire area is
rich in exotic flora and fauna besides primitive jungles with associated hazards.
The beautiful range of Delisera is only a day’s trek from the Kuari Pass. It
presents a spectacular sight. On the far side of it is the Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
Snow on the range is visible till about August when it melts entirely and await
the next winter.
Gwaldam
About 30 km from Bageshwar on the Bageshwar-Rudraprayag road is Gwaldam. This is
a delightful route as besides the presence of birds, adding a winsome note, one passes
through terraced fields and thick pines set against a backdrop of the Himalayas, and one
can watch the Trishul peaks coming even closer. Gwaldam with its salubrious climate is
a little heaven nestling in the woods. In this area, upto Talwari on Rudraprayag road,
there are several orchards generally of apple. From Gwaldam, the road winds its way
through dense forests and terraced fields dotted with rustic cottages of small towns of
Tharali and Narayanbagar to meet the Ranikhet-Pandukhal road coming from southern
direction at a place called Simli (8 km before Karnaprayag or 37 km before
Rufraprayag). Gwaldam is over 100 km from Almora via Bageshwar, and about over 140
km from Nanital via Ranikhet. GMVN TRH is available at Gwaldam.
Bedni Bugyal
34 km (22 km by road and 12 km by trek) off at Gwaldam from the Rudraprayag -
Bageshwar road is Wan village, near which after a 12 km trek Bedini Bugyal is a
charming green meadow adorned with flowers in a spell binding varieties, in full bloom.
There is a small lake situated in the midst of the meadow, where Tarpans are offered by
the devotees. Situated nearby is a small temple where the devotees pay their obeisance,
during their halt at Bedni Bugyal.
Roopkund

10-310
Roopkund is situated in the eastern part of Chamoli district (in the lap of Trishul Massif,
7122 m above MSL). The high-altitude (5029 m above MSL) kund is on the Nanda Devi
Raj Jat route to Homkund. It is not a very large kund and is rather shallow, having a
depth of only about 2 metres. The edges are snow covered for most parts of the year.
When snow melts, one can see human and equine skeletal remains, sometimes with
flesh attached; well preserved in the alpine conditions. It was found that about 300
people died about 500-600 years ago. There are many theories to explain this finding,
but none satisfying to everyone. Hence the lake is also known as the ‘Mystery Lake’.
According to the locals, Raja Jasdal of Kanauj undertook a Nanda Devi Raj Jat along
with the Rani Balpa, some 550 years ago. Rani being the princess from Garhwal was
revered as a sister of goddess Nanda Devi. Near Roopkund she gave birth to a baby.
Goddess Nanda Devi considered it a sacrilege in her domain and sent down a
snow/hailstorm. Raja’s people were caught in it and perished. The present day skeletal
remains is said to belong to them.
Other than the Nanda Devi Raj Jat route via Wan village, one may approach
Roopkund from Ghat (19 km on a motorable route from Nandprayag to Tharali
meeting on Rudraprayag-Bageshwar road). The 10 km trek (motor accessibility
by Jeeps only in fair weather) from Ghat takes one to Ramni, and then further by
trek to Sutol on the way. Wan is also accessible after 34-35 km distance, either
from Gwaldam or Tharali on the Rudraprayag-Bageshwar road. Thereafter one
may choose to reach Roopkund after some 16 km or so trek via Ali Bugyal or the
Bedni Bugyal. On the way dramatic views of the nature with its many
splendours can be seen.
Nanda Devi Raj Jat
The region reverberates with an expression of its vibrant culture during the
festive event of Nanda Devi Raj Jat. The Raj Jat (Originally Raj-Yatra-the royal
journey) takes place every 12 years living in village Nauti and the royal family of
Kunwars living in Kansuwar. The purpose for the 280 km long arduous trek is to
accompany the Goddess Nanda Devi to her in-laws’ place, and the event
resembles the post-nuptial rites of the cermonial seeing off of a daughter as she
leaves for her husband’s home with all her personal effects and gifts. The Nanda
Devi Raj Jat is an ancient tradition having its origin from the 9th century or even
before. After performing the special worship of the other Goddess-Bhumial Devi
(Goddess Earth) images of Utrai Devi and Archna Devi - all popular deities of
the region are carried to escort the Goddess Nanda Devi to her in–law’s place.
There is a unique custom of keeping everyone's house unlocked in Wan village
for the use of the yatris on the Raj Jat day, according to the divine instruction of
the Goddess Nanda Devi, and it is followed religiously.
GMVN TRH is available at village Nauti, Dewal, Mandoli and in Wan village as well.
Uma Devi Temple
The Uma Devi temple is situated at the confluence of the rivers Pindar and Alaknanda in
the town of Karnaprayag. The old temple is named after Uma Devi or Parvati, the

10-311
consort of Lord Shiva. Close to it on the Maha Mirtyunjay Parvat is a Shiva temple.
Large crowds congregate here on Shivratri . The earthquake of 1803 AD destroyed the
entire temple, but Adi Guru Shankracharya had it rebuilt.
Adi Badri Temple
Adi Badri, also known in revenue records as Helisera, is set in beautiful
surroundings and the road from Lohba to Adi Badri passes through scenic
terrain. Just above Adi Badri is the small Lake of Benital. Approachable from
Karnprayag by a motorable road after 18 km on the way to Ranikhet, at Adi
Badri are the remains of sixteen temples similar to those found at Dwarahat (in the
Almora district) and the one dedicated to Badrinarayan is still used for worship,
as are the others but to a lesser degree. The local people have a superstitious
belief that in a few year the road from Joshimath to Badrinath will be closed by
the meeting of the hill near the temple that stand opposite to each other, and that
this temple will then become a place for pilgrimage. Of the remains of sixteen
small temples, seven are more ancient with flat roofs belonging to the Late Gupta
period. Local tradition assigned the building of the temples to the Adi Guru
Shankaracharya, the celebrated reformer and philosopher of the eighth century.
All the temples are crowded together into a small space (of about 400 sqm area or
so) and vary in height from 2 m to 6 m.
The Main temple of Badrinarayan is distinguished by a raised platform in the
front, roofed in and leading to the small enclosure of the pyramidal form, where
the idol is enshrined. The idol of Lord Vishnu is about a metre high, sculpted out
of black stone and he holds a mace, chakra, and lotus. Vishnu is of course,
another name of Badrinath and so this temple is also known as Adi Badri.
Refer Exhibit 8.3 to know the location of above discussed tourist destinations in
the district of Chamoli, Uttaranchal State.
Exhibit 8.3: Tourist Destinations in Chamoli District, Uttaranchal, India
N
9. HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
This chapter details the Hazard Mitigation Plan proposed for the Valley of Flowers –
Hemkunt region, in view of the risk sensitivity of the region and concentrated tourist
visitation.
9.1 Hazard Scenarios
Hazard mitigation refers to “any action taken to reduce or eliminate the long - term risk to
human life and property from hazards.” Disaster Management Plan addresses the
management and actions/ measures to be adopted in the event of a disaster.

10-312
Emergency Response System refers to the immediate response mechanism in the event
of a disaster, the effectiveness of which would primarily determine the life and property
saved.
9.1.1 Need of an Emergency Response System in Project Area
The project area including Valley of Flowers, Hemkunt Sahib and Govind Ghat
to Ghangharia, is part of a highly fragile eco-system, which has a very sensitive
geological structure and biodiversity.
In view of this and the high tourist visitation during the four months of tourist
season, it is very important to have an emergency response mechanism in place
to avoid and minimise casualties in the event of any disaster. Also, man-animal
conflict control is a issue, for avoiding/mitigating loss to life and property.
Emergency Response System (ERS) is also very important, as the area is not
accessible by roads, because of which the time taken for external help to reach or
to evacuate out of the region will be very high.
9.1.2 Potential Hazards
The possible hazard scenarios in the project region are:
• Land slides & Avalanches
Landslides are rock, earth, or debris flows on slopes due to gravity. They can
occur on any terrain given the right conditions of soil, moisture, and the angle
of slope. Integral to the natural process of the earth's surface geology,
landslides serve to redistribute soil and sediments in a process that can be in
abrupt collapses or in slow gradual slides. Such is the nature of the earth's
surface dynamics. Also known as mud flows, debris flows, earth failures,
slope failures, etc., they can be triggered by rains, floods, earthquakes, and
other natural causes as well as human-made causes, such as grading, terrain
cutting and filling, excessive development etc. Because the factors affecting
landslides can be geophysical or human-made, they can occur in developed
areas, undeveloped areas, or any area where the terrain was altered for roads,
houses, utilities, buildings, and even for lawns in one's backyard.
The region is highly prone to landslides and avalanches. There are certain
sections within the Valley of Flowers and the route from Govind Ghat to
Hemkunt via Ghangharia where there are frequent occurrences of landslides
and avalanches. In addition to these minor landslides, the nearby areas of
similar strata have had high intensity landslides in the recent past, which
points finger to the susceptibility of the project area also to such disasters.
• Earthquake
The project region comes in a highly earthquake prone zone. In the event of
such an occurrence, this could prove to be highly impacting as the region is a

10-313
valley surrounded by mountains. The buildings in the region are also not
earthquake resistant.
An earthquake in the non-season period would see the exotic and specific
flowers of the Valley vanishing. So it is very important to have alternate
saving mechanism for both the scenarios.
• Heavy Monsoon washing away
The tourist season coincides with the monsoon months. Extremely heavy
rains could also see the washing away of mules as well as tourists while
climbing the steep slippery slopes, though this is a remote scenario.
• Attack of Wild Animals
The region has some wild animals as well. However, due to the presence of
people all around, they do not come out in the open. But during nights and in
the non-season periods, they roam around freely and when distracted may
cause terror and damage.
Warning and precautionary mechanism is extremely important to address the
same. Management measures are discussed in earlier chapters like stopping
people from trekking in the night, etc. However, the local people should also
be educated about the traditional and institutional mechanism of resolution
of man-animal conflict, and such practices should be documented for further
knowledge sharing/learning.
• Stampede
Given the volume of tourist coming in a day in the peak season, there are
chances that in future if the number of tourists increase double fold, there
may be chances of stampede. Management measures need to be taken to
ensure avoiding this.
• Threat from Sick/Ill Managed Porting Animals
Due to various reasons like, the urge of maximization of earnings from
continuous transporting of visitors by the mules without giving much rest to
the mules, lack of proper feed, and lack of availability of veterinary services,
etc. would lead to a situation where mules may not be well fed, would be tired,
and would get imbalanced from their health point of view and could be
dangerous for the safety of their passengers (whether the trek path is dry or
slippery as in monsoon) as well as the mule itself, and more so if the mule
operator accompanying the mule is even little careless. There is no registered
system for mules and mule operator, many juvenile mule operators were also
found in the region. Cases have been reported on mules falling down the path
causing serious injuries to passenger / mule, and this was observed first hand
by the Consultants also where there were instances of mule getting berserk

10-314
along the steeper route to Hemkunt, dragging the fallen passenger along the
rough trek path and disturbing the other mule (with passenger) of the pair as
well, while the operator was able to control the mule with great difficulty.
• Fire
Fire could be a major hazard in these reserve forest areas, which can spread
via dry fallen leaves/wood/grass, etc., though couple of months of the tourist
season have substantial rains. It can better be avoided rather than controlled.
There has to be a very strong program on Fire hazard safety. Tourists should
be educated on this hazard by way of booklets, signs, meeting before visit,
through their guides etc. Any attempt by tourists to lit fire, smoke etc. can
lead to fire in the area if dry bushes/leaves/grass are available in the vicinity.
Proper surveillance is also crucial particularly in the Valley of Flowers area.
The Department of Forests should be prepared for such eventualities.
• Spread of Diseases
There is a possibility of spread of diseases among the tourists in volumes due
to the infrastructure weaknesses, quality of water or food poisoning.
Taking into consideration the above hazards as applied in general to the study
area and the deviations in the processes that could possibly lead to a disaster, an
emergency response plan has been prepared.
9.2 Hazard Mitigation Plan and Emergency Response System
The Hazard Mitigation Plan and Emergency Response System are presented under the
following topics:
• Planning and Land Use Management
• Emergency Response Cell
• Warning System
• Evacuation Mechanism
• Institutional Responsibilities
• Bio Diversity Risk Mitigation
• Community Participation.
9.2.1 Planning and Land Use Management
Landslide risk mitigation from a planning perspective means:
• Risk Identification to reduce risk
• Surveys, maps, plans, regulations, monitoring programs, etc.
• Landuse planning considering the risk probability

10-315
• Risk Education to minimise risky behaviour

• Develop policies, provide training, encourage participation, etc.
• Risk Transfer to spread the burden
• Insurance, disaster relief, public buyout programs of risky or damaged
properties, etc.
In the project area, the sensitivity of the region and disaster proneness were
considered while planning for various development measures and land use
management.
Siting of buildings is an important aspect of planning which is taken care of.
Cutting of rocks has been minimised in the development proposals. Where shops
need to be allocated, it is proposed that they be constructed on stilts. Disturbance
to the natural topography is proposed to be avoided.
Clusters are developed for providing tourist amenities and necessities. They are
of temporary nature, which can be assembled before season, this way the
construction and structural impact on the land is avoided.
Where there are slopes on one or both sides, it is proposed that railing must be
provided (like most of the route from Govind Ghat to Hemkunt and about a total
of 2.5 km stretch in VOFNP). PWD has already planned works with a project cost
of Rs. 2.00 lakhs for safety and securing the trek path within 2 km stretch of
landslide prone area between the VOFNP entrance and the 3 km point at Bamani
Dhaur.
Better hygiene in terms of clean water, proper urinals, toilets, managed animal
waste will reduce the risk of disease of the tourists as well as that of animals.
Better approach paths, better telephone facilities, health care arrangements are
crucial for any eventuality. Proper well maintained trekking paths are important
and have been covered in the report. The mule operators should be made
aware/trained in healthy & safe operation of transportation of interested visitors
by mules to minimize risks of passengers getting injured during such rides.
Incineration has not been recommended at Valley of Flowers or Hemkunt sites
since it is not advisable to release the poisonous gases at that place, however, the
same can be allowed at Govind Ghat for which a proposal already exists.
9.2.2 Emergency Response Cell (ERC)
An Emergency Response Cell is proposed to be operated from Ghangharia with
a wing at Govind Ghat.
The Emergency Response Cell is proposed as the hub of activity immediately
after occurrence of a disaster. The structure of the ERC can expand or contract as
the situation demands.

10-316
The ERC, its system and procedures are proposed in such a way that information
can be promptly assessed, warnings issued and relayed to concerned parties.
Rapid dissemination contributes to quick response and effective decision-making
during an emergency. In a disaster situation, the ERC is proposed to come under
the direct control of the District Magistrate or any other person designated by
him as the chief of operations.
In the project region, the ERC will have a local co-ordinator who will be
appointed by the competent authority.
On the receipt of warning or alert from any agency, which is competent to issue such a
warning, or on the basis of reports from District Collector of the occurrence of a disaster,
all community preparedness measures including counter-disaster measures will be put
into operation. The alert could even be issued/ communicated by the EDC staff/ local
community, especially in the event of unwarned disasters like landslides etc.
ERC will have a database of useful equipments and the location of them like
shops, local community etc. Upon reporting of an incident, ERC will co-ordinate
with volunteers and other local people in getting them together and putting into
operation.
9.2.3 Warning
A warning system is essential to indicate the onset of a disaster. This may range
from alarms and sirens to public announcements and wireless messages and
other traditional modes of communication (e.g. beating of drums, ringing of
bells, guides/locals running to tell).
In most disaster situations, experience has shown that a loss of life and property could
be significantly reduced by preparedness measures and appropriate warning systems.
The importance of warning systems, therefore, hardly needs any emphasis. However,
the opportunity for warning does not exist in all cases. Indiscriminate warnings may
result in non-responsiveness of the people. It is, therefore, necessary that with respect to
every disaster, a responsible officer is designated to issue the warnings.
The district administration is the prime agency responsible for issuing disaster
warnings. However, in the present case, the staff of Department of Forests/
Gurdwaras/ Van Panchayat/ EDC/ Mahila Mandal can indicate such disaster
warnings under due coordination with district administration.
Communities in the disaster prone area of Ghangharia, Bhyundar, Pulna, and
Govind Ghat are made aware of the warning systems. All available warning
systems should be used. The warnings should, to the extent possible be clear
about the severity, the duration and the areas that may be affected. The local
community could also give the warning.
The tourists in the introductory session are also made aware of the risks and the
measures to adopt in case of a warning. The Do's and Don'ts should be clearly

10-317
communicated to the tourists to ensure appropriate responses. These will also be

published in internet for those prospective visitors to the region.
Since the tourists will be spread over the 19 km stretch and in the valley, it will
be of practical difficulty to warn all the tourists. It is proposed that the wireless
service of Forest Department, Gurdwara (proposed service) may be used for the
purpose. Also through phones proposed at the clusters/ settlements, the tourists
will be asked to stop at that point and proceed further only after getting a clear
signal.
Once a warning is issued, it should be followed-up with subsequent warnings in
order to keep the people informed of the latest situations. In the event of a
disaster threat passing, an all-clear signal must be given.
9.2.4 Evacuation
Disasters by their very nature will be different and may require evacuation of
tourists and local communities. It is important to understand the nature of threat
and the procedures to be adopted. All agencies/ people involved in the
evacuation process must have a common understanding of their roles and
responsibilities in order to avoid confusion and panic behaviour.
Different situations demand different priorities and hence the responsibility for
ordering evacuation is assigned to different agencies. The services of palki/
dandi in the region could be put to use in the evacuation of those severely
injured.
Shelter sites shall be at Ghangharia, Bhyundar, Pulna and Govind Ghat.. Though
the evacuation routes should be away from the landslide prone areas, the study
area has limitations in this respect. It is proposed to ensure timely and proper
evacuation by seeking community participation. In case of marooned persons,
evacuation must be carried out as soon as possible and the persons transferred to
transit camps. If evacuation is not possible within 3 hours of the disaster,
marooned people must be provided with water, medicines, first-aid and cooked
food. Emergency transport for the seriously injured can be arranged through
helicopters, using the Army helipad at Kanjila. A senior medical officer should
accompany the rescue team along with required medical kits and ensure priority
shifting of those seriously injured or requiring immediate medical attention.
9.2.5 Institutional Responsibilities
There will be various agencies that will be involved in the Mitigation Plan and
Emergency Response System. The Concerned Authorities of the various
departments in and around the region are proposed to be part of the Hazard
Mitigation Plan and Emergency Response System for the VoF-Hemkunt Belt. In
the event of an emergency, the following are to be involved/ contacted, hence

10-318
the contact details of these need to be prominently displayed in the Emergency

Response Cell room:
• Police Personnel
• Officials/Staff of Dept. of Forests
• PWD
• Ambulance
• Govt./Private Clinic Doctors
• Patwari
• District Magistrate
• SDM, Joshimath
• Uttaranchal State Electricity Board
• Hemkunt Sahib, Govind Dham and Govind Ghat Gurdwara members
• EDC & Community Representatives
• Radio and TV Station
• Newspaper office
• Palkhi/ Mule Operator/ Porters
ERS Cell will function as the control room for operations. ERS cell will also have
the list of rescue equipments with various departments/establishments. The
institutional roles of few of them are listed below:
Roles of ERC Co-ordinator/ Incident Controller
In the event of an alert or occurrence, the ERC Co-ordinator declares emergency and
with help tries to contact concerned action persons and send them immediately to the
site. The roles in brief are:
• Initiate action to control emergency.
• Inform particular service action person and other concerned authorities.
• Assemble and engage incident control team.
• Keep in touch with control team and advise method of control.
• Use the Public Address System
• Assemble search and evacuation team based on the incident and provide
necessary support / resources / equipment, etc,
• Decide the path of evacuation.

10-319
• Declare emergency if conditions are extreme, and inform higher authorities

for further course of action.
• Co-ordinate with rescue team at the District Headquarters
Roles of Forest Officials/Staff
On hearing the emergency information:
• On alert, inform the tourists/ entry check posts
• Send the guides/ local community co-ordinators to call back the tourists
• Rush the duty crew to the place of incident.
• Carry out the rescue operation, arrange for equipments, First Aid, send the
injured to clinic.
• Assist operation to control the situation under advice of Incident Controller.
• Monitor cautions on Public announcing system.
• Make use of protective wears, and cordon the area with vigilance personnel.
• Continue to monitor information to emergency control centre.
• Prepare erosion risk and hazard maps, including mapping of
streams/nallahs, which need treatment. May implement fine scale soil
mapping for the production of soil management plans particularly in areas of
higher visitation.
• Map all actively eroded areas in addition to areas already identified at risk or
deemed an erosion hazard. Then a prioritised erosion control works program
may be developed to guide subsequent mitigation works and resource
allocations.
• Assist the affected victims to get their requisite papers ready for
compensation and provide the permissible compensation to the aggrieved as
early as possible.
Roles of Medical Officer
• On hearing the emergency information the doctors much reach the clinic
immediately.
• Arrange treatment to the injured.
• Seek help for shifting of patients to Govind Ghat or other suitable location
depending upon travel conditions on palki/ mule/ porters.
• Arrange First Aid team at the site of the incident, involve local communities
enroute who have First aid facilities with them.

10-320
• Maintain close contact with Government and Private Hospitals for further
assistance and information.
• Keep close contact with Emergency Control Centre and monitor the
information.
Roles of the Police
• Control traffic and crowds of onlookers to keep the area clear.
• Maintain Law and Order.
• Help by taking the injured to Hospital.
Roles of the PWD
• To assist in emergency response situations with men & equipment
• To repair the trek path/trails and other infrastructure that provides
accessibility.
Evacuation of Workers/ Local Community
Please refer to Sec 9.3 of this chapter.
Information to Relatives of Affected People
The incident controller will depute a competent person (s) to immediately inform
the relatives / family members of the affected people.
All Clear Signals
All clear signals may be given through an appropriate medium like a siren,
hooter, or even word of mouth. Importance will be given to check spread of any
rumour or incorrect information.
This multi-disaster action plan proposes that all the agencies and departments
with their disaster specific functions come under a single umbrella of control and
direction, to attend to all kinds of disasters.
9.2.6 Biodiversity Risk Mitigation
The region also suffers from a risk to the biodiversity other than risks of threat to
human life and property.
Valley of Flowers is home to many exotic Himalayan flowers and species. This is
threatened due to the earthquake sensitivity of the region. National Bureau of
Plant Genetics Resources (NBPGR), Delhi have undertaken surveys and have
partially accessioned some of its biodiversity; however a complete accessioning
with conservation objective would be an ideal proposition for the site. The idea
of development of ex-situ demonstration nursery/shadow garden/germplasm
bank also addresses a part of the biodiversity risk mitigation concern.

10-321
9.3 Community Participation

Community participation can be ensured by: identifying opinion, positioning
leaders in the community and voicing administration's confidence in their
capabilities to undertake the tasks; consultations and dialogues expressly
indicating the need for assistance to encourage the community and its leaders to
come forward; having regular feedback meetings and an open book approach to
demonstrate transparency; and involving community in decision making at local
levels.
Community participation would also include: maintaining of security and law
and order during evacuation; helping in emergency evacuations; containing
panic behaviour, maintaining orderly movement towards community shelters
(safe zones) and taking preventive steps to avoid injuries and accidents;
organising cultural and recreational activities; encouraging self-help;
contributing labour (loading, unloading, distribution, temporary constructions,
salvage and restoration of water supplies, Feeding centres, relief camps, etc.);
and maintaining standards in sanitation and disposal of waste.
In a very unique scenario like that of the project area, where it is cut off from rest
of the area due to absence of roads, it is the local community’s participation in
the whole emergency response process which will be instrumental in reducing
the impacts. This is true in the case of warning mechanisms as well. Bhyundar
and Pulna could also need to become relief camps for few days, if the area is cut
off or till help arrives for rescue.
When an emergency is declared all the affected populace would be informed to
leave the spot and move to a safer place. However, to combat an emergency
situation, people affected will be moved to safe places. Those who are not
affected are also asked to leave the place so that the rescue team and the fire
fighting team shall have easy movement to combat the situation.
Training of the locals in emergency response system by the defence authorities,
forest staff, etc. and use of the equipments is also one of the components of the
mitigation plan. While orientation/training of the mule operators as part of the
overall preventive measures to ensure health of their mules for the safety of the
passengers / mules, to ensure that only trained operators accompany the mules
and not the untrained/juvenile operators, along with the availability of the
veterinary services, proper feed, and hygienic areas for mule rest, and
monitoring of mule services by local management like, EDC with proper
registration and revoking their registration if found negligent.

10-322
10. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

10.1 Investment and Phasing Plan
The proposed project investments would be implemented in two phases of two
years each. It is presumed that every year hardly 3-4 months may be available for
plan implementation to be undertaken in the region along trek route (including 1
month before tourist season, 1 month during Aug.-Sep. which is the leaner part
of tourist season, and another 1.5-2 months post tourist season till end of Nov.).
At Govind Ghat and Pulna, however more time would be available for
implementation. Hence, a 4-year phasing duration is recommended to complete
all these infrastructural/developmental / initial capacity building works. The
summary of new proposals to the tune of Rs. 2552.91 lakhs and their phasing is
listed below in Table 10.1. Refer Annexure C for detailed work items, costs, and
phasing. The provisions for any cost escalations have not been suggested over
the plan period, as the investment phasing as mentioned above is only for a
short-term. Moreover, cost provisions are given at today’s rate in a master plan.
Any escalation on the project components has to be taken care of by the
implementing agencies during preparing the detailed plans and estimates.
The summary of existing planned works to be completed in Phase-I is listed
below in Table 10.2. The table also indicates the proposed implementing agency
against each work component. Of the total planned work under various heads
like, accessibility, parking, accommodation, waste disposal, water supply,
electricity supply, health care facility, etc., fund sanction exists to the tune of Rs.
100.15 lakhs, while another 31.70 lakhs needs sanction for the government.
Though the proposal for upgradation of trek path from Ghangharia to Hemkunt
Sahib, as prepared by PWD, requires a sanction of Rs. 211 lakhs, the consultants
have incorporated the same as part of fresh work requirements in this master
plan for complete upgradation of the trek path from Govind Ghat to Hemkunt
Sahib.
Thus the Total Estimated Project Cost for the implementation of this Master Plan
amounts to Rs. 2584.61 lakhs or Rs. 25.85 crores.
Proposals Amount (Rs in Lakhs)

New Proposals 2552.91
Existing Proposals (Pending Sanction) 31.70
TOTAL 2584.61

10-323
Table 10.1: Summary of New Proposals

Sr. DEVELOPMEN Destination Land Cost Funding (Phase I-Rs. in
No. T AREA Developme Cost excluding lakhs)
nt Cost (Rs. (Rs. in Land Cost MoT Public Pvt. MoT Public Pvt.
in lakhs) lakhs) (Rs. in
lakhs)
1 Enroute Govind 918.32 918.32 617.88 8.00 31.69 220.94 1.50 38.31
Ghat to Ghangharia
2 Valley of 589.17 589.17 258.12 0.00 0.00 331.05 0.00 0.00

Flowers
3 Hemkunt Sahib 417.51 417.51 351.83 1.50 15.00 14.06 21.13 14.00
4 Ghangharia 274.24 274.24 130.54 3.50 49.36 2.50 38.99 49.36
5 Bhyundar 7.99 7.99 5.72 1.50 0.00 0.77 0.00 0.00
6 Pulna 34.92 34.92 15.32 1.50 0.00 3.10 15.00 0.00
7 Govind Ghat 310.77 4.94 305.83 51.12 3.00 12.49 9.99 3.37 230.79
TOTAL 2552.91 4.94 2547.97

INVESTMENT
S (Rs. in lakhs)
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (AGENCY WISE - Rs. in 1430.52 19.00 108.54 582.41 79.99 332.46
lakhs)
10-324
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (PHASE WISE - Rs. in 1558.06 994.85

lakhs)
10-325
Table 10.2: Summary of Existing Planned Works
Location Type of Work Total Cost (in Rs. Implementati

Description lakhs) & Status of on Agency
Sanction
Sanctione Requires
d Sanction
ACCESSIBILITY
Govind Ghat Repair Work of Govind Ghat-Ghangharia-Hemkunt Sahib
– Valley of Trek/Pedestrian Path and Valley of Flowers Trek/Pedestrian Path is
Flowers & proposed by the PWD, and was planned for Rs. 7.95 and Rs. 6.50
Hemkunt lakhs respectively this year, out of which a total sanction of Rs.
Sahib 12.00 lakhs has been granted recently. This work is expected to
commence from next season onwards (i.e. April end-May 2004) and
has been accorded high priority to improve accessibility.
Repair of Govind Ghat Cable Suspension Bridge (Project Cost 12.00 2.45 PWD
= Rs. 2.50 lakhs)
Rebuilding the damaged retaining walls within various
stretches of the path starting from Govind Ghat
− 1 km (Project Cost = Rs. 0.90 lakhs)
− 14-19 km (Project Cost = Rs. 1.50 lakhs)
10-326

Sanction
Sanctione Requires
d Sanction
Construction of Folding Bridge near 13 km milestone point after
Ghangharia settlement over the Lakshman/Hem Ganga (Project Cost =
Rs. 1.00 lakhs)
Repair of Deck on existing Steel Truss Bridge near 1 km point over river
Pushpawati in Valley of Flowers (Project Cost = Rs. 1.50 lakhs)
Safety and Securing the trek path within 2 km stretch of land slide prone
area in Valley of Flowers (Project Cost = Rs. 2.00 lakhs)
Construction of a new Folding Bridge near 3 km point in Valley of Flowers
over a small but gushing rivulet “Dev Mangri Garh” (Project Cost = Rs.
3.00 lakhs)
Upgradation of Ghangharia-Hemkunt Sahib Trek/Pedestrian Path (14 km - 211.00 PWD
to 19 km point) was proposed by the PWD in 2002-2003. The work item
was cleaning and upgradation work over existing stone kharanja path in
(Being re-
CC 1:2:4 with an average thickness of 18 cm. stimated
& covered
in TCS
proposals)
PARKING
Govind Ghat Tourism Bureau Proposal: Construction of additional parking facility at 40.00 - BRO
Govind Ghat (Project Status - under construction, Targeted to be
completed by 2003-2004)
ACCOMMODATION
10-327

Sanction
Sanctione Requires
d Sanction
Ghangharia Tourism Bureau Proposal: Construction of 2 Huts at 15.00 - GMVN
Ghangharia TRH (Project Status - under construction / on-
hold due to Department of Forest’s objection, Targeted to be
completed by next season in 2004)
WASTE DISPOSAL
Govind Ghat Tourism Bureau Proposal: An incinerator plant to be installed 25.00 - PVT
at Govind Ghat (approx. capacity being 25-30 kg of solid
waste/hour) Work yet to start, and to be completed by next
season 2003-2004.
WATER SUPPLY
Govind Ghat Uttaranchal Jal Nigam is preparing a scheme for providing - 25.00 JN
piped water supply via Pulna to Govind Ghat. This scheme
will contain one French Well type intake in Bhyundar Ganga
river about 300 m above Pulna and then a 1-1/2” diameter x
5.5 km long GI pipeline laid via Pulna and later along the trek
path, which will flow down the water through gravity to a
30KL capacity cylindrical Clear Water Reservoir (CWR). This
arrangement will meet the requirements of about 5000
persons per day for a horizon period of next 15 years. This
scheme is targeted for completion by next season 2003-2004.
10-328

Sanction
Sanctione Requires
d Sanction
Ghangharia Uttaranchal Jal Sansathan, Chamoli district has proposed a 7.00 - JS
Repair/Upgradation of Water Supply Scheme under the
Development Area of Joshimath region (sanctioned under
Border Area Development head in 2003-2004).
TOILETS
Ghangharia EDC is constructing 2 pucca toilet complexes (each with 4 NA - EDC
- Pulna seats – 2 for men and 2 for women) one near Pulna and one at
the entrance to the Ghangharia settlement (Size of each
complex = 4.6 m x 2.75 m = 12.65 sqm). EDC will use own
revenues for funds.
ELECTRICITY SUPPLY
Ghangharia Extension of water channel and repair work of water channel 0.90 - GS / UREDA
from Lakshman/Hem Ganga with additional strainers and
cleaning and repair of existing open water tank, which
provides water through pipe to turbine plant.
HEALTH CARE FACILITY
Govind Ghat Govt. Proposal: A Medical Relief Centre proposal for Rs. 4.12 0.25 4.25 PWD
lakhs were sanctioned in Dec 1997. The construction began
and only 0.25 lakhs have been disbursed when on the
formation of Uttaranchal state from the Uttar Pradesh in Nov
10-329

Sanction
Sanctione Requires
d Sanction
2000 the balance budgeted cost was frozen. Since the
structural work till roof is already completed, the balance
fund of Rs. 3.87 lakhs with some (say, 10%) escalation may be
requisitioned again.
TOTAL 100.15 31.70
Source: Various Agencies – PWD, Tourism Bureau, UREDA, Jal Nigam, Jal Sansthan, & EDC, Bhyundar
10-330
Tourism Master Plan : Pithoragarh-Munsyari Circuit Inception Report
10.2 External Assistance/ Funding Modalities

This section investigates the possibilities for creating the most appropriate
organisational and financial mechanisms for implementation of the eco-
tourism master plan of the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt.
For the implementation of the master plan, there is a need to arrange for finances
over and above plan allocations. International financial institutions’ contribution
could be sought for the mobilisation of resources especially in view of the
significance of the development region. Loans can be obtained from multilateral
and bilateral lending agencies under heads of various socio-economic
development schemes, provided benefits of tourism are widely spread in society
and that the local host communities & poor benefit from tourism development. It
is widely acknowledged that tourism is making significant contributions to the
socio-economic development of many countries in the Asian and Pacific region
through its role in expanding their economic base, increasing foreign exchange
earnings, providing employment and enhancing standards of living.
10.2.1 Tourism: A tool for Socio-economic Development
Tourism in the Valley will have to be repositioned as a poverty-alleviator
rather than just a job-creator or foreign exchange earner in order to obtain
financial assistance from multilateral agencies. The eco tourism development
plan is pro community. Well-guided, pro-community policies that lead to
genuine social, cultural and environmental benefits would be favoured, in line
with the vision of the Uttaranchal state’s Tourism Policy – 2001. The focus
should therefore be on the following:
• Expanding business and job opportunities for the local community
• Retention of benefits at the local community level
• Integration of tourism into local development plans
• Appropriate benefit sharing systems
• Development of/Orientation towards conservation ethics
• Promotion of local products
• Infrastructure, capacity building and training;
CONSULTANCY SERVICES
A Division of Tata Sons Limited 331
• Women participation and empowerment.
• Tourism managed by local communities with some guidance from local

NGOs to make sure that they genuinely benefit the local people
• Ensuring sustainable development.
Tourism and Socio-economic Development
World Tourism Report
As per WTTC (World Trade and Travel Council) statistics, the Travel &
Tourism industry constitutes: 11 per cent of global GDP (US$3,575 billion);
supports 200 million jobs world wide; 8% of total employment or 1 in every
12.4 jobs both directly and indirectly. By 2010, the Travel & Tourism Economy
contribution is estimated to grow to 11.6% (US$ 6,591 billion) of global GDP
and will support 250 million jobs, 9% of total employment or 1 in every 11
jobs.
Multiplier Effect of Tourism
Other than direct benefits from tourist expenditure, indirect benefits also
accrue to the economy. This is because tourism has strong backward, forward
and lateral linkages with other sectors of the economy. The direct, indirect and
induced impacts of tourist expenditures are quantified with the help of
multipliers. When an injection of expenditure into an economy leads to an
increase in production more than the original injection, it is called the
“multiplier effect”. The benefits, which will accrue to the local community as
part of this eco tourism master plan, are discussed in Chapter 11.
The employment multiplier for the leisure industry is 2.36 i.e., a direct
employment of one person in tourism creates job for 1.36 persons in other
sectors of economy. Normally, a foreign tourist produces job for one person
and 6.5 domestic tourists generate one job. The sector provides direct
employment of 7.8 million or 2.4 per cent of total labour force.
As an example, TCS had conducted an extensive tourist survey and calculated

Tourism Multipliers for the state of Kerala. The results from the study have
been tabulated below in Table 10.3.
Table 10.3: An Example of Tourism Multipliers
Tourism Multipliers for Kerala

Multiplier type Domestic Foreign Total
Output Open Model 2.07 2.08 2.07
Closed model 8.68 9.65 8.83
Income Open Model 1.39 2.32 1.54
Closed Model 5.29 7.15 5.57
Employment Open Model 4.62 2.41 4.62
Closed model 15.77 11.95 15.19
Employment
The tourism industry is a major employer of skilled labour and also provides
much scope for unskilled and semi-skilled employment.
Employment for Women
This industry employs a number of educated, uneducated, skilled, unskilled,

semi-skilled women, who have outnumbered men in hotels, airlines, travel
agencies, handicraft and cultural services.
Employment-Output Ratio
The employment-output ratio in tourism is 71, leather 51, textiles 27, electricity
14, beverages 12 and cement 6. Tourism is therefore a highly labour intensive
industry. (Source: www.datamatics.com)
Capital - Labour Ratio
Capital - labour ratio per million rupee of investment at 1985-86 prices in the
hotel and restaurant sector is 89 jobs as against 44.7 jobs in agriculture and 12.6
jobs in the manufacturing sector. It is apparent that the investment required to
create one job in tourism sector is around Rs 11,000 as against Rs.79,000 for
manufacturing sector. It should be evident that Tourism holds out great
promise for the country to create additional jobs at a much lower cost and
consequently ease the country’s unemployment problems. (Source:
www.datamatics.com).
Infrastructural Development
Tourism has been a major factor in the infrastructural development of the

country, especially in coastal regions and some hilly regions, and its
contribution to the transport infrastructure has been undoubted.
Exports
Tourism industry is one of the world's fastest growing export oriented

industry. It is claimed to be the third largest export industry in India next to
gems/jewellery and garment industries.
Environment
Various eco-tourism projects work towards maintaining an amicable

environment in the tourist destinations. They aim towards responsible travel
to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of
local community.
10.2.2 Multilateral Funding Agencies

Multilateral Organisations focus relatively rarely on tourism per se. More
common has been funding for items like airports and roads, which contribute
to tourism, other economic sectors, and society generally. Recently, tourism
has also benefited from funding of environmental programs, which often
include a tourism component. (e.g. biodiversity projects under GEF, and the
DFID and USAID programs discussed below). Nonetheless, substantial
funding has also gone to tourism-specific activities, including marketing and
financial assistance to tourism businesses.
Assistance has occurred in three main forms:
• Technical assistance, especially in the preparation of tourism development

plans
• Loans for major infrastructure projects
• Loans and equity investments in the private sector, especially in hotels.
This section describes the focus areas of various multilateral agencies. Tourism
industry would help in achieving growth in the areas which have been marked
with a a. The section gives a detailed description of agencies, which have
frequently been approached by India for social development projects.
ADB - Asian Development Bank
The Asian Development Bank, is a development finance institution with 56
members and loan projects in 30 countries. China, India and Indonesia are the
top 3 borrowers. ADB has disbursed loans for tourism projects, which are Pro-
Poor Tourism (PPT) projects. It provides loans for project management support,
tourism development and sub-regional co-operation, detailed design and
construction supervision of infrastructure and pro-poor community based
tourism development. One of the big projects funded by ADB is Greater Mekong
Sub-region (GMS) Tourism Development Project. ADB has provided loans for
specific tourism projects in Meckong, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
A brief Exhibit 10.1 on ADB loans to India is given below.
Focus Areas of the bank
• Poverty alleviation a
• Accelerating human development a
• Promoting State level reforms in rural and urban areas
• Resettlement
• Child labour
• Gender equality a
• Environment a
Exhibit 10.1: ADB Loans to India
ADB Loans to India
11% 5%
37%
15%
32%
Transport and Communication Social Infrastructure

The World Bank Energy Agriculture and natural resources
Founded in 1944,Others
the World Bank Group is one of the world's largest sources of
development assistance. The Bank, which provided US$19.5 billion in loans to its
client countries in fiscal year 2002.
While the World Bank Group's two main lending arms, IBRD and IDA, do not
finance tourism projects, the Group's affiliates, IFC and MIGA, do support
tourism through equity investments, insurance, guarantees, and other
mechanisms.
World Bank provides policy, legal, and regulatory framework for the tourism
sector, and gives counselling to countries in developing strategies for attracting
investment. Once an attractive enabling environment for foreign investment in
the tourism sector has been created, Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency
(MIGA)’s Investment Marketing Services plays an important role in capacity
building of institutions in developing countries that are charged with attracting
foreign direct investment by assisting them in devising and implementing a
strategy for attracting foreign investment.
Focus areas of the bank
• Poverty a
• Education
• Gender Equality a
• Child Mortality
• Maternal Health
• HIV/AIDS, other diseases
• Environment a
• Global Partnership a
UNDP – United Nations Development Programme

UNDP promotes tourism for development under the Tourism Development
Programme The tourism development programme, with the involvement of local
communities, focuses on the development of sustainable and environmentally
friendly non-wildlife based eco-tourism, developing of a strategic tourism
marketing plan, and building institutional and management capacity at both the
district and national level. UNDP has funded tourism projects in Bethlehem,
Niue, Botswana to name a few. They are also supporting development of a
tourism master plan for Malawi, which includes a focus on creating employment
in rural areas and conserving the country’s natural environment and cultural
heritage. However, UNDP appears to concentrate more on other sectors, such as
social development or urban development, that ultimately help tourism. UNDP
also supports some micro- enterprise programs.
UNDP helps developing countries plan and implement national strategies and
solutions for reducing poverty. These assist in:
• Support for National Poverty Eradication Efforts a
• Poverty Strategies Initiative & Strategies to Overcome Poverty (STOP) a
UNICEF – United Nations Children’s Fund

Focus area in India
• Health and nutrition
• Child protection
• Gender equalitya
• Educationa
• Water supply and sanitation
• Environmenta
UNFPA - United Nations Population Fund

Focus area in India
• Promotion of policy support and inter sectoral linkages between
reproductive health and other services. a
UNESCO- United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation

UNESCO works as a laboratory of ideas and a standard-setter to forge universal
agreements on emerging ethical issues. The Organisation also serves as a
clearinghouse – that disseminates and shares information and knowledge – while
helping Member States to build their human and institutional capacities in
diverse fields. UNESCO works to create the conditions for true dialogue, based
upon respect for commonly shared values and the dignity of each civilisation
and culture.
Through its strategies and activities, UNESCO is actively pursuing Millenium
Development Goals, especially those aiming to:
• halve the proportion of people living in extreme poverty in developing
countries by 2015
• achieve universal primary education in all countries by 2015
• eliminate gender disparity in primary and secondary education by 2005
• help countries implement a national strategy for sustainable development

by 2005 to reverse current trends in the loss of environmental resources by
2015 a.
WHO – World Health Organisation

WHO's objective, as set out in its Constitution, is the attainment by all peoples of
the highest possible level of health. Health is defined in WHO's Constitution as a
state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the
absence of disease or infirmity.
USAID - United States Agency for International Development
The US Agency for International Development, USAID has funded a number of
tourism projects in countries like Jordan, Kenya, Ghana, Morocco.
USAID provides financial assistance for tourism-related infrastructure and eco-
tourism activities as part of its economic development and environmental
programs. Development co-operation includes grants to governmental and non-
governmental organisations, including technical assistance and provision of

equipment. Development co-operation is also available indirectly through
USAID-funded programs, such as the Biodiversity Support Program.
USAID’s involvement in tourism is focused on eco-tourism, because it “offers
countries new opportunities for small enterprise investment and employment and
increases the national stake in protecting their biological resources.” Activities are
supported out of the biodiversity conservation programs and include developing
national park systems (including creation of new parks), demarcating and
equipping parks, recruiting and training staff, encouraging government reforms,
and promoting regulated investments in private lodging, guide service, and
other tourism ventures. Though much of this assistance has been for sites
focused on the natural environment, it has also gone to cultural heritage,
including the Bonampak Mayan ruins in the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve in
Mexico. Perhaps the most comprehensive relevant USAID support is to the
Jordan Promotion of Cultural Tourism project, which is designed to promote
Jordan's tourism sector by assisting in the development of selected cultural sites.
Focus area in India
• Enhancing child survival
• Establishing population growth
• Preventing spread of infectious diseases
• Improved status of womena
• Protecting the environmenta
NORAD – Norwegian Agency for Development Co-operation

NORAD is unusual in that it has a specific political mandate for environmental
programs within its development co-operation strategy, which presents a special
opportunity for effective action. These programs include the following priority
areas within the “Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Management of the
Natural Environment’s Cultural Values” section:
• Implementation and follow-up of recipient countries’ commitments under the
Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage
(1972).
• Contribute to enhancing institutional and professional capacities, which
ensure administrative structures for the preservation of cultural heritage.
• Help to ensure that important sectors accept an independent responsibility

for the management of cultural heritage and areas of cultural interest
(through, for example, environmental impact analyses).
To date, the Norwegian Agency for Development Co-operation has supported
various activities relevant to the above, such as the Slave Route project and the
Africa 2009 training project. However, it has not undergone the type of extended
discussion regarding potential involvement in tourism that has occurred in other
agencies.
Focus area in India
• To combat poverty and contribute towards lasting improvements in living
standards and quality of life, thereby promoting greater social and economic
development and justice nationally, regionally and globally. In such
development, priority must be given to employment, health and education.
a
• To contribute towards promoting peace, democracy and human rights.
• To promote responsible management and utilisation of the global
environment and biological diversity. a
• To contribute towards preventing hardship and alleviating distress arising
from conflicts and natural disasters.
• To contribute towards promoting equal rights and opportunities for women
and men in all areas of society. a
DANIDA - Danish Agency for Development Assistance
Focus area in India
• Health
• Agriculture
• Water Supply and Sanitation
• Environmenta
DFID - Department for International Development
The British Department for International Development (DFID) has recently
undergone an evaluation of its role in tourism and has decided to focus on
nature tourism in particular. In addition, DFID is trying to bring the focus away
from generation of foreign exchange earnings and toward elimination of poverty.
This links directly with the development objectives described above, and DFID’s
goal is to generate net benefits for the poor in the context of tourism
development, with net benefits incorporating both benefits (such as jobs) and
costs (such as negative cultural and environmental impacts). DFID notes that
domestic and independent travellers may create proportionally more local

economic opportunities than do international/packaged tourists, such that
selective market development can be appropriate.
DFID has funded tourism projects in Nepal, Jamaica, Uganda, Namibia,
Dominica Montserrat, Slovakia and Slovenia.
DFID is the British government department responsible for promoting
development and the reduction of poverty.
JBIC - Japan Bank for International Co-operation
JBIC has provided loan for tourism development in India (Ajanta-Ellora
Conservation and Tourism Development Project).
Focus area of the bank
Sector-specific Information for Incorporating Social Dimensions
• Economic Infrastructure a
• Irrigation
• Flood Control
• Agriculture
• Forestry a
• Fishery
• Water Supply, Sewerage and Sanitation a
• Health
• Education a
• Urban/Rural Community Infrastructure a
− Rural Electrification
− Rural Roads
− Micro-finance
− Housing
CIDA – Canadian International Development Agency
CIDA supports sustainable development in developing countries in order to
reduce poverty and to contribute to a more secure, equitable and prosperous
world.
The Asia Branch promotes poverty reduction and sustainable development in the
region through programs that support:
• Economic well-being a
• Social development a
• Governance
• Environmental sustainability and regeneration a
For example, in India, CIDA is supporting a program that combines improving
women's standard of living with their participation in community life. Educating
women in health care issues through the Women's Health and Empowerment
Project has led more women to use health care services, send their daughters to
school, access credit, pursue cases of domestic violence, and participate in
planning and evaluating the project.
GTZ and BMZ
GTZ and BMZ are German Government Corporation and Ministry respectively,
which assist in areas of economic co-operation development at international
level. A recent GTZ publication notes that: though tourism is not currently a
priority issue in German development co-operation activities, it could be a
meaningful development policy option – especially where regional rural
development and nature conservation are concerned – if examined critically,
planned competently and carried out prudently. It goes on to say that the
“development potential of tourism has been unsatisfactorily exploited.”
SIDA – Swedish International Development Agency
The overall goal of Swedish development cooperation is to raise the standard of
living of poor people in the world. The Swedish Parliament has adopted the
following six specific objectives to achieve this overall goal:
• Economic growth a
• Economic and political independence
• Economic and social equality a
• Democratic development in society
• Long-term sustainable use of natural resources and protection of the
environment a
• Equality between men and women a
Exhibit 10.2 gives a brief description of the funding agencies and sectors funded
by them.
10.2.3 Funding Procedure
The generic funding procedure adopted by the multilateral and bilateral funding
agencies is presented in a flow chart in Exhibit 10.3 below:
Exhibit 10.2: Multilateral Funding Agencies and Sectors Funded
JBIC
UNDP
WB
USAID
SIDA
DFID
NORAD
CIDA 2 All the
ADB 1 funding
agencies
3
UNDP
Funds
WB 7
DFID 4
GTZ
NORAD
CIDA 6 5
ADB USAID
WB
JBIC
ADB
WB UNESC
USAID O
NORAD
CIDA
ADB
DANID
A
LEGENDS
1 Education
2 Poverty Alleviation
3 Child Protection
4 Women Empowerment and Social Welfare
5 Water Supply and Sanitation
6 Health
Exhibit 10.3: Funding Procedure adopted by Funding Agencies
PROJECT IDENTIFICATION/ INITIAL SOCIAL ASSESSMENT
Identify stakeholders
Identify vulnerable groups
Involve stakeholders and vulnerable groups in consultative
processes
Prepare information campaign and plans for dissemination
Organize public meetings
SOCIO-ECONOMIC SURVEY DATA TO BE COLLECTED
20-25% of the present sample of Demographic, education, income

affected population using household and occupational profiles
questionnaire Inventory of all properties and
Prepare demographic and assets affected
psychographic profiles of Affected Economic activities of the people
People (APs) Social network and social
Assess the present socio-economic organizations
condition of the populace Cultural systems and sites
Identify productive activities and Land use pattern and income
l f i i d i l i l d i ii
INITIAL ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ANALYSIS

EXAMINATION
Detailed study of the impact of
Assessment of environmental project on environment for certain
situation – land, water, noise, solid specified projectsExhibit Contd…
waste disposal
Present Scenario
During project implementation
h
FEASIBILITY STUDIES
Financial feasibility
Socio Economic Feasibility
FINANCIAL FEASIBILTY SOCIAL COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS

10.3 Institutional Framework and Roles & Responsibilities
Sustainable tourism can be effected in the

Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Sahib region only
if the various government, agencies and other
local stakeholders work together in performing
their responsibilities and working in co-
operation. It is also important to note that
while managing the eco-tourism development
in the Bhyundar valley-Hemkunt region

(except Valley of Flowers National Park which
is core zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere
Reserve) is that, this is an area applicable for
joint forest management. Also, emphasis
should be on the role of the Department of
Forests and other government departments as
those of more of regulators and facilitators
rather than doers.
Joint Forest Management in the Nanda Devi
Biosphere Reserve region will continue to
progress at the forefront of the world’s best
practice in forests/biosphere management, as
well as will also greatly contribute to the
reconciliation of conflicts in this region and
the recognition & maintenance of indigenous
cultural values where people and staff work,
listen, and learn together.
10.3.1 Eco-Development Committee (EDC)
EDC, Bhyundar: Over more than past two

decades, till the year 2002, the cleanliness of
the trek path and solid waste collection was
done by various agencies, including the State
Department of Health (DoH) and by Zila
Panchayat with some contribution from
Mahila Mandal/Pulna village for a distance of
some 6 km from Govind Ghat upto 3 km

before Bhyundar in Oct-Nov. Prior to EDC, the
Youth Valley Development Committee
(YVDC)/Yuvak Mandal also worked from
1999-2000, and which contributed in providing
dustbins, solid waste cleaning, and signage
development. Later in 2003 EDC, Bhyundar
(Bhyundar is the migratory village of Pulna in
summer/current tourist season) was set up
under the provisions of State’s Joint Forest
Management Rules, and it took up the task of
solid waste collection from June 2003 onwards.
Funds to EDCs have been provided from the
World Bank Forestry Project for the purpose of
setting up revolving fund, basically for
forestry related works. Since Joint Forest
Management (JFM) is based on the concept of
“Care and Share Philosophy”, the JFM
concept/EDC cannot be introduced in the
Valley of Flowers National Park area (which is
a core area of NDBR) as per the provisions of
the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972 (as amended
in 1991).
EDC, Govind Ghat: At the time of revision of
this report, the Director, NDBR informed that
EDC, Govind Ghat has been formed and has
become operational during the 2004 tourism

season.
In general, the EDC’s have helped the
Department of Forest to a great extent to
conserve and protect diverse flora and fauna of
the reserve through their joint support,
knowledge and skill. Though, EDC can assist
in conservation and eco-tourism, it does not
have the authority to construct/develop
infrastructure as per Forest (Conservation) Act,
1980. Any such infrastructure should only be
developed by Department of Forests (e.g.
enroute facility structures, eco-awareness
signages, standardised warning/information
signages, etc.), which although may also build
the capacity & take the assistance from EDC
for various labour intensive works like for
monitoring/supervising the construction
works/soil conservation works/cutting or
pruning of dominating flora species (in non-
core zones), assembling/disassembling of all
temporary structures used for provision of
amenities, emergency response management,
etc. as per the needs of Department of Forests.
Similarly, DoF may take assistance from the
Public Works Department to do works like e.g.
trek paths & trails/ road & parking/

bridges/civil helipad/ standardised directional
signages, etc.), emergency response assistance.
Thus, DoF may play a role more of a facilitator
/ regulator. Any local host community/EDC
involvement in the core zones (VOFNP area) has
to be in a very restricted and regulated way as
decided and directed by the Department of
Forests.
EDC Aim
• To keep the trek trail clean
• To keep this valley region free from polythene / plastics
• To provide employment opportunity to rural unemployed
• To conserve the environment of this valley region.
ED, Bhyundar Structure
• Governing Board: 14 members from the local host community, while DFO,
Joshimath plays the role of the motivator. There are currently no women
members in the governing board.
• EDC Check-post Staff: 6 members (2 persons each at three Check-posts of
Govind Ghat, return from Ghangharia and for Hemkunt Sahib trek).
• Cleaning Staff: 19 cleaning staff and 1 supervisor for these cleaning staff. 1
cleaning staff is assigned the task of cleaning 1 km of the trek path from
Govind Ghat – Ghangharia – Hemkunt Sahib.
• EDC Trained Guides: 4 of the 14 governing members of the EDC are trained
nature interpreters/guides.
• Residential Requirement of Cleaning Staff: All the cleaning staff is non-
resident of this region. These normally stay in the nearby settlements
depending upon their assigned portion of trek path like, Govind Ghat,
Ghangharia or in between with polythene huts.
• Wages: The Cleaning staff and the supervisor is paid the monthly wage of Rs.
1000.00. At every sack collected by the cleaning staff, they are paid additional
commission of Rs. 5.00. The check-post staff is paid a total of Rs. 12,500/- per
person for four month’s tourist season. The other 14 members of the EDC are
not paid any wages. However, the accountability that EDC cleaning staff
always get their additional commission per bag of waste collected, needs to
be formalised and ensured.
• Eco-development fee: Eco-development fee of Rs. 20/- per mule is charged on
this trek path near Govind Ghat and at Ghangharia for Hemkunt Sahib trek
and return from Ghangharia.
• Eco-fee from Commercial Establishments: Earlier there used to be about 400
hundred unregistered commercial stalls/establishments, which now have
been regularised and only 78 registered stalls/establishments exist along trek
path (63 from Govind Ghat to Ghangharia and 15 from Ghangharia to
Hemkunt Sahib). While at Ghangharia another 43 are regularised as
hotels/lodges/restaurants/ photo studios/souvenir shops, etc. Those
establishments/stalls, which are erected on the Private/Nap land, are
registered as “Chak” and those on the land of Department of Forest’s are
registered as “Chatti”. These stalls/establishment on registration are held
accountable for proper solid waste collection and sanitation in their premises.
Rs. 2500/- is collected as fee from Hotels/Lodges/Restaurants at Ghangharia
while Rs. 1500/- is collected from Chatti’s and only Rs. 750/- is collected from
Chak Stalls in two installments for the 4-month tourist season. The eco-fee is
decided with participation of EDC and local host community in consensus.
• Revenue Collection: About 8-8.5 lakhs is expected to be collected as income,
including the revenue from the eco-development fee charged on mules in this
tourist season, fee from the registered stalls/establishments and Gurdwara
Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust has also provided funds of Rs. 50000/-
for facilities to be provided and managed by EDC, Bhyundar.
• Estimated Expenses: In year 2003 during the study, 40% of revenue was to be
shared with Zila Panchayat (this d 20% revenue as salary for 2 persons
provided by Zila Panchayat and 20% for maintenance and upkeep of Govind
Ghat). Remaining about 60% would go in salary & per sack commission of
EDC staff, jackets and trousers for staff uniform (Rs. 500/- per set), purchase
of poly sacks (Rs. 12-13/- per sack), payment to mules on contract for
carrying down the sacks to Govind Ghat, construction of stone masonry
waste collection pits, and provision of waste bins, single unit assembled
toilets, 2 permanent pucca toilet structures near Pulna and Ghangharia (each
with 2 units for men and 2 for women), etc.
• Estimated Savings: None expected in the year 2003 tourist season.
• EDC, Bhyundar also prepares micro plans for Bhyundar/Pulna villages
within the general aims and objectives of the Plan of Management of Nanda
Devi Biosphere Reserve for site and individual beneficiary specific proposals.
NDBR Management will direct the funds received from the Central Govt. to
the EDC to carry out the envisaged works as incorporated in the Annual Plan
of the Operation of the Reserve. EDC is entitled to share the
resources/economic returns as per the State’s Joint Forest Management Rules.
The revolving fund already in the possession of EDC will continue to be used
as their own Bhyundar/Pulna village bank fund and that fund will not be
routed for carrying out the works of the micro plan.
Planned Works
• EDC, Govind Ghat (under the provisions of State’s Joint Forest Management
Rules) planned to be set-up in year 2004. At the time of revision of this report,
the Director, NDBR informed that the EDC, Govind Ghat has been formed
and has become operational in the year 2004. If no revolving fund is provided
to the EDC, Govind Ghat under the Word Bank Forest Project Scheme, then
they will be free to develop their own revolving fund by way of contributions
and collections of funds from other sources (like, Share of Parking Space,
contribution from Gurdwara/Other establishments, etc.)
• During the study in the year 2003 revenue sharing arrangement of EDC was
expected to be increased to 60% for EDC, Bhyundar share and only 20% for
Zila Panchayat. So that about 5-10% savings could be possible to utilise as
revolving fund - for vocational training/ education/ exposure in tourism
industry for the EDC and Mahila Mandal members for on-season and off-
season employment.
• Community based tourism training is being planned by DFO, Joshimath (may
take 15-20 days to facilitate, document the training needs, and getting
feedback before finalising the training content)
• Department of Tourism has recently got sanction of Rs. 25 lakhs for an
incinerator plant to be installed at Govind Ghat (approx. capacity being 25-30
kg of solid waste/hour) and the work is to be completed by next season.
Needs
• To ensure adequate arrangements are made to bring down the collected
waste from Hemkunt Sahib as well.
• EDC Cleaning staff’s compensation is paltry keeping in mind the
commendable job they have been trying to accomplish. This amount is very
meagre as compared to their temporary residential/ clothing (including rain
proof wear, water proof trek shoes) /food needs when they are at work in
tourist season and knowing the fact that they are not resident of this region
and have come on employment from other areas/states.
• Vocation training/education/exposure in tourism industry for the EDC and

Mahila Mandal members for on-season and off-season employment and more
local community employment.
• Registration of Mules, Porters, and Palki owners/operators with Govind Ghat
EDC from next year onwards. Most mule owners/operators are from
Nazibabad, Ramnagar, Haldwani etc. and the porters and palki carriers are
mostly from Nepal, who cross from Nepal through near by districts for
employment.
• Proper Mule Shed/Rest Areas and Mule Waste Disposal infrastructure.
• Orientation/training to mule and service provider stakeholders, and
monitoring of their services.
Recommendations
• EDC Structure should also have member/representatives from Gram Sabha,
Mahila Mandal, Van Panchayat, Zila Panchayat and local Gurdwaras (which
are the largest establishments that operate in this region in the tourist season).
• It should be the additional responsibility of the EDC to ensure that no more
trees are cut beyond the existing tree line at Ghangharia or wherever it is the
Forest land /Van Panchayat land /Village land it should be the responsibility
of the overall local community including the members of EDC/Mahila
Mandal/Gram Sabha/Van Panchayat that tree felling is not undertaken.
• EDC should issue a photo certificate/identity cards (with their
Responsibilities & Tariff instructions on the back, if possible) to all the mule
operators (one person per pair of mule)/porters/palki carriers (4 persons per
palki/dandi) including Guides/Nature Interpreters to carry as their identity.
This would streamline the activities of them and also induce confidence
among the tourists making them spend more.
• EDC staff should be provided with and ensured compliance for wearing
uniform of rainproof jackets & trousers with the EDC name/logo printed on
the front (in small text size) and on back (in larger text size) when on duty.
The colour of uniform as present - green & yellow for the EDC members and
blue & white for the cleaning staff may continue. The cleaning staff may also
be provided with waterproof trek shoes, brooms, etc. EDC should ensure that
these uniforms and other accessories are deposited back by the cleaning staff
at the end of tourist season (this can be checked before paying them the last
compensation due).
• To ensure fairness EDC should introduce small receipts to be given to
cleaning staff when the filled up sacks are collected from them, which they
can produce either at Ghangharia / Govind Ghat and collect their

commissions per sack.
• EDC may facilitate in providing cheap dormitory accommodation and toilet
facilities for use of porters, mule operators, and palki/dandi carriers.
• EDC shall introduce a nominal eco-development fee per head payable by all
tourists, at EDC Check post near Govind Ghat, only once. This will help in
generating good revenue for the EDC to expand the staff if required, and be
economically self-sufficient and sustainable and support capacity building
needs in the longer run. The amount of this fee could be say Rs. 5/- per person,
however, it is suggested to be decided by the government in mutual discussion with
its various departments & stakeholders concerned with the region (keeping in mind
the various costs like, solid waste management, staff/daily wage salaries,
equipments/implements/other overhead expenses, costs for training/capacity building,
plans for emergency insurance cover for tourists, cost of information material, etc).
• EDC may revise the monthly wages given to cleaning staff and commission,
so that they have access to better shelter/food / life. For collecting mule
excreta in sacks to be deposited at designated locations near Bhyundar/Pulna
villages, per sack commission may be decided upon and which could be
higher (say 1.5 times) than that of what could be charged for a sack of non-
biodegradable waste.
• EDC may revise the number of cleaning staff deployed and increase the
deployment by providing 1 cleaning staff per 0.75 km for better waste
collection and cleanliness of the trek path/surroundings at all times.
• EDC should construct its building/stores structure or spaces (made up of tin
sheet walls & roof) to keep the equipment for maintenance, dismantled
temporary structures of the cluster shops/kiosks/rain shelters enroute trek
path, street lights, etc. in the tourist off-season and to conduct training for
local community staff, use of tourists as shelter in case of emergency (like
held up due to land slides, heavy rain, etc.) and use of community as
social/cultural needs, etc.
• A local management committee comprising of representatives from EDC,
Trade Community, Gram Sabha, DoF and DoT etc. under chairmanship of the
District Magistrate should work out and fix the prices just before every tourist
season of the commodities that are sold in the various stalls/kiosks/outlets at
the facility clusters enroute the trek path, which may be done on distance
segment basis (every 3 km) and hence the prices should be fixed for shops
between Govind Ghat to 3 km point, 3 km point to 6 km point, 6 km point to
9 km point (till just after Bhyundar), 9 km point to 12 km point (Kanjila), 13
km point after Ghangharia to 16 km point, and 16 km point to Hemkunt
Sahib (19 km point). EDC should ensure that the price charts are
neatly/clearly/in standardised format is displayed prominently at each such

establishment/outlet, using the required nominal contribution made by the
shop owners.
• EDC should monitor the compliance of registered stalls/establishments
towards their responsibilities of not using fire wood for cooking/heating,
ensuring cleanliness and not dumping any waste in forest/streams in open,
ensuring provisions for proper waste collection and segregation of organic &
inorganic wastes, requesting/encouraging customers to use waste bin and
keeping surroundings clean, display fixed price rate charts & eco-awareness
signages, and clearing of shop belongings & dis-assembling of shop structure
once tourist season is over. Any shopkeeper/owner or other service
providers like mule operators/porters/palki carriers who fail to follow the
regulations may be penalised/may not be permitted to do business along the
trek path route in the next season. Such service providers, being locals may
however always be encouraged to get corrected by refreshing
trainings/awareness programs, and if successful be brought back in the fold
of eco-tourism.
• EDC should also ensure that sacks if in good condition, should be re-used for
collection and transportation of waste, once the compressed waste is
transported to Govind Ghat for incineration / recycling.
• EDC may contribute some funds (based on their revenue at the end of a
season) to Gram Sabha (only if additionally required) for repair/cleaning of
the open ground water tank/reservoir (before the start of every tourist
season) which is connected with the river Lakshman / Hem Ganga through a
channel and gets normally clogged with river sand/stones/gravel/plastic
waste/fallen wood, etc., thereby reducing the water quantity/pressure
availability to run the turbines of the micro-hydel plant at Ghangharia.
Currently as mentioned in Chapter 2, costs for any minor preventive maintenance
related to micro-hydel plant system are borne out of the revenue collected from the
electricity consumers at Ghangharia.
• EDC may also support the costs for operation of the Incinerator (existing
proposal) at Govind Ghat.
• EDC should utilize funds from its revenue in future on training/capacity
building of the local community members and local service providers with
the assistance of Department of Forests, Department of Tourism, NGOs, etc.
Initial provision of funds for this plan period (of 4-years) for such activities
has been budgeted in the master plan report (refer Annexure-C under VoF
section).
Since it is proposed that all the tourists should pay an Eco-Fee (amount as decided by the
government) to trek from Govind Ghat to Hemkunt, the EDC would have sufficient
financial resources in future for managing the activities proposed.
10.3.2 Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust
In February of 1939, Sant Sohan Singh passed away, but not before entrusting
Modan Singh, a retired Havaldar from the Survey Department of the Indian army
with his mission to continue the development of Hemkunt Sahib. It is said in
1943 or so the then British Forest Official incharge got the trek trail from Govind
Ghat widened up to 4 feet wide from just a narrow trail earlier. In 1951, the Chief
Khalsa Diwan, Amritsar was given responsibility for the upkeep and further
development of the route. With the inspiration of Bhai Vir Singh, the first
organised Jatha was formed in 1952. In the beginnings, the small group of
pilgrims were led up the difficult path by local men who had held the Sikh
pilgrims, unaccustomed to mountain terrain, by hand and helped them up the
slope to the lake.
The first five organised Jathas originated in Amritsar, Punjab. The sixth started
out from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh in 1957. Since Hemkunt Sahib was located in the
same state then, it was decided that the Chief Khalsa Diwan branch there would
be entrusted with the management of the Hemkunt Shrine. In 1959-60, shortly
before his death Modan Singh established a seven-member Gurdwara Sri
Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust to take over the management responsibilities.
Today this Trust oversees the operation of seven Gurdwaras along the route
from Haridwar to Hemkunt.
At the Gurdwaras of Govind Ghat, Ghangharia/Govind Dham, and Hemkunt
funds, supplies, and labour for operations, maintenance, and buildings are
donated by Jathas and individual pilgrims, and managed by the Trust. The Trust
has normally provided:
• Free accommodation (along with mattresses & blankets), Langar food, cloak
room, and toilets at Gurdwaras to visitors of all faiths and nationality.
• Arrangements for health care and free medical treatment at Gurdwara
dispensaries, including 2 ambulances at Govind Ghat.
• Tin shed room for Government Dispensary at Ghangharia and 1 patient room
with 3 beds for this dispensary within the Gurdwara building.
• Support in cases of any deaths along the trek journey and bears the cost
voluntarily for carrying the body down to Govind Ghat on a palki, informing
Patwari at Pandukeshwar through phone/wireless to arrange for post-
mortem and inform Police Chowki at Govind Ghat for any assistance
required, and providing facility of Gurdwara Ambulance to carry the body to
the place of choice of their relatives within India, irrespective of the deceased
person belonging to any faith/nationality.
• Tin shed room for Revenue Police Chowki at Ghangharia.
• Awareness programme, which apart from giving the message of keeping the
trek path clean, is said to be announces after every “ardaas” (prayer) that all
those who are – children below 10 years age, patients of Asthma/Cardiac,
persons above 70 years of age, physically handicapped should avoid to travel
on this trek path to minimise medical emergencies.
• Some parking facility/space at Govind Ghat
• Funds (Rs. 50,000.00) for maintenance/cleanliness for trek path to EDC in
each tourist season.
• Mules hired on contract for carrying Gurdwara supplies to Hemkunt to help
in carrying the waste bags down.
• Assistance through Gurdwara Sevadars (volunteers) for clearing/repair of
trek path at higher altitudes after any avalanche enroute to Hemkunt
Though the Trust is providing lots of facilities on the social sector and amenities,
given the environmental sensitivity of the region, the Trust needs to give more
focus on contributing to environmental management. This is particularly
significant as the dominant tourism in this region is due to the religious/sacred
importance of Sri Hemkunt Sahib, which is seeing increased visitation by lakhs
of visitors every season, and hence should participate even more actively to
address the post visitation effects on this eco-sensitive region which is also part
of a national level biosphere. It calls for the Trust to represent itself in EDC
structure (or as part of joint forest management concept) to contribute much
more and with greater sincerity for a better solid waste management and
environmental protection & conservation enroute the twin destinations of Valley
of Flowers-Hemkunt Sahib. The Trust should provide/be responsible for:
• Assistance in monitoring the route by deploying Gurdwara
Volunteers/Sevadars to ensure that visitors always use the waste bins and not
throw any waste on the trek path/hill slopes/streams. This is somewhat
necessary in addition as currently the existing practice of educating visitors
after ardaas towards eco-awareness is not very effective from the fact that
enormous volume of waste is collected from the trek path/side slopes and a
lot of non-biodegradable waste can be seen along stream bends as well. Apart
from the selfless & cordial hospitality, which the Gurdwara
Volunteers/Sevadars already extend to the visitors, they shall be trained in
practising & propagating the values and safeguards for environmental
protection and conservation, as the destination is a highly sensitive ecosystem
as well.
• The Trust needs to ensure that the religious tourists are made aware of the
need to respect nature from the awareness session at Govind Ghat at the start
of the trek and after ‘every’ ardaas. Despite the sanctity of the spirit of the
visit, presently one can easily see scores of these and other non-biodegradable
waste lying scattered on the same trek path/side slopes from where the holy
Guru had passed through. The Trust should make them feel that since the
religious tourists are here to walk the path that the holy Guru had taken, to
see the place of his Tap Asthan and seek his blessings; when the air is filled
with their sweet & inspiring chants of Sat Nam Wahe Guru and as they adore
the fact that other visitors who are returning from Hemkunt Sahib offer
candies to enthuse/as prashad to have the strength to face the formidable
journey ahead, it is important to respect the Guru’s place and minimise the
damage to environment.
The Sevadars should also ensure that no one either from within Gurdwara
staff or visitors uses soap/detergents in the Hemkunt Sarovar or Lakshman /
Hem Ganga waters, while taking the holy bath (ishnan) as well as ensure no
one urinates in the stream water, and instead uses the designated toilets only.
• Compliance of any waste (biodegradable kitchen waste or non-biodegradable
waste) not being dumped behind the Gurdwaras in open and especially at
Hemkunt Sahib and Govind Ghat, from which it was observed that waste
easily gets mixed and disposed off with the streams of Lakshman / Hem
Ganga and Alaknanda respectively. Any food waste lying open after the
tourist season is over attracts the wild life, like bear, which create nuisance at
Ghangharia and nearby Bhyundar village. Wastes’ getting mixed with stream
water is likely to contaminate water that is used downstream without any
treatment from Ghangharia-Bhyundar-Pulna-Govind Ghat. It is advised that
biodegradable waste generated be buried in pits and be covered at the end of
tourist season for vermi-composting or e.g. at Hemkunt Sahib can have a bio-
gas plant from the kitchen/food waste which can provide energy for
heating/lighting the Gurdwara/Langar hall instead of using fire wood.
• Ensuring with an effective participation that all the non-biodegradable waste
that is generated every day should be compressed mechanically and should
be sent down to the Govind Ghat (for incineration/recycling) on a daily basis
without fail. This would require clearing all the waste that is stacked in bags
behind the Langar hall at present, in the next season. The Trust may ensure
this activity by hiring mules on their own for this purpose or shall assist EDC
by providing the funds required for carrying this waste generated at
Hemkunt Sahib and Govind Dham Gurdwara at Ghangharia.
• Assistance to the Department of Forests (as part of Joint Forest Management)
in other activities, like:
− sponsoring eco-awareness activities/clean potable water at cluster

facilities enroute/ clean toilets enroute/ arranging good turntable waste
bins enroute/ precast/welded mild steel benches (dark green painted)
enroute trek path, etc.
− participating in a small committee assigned by Department of Forests &
Department of Tourism (trained /capacity built & assigned on rotation
basis) for monitoring of quality of works undertaken by EDCs.
− Gurdwara Sevadars can play a key role in training locals/service staff in
spoken Punjabi language, or painting signages in “Gurumukhi” script of
Punjabi language.
10.3.3 Trade Community

Commercial Establishments
Keeping in mind the eco-tourism requirements in the study destinations, the role
of the local accommodation & food providers and other commercial
establishments shall adhere to the following guidelines:
• Get registered with the local eco-development committee, qualify for and
retain the eco-certification. Display clearly and prominently the rates &
tariffs. Pay eco-fee as decided.
• Offer a site-sensitive accommodation that is not wasteful of local resources or
destructive to the environment and rather is inclined/contribute to protect
threatened areas, species, and aesthetics of hill regions.
• Practice energy conservation.
• Conform to the laws of eco-sensitive zones and the height of structures above
ground should not exceed 2 floors (G+1) at base settlements.
• Reduce wasteful consumption, make arrangements for easy & proper
collection of waste, bury biodegradable waste, and send non-biodegradable
waste for recycling, and do not litter or dispose waste in open along the
access/trek paths. Do not burn any non-biodegradable waste in open within
valley region. Do not leave food/kitchen waste in open that may attract wild
life.
• Practice fresh water management, harvest rainwater (for any other use except
drinking purposes), control sewage disposal (use septic tanks and soak pits)
and ensure any such effluent/waste is about 100 m away from the water
bodies.
• Treat water directly collected from streams/springs for potable use, if the
treated drinking water supply is not available.
• Control and diminish air emissions, and pollutants. Use LPG gas / energy
efficient kerosene stoves for cooking/heating. Avoid burning fuel wood for
cooking/heating.
• If electricity is unavailable, use energy efficient kerosene generators /
minimise use of diesel generators. At least during periods of good sunshine
using solar lanterns for lighting.
• Avoid or control environmentally unfriendly products, such as asbestos and
toxic pesticides.
• Monitor, control, and reduce noise levels.
• Sale of cheap plastic raincoats is prohibited in the region. Good quality rain
coats could be made available on rent on submitting the necessary deposit of
money.
It is advised that local trade community may work out the actual amount of
security deposits along with the local management based on the procurement
costs, service charges, and any penalty charges in built for loss/damage, at
the time of implementation of the above proposals.
• Sale of Cheap Plastic Bags will be banned, details are discussed in Chapter 5.
Local Transport Providers- Mules/ Palki Providers/ Porters
The local transport providers including mule and palki providers and porters
have a big role in the environmental management of the area. This has been
discussed across Chapters 5 to 8. The main role of them would include:
• Mules, Porters and Palki owners/ operators have to be registered with EDC
Govind Ghat. They will have to undergo a compulsory orientation session
before being given registration.
• They should carry a photo certificate/ identify cards, this would induce
confidence among the tourists.
• They shall abide by the standard fares decided at the beginning of the season
• These service operators will also have responsibility of making sure that the
tourists abide by the environmental guidelines and also ensure the safety of
tourists.
• Mule owners will try to also help in mule excreta collection and disposal
management; they will also subject the mules for compulsory health
checkups and proper feeding of mules.
• No children below the age of 14 will be employed as mule/ palki operator or
porter; only trained people will function as operators.
All the local trade community members will co-operate in the environmental
management. They will be trained in hospitality/ tourist friendly behaviour and
monitored for the same.
External Travel Agents
Since the Tour Agencies/Operators play an important role in facilitating tourists,
it becomes imperative that their roles & responsibilities with respect to eco-
tourism should adhere to the following guidelines:
• Get recognised by the Department of Tourism, Govt. of India and/or
Uttaranchal State, qualify for and retain the eco-certification.
• Provide extensive and in-depth information to visitors.
• Provide literature, briefings/environmental orientation and lead by example
and taking corrective actions.
• Advise tourists to avoid impacts on sensitive ecosystems.
• Prepare tourists for encounters with native flora and fauna.
• Actively participate in prevention of any environmental desecration enroute
or at an eco-tourism destination.
• Prevent accumulated impact of tourism.
• Provide leadership and maintain tour groups small enough to ensure
minimum impact on destinations.
• Avoid areas that are under-managed and over-visited.
• Work with some representatives of the Sikh community in US, Canada, UK,
etc. and get arrangements done early.
There are many Indian tour and travel agencies that bring tourists to Valley of
Flowers-Hemkunt Region. Some of them put up their own tent colony at Kanjila,
instead of providing accommodation in the TRH/FRH/Hotels/Lodges available
at Ghangharia.
10.3.4 Mahila Mandal
Mahila Mandal Structure
Mahila Mandal, of the local village has been operating from many years. All the
women folk of the village are the members of this organisation, and elect their
governing board of Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Treasurer every 5 years.
Mahila Mandal Responsibilities
• Mahila Mandal has contributed in past in cleaning of the trek trail before EDC
was formed and were paid for the services by the Department of Forest.
• Mahila Mandal has also contributed in environmental patrolling of the chak

and chatti stalls to check whether they use eco-friendly fuel’s like
Kerosene/LPG or burnt wood. From those who burnt wood, a fine of Rs.
500/- per tourist season was collected. It is proposed that these kinds of
control measures be continued and exercised.
• Wherever it is the Forest land /Van Panchayat land /Village land it should be
the additional responsibility of the overall local community including the
members of Mahila Mandal/EDC/Gram Sabha/Van Panchayat that tree
felling is not undertaken.
• Mahila Mandal is interested in contributing to plantation activities (tree
plantation, fodder grass plantation, etc.) along the areas demarcated by
Department of Forest / Van Panchayat to increase the tree coverage, to check
erosion along landslide/avalanche prone areas, and grow fodder grass.
• Mahila Mandal can also help in developing Germplasm bank /
demonstration nursery at Ghangharia and can monitor the same easily (as
they have already shifted in summer/tourist season to Bhyundar village and
are hence close to Ghangharia) so that an ex-situ demonstration nursery/
Germplasm bank is created for tourist viewing (many tourists who do not
have much time to visit Valley of Flowers and enjoy flowers in this garden at
Ghangharia on payment of a nominal fee) and souvenir creation from these
flowers (Institutions like NBRI can assist in transferring technology for the
same).
• Members of Mahila Mandal if trained would also like to run small household
industries for making flower/other souvenirs, handicrafts of Ringal grass
(Ringal grass or hill bamboo is a non-wood forest produce) / Jute bags (jute
to be procured from outside), etc. during off/tourist season and which can be
sold mainly during the tourist season.
10.3.5 Van Panchayat/Forest Council
Van Panchayat Structure
• Governing Board: Bhyundar/Pulna village has elected 7 persons for the Van
Panchayat body and they chose their own Sarpanch. The 6 members currently
have a gender distribution of 4 men and 2 women.
• Wages: Van Panchayat Members are not paid any wages.
• Earnings: Through charging rental fee from Tour Operators for putting tent
colony at Kanjila (For a 5 day period either Rs. 100/- is charged if an
individual pitches a tent or Rs. 500/- if it’s a tour group needing 5-6 tents to
be pitched), penalising forest crimes (illegal felling of trees / harvesting of
grass), collecting deposit (Rs. 3000/-) from each family/household for cutting
and sale of grass as fodder for personal use/benefits per season of Aug.-Nov.
• Expenses: Use of funds for forestry & conservation works, sharing of deposit
/income collected for cutting and sale of grass, etc. with Gram Sabha on the
basis of income distribution criteria defined in the State’s Joint Forest
Management Rules for welfare work in the Bhyundar/Pulna.
Van Panchayat Concerns
• Earlier Van Panchayat area was spread over 19635 acres from Govind Ghat to
Rataban area (formed from Class I Forests, i.e. the Reserve Forests), but now
it is said that after the declaration of VOFNP, the Van Panchayat area is left to
be 335 acres only. Even the Ghangharia land is also assumed to be Forest
Land.
• Under the conditions that land at Ghangharia is a Forest Land, the permission
to regularise Ghangharia can never be easily obtained. The district/state
administration may have to think about declaring this as a Revenue land so
that the existing establishments/encroachments can be regularised and future
growth can be controlled under the same. However, as per the provisions of
the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the encroached land in Ghangharia has
been surveyed by the Dept. of Revenue, Joshimath in Nov. 2002 as a
prerequisite to the proposal of regularisation. This revenue survey map is in
draft state with a record of 53 establishments (including the trek path area as
circulation space within the Ghangharia base settlement) spread over an area
of 2.638 ha. It is observed that of these 53 survey units/plots, 52 came into
existence before end of 1980. However, as per the Forest (Conservation) Act,
1980, in no case any of those encroachments which have taken place after
24/10/1980 should be regularised, and any regularisation can be considered
only if government had taken any decision with reference to some eligibility
criteria (in accordance with local needs and conditions) for regularisation
before 25/10/1980. Hence, the regularisation in the present case of
Ghangharia is expected to be a difficult issue.
The members of Van Panchayat and other villagers/owners of these
establishments are trying to make representations to state government in
this regard.
Van Panchayat Responsibilities
It entails basically Protection and Conservation

of Forests under its Area as per Forest
(Conservation) Act, 1980. The various

responsibilities of Van Panchayat are:
• Patrolling of Forests/Land under its area and control over illegal tree felling
pruning of tree branches, and fodder grazing
• Undertake steps to stop any encroachment on forest land
• Conservation of wild life and their protection
• Maintenance and protection of boundary pillars
• Ensure arrangement for protection of forests from fire and assist the
Department of Forests fully for this cause, and take action against
perpetrators of such crime.
• Permit the sale of forest produce like, fodder grass, picking fallen fire wood,
etc. to the eligible beneficiaries for personal use/benefits
• Permit the individuals/tour operators to pitch tents on the Van Panchayat
land at Kanjila for a nominal fee or lease for short-term for tent resorts every
season.
• Contribute funds/Participate in Welfare of Village Communities related to its
area
• Wherever it is the Forest land /Van Panchayat land /Village land it should be
the additional responsibility of the overall local community including the
members of Van Panchayat/Mahila Mandal/EDC/Gram Sabha that tree
• Undertake any other activities/execution of activities as instructed by the
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Joshimath under the approved micro-plan
head/from time to time.
10.3.6 Gram Sabha/Village Council
As per the 73rd Constitutional Amendment of 1992, the 'Gram Sabha', consisting
of all eligible voters, has been made the soul of the Panchayat institutions to
discuss and decide their own problems, and to further people's participation in
various development programmes in a democratic way. This will foster
maximum accountability and transparency of administration and public
awareness at the village level. The village people elect members of the Gram
Sabha and Gram Pradhan for 5 years. Gram Sabha have been empowered with
such powers and authorities as are necessary to enable them to function as
institutions of self-governance.
Apart from the normal social and welfare activities for the Bhyundar/Pulna
village, the Gram Sabha also undertakes the responsibility of operating and
minor maintenance of the Micro-Hydel Plant (2x50KW turbines) at Ghangharia.
The staff is trained by UREDA and collects the monthly electricity consumption
charges at the rate of Rs. 35/- per bulb point connection from establishment at
Ghangharia. Full season (4 months) contracts are also done by Govind Dham
Gurdwara for Rs. 80,000/- if it wants to receive power fully from the above
micro-hydel plant. Gram Sabha may also get some revenue shared by Van
Panchayat as donation, which Van Panchayat collects on account of giving
permission to interested village households for cutting and sale of grazing grass.
A maintenance fund may be created through

nominal deposits of the beneficiaries of solar
energy equipments (for
cooking/lighting/heating in clear sunshine
durations from Oct. – Dec. & Feb. – May) at the
village level that can be managed by the Gram
Sabha, which already looks after the
maintenance of the micro-hydel plant at
Ghangharia.
Also, Gram Sabha may request some funds from EDC (only if additionally
required) for repair/cleaning of the open ground water tank/reservoir (before
the start of every tourist season) which is connected with the river Lakshman /
Hem Ganga through a channel and gets normally clogged with river
sand/stones/gravel/plastic waste/fallen wood, etc., thereby reducing the water
quantity/pressure availability to run the turbines of the micro-hydel plant at
Ghangharia. Currently as mentioned earlier, costs for any minor preventive
maintenance related to micro-hydel plant system are borne out of the revenue collected
from the electricity consumers at Ghangharia.
The amendment also emphasises representation for women and SCs and STs to
be ensured through reservation of a minimum of 1/3rd of members. The current
Pradhan of the Gram Sabha, Bhyundar/Pulna village is a woman in fact. In the
11th schedule, "Minor Forest Produce, "Social forestry and Farm Forestry," and
"Fuel and fodder" are amongst the 29 departments transferred to the panchayats.
Thus, ideally this would mean that the women elected to the panchayats would
play a key role in the management of the forests. These elected members should
be trained by committed NGO’s. Micro planning should be specially emphasised

in the trainings, in order to enable the elected functionaries to prepare village
development plans themselves rather than depend upon the government
officials.
Wherever it is the Forest land /Van Panchayat

land /Village land it should be the additional
responsibility of the overall local community
including the members of Gram Sabha/Van
Panchayat/Mahila Mandal/EDC, that tree
Additional responsibilities will include more
involvement in the environment management
along with the EDC, including in monitoring
of construction or any other such illegal
activities at the beginning of the off season,
fixing prices of commodities before the season,
etc.
10.3.7 Zilla Panchayat (ZP)
Zilla Panchayat has performed the following

functions in the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
region till recently:
• Maintains the ZP parking at Govind Ghat, fix the parking rates (large vehicle,
small vehicle, two-wheelers) and collect the parking charges on contract
• Provides toilet facilities at Govind Ghat
• Responsibility of cleanliness and sanitation at Govind Ghat, which now can
be taken up by EDC, Govind Ghat
• Provides land for mule sheds at Ghangharia and Govind Ghat (does not
charge any fees as the mule shed infrastructure is not developed and mule
operators erect their own temporary arrangements as mule shed and their
shelter)
• Fixation of rates for transportation services (mules/porters/palki) on the trek
path
• Earlier contribution in cleaning the trek path from Govind Ghat – Ghangharia
– Hemkunt Sahib (now taken over and carried out only by EDC)
Zilla Panchayat Revenues

• Fees charged at ZP Parking spaces, Govind Ghat
• During the study in 2003, EDC – Bhyundar had to share 40% of revenue this
year with Zilla Panchayat (this includes 20% revenue as salary for 2 persons
provided by Zilla Panchayat and 20% for maintenance and upkeep of Govind
Ghat).
The Zilla Panchayat role may reduce in the

study region, as the EDC, Govind Ghat is now
formed as per the joint forest management
provisions in the biosphere, it is still suggested
that ZP may take up the responsibility of
providing support services like temporary
sloped roofed structure for large proper mule
sheds at settlements, proper/cheap dormitory
accommodation for mule
operators/porters/palki carriers/ cleaning staff
and community toilet facility for such labour,
continuing the vehicle parking management,
etc.
10.3.8 Department of Forests
The Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region is a

part of the NDBR, and especially the Valleys
of Flowers National Park being one of the two

core zones (core zone-II) of the NDBR, the
region is under active control of the Office of
the DFO, Department of Forests, Joshimath. A
Forest Range Officer with a team of Beat
Guards is deployed in the region with facilities
of a FRH at Govind Ghat and Ghangharia, one
Valley of Flowers Information Centre at
Ghangharia and one Forest Ranger’s Check-
post after Ghangharia at the VOFNP entrance.
The management of the Valley of Flowers
National Park has been based on the following
objectives and considerations:
• Keeping control on the extent and wide spread growth of the fast growing
and pioneering flowering herb – the Polygonum polystachyum.
• Development and upkeep of the trek route within the tourism zone of the
park.
• Maintenance of the park and keeping it free from any kind of polluting
material.
• Providing impetus to the tourism and providing local employment (through
EDC, etc.).
• Strict control on illicit removal of herbs and on poaching.
• Infrastructure development.
The habitat management works and other

patrolling and related works are carried out
from the funds received under management of
“Parks and Sanctuaries” from the Department
of Forest every year.
The Department of Forests may continue to have an active role in the National
Park area, but in the present case where about 95% of the economy is tourism
oriented it should mainly play a facilitator role & regulator role and should
oversee that the local body created for management of the ecology and tourism
(e.g. EDC, Bhyundar and EDC, Govind Ghat) has fair representation of local
community members from Bhyundar/Pulna village, Govind Ghat, Gram Sabha,
Mahila Mandal, Van Panchayat, Zilla Panchayat, and local Gurdwaras (which
are the largest establishments that operate in this region in the tourist season). It
should be the responsibility of the EDC to ensure that no more trees are cut
beyond the existing tree line at Ghangharia or wherever it is the Forest land
/Van Panchayat land / Village land it is the responsibility of the overall local
community including the members of EDC/Mahila Mandal/Gram Sabha/Van
Panchayat. But from point of view of awareness/orientation to environmental
protection and conservation, concerted efforts from the Department of Forests
would be necessary both for the local community and tourists through training
for trainer programmes in the Centre for Eco-tourism and Sustainable
Livelihoods (till such small infrastructure is created at
Ghangharia/Bhyundar/Pulna) or at the Valley of Flowers Information Centre
(during the slide or video shows as planned in future).
The Department of Forest/Department of Tourism should create checks to
ensure that those who do not comply with environmental guidelines and notices
should be penalised like, tourists’ enroute pay a fine or revoking the
registration/license to work in this area for shopkeepers and tour operators. It is
proposed that the Department of Forests/EDC may rent for a nominal fee or
lease for short-term for tented resorts every season some of its vacant land just
ahead of Ghangharia for additional accommodation at Ghangharia (this is not a
permanent construction and will not increase any diversion of forest land as an
encroachment/necessitating regularisation).
The Department of Forests, shall ensure that main Valley of Flowers is visited
only by hard core/well oriented & sensitised nature enthusiasts/research
scholars/eco-tourists and should try to promote an ex-situ demonstration
nursery/shadow garden named as Germplasm bank of endangered species of
VoF as suggested by Chief Wildlife Warden or given any other name as felt
appropriate by DoF on the land of forest between end of Ghangharia settlement
and the VOFNP entrance. These gardens which act as more resilient sites would
be accessible on payment of a nominal fee for quick visit by those tourists who
have shortage of time and will also help understand flora population growth to
scientist/scholars/eco-tourists as well. This will also help to contain the numbers
of not so conservation oriented tourists visiting the Valley and at the same time
by providing easy access to major species flowering in the garden without much
of a trek would avoid adverse word by mouth publicity that even after trekking
long distances in the Valley of Flowers not much variety of flowers are seen.
The Department of Forests shall strictly patrol and monitor the region especially
in the month just before and after the tourist season to ensure that the local
community/ establishments do not resort to any illegal cutting/ clearing of trees.
The Department of Forests can train the local community members especially
from Mahila Mandal/local educated youth to assist in maintaining these
nursery/gardens and other plantation activities (tree plantation, fodder grass
plantation, etc.) along the areas demarcated by Department of Forest to increase
the tree coverage, to check erosion along landslide/avalanche prone areas, and
grow fodder grass.
Also, the Department of Forests through their local forest/horticulture staff can
help in agro-forestry on the lands of local host community by providing -
motivation to individuals, identifying suitable species of fruits & vegetables on
their lands, supply saplings at subsidised rates including signing an agreement
for upkeep & protection by individuals, micro-credit for Self Help Groups
(SHGs) for manual processing of raw produce & to facilitate easy cartage, and
providing some practical exposure to these individuals through site visits to
those areas where people have successfully adopted this practice. Identification
of species, providing know-how, seeds/samplings, training & capacity building
including documentation & export permits for growing of rare medicinal
plants/herbs, which are threatened or are suitable for captive growing with a
good market value is another area of intervention in fallow/low yield crop lands
of interested individuals of the local host community, in which the Department
of Forests can assist.
The Department of Forests should strictly monitor the works carried out by the
EDCs/others on its behalf as assistance, and should ensure release of funds only
on the satisfaction of the quality of work. The Department of Forests &
Department of Tourism may assign a small committee of say 2 members (on
rotation every tourist season) from Van Panchayat, Mahila Mandal, local
Gurdwara, Association of Commercial Establishments, GMVN and Forest
Ranger who may be trained/capacity built with necessary format for
monitoring/reporting on the works carried out by these EDCs.
The State of Uttaranchal has already taken a pro-active step by designating
Conservator of Forests, Eco-tourism at Dehra Dun. This post has been created to
act as the Nodal Officer for eco-tourism development in the state and to
undertake following responsibilities:
• Supervision of Centre for Eco-tourism and Sustainable Livelihoods
• Coordination of eco-tourism programmes of the Department of Forests and

Environment
• Providing support on eco-tourism projects to Department of Tourism and
Uttaranchal Tourism Development Board (UTDB)
• Development of Eco-tourism policy and rules/regulations.
The Department of Forests has also set-up a Centre for Eco-tourism and
Sustainable Livelihoods, at Chunakhan (Ramnagar). This institution is to be
developed as a premium environmental education, training, and research centre
for promoting eco-tourism, so that local host communities, small and medium
entrepreneurs get opportunity to play a major role in the management of natural
and cultural heritage and resources and to address issues related to livelihood.
This centre will also collaborate with local, state and international organisations
associated with eco-tourism. To formulate policy and controls for this centre an
independent committee has been registered. The centre will conduct
programmes without any clashes/competition with other state programmes run
by Department of Tourism and Department of Forests and Environment, and
will ensure coordination with activities of Uttaranchal Tourism Development
Board. The following programmes will be conducted by this centre:
• Capacity building
• Publication and awareness programmes
• Policy research
• Projects
• Product development
• Process documentation.
Initial provision of funds for this plan period (of 4-years) for training/capacity
building activities has been made for Department of Forests / EDC utilisation to
get the future trainers in the study region trained at such institutes.
10.3.9 Department of Tourism
• In the present case, the Master Plan for development of Eco-Tourism in
Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt is prepared for the Department of Tourism,
Government of India. This project may ultimately be executed under the
guidance of a state level eco-tourism committee which may be constituted
under the Uttaranchal Tourism Development Board (UTDB), whose purpose
would be to evaluate the progress of eco-tourism development, recommend
eco-tourism projects with due provisions for safety and health care of tourists,
and give policy based suggestions to state and central government. It should
also support in destination promotion, sales, advertisement, and publicity.
Environmental guidelines/notices/messages should be prominently

displayed not only enroute the trek path but also at each establishment
including Gurdwara.
• The Department of Tourism and the Government of Uttaranchal may
deliberate and formulate a comprehensive policy for regulation and
management of religious tourism in this region, which gels with the
requirements of the existing eco-tourism policy with respect to the tourism in
Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve region. This would help in sensitising the
religious tourists and religious institutions, which form a major component of
the entire tourism in the region, to the needs of development and sustenance
of environment friendly tourism in the region.
In this regard, the Government of Uttaranchal may initiate a dialogue/discussion
with the Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust (explore options keeping
in mind the fact that the VoF-Hemkunt region has limited capacities to absorb tourist
traffic and thus whether to control the flow of such tourists from places of origin of
travel itself in this area like, Rishikesh and release them based on concurrent facilities
available at Govind Ghat & Ghangharia), Representatives of Local Host Community,
Department of Forests, Department of Tourism, Department of Transportation,
Public Works Department, BRO, etc.
• The Department of Tourism/UTDB should formulate/control the guidelines
to categorise the standards for infrastructure/hospitality for
Hotel/Lodge/Restaurant business and other services in eco-tourism sector.
The Department of Tourism may run registration and eco-certification
program for businesses associated with nature/eco-tourism. The hospitality
staff may be trained by the Department of Tourism and should sport
uniforms/badges to indicate that these staff are well-trained service staff and
are recognised by the Department of Tourism.
• The Department of Tourism should get associated with Department of
Forests to promote/publicise the rules for the tourism activities as defined by
the Department of Forests for the Nanda Devi Eco Tourism Zone (a part of
Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve).
• The Department of Tourism should try to arrange external
assistance/funding from multilateral agencies to execute the master plan for
development of eco-tourism in the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt in a best
possible manner and make available financial support for training and
running eco-tourism businesses.
• The Department of Tourism/UTDB in collaboration with UDEC shall
facilitate expression of interest/tendering process and development of basic
infrastructure and public amenities and assist Department of Forests for
works in NDBR areas, and monitor the quality of the work.
• The state level eco-tourism committee/UTDB should provide:

− incentives (in terms of self-employment loan assistance, tax
benefits/deferment for private sector participation, human resource
development/training, etc.) and
− rewards to those establishments/organisations in the Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt region that show the best results in terms of managing
shops/kiosks, toilet facilities, environmental protection and conservation,
the best guide/nature interpreter, best hotel/lodge, restaurant with best
ambience & hygiene, trek path, medical service, emergency rescue, etc.
Even tourists who bring back their non-biodegradable waste can get a part
of their eco-fee refunded on deposit of the waste at Govind Ghat and get a
free souvenir (signed picture postcard of Valley of Flower or
Hemkunt/dry flower memorabilia) declaring them an Eco-Tourist and
whose names would be posted at the “Friends of the Valley of Flowers”
Programme web page. This would be necessary to ensure an image of this
destination commensurate with prestige of a World Heritage Site, for
which this destination is nominated to UN.
• The Department of Tourism /Department of Forest should create checks
through a small monitoring committee to ensure that those who do not
comply with environmental guidelines and notices should be penalised like
tourists’ enroute pay a fine or by revoking the registration/license of
shopkeepers/other service providers working in this area.
• The Department of Tourism currently has Tourist Bureau offices at
Gopeshwar and Joshimath for collection and analysis of tourist arrival
data/tourism statistics and preparation /monitoring of schemes for tourism
development in the Chamoli district.
• The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) has a presence in the form of a
well-maintained TRH at Ghangharia. The other nearest TRHs are the Old and
New TRH complexes at Joshimath.
• The DoT/ DoF /local management, etc. shall also ensure that only consistent
information is displayed that is supported by the official line, whether it is
through signages/information boards/print media/electronic
media/internet media, etc.
10.3.10 Public Works Department
The State Public Works Department (PWD), which already maintains the trek
path from Govind Ghat-Ghangharia-Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Sahib can
continue to assist/participate in development & maintenance of trek paths &
trails/ road & parking/ bridges/ civil helipad, directional signages, etc. and
assist in any emergency response situations with men & equipment under due
permissions/regulations of the Department of Forests.
10.3.11 Jal Nigam and Jal Sansthan Departments
The Jal Nigam department will continue to provide new piped water supply
system arrangements in the region (e.g. the newly planned piped water supply
intake, storage, & distribution scheme for Govind Ghat with water source near
Pulna) and any new sewerage system proposals in future.
While, the Jal Sansthan department will continue to maintain & upgrade the
existing water supply schemes in the region (e.g. the planned maintenance &
upgradation of water supply system at Ghangharia, and any other maintenance
& upgradation of water supply system at Bhyundar and Pulna in future).
10.3.12 Electricity Departments
The State Electricity Board (SEB) will be responsible for provision and
maintenance of electricity supply connected through grid (e.g. restoration of
electricity supply up to Kanjila via Bhyundar and regular process of preventive
maintenance for the same after the tourist season is over by avoiding the damage
to electricity pole & distribution lines due to avalanche in winters).
While, the Uttaranchal Renewable Energy Development Agency (UREDA) will
be responsible for undertaking any major repairs (including funding the same) to
the Micro-Hydel Plant (2 x 50 KW capacity turbines) at Ghangharia, training the
plant staff as appointed by Bhyundar/Pulna Gram Sabha, maintenance of Solar
Street Light System, and provision of any new micro-hydel plant or solar street
lighting systems in the region.
10.3.13 Department of Telecommunications
The Department of Telecommunications (DOT) will continue to be responsible
for creating any new telephone exchanges, connectivity and quality of
performance of telrcommunication. While, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited
(BSNL) may be responsible for continuing/introducing it’s new services (e.g.
CellOne Mobile/Cellular Communication Service, etc.) in the region.
The Department of Forests may however, continue to use its wireless
communication network/facility for surveillance and patrolling for forest & wild
life protection in the region.
10.3.14 Department of Health
The Department of Health shall assist in developing and equipping the proposed
small Govt. emergency health care unit with equipment/medicines/staff at
Ghangharia; equipping the Govt. medical relief center under construction at
Govind Ghat with equipment/medicines/staff; and equipping the first aid
centers enroute the trek route with equipment/medicines. The Department of
Health shall also assist in building the capacity of the local resources in medical
health care like, giving training in paramedical assistance to interested/eligible
educated members of EDC/local youth/Mahila Mandal from local community,
and Gurdwara sevadars and prepare them as paramedics who can assist
Department of Health in running above mentioned medical facilities.
The Department of Health shall also take up the responsibility of certification of
the quality of the food services offered and the overall hygiene of the facilities at
Govind Ghat, Ghangharia, VoF, Hemkunt, and the entire trek route; and regular
monitoring of the same. In case of any penal action necessary against such
services/facilities, the Department of Health shall advise DoF/EDC to initiate
appropriate action accordingly.
10.3.15 Department of Revenue
The part of district administration including

law and order in the Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt region falls under the jurisdiction of
Patwari, Department of Revenue,
Pandukeshwar. A Revenue Chowki is
positioned at Ghangharia during the tourist
season. Any accidents/crimes are reported to
Patwari through wireless available at
FRH/telephones.
The development at Ghangharia has happened
in a very haphazard and unregulated manner
over the past years. It was informed that
attempts are being made to get the Ghangharia
land to be regularised as per the provisions of
the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, so that the
current land/plot holdings are regularised as
lands diverted for non-forest use and future
development can be controlled and regulated
by the Department of Revenue as per a

revenue map till the tree line at Ghangharia.
Any tourism related building/utility
development in Bhyundar/Pulna village land
should also be controlled and regulated by the
Department of Revenue as per a revenue map
of these villages.
10.3.16 Role of NGOs
• Assist in mentally preparing the local host community through awareness
and propagation for joint forest management activities/services
• May act as a co-ordination link between the local host community,
Department of Forests, and other government departments in making
understand the importance of various activities in the joint forest
management area
• As a trainer, undertake the training of the stakeholders of the joint forest
management
• Undertake any other activity related to joint forest management, as and when
assigned by the government.
• The NGOs could also contribute by training the local community especially
the Mahila Mandal in skills for preparing souvenirs etc and formation of self-
help groups (SHGs).
• The NGOs working in the field of environment could also sponsor research in
the region.
11. COMMUNITY BENEFITS & HRD

This section attempts to undertake a systematic study on socio-economic impact of
tourism development in the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region, the approach to make
the local community partners in the eco-tourism development and to develop human
resources for the envisaged employment opportunities. Community Participation has
been discussed in the previous development and management chapters 5 to 9 and
particularly in the implementation section on roles and responsibilities in Chapter 10.
10.1 Community Participation
11.1.1 Approach to Development
The Consultants interacted extensively with the local community, EDC and other
stakeholder representatives, Mahila Mandal representatives, trade community etc. at
various levels including individual discussions, brain storming group sessions, NGT
session to understand their perception towards development and community
participation. The populaces in general are more than willing to actively participate in the
tourism development. The approach to development should therefore be such so as to
reach the grassroot level. Most of the work involved in development is labour intensive;
hence local villagers should be involved in these activities. Most of the activities are
proposed to be run by the local community itself. This will provide local job opportunity at
one hand and on the other hand will win local goodwill and support. Also, eco-tourism is
about being managed by the local community to make it sustainable. This approach can
be applied across the following areas of attention:
• Target group oriented approach - Prime focus (and beneficiaries) of the project
should be Environment Monitors like EDC, Women in local host community
etc.
• Focus on self-help - Activities should be aimed to help people better
understand the opportunities they have to improve their own situation.
Trainings should be given to Mahila Mandal and local NGOs/other
organisations like EDC, Van Panchayat, Gram Sabha, Yuvak Mandal, etc. to
form Self Help Groups in the area to set up sustainable activities.
• Government Role as a Facilitator – State Government should try to avoid
implementing activities themselves, but rather build the capacity of existing
local/regional organisations to be able to plan and implement tourism
activities on their own in a sustainable manner. Role of Government bodies is
particularly important in imparting development and management
regulations.
11.1.2 Community-based Tourism

An effective way to improve the economy in the valley and to enable communities to
improve the quality of life will be through social mobilisation of people, especially into
Self Help Groups (SHGs). This will involve community participation in tourism activities
such that the benefits of development are equitably distributed. This will include
improved access to education/training and other social services of the community. There
are already initiatives like the Eco Development Committee (EDC), the same way there
could be women initiatives as well.
Groups have been formed in many villages adopted in districts like Uttarkashi, Tehri, etc.
Women have been mobilised to form small groups for savings & credit for improving the
economic conditions of the individual women. Micro-credit has been given to them for
starting small enterprises for generating additional income and thus improving their
overall economic condition. The same model can be adopted for the Bhyundar valley.
10.2 Benefits to Local Communities

Development of tourism in hill regions of Himalayan range provides an excellent
opportunity for achieving a diversification in addition to providing a wide range of
benefits, both direct and indirect, to the local host community of the region. This is true
for any region where tourism development has taken place anywhere in the world.
Tourism has the potential to change the economic face of any region and benefits of
planned tourism development are manifold. Moreover, the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
Belt being areas of National Park and Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a well-planned
and regulated tourism for this region is the need of the hour. For this the involvement of
local community is very critical.
As discussed in the earlier chapters, tourism has emerged as an important economic
activity in the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region and the local populace has been able to
participate and benefit directly from limited tourism activities, but not at all in a planned
way and with less consideration to environmental management and standards for
aesthetics and quality hospitality. The following section explores the possibility of tourism
benefits reaching the local community in a planned manner so as to improve the overall
socio-economic condition prevalent in the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region.
The broad objectives of such a development plan is:
• Socio-economic development and economic empowerment
• Enhance local participation in tourism activities
• Providing more avenues for tourists to increase their expenditure in a way
that the economic benefits reach the community
• Economic and ecological sustainability
• Socio-cultural consciousness and
• Improving gender equality for enhanced women participation in economic
development.
The focus therefore is to:
• Establish and promote a different way of conducting tourism, wherein local
people are the owners and have control over entrepreneurial activity,
improving their quality of life and actively conserving the region's
biodiversity and natural resources and be accountable for the same.
• Create and strengthen community entrepreneurial activities such that they
are well administered, conform to standards of architectural aesthetics and
hospitality, and are economically profitable.
• Establish a forum for communication, co-ordination and joint co-operation
focusing on tourism quality and reliability, and environmental, social, and
economic sustainability.
11.2.1 Current Situation
In earlier times people of Bhyundar/Pulna relied on their agriculture, livestock and

surrounding resources for almost all their needs and were largely self-sufficient. Today
agricultural farming (potato, chaulai & mandwa for flour, rajma, wheat, and limited
vegetables) and livestock farming (limited milch cattle and mules are kept, as goats &
sheeps are hardly kept by many due to the ban on grazing after declaration of the Valley
of Flowers as National Park in 1982) alone can no longer sustain households for the
whole year; people also need to bring in some form of cash income, either through
casual labour, marketing, running/renting - hotel/lodge/restaurant businesses or
migration to nearby work centres (like Ghangharia, Govind Ghat, Pandukeshwar,
Joshimath, etc. Some people bring in income through the sale of grass for grazing,
working with eco-development committee, which collects eco-fees for keeping the trek
path and surroundings clean and registering shops and businesses, etc. Migration for
paid work is observed to be largely seasonal (in the tourist season migration for work
takes place to Ghangharia and Govind Ghat including along the trek path and in the
tourist off-season to Pandukeshwar, Joshimath, etc. for civil contractor works). And this
trend seems increasingly becoming permanent for some, mostly men. It was observed
that there is much concern with the lack of local employment opportunities resulting in
migration, which is sometimes seasonal also. The causes can be attributed to the
pressure of getting employed as early as possible leading to discontinued education
beyond secondary school levels. There is a strong agreement that the development of
proper tourism infrastructure, some cottage industries (development of ex-situ
demonstration nursery/ Germplasm bank, making souvenir of dry flowers, coloured
brochures/black & white trek path-cum-flower composition map of Valley of Flowers,
photo post cards, posters, handicrafts made up of Ringal grass – small baskets/ vase /
lampshades/ hats/ stationery holders/ carry bags or hand bags, sale of T-shirts/Trek
Suits/Cap souvenirs with Valley of Flowers logo imprints, etc.), participation in
afforestation (patches of hill land identified by Department of Forests & Van Panchayat),
which are maintained and run by locals, and the marketing/management of local tourism
products (lodges, restaurants, nature interpretation services, eco-guides, eco-
maintenance of trek paths/facilities, etc.) have the most potential to generate local jobs
and income.
As mentioned earlier, though the level of nature/eco-awareness amongst the local
community is good, the pressures of earning as early as possible has led to the low level
of formal education in the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region. The recommendations for
the training and education have been separately dealt with in the following sections.
Some of the potential direct and indirect benefits related to socio-economic and
infrastructural development that might accrue to the people consequent to development
of tourism in this region are delineated below.
11.2.2 Direct Benefits
Some of the direct benefits accruing to the local community of the region as a
result of tourism development are:
Employment Opportunities in Tourism Sector
Tourism industry has high potential of employment generation. It generates
employment, both directly in the tourism sector and indirectly in various
support and resource management sectors. It offers employment to skilled, semi-
skilled and unskilled workers, especially the local community. Employment
opportunities are generated in hotels, restaurants, tea/snack shops, handicrafts

(souvenir), cultural troupes, guides/nature interpreters, photographers, etc. to
name a few.
People are undoubtedly the most important resource in tourism industry as it
provides highly personalised service to customers. Development of tourism
along with human resource development and training of the local people will
lead to income creation among the local populace. It has been estimated that the
tourism and hospitality sector, along with the catering sector, accounts for more
than 50 percent of the total employment generated.
The proposed development will also stimulate the establishment of local tourism
enterprises. These provide opportunities for local capital investment, jobs,
income, profits made from the enterprises and generally developing a sense of
entrepreneurship that may not have existed previously in the area. The
availability of jobs and better living conditions due to tourism will also reduce
the migration of young people from the region to seek employment elsewhere. In
addition to the host community, in the project area, people from nearby regions
are also seasonally dependent in low profile works like mule drivers, porters,
trek path sweepers, etc.
Development of Enterprise
Tourist expenditure at a particular tourist area greatly helps the development of
the surrounding areas. It can provide jobs for a large number of unskil1ed/semi-
skilled workers. It can generate work for the construction industry and a wide
range of other supporting- industries e.g. Entrepreneurs for running various
cluster facilities enroute can hire local people and mules for assembling the
proposed temporary structures/accessories before the start of tourist season as
well dis-assembling the same once the tourist season is over, and transporting
and depositing the same at the EDC Stores at nearest villages/settlements
identified
Most of the development at local levels would have to be driven by the
enterprise which would invest in hotels/lodges, restaurants, eateries,
recreational centres, information and communication centres,
handicrafts/souvenir shops, etc. These small enterprises shall be primarily put
up by the local people themselves. Some of the activities that emerged as a
possible source of income generation in the region are as given below.
1. Setting up village based shops: There exists enough scope of income
generation by setting up of village based tourist centres, wood craft /
handicraft shops, technically upgraded agriculture implement making,
household electrical and mechanical goods, Ringal grass products, souvenir
shops, publishing & printing, etc. The wares could be continued to be
produced in off season and can be sold during the tourist season or in other
markets further down south, like in Joshimath (where some tourism visitation
exists for whole of the year) and settlements below, etc.
2. Traditional Wool industry: Wool production of the region (villages of Govind
Ghat, Bhyundar/Pulna), if improved, can generate income.
3. Animal Husbandry: Milch cattle and milk are of high demand, especially in
the tourist season. The local people can be provided micro-credit in order to
keep high quality milch cattle with the assistance from Department of Animal
Husbandry (with respect to good breeding methods for high yield quality
milch cattle). Apart from the collection of grass and other bio-mass over the
rocky slopes, local people should be trained/encouraged for agro-forestry
which suits to the local settings and which do not hamper the basic crop yield
in these villages of Bhyundar/Pulna or Govind Ghat or in vacant Van
Panchayat lands. This activity will also result in availability of another
avenue of fodder and fuel to individuals mostly from their own fields to save
them from the drudgery of fodder and fuel wood collection and thereby to
reduce pressure on the nearby reserve forest areas.
4. Poultry and Beekeeping: Poultry is a traditional practice. However, this is still
at the very marginal level and caters to only home needs. This can be another
source of economic development. There exists a lot of potential for bee
keeping since not only flowers but the crops that locals grow also bear good
flowers. Bee keeping can be popularised by providing technical know how
and basic bee colonies and bee boxes.
Improved Standard of Living
Improvement in the general standard of living of the people in any region is
directly dependent on the nature and volume of employment opportunities in
the region. Tourism industry being an important sector of the overall service
industry thus contributes to the upliftment of the living standards of the
population thereby driving the economic development of any region. Increased
tourist inflow into the region means more tourist expenditure in the local
economy, which in turn leads to an improved standard of living of the local host
community. The involvement in maintaining their own community, environment
and developing skills will lead to self efforts to improve quality of life and
improve their self-esteem.
Better Education and Training
The growth in employment opportunities in the tourism sector would also lead
to general upliftment of the levels of education in the region. People seeking
employment in various arenas of the tourism and hospitality industry would
propel them to upgrade their own skills and education levels for gainful
employment in the sector. This would undoubtedly lead to improvement in the
levels of education and training being imparted at present. Involvement of local
people in the tourism development will lead to an empowered skilled

community.
Social Upliftment and Improved Quality of Life
With more tourists flowing into the region and with improved levels of
education, the socio-cultural exchanges between the tourists and the host
community is bound to lead to social upliftment of the region. Such a socio-
cultural exchange of ideas does have its flip side too, but the host community can
derive maximum benefits out of this phenomenon by going with the concept of
responsible tourism development.
Tourism will also encourage a greater environmental awareness and sense of
cultural identity by residents when they see tourists enjoying the environmental,
historical and cultural heritage. The local host community would be the sole
decider of what and how much it would allow to develop and what would be the
face of “responsible tourism experience” in the region. Thus, the local population
itself shall decide the kind and extent of social upliftment in the region. Tourism
development shall be the desired catalyst for this phenomenon.
Sustainable Environmental Practices
The environment is the basis for the natural and cultural resources for attracting
tourists in the region. Environmental protection of the Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt Belt is therefore perceived as an essential component for long-term
success of tourism in this region. The tourism development activities will also
include increasing awareness towards the conservation of natural and cultural
assets both among the locals and tourists. It is expected that through the co-
operation and productive interaction of the tourism industry, environmental
protectors and the local community, it will ensure a regulated tourism that will
benefit all and achieve environmental sustainability in the region.
The overall environmental quality of the area will improve as a result of
sustainable tourism and preference of tourists to visit attractive, clean and non-
polluted natural places. As tourism acts as a catalyst for redevelopment of places,
better land development and landscaping will also be effected. This will have a
direct bearing on the health and nutrition of the local populace, especially
children who are most susceptible to pollution.
11.2.3 Indirect Benefits
Some of the indirect benefits accruing to the local community of the region as a
result of planned tourism development are:
Infrastructure Development/Services –Water, Sanitation, Solid Waste Disposal,
Power, Roads/Trek Path, Mule Services, Health Care, etc.
Development of tourism in the region calls for development of certain essential
infrastructure that would support the increased tourist traffic. In addition to

development of new infrastructure, the improvements in the existing
infrastructure, which are undertaken in order to attract tourists, are also of
crucial importance. The investment in the essential infrastructure development,
however, is not solely for catering to the tourists. The infrastructure is bound to
be used by the local population and thus the improvements in infrastructure may
confer benefits upon the local population by providing them with amenities,
which hitherto, they had not enjoyed. This would also ensure improvement in
the property connectivity of the region for quicker accessibility with comfort.
Furthermore, the provision of infrastructure would provide the basis or serve as
an encouragement for greater economic diversification. Some examples are:
• The region around Bhyundar valley had communities harvesting and storing
grasses for use as a feed for their domestic livestock traditionally. In recent
past because of increasing number of mules and ponies that are used by the
tourists, the demand for grass as feed went up tremendously. Some of the
regional people have started selling grass, and this has become an important
activity in the valley from Aug.-Nov. where these grasses are grown in
abundance.
• Harvesting flowers in a demonstration nursery at Ghangharia area can also
be an important economic activity in the Valley area, and a cottage industry
could produce souvenirs out of these as another alternative source of income.
This will have to be closely regulated and harvesting flowers cannot be
allowed within VOFNP. Some experts have pointed out that few experiments
in the past have failed, as flora in the region is very specific to altitude and
other ecological conditions. Hence care should be taken in deciding the
flowering species to be grown and not exactly all of it in the Valley of
Flowers.
Thus, indirectly, expenditure for infrastructure development will stimulate other
economic activities thereby providing more job opportunities and facilities to the
local population.
Employment in Infrastructure Sector
Construction industry is another very big source of employment. The basic
infrastructure-any roads, upgradation of trek path, helipads, water supply and
other public utilities, as also construction of hotels and other accommodation
units create jobs for hundreds of workers, both unskilled and skilled. The entire
important sector of basic infrastructures represents appreciable source of
employment opportunities for the local population. Though most of the
structures recommended enroute trek path are of temporary nature as they need
to be assembled before the start of tourist season and dis-assembled once the
tourist season is over, this activity requires hiring local people and mules to
transport and deposit the same in the nearest identified EDC Stores.
Operation and maintenance of infrastructure developed in the region for
promoting tourism also provides an important source of employment to large
number of local people over a range of skills. A large number of people are
expected to be employed in the operation and maintenance of the infrastructure
Economic Upliftment Due To Income Multiplier Effect
The receipts from tourism can provide a valuable source of earnings for the
region. Although tourism is sensitive to the level of economic activity in the
tourist generating countries; it provides more stable earnings than primary
products. The income from tourism has tended to increase at a higher rate than
merchandise export in a number of countries.
The flow of money generated by tourist spending multiplies as it passes through
various sections of the economy. This can be depicted with the help of following
Exhibit 11.1. It depicts how a direct expenditure of an amount of money by a
tourist leads to further expenses in the economy across various layers. This ripple
effect generates income not just for the primary receiver of the money from the
tourist but also for the entire chain that supplies various goods and services that
go into fulfilling the needs and requirements of the tourist. This phenomenon is
the income multiplier effect and growth in tourism in the region would mean a
higher income multiplier and hence an improved economy of the region.
In addition to being an important source of income, tourism provides a number
of other economic benefits, which vary in importance from one region to another
and also depending upon the nature and scale of tourism. The benefits from
infrastructure investments, justified primarily for roads/pucca trek paths,
helipads, water supply and other public utilities, may be widely shared by the
other sectors of the economy. Government officials, students & research scholars,
and local residents would, also use tourist facilities in this region such as hotels,
restaurants, public transport. Tourists also contribute to tax revenue both directly
through sales taxes and indirectly through property, toll, eco-development fee,
profits and income taxes. Tax multipliers for tourism expenditure is also
observed to be very high. These can be ploughed back for the maintenance and
upgradation of trek path and public utilities. Tourism provides employment,
brings infrastructure improvements and may help in regional development.
The following Exhibit 11.1 would demonstrate how tourism spending would flow in the
economy. For example,
• those who work a porters can also be trained to work as eco guides so as they
get better remunerations from the tourists and trekkers and well as get aware
of environmental protection issues and this in turn will make the porter-cum-
eco guide to be responsible/accountable for an environmentally aware tourist
behaviour from tourists who they accompany. Similarly, more members of

the local host community youth can be trained and inducted as eco-
guides/nature interpreters.
• Local community members can be involved in setting up of micro-enterprises
like
− producing cloth souvenirs like, T-shirts/trek suits/caps/carry bags, etc.
with Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Sahib logos. Similarly good quality
plastic rain coats with Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Sahib and EDC,
Bhyundar & Govind Ghat logos can be assembled and repaired/recycled
for re-use, etc.
− printing and publishing of trek maps (black & white), attractive &
coloured brochures/ booklets/ pamphlets/ signs / posters/ picture
postcards, etc.
− serve as painters (as most of the planned infrastructure is to be housed in
painted temporary tin structures, including lot of signages, waste bins,
trash pit walls, etc.), plumbers, cooks, para-medics for first aid/trauma
care, eco-friendly/gas or battery based ferry vehicles & drivers and
vehicle repair mechanics (at Govind Ghat, or later at Pulna if the road to
Pulna and parking there is developed), etc.
− literate local people can serve as data collectors on visitors and service
providers to facilitate monitoring for Visitor Management and Tour
Operator/Service Providers.
− Packaging of some flowers (technology can be shared by NBRI), which
could be sold to the tourists in the season as souvenirs.
Accountants
Lodging
Wages and Salaries and Wages Adventure Sport
Lovers
Tips and gratuities
Appliance
Food
Payroll taxes repairperson
Architects
Commissions
Artisans and
Beverages
Music and entertainment Craftsmen
Arts and Crafts
Administrative and general
expenses suppliers
Entertainment Attorneys
Professional services Auto servicepersons
Purchase of food and beverage Bankers
Clothing
supply Bank workers
Carpenters
Purchase of goods for resale
Cashiers
Gifts and CONSULTANCYPurchase
SERVICES
of materials and Charities
supplies Clerks
Souvenirs
Cloth/Wool Mfrs
Repairs and maintenance
Cooks
Personal care,
Advertising, promotion and Cultural
As mentioned in earlier chapters, micro-credit funds/loans for these small

enterprises and employment activities, can be made available through the State’s
Schemes for Tourism Development like, “Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali
Scheme”.
Empowerment of Women
Training and capacity building of institutions like Mahila Mandal and involvement of
women in tourism activities would help in empowerment of women and general
improvement in their health, education, nutrition and status in the society. It has to be
noted that, in general, women in the hill regions are very hardworking, and with some
training and financial help in form of micro-credit can take up active and constructive
roles in development of tourism in the region and development of the region in turn.
The HRD plan detailed in the following sections has recommended the training and
capacity building of Mahila Mandal and involvement of women in tourism activities.
These would help in women empowerment and general improvement in their health,
education, nutrition and status in society.
Destination/Image Building
The tourism development of Valley of Flowers region would position Valley as one of the
top destinations of the country. It would attract tourists/nature lovers from all over the
world and this will improve the brand value of the destination and to be recognised as a
World Heritage Site. This in turn will lead to overall improvement the socio-economic
growth of the region as well.
As an important contributor to the image building, it is proposed in the tourism plan that
the ownership be given to the local stakeholders. Tourists will come in contact with many
more people than just the hotel and transportation employees. It is therefore important
that the general public feel a sense of pride in their destination, which will be translated
into a friendly attitude, good customer service and a pleasant experience for both the
tourist and the local resident.
Logo on the rental trek suites, other souvenirs etc. will create an image of the
destination. The EDC members and sweepers wearing their uniform jackets also serve
the purpose.
Sense of Belonging
With tourism development and availability of planned income generating
activities, infrastructure and other facilities in the region, the region would
become self-sufficient prompting people to stay on and take up tourism related
activities and environmental conservation and this would instil a sense of
belonging and accountability to the place in the people.
10.3 HRD and Training
It is universally acclaimed that individuals who care for, are accountable for and
can creatively respond to substantive concerns are more likely to contribute
quality inputs to any organisation. Hence the local people of Valley of Flower-
Hemkunt Region, if provided the requisite capacity building, will make the
valley one of the most attractive tourist destinations. The enthusiasm was
observed among the local people to contribute towards tourism development
and environmental management of the area.
People are undoubtedly the most important resource in tourism as it provides
highly personalised service to customers. As the tourism industry is purely
customer-driven, it is imperative that tourism development be integrally linked
with Human Resource Development (HRD) in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
Region.
The objectives of the HRD Plan for the region are as follows:
• To assess and identify possible mechanisms for strengthening the capability
of local community in order to derive maximum employment and income
benefits tourism
• Provide skills for income generating activities to local communities
• To provide trained and qualified persons to the tourism sector
• To ensure that the quality of service in tourism and allied sectors is excellent
and position the region as a quality tourism destination
• To increase the participation of women by giving training to members of
Mahila Mandal
• Co-ordination among all projects organisations, NGO and government
organisations working in the area.
11.3.1 Current Human Resource Situation in the Region
Accommodation & Food Arrangements
Currently, most hotels/lodges are located in Ghangharia and a few at Govind
Ghat. The GMVN TRH at Ghangharia and FRHs at Govind Ghat and
Ghangharia have their own trained staff. These hotels at Ghangharia or
restaurants/tea/snack stalls are owned by the villagers from local communities
of Bhyundar/Pulna and are either run by them or given on rent. These
establishments have no formally trained personnel at the staff or managerial
levels. There is a lack of awareness about the importance of training of staff in
hospitality industry.
While Gurdwaras that are the largest establishments in this region provide
accommodation and food on free basis, the staff is normally self/on-the job
trained while working in Gurdwara and they also get assistance in turn from
those who use Gurdwara and Langar facilities with the intention of reciprocating
the “seva”.
Guide/Nature Interpretation Services
Under the aegis of the Department of Forests, initiative is taken on 3-tier training
programme to train the members of EDC and other members of the local host
community for nature interpretation/guide services. So that these can actively
participate in nature interpretation activities either at the Department of Forests’
Valley of Flowers Information Centre at Ghangharia as well enroute to & at site
of Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib. The 3-tier training programme break-
up is as below:
• Basic training: 2 days
• Advanced Training: 7 days
• Professional Guide Training: 1 month
These nature interpreters/guides will then be available on hire charges of Rs.
500/- per day to accompany the visitors. Most of these are good photographers
and work on a short documentary film is also undergoing involving these people
and is expected to be shown to visitors next season (i.e. year 2004) onwards apart
from the current nature slide show held at the Valley of Flowers Information
Centre as mentioned earlier. Currently there are four EDC members that are
trained for nature interpretation/guide services.
Also, it should be ensured that nature interpretation centres in the area are
staffed by Forest Ranger’s staff, EDC members / Local Community or GSHSMT
Volunteers, so that there is always someone ready to answer questions of the
visitors and the centre should be open throughout the day time. The number of
slide show/documentary film show and its timings may be appropriately
decided for enhanced coverage of visitors.
Travel and Tourism
Currently, there is no Travel and Tourism Management course offered to the
people involved in the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region. However, a new
institution “Centre for Eco-tourism and Sustainable Livelihoods, Chunakhan
(Ramnagar)” under the aegis of Department of Forests has been established. This
centre can offer programmes on Capacity building, Publication and awareness
programmes, Policy research, Projects, Product development, and Process
documentation.
11.3.2 Employment Opportunities in the Tourism Industry

Accommodation & Food Arrangements
Hotels/Lodges/Gurdwaras
Accommodation is one of the main expenditure heads of tourists. On an average
in India it covers about 49% of the foreign tourist expenditure and 67% of the
domestic tourist expenditure. While at Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region, it

was about 15%-35% of the foreign tourist expenditure and 20%-40% of the
domestic tourist expenditure. This sector is not only important for its
contribution toward tourism revenues, but also because more often than not, a
tourist’s perception of his holiday quality is seen to be influenced by this factor.
It has been estimated that this sector, along with the catering sector, accounts for
more than 50 percent of the total employment generated by the tourism industry.
Hotels require trained personnel for housekeeping and front office, and in the
kitchen. Trained personnel can ensure customer satisfaction. Owing to the rising
standard of living, customer service has become a crucial differentiating factor in
the hotel industry. While most up-market hotels realise the importance of
providing quality service, budget hotels/lodges hardly focus on customer
service.
There are 20 private hotels/lodges at Ghangharia with 651 beds capacity (17.5%
share), GMVN TRH & FRH have 66 beds capacity (1.8% share) and Gurdwara
has 3000 people’s capacity for free accommodation (80.7% share). While, at
Govind Ghat base there are 10 private hotels/lodges with 414-bed capacity (6.5%
share) and apart from one FRH, rest about 93.5% share of free accommodation
facility is provided by Gurdwara (6000 persons capacity). In view of shortage of
quality accommodation, customer service is the not the key guiding factor in the
region.
Restaurants
The catering sector includes all outlets that retail eatables. Customer service is
very important in this sector; therefore, trained personnel would be required
here for not only ensuring the quality of food, hygiene, but service as well. While
most good restaurants provide some kind of formal and on-the-job training to
their employees, the smaller establishments rarely do so.
In this Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region, it is the number of restaurants and
tea/snack stalls that have the highest share of 80% out of total establishments at
Ghangharia and enroute the trek path. However, the restaurants and eateries in
the region do not maintain the quality a tourist destination should. Hence, it
becomes all the more imperative that these establishments whether run by the
villagers themselves or given on rent should have trained personnel or get their
people trained.
Travel Agents & Tour Operators
Travel agents play a key role in promoting and developing tourism because
they are responsible for enthusing tourists to visit a particular tourist
destination.
The main activities of travel agents are:
• To advise potential tourists on the relative merits and demerits of tourist

destinations and provide the necessary travel information.
• To make the necessary travel arrangements for its customers. Such
arrangements include accommodation, transport and other services. For this
purpose, travel agents enter into contracts with hoteliers, transport
companies and so on.
Tour operators plan, organise and retail tours. They make all the necessary
arrangements for travel, such as accommodation, sightseeing and transport as
part of the package. They either own or contract transport, hotel accommodation
and other facilities to be able to deliver the services promised to tourists.
There are many Indian tour and travel agencies that bring tourists to Valley of
Flowers-Hemkunt Region. Some of them put up their own tent colony at Kanjila,
instead of providing accommodation in the TRH/FRH/Hotels/Lodges available
at Ghangharia. (Refer Annexure – D for an indicative list of government
departments & private tour agencies that promote/provide information on
tourism to Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region).
Guides
Guides play an important role in making tourists’ trip more informative and
enjoyable and at the same time can play a mentor role to orient tourists
towards environmental protection and conservation issues if the destination is
a fragile ecosystem. The services provided by well-trained guides help in
projecting a good image of the region to domestic or international tourists. At
present there are only four EDC members that are trained as guides/nature
interpreters. Even the suitable porters can be trained as eco-guides as
mentioned earlier to increase their remuneration as well to be an
environmentally aware person, that facilitates a check on protection of
environment and cleanliness enroute due to tourists they accompany. These
guides should also be registered and certified by the local EDC. The visitation
flow shall be restricted with guided tours, but at the same time guides should
be trained to be visitor friendly while they control the visitor movement on
well-defined paths & spots for panoramic view/relaxation, and during such
accompaniment the guide service shall avoid a sense of control, while the
tourists appreciate the point of interest.
It is proposed that a 7-day training be conducted to identify good potential
guides, and suitable guides may also be taken to successful eco-tourism
destinations in the state/country. It is also proposed that ecologists and
researchers who are experts about the region and the ecology take classes on
site.
Mule/ Porter/ Palki or Dandi Services
Members from the local community can get employed in offering services like
mules, porters, and palki apart from / neighbouring regions for transportation of
people and goods. However, these stakeholders too should be registered &
certified by the local EDC and should be provided basic environmental
orientation that facilitates a check on protection of environment and cleanliness
enroute due to tourists they accompany. Some these suitable porters can be
trained as eco-guides as mentioned earlier.
11.3.3 Training – Approach
The Training aspects would mainly consist of:
• Training of local people especially in skill development
• Training of Mahila Mandal members for involvement of women
• Training of students by giving them formal education
• Short training courses floated for various stakeholders of tourism
• Training for researchers and environment students from outside in the
region, who could contribute to EDC and get their services
Training of Local People
Training of the local people has to be used as a strategic means to attract
investments and retain existing investors and facilitate expansion of community
based tourism in the area with due considerations to environmental management
and conservation of the valley region. Training should also play an important
role in increasing the productivity levels of home-based workers. This approach
is summarised in Exhibit 11.2.
Beginners’ Training: Half of the fresh entrants to workforce will be trained to
satisfy tourism industry demand. These would include fresh graduates and
unemployed youth.
Multi-Skilling: The demands in tourism sector are quick to change in this fast
paced economic atmosphere. Skills become outdated and demand for new skills
crop up on a regular basis. Multi-skilling training would help employees attain
necessary skills by undergoing short to medium-term training programmes and
help them hone their skills.
New
Beginners’ Investment
Training
Existing
Business
Expansion
Multi- Economic
Skilling Growth
CONSULTANCY SERVICES Increased
A Division of Tata Sons Limited
Productivity
390
Home New self

Home-based Workers: A sizeable portion of population is home based workers,

especially women. This gives an additional income to the household and is a
very important component to sustain quality of life. This segment is suffering
from lack of productivity due to prevalence of old techniques. Training will be
imparted so that they can adapt to new methods and increase their productivity
and take up new skills, which can generate a better return.
The Table 11.1 given below indicates some of the categories in which the training
can be provided.
Table 11.1: Areas of Training
Sr. Fresh Training Multi-Skilling Home-based Workers
No.
1. Tea/Coffee/Snack Restaurant/Dhaba Souvenir
shops owners makers/Handicraft
hawker
2. Beverage/Ice cream Snacks/ Chaat sellers Toy Seller
vendor
3. Photographer/Albums Fruit & Juice Kiosks Tea shops
/Film Rolls/Film Slides
4. Souvenir Porter-cum-Ecoguides Beverage/Ice cream
makers/Handicraft vendor
hawker
5. Printing & Publishing Souvenir Plantation Activities
Work makers/Handicraft
(Booklets/Brochures/P hawker
amphlets/ Post Card
sellers)
6. Guide / Nature Printing & Publishing Work Horticulture
Interpreter (Book
Booklets/Brochures/Pamphl
ets /Post Card sellers)
7. Rentals: Trek Horticulture Floral extracts

Equipment – Shoes,
Sr. Fresh Training Multi-Skilling Home-based Workers

No.
Stick, Raincoat;
Binoculars
8. Paramedics for First Prasad / Offering shops Environmental
Aid/Trauma Centre Patrolling
9. Hired cycles – All Paramedics for First Printing & Publishing
terrain bikes Aid/Trauma Centre Work
(Booklets/Brochures/P
amphlets/ Post Card
sellers)
10. Cobblers Mechanic/Repair Paramedics for First
shop’s Aid/Trauma Centre
11. Mechanic/Repair Toy Seller
shop’s
12. Toy Seller Floral Extracts
13. Floral extracts Mason-cum-Fitter
(Temporary Structure
work)
14. Mason-cum-Fitter Environmental
(Temporary Structure Patrolling
work)
Training of Women for their participation in Tourism

The consultants interacted with the local Mahila Mandal and found that they
were keen to learn new skills and participate in income generation for their
families. They reported that they can find sometime for these activities during
tourists season and relatively more time during off season in winters. Therefore
training needs to be given to women through ‘train the trainer approach’, wherein
members of Mahila Mandals can be trained, who in turn can train other women.
Example can be given of a study done by United Nations Environment and
Development UK Committee (UNED-UK) brought out that the tourism industry
is an important sector for women (46 % of the workforce are women) as their
percentages of employment in most countries are higher than in the workforce in
general (34 - 40 % are women, ILO data).
In the region, during the tourist season, the men in the household are busy
operating their shops, restaurants and hotels, which are essentially owned and
run by the villagers itself. This leaves the women with keeping the household
activities. However, they could get engaged in souvenir selling etc. and in the
off-season in many skilled money-generating activities.
In the study, it was observed that there is a need to familiarise and train
members of Mahila Mandal on tourism issues that emerge in the developmental
debate. To have equal participation of local women in the tourism activities of
the valley region in order to bring them to the mainstream as well as to achieve
growth of tourism in particular and the economy in general the following needs
to be done:
• Identify opportunities and role of women, keeping in view their present
occupation, skill sets, time spent on domestic activities and their willingness
to participate in the economic activities.
• Increase the number of women who will be visibly involved in the tourism
industry
• Educate and encourage women. Cite examples of sterling performance and
input by a few women that are already involved in tourism
• Responsibility of governments to ensure that women do get involved –
legislation to ensure women are part of the any local NGO/ group created
• Training of members of women’s groups, like Mahila Mandal
The training of Mahila Mandal can be designed based on the following:
• Ways of creating self-employment for women in tourism and maximising
benefits for local communities.
• Tourism in the Valley region is seasonal at present and the tourist season
extends from June to September. It should be projected as an added
advantage to women as it will enable them to accommodate their various
responsibilities.
• There are numerous examples where women and women's groups have
started income generating activities on their own. These activities help to
create financial independence for local women and challenge them to develop
the necessary skills and improve their education. Such cases and case studies
should be a part of the training course being offered to members of Mahila
Mandal.
• Members of Mahila Mandal should be educated about markets and potential
customers. Tourists need to be provided with more information about the
benefits of buying locally and using local services.
• Support from NGOs, the private sector, governments and inter-governmental
organisations can help women to realise their full potential, benefiting not
only the women themselves but also the wider community.
• Support can take the form of specific measures such as the provision of
micro-credit. The training course should introduce the concept of micro-credit
to the Mahila Mandal.
• The need for participation of women in Tourism Planning and Management
should be emphasised.
• Tourist behaviour is seen to be unsafe for women. These should be discussed
in the training sessions. Women's organisations should see that the tourism
issue is put on their agenda.
Women could be given training in the following activities (to name a few) where they
could contribute:
• Running small household industries for making flower/other souvenirs,
handicrafts of Ringal grass, Jute bags etc. especially in the off season
* Running of souvenir shops will be strictly reserved to women.
• Assist in providing medical first aid enroute along with managing
information kiosks.
• Assist in developing/ maintaining demonstration nursery at Ghangharia
created for tourist viewing and education.
• Plantation activities (tree plantation, fodder grass plantation, etc.) along the
areas demarcated by Department of Forests / Van Panchayat (including
lands identified for plantation in lieu of diverted lands for road/parking/trek
path expansion, etc.)
Formal Training of Students/Local Educated Youth
Based on the appraisal of the current situation in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
Region and the level of trained personnel required, the following are the
recommendations:
Travel and Tourism Course
Diploma courses in Travel and Tourism could be started at the local colleges/
vocational centres in Uttaranchal. The course content should be the same as for
the programme conducted by Indian Institute of Travel and Tourism
Management in association with TAAI or of Government Institutes of Hotel
Management & Catering at Dehra Dun/Almora and Department of Tourism at
HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar.
The faculty should be professionally qualified, experienced and enthusiastic.
Students can be sent for internship training to provide them with practical
working experience.
In addition, the following certificate courses should be introduced to take
tourism to new heights in the district:
• Basics of Computers
This course will help people to learn basic computer applications. This will, in
turn, help them to learn the Computerised - Reservations System/Billing
Machines/Web-based Database of Valley of Flowers, etc.
• Financial Management
People should be taught financial management, especially the management of
finance in the tourism industry.
• Spoken English, Hindi, and Punjabi
Service Staff/Guides need to be fluent at least in spoken English, Hindi and
Punjabi language to interact with customers and be able to communicate
correctly the environmental orientation and conservation issues. Gurdwara
Sevadars can play a key role in training locals/service staff in spoken Punjabi
language, or painting signages in “Gurumukhi” script of Punjabi language.
Travel Agents Course
• A new course should be developed to train local people in the travel sector.
This course should cover all aspects of travel agency and tour operator
business. It should include the legal and regulatory formalities of setting up
this business, financing aspects, need for the highest level of customer service,
the ethical standards required, tour planning and logistics. These local people
can have their travel agencies at Dehra Dun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh to
attract business.
• To enable travel agencies to attract high quality customers, employees should
be trained in the use of computerised reservation systems (CRS).
• A travel agent must have the approval of the Department of Tourism to claim
publicity and promotional benefits for tour operators handling inbound
tourists. This approval is not necessary for travel agents that do not propose
to service inbound traffic, although it would be helpful. As the approval adds
to their credibility, travel agents should be encouraged to get an approval
from the Department of Tourism and Centre of Eco-Tourism of Department
of Forests.
Hotel Management Course
Professional managers are required in the tourism industry. Currently, there is
no institutional framework to develop such professionals and, therefore, a course
in Hotel Management should be started. Existing Hotel Management Institutes at
Almora can also be accessed for this purpose.
Courses in basic areas of hotel operations such

as Housekeeping, Catering, Room Service and
Front Office operations should be conducted.
This is with a view to enable rural youth from
remote areas to have access to employment
opportunities in the region.
This is proposed to be a yearlong course to be
provided by a private institute. The
administration shall however provide
scholarship for the top two students each from
Uttaranchal from the merit list.
Eco-Guide/Nature Interpreter Course
• The training course for guides should be revamped to cover areas such as the
history of Valley of Flowers, ability to recognise easily and facts about
prominent species, myths and legends about various places, and aspects of
hospitality. This training should be conducted in at least in Hindi, English
and couple more Foreign languages so that the guides can handle domestic as
well as international tourists. Even suitable porters can be trained as eco-
guides.
• There should be some regulatory authority to certify and regulate the
profession like EDC or Department of Forests. There should be some basic
eligibility criteria that a person has to meet to become a guide, such as HSC or
a relevant certificate course.
• The course content for this one-two months training shall be professionally
designed starting with basics, advanced, and professional levels of
knowledge base by the Office of the DFO, Joshimath / “Centre of Eco-
Tourism and Sustainable Livelihoods” of Department of Forests at
Chunakhan (Ramnagar). A pilot level programme may be run and refined, as
the training programmes progress.
Entrepreneurship Development Programme
A new trained entrepreneurial class is required to develop tourism in Valley of
Flowers-Hemkunt Region, which in turn will lead to economic growth, dispersal
of economic activities, development of backward areas, creation of employment

opportunities, improvement in the standard of living and involvement of all
sections of society in the process of growth.
In this regard, an Entrepreneur Development Programme (EDP) can play a big
role in the identification and promotion of entrepreneurs in this sector. EDP is a
programme designed to help people strengthen their entrepreneurial abilities
and acquire skills and capabilities necessary to be effective entrepreneurs with
due respect to environmental sensitivity of the region.
EDP can help in tapping skills and channellising them for the growth of tourism
in particular. This programme will mainly develop first-generation
entrepreneurs, that is the local youth, who would otherwise have found it
difficult to do so on there own in a proper manner. Trained entrepreneurs shall
be assisted by financial assistance through State Schemes like “Veer Chandra
Singh Garhwali Scheme”, or Bank Loans / Micro-finance schemes.
Training to Other Stakeholders

Other than formal education and training, information should be disseminated to
various stakeholders - Government bodies, other stakeholders in tourism
industry through short training programmes. Recommendations to these are as
follows:
Multi-Stakeholders
• Local governments, employers, trade unions and community groups should
jointly create community based institutions and services to help people to
cope with the double burden of family and household work as well as work
outside the home to generate income
• Supporting women to become self-employed through tourism-related
activities should be linked with micro-credit programmes. Loans to women's
initiatives should be included as a means of creating opportunities for the
industry to buy & source locally, thus maximising the benefits for local
communities. The courses offered should give an insight into the micro credit
lending mechanism.
• Training courses should cover the collaborations of industry, local NGOs and
local government to develop simple strategies to improve access to markets
through providing information about customers and successful strategies of
marketing products.
• The tourism industry, local government, NGOs and the independent tourism
initiatives should collaborate closely to create awareness raising programmes
in order to make tourists aware of the benefits of buying local products, such
as handicrafts, food, clothes etc., and using local services, such as local
guides/nature interpreters.
• Improving access to education and improving the standard of education in
destination area should be an important long-term strategy. This is an area
where partnerships between the industry, NGOs and government
departments can play an important role. Education and training should focus
on marketing, financial management, literacy and foreign languages and be a
high priority when supporting income generating activities.
• Training should also be provided to promote activities that are indirectly
linked to tourism, such as printing, service business, and folk-arts.
• Inter-governmental bodies, national/state governments and NGOs should
support networking projects to improve awareness and ability of
stakeholders to participate effectively, including using electronic media.
• Training/capacity building of the small committee assigned by Department
of Forests & Department of Tourism to monitor, audit, and report the
activities of eco-tourism and their performance & best practices by
individuals or local establishments, and for recognising those who contribute
the best in eco-tourism activities.
Local Governments and Tourism Boards
The training should cover the awareness and knowledge about the following:
• Governments, through the curricula in their educational institutions, should
encourage girls and boys to move into non-traditional occupations.
• Tourism Boards have a key role to play in facilitating wider access to markets
and monitoring the quality of infrastructure and services, and revocation of
the licences of those who do not comply with defined standards
• Governments, employers and workers should take decisions about training in
close consultation with each other as the best results from enhancing the
education and skill levels of the workforce are achieved through concerted
efforts.
• Governments should engage in educating tourists about women's rights and
how to properly respect them in an inter-cultural context.
Tourism Industry
The members of industry should be made aware about the following through
workshops:
• Employers should set targets for the percentage of women in key
management positions.
• To overcome disadvantages for gaining entry into the workforce because of

low levels of education in the short term, entry for the local population can be
improved by lowering standards for entry and then providing on the job
training to compensate for this.
NGOs
NGOs play a very vital role and need to be given thorough training sessions
covering the following areas:
• NGOs should build up their capacity as facilitators and trainers of
participatory processes, tourism planning and as social entrepreneurs within
the tourist industry.
• Training of NGOs should cover how effectively they can participate in
sharing with all stakeholders experience and knowledge about successful
strategies, obstacles and how to overcome them.
• NGOs should support community based tourism initiatives to form
associations and collectively assess the markets; provide legal assistance;
advice on community based resource management programmes; gender
awareness training; assistance with administrative arrangements; scientific
assistance in feasibility studies using participatory and action research
methods; improve the links between groups. They need to be trained along
these lines.
Thus, training of local people, stakeholders of tourism and students of the region
would help in improving the socio-economic condition of the area. A step
towards achieving the same is called for. The Salient Features of all such training
programmes would include:
• Training be skill based rather than syllabus based
• Matching demand to Training
• Mix of long term and short term courses
• Emphasis on quality of skill acquisition
• Increased involvement of women/women participation
• Improved training techniques
• Increasing involvement of Private sector and NGOs.
Initial provision of funds for this plan period (of 4-years) for such activities and
other research/documentation, etc. has been budgeted in the master plan report
(refer Annexure-C under VoF section).
12. VISITOR MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

This chapter discusses various aspects of the Visitor Management
Systems planned for Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt to attract tourists and
also enhance the visitation experience of the tourist.
10.4 Components of Visitor Management System

For the tourism promotion and development of Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
Region it is essential that, the efforts of enhancing the value of the tourism assets
by through facility development, be supplemented by providing well-
documented and structured information about the region to the visitors. Also,
the plan should involve enhancement of local community in tourism activities by
increasing their direct participation and training them in hospitality and guide
/nature interpretation functions as discussed in Chapter 10 & 11.
The primary components of Visitor Management System (VMS) comprise of
plans for Promotion & Media Planning (Promotion), Interpretation / Guide
Services & Staff Training (Hospitality), and Tourism Data Analysis and
Information system for Tourists (Marketing). Detailed study has been carried
out in the entire spectrum of VMS functions to develop an effective plan to
address the need for tourism awareness, visitor orientation, site interpretation,
information system requirements and finally the type of human resource
development required for effective tourism development in the region. A
diagrammatic representation of planned computerised VMS components is
depicted in Exhibit 12.1.
The Visitor Management System proposed for the Valley of Flowers Hemkunt
Sahib covers the following:
Tourism Data Analysis - Marketing
This study analyses consultant observations on tourists in terms of their origin,
demography, preferences, expectations and profile. Also, based on the market
study, strategies have been developed for improving the visitor inflow and
enhance tourist experience.
Provision of Tourism Information - Promotion
This tourism information is divided into two categories:
• The first category deals with the requirement of information for generating
media publicity, which would result in increasing the right kind of tourist
inflow. This media is eventually used to provide information to tourists right
from their decision making to actual visitation.
• The second category is a method of efficient and up to date information

dissemination with the help of a computerised system for the benefit of
potential as well as touring visitors.
Exhibit 12.1: Positions and Composition of Visitor Management System
Tourism Assets Development and

Conservation Awareness Creation
Promotion
Tourism Facility VMS Developed

Development
Marketing
Tourism Data
Analysis
Hospitality
Media & Publicity Information Planning

This covers all tourism media such
Tourism Info as Publishing Materials, Audio-visual
Staff Training
Materials, Interactive Provision
Materials, Signage, etc. to be provided at various places
like transport nodal points, hotels, in-flight, en route, on sites etc. These are to be
distributed to potential target segments/ markets.
Department of Tourism, Government of India and Government of Uttaranchal,
Tourist Development Board as well as private sector enterprises engaged in
tourism and hospitality functions will handle the operation and management of
this category.
Computerised System Study

This section has the objective to provide the latest, accurate and supportive
information through web-enabled system, which can be created separately by the
DoT/VOFNP authorities. The tourists should be able to know the latest offers,
site/visiting season data, rail/ road/ air, location of visitors’ amenities available,
environmental conservation orientation & activities for visitors & other local
stakeholders undertaken in the region. In addition, the computerised system
should also provide facility for Tourism Data Analysis and cover the
computerisation systems for tourism management in the region.
The activities can be managed by the EDC trained staff under the guidance of
local NIC who had been operating a limited tourism information system through
district web site.
Staff Training - Hospitality
This section covers, the Guide Service improvement and training the personnel
engaged in the tourism industry in general. The training plan would also include
proposing special programmes for personnel employed in hospitality related
functions in the tourist complexes. The HRD and training plan are discussed in
Chapter 11.
The operation and management of this category will be handled by Department
of Forests (Facilities at Office of the DFO, Joshimath/Centre for Centre for Eco-
tourism and Sustainable Livelihoods, Chunakhan, Ramnagar) and Department
of Tourism, Government of Uttaranchal, for the guide/nature interpretation
service improvement and for staff training of the personnel employed in tourist
complexes in co-operation with public and private education institutions.
10.5 Market Analysis

International-Domestic Mix
The mix of international and domestic tourist markets to the region today is
approximately 2%: 98% in 2003.
12.2.1 International Tourism
International tourism in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt region is low as depicted
below. A general decline in the trend is observed for those visiting Valley of
Flowers till 2000 decade, which had started to grow in 2001, but due to global
political scenario it dipped again till the subsequent season. With relative
stability in global political scenario since mid 2003 nature loving foreign visitors
to Valley of Flowers have come in increased numbers and the figure has reached
an all time high in the latest season as shown in the Exhibit 12.2.
Exhibit 12.2: Trend of Growth of Foreign Tourists in Valley of Flowers-

Hemkunt
Foreign Tourists in the Region
1000
800
600
400
200
0
1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
Valley of Flowers Hemkunt Sahib

Ghangharia Base Govind Ghat Base
(Source: Tourism Bureau, Gopeshwar & Joshimath/DFO, Joshimath/Conservator, Eco-

12.2.2 Domestic Tourism
tourism, Dehradun/Forest Range Check-post, Valley of Flower)
Domestic
N.B. DataTourism in Valley
unavailable of Flowers-Hemkunt
for Ghangharia Region
base for years 1996-2000.
The growth pattern of visitation of domestic tourists over past one decade in the
Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Region and their stay growth patterns at Ghangharia
and Govind Ghat are presented in Table 12.1 and Exhibit 12.3.
Table 12.1: Growth of Domestic Tourist Visitation in Valley of Flowers-
Hemkunt
Year & Valley of Hemkunt Ghangharia Govind Ghat
Annual Flowers Sahib Base Base
Growth %age
1993 2033 12500 14550 49000
NA NA NA NA
1994 1345 10200 12300 48814
-33.8 -18.4 -15.5 -0.4
1995 1052 15222 13590 50005
-21.8 49.2 10.5 2.4
1996 934 16231 NA 50454
-11.2 6.6 -100.0 0.9
1997 1094 72157 NA 225600
17.1 344.6 NA 347.1
Year & Valley of Hemkunt Ghangharia Govind Ghat

Annual Flowers Sahib Base Base
Growth %age
1998 340 101378 NA 108372
-68.9 40.5 NA -52.0
1999 503 109246 NA 109923
47.9 7.8 NA 1.4
2000 804 327550 NA 180890
59.8 199.8 NA 64.6
2001 1959 210980 95482 62763
143.7 -35.6 NA -65.3
2002 3250 340578 179301 86091
65.9 61.4 87.8 37.2
2003 5316 388108 279462 164566
63.6 14.0 55.9 91.2
Exhibit 12.3: Domestic Tourism Growth in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
Inflow of Domestic Tourists in the Region
500000
400000
300000
200000
100000
0
1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
Valley of Flowers Hemkunt Sahib

Ghangharia Base Govind Ghat Base
Th e aboveTourism
(Source: given graph reveals
Bureau, that the
Gopeshwar tourism growthJoshimath/Conservator,
& Joshimath/DFO, has been substantial Eco-
in
thtourism,
e region,Dehradun/Forest
and from the above
Rangegiven table the
Check-post, following
Valley observations can be
of Flower)
inNfeB
rreData
d: unavailable for Ghangharia base for years 1996-2000
• Percentage of domestic tourists visiting Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt
Sahib shrine has steadily grown, but the percentage of those to Valley of
Flowers as a component of Hemkunt visitors (which is assumed to be visited
by most of the visitors to this region) has almost gone down drastically from
16% in 1993 to a little over 1%. This is because the tourist inflow to Hemkunt
has increased multifolds.
• Stay at Ghangharia base settlement is gradually coming down and while at
Govind Ghat Base it has gradually gone up indicating that more people are
making 1-day trips to Hemkunt and back which would also indicate skipping
the visit to Valley of Flowers, and overall leading to more period of stay at
Govind Ghat (which is at least 1 night at Govind Ghat on return for those
who start on the same day from Govind Ghat and return the same evening
from Hemkunt to Govind Ghat). Thus it becomes imperative to develop a
strategy and take certain measures, like that time to trek is reduced, trek is
made more comfortable, a Germplasm bank/ Demonstration nursery with
species from Valley of Flowers can be created to ensure that the visitors those
who have limited time have access to both the destinations on the same day.
• The majority of domestic tourists to the region are visiting Hemkunt Sahib
shrine on pilgrimage.
Major Tourist Generating Regions for Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Sahib
Data is not available on State-wise source markets to the region. However, local
inquiries and discussions have revealed that majority of the domestic arrivals are
Sikh pilgrims from Punjab, Haryana, UP and Delhi, and few from other states.
Factors Impacting Tourist Satisfaction
In a survey of domestic and foreign tourists in the region, following factors were
identified which were of concern to tourists.
• Both foreign and domestic tourists were dissatisfied with the
availability/quality of trek path side amenities – shops/toilets, non-
availability of rest/rain shelters, absence of aesthetic signboards, the quality
of trek path, etc.
• For domestic tourists, other prominent factors were restricted destination
choices and concern for physical safety and security, as well as dissatisfaction
with limited guide services. For foreign tourists, important factors were
concern for physical safety and security and, to a lesser extent, lack of
satisfactory accommodation and quality food.
• Foreign tourists were also dissatisfied with the hygiene along the path and at
Ghangharia, no arrangement for room heating due to cold weather, non-
availability of clean water supply, and lack of other variety of recreational
facilities.
10.6 Marketing and Promotion Strategy for Valley of Flowers -

Hemkunt Region
12.3.1 Strategic Planning
There is a need for Strategic Planning, which should begin with the setting of
goals, leading to the evaluation of alternative courses of action to achieve those
goals, and then developing plans to achieve the ends sought.
It is recommended that an iterative process be adopted in reviewing this
Marketing Strategy, particularly considering the paucity of available information
and data at present.
12.3.2 A Statement of Marketing Objectives
The Basic objectives of marketing strategy will be:
• To increase the level of awareness about the region and its eco-tourism
attractions (Valley of Flowers is nominated for World Heritage Site) in the
international and domestic marketplace.
• To promote aiming at quality tourists only
• Establish effective visitor management
• To increase repeat visitation to the region.
12.3.3 Recommendations and Guidelines for Promotion
Advertising Strategy
No large scale advertising is planned for the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
region as the region has limited capacity and the objective is not to bring in
more no of tourists. The objective of advertising is to create more
awareness among key segments about the significance of the region, the
facilities and services available and the expectations from tourists.
The main advertising strategy is promotion through web, in addition to this,

the effort domestically shall be as follows:
• The awareness effort shall concentrate on markets in UP, Uttaranchal, Delhi,

Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Gujarat and Maharashtra.
• All advertising should be in the local language. In order to ensure that the
advertising message is clearly understood, the advertising should be pre-
tested.
• The advertising effort shall bear in mind the limited tourism period of the
region and hence the advertising period should correspond in which people
make vacation decisions, say from May to September.
• Consistency, frequency and longevity in the advertising message are
necessary, so that the message is continually reinforced in the minds of
potential tourists.
• The overall effectiveness of the campaigns must be evaluated to determine if
communications goals have been accomplished.
• Response driven advertising should be considered for print media
• Outdoor advertising by the way of hoardings and roadside signs is
required in the entire region carrying details of attractions and events in
the region, which will encourage visitors to visit places they may not have
planned to visit. The message necessarily must be brief and directional.
This should form part of signage.
Indicative List of Steps that can be taken for Publicity
• More exposure is required through photo boards displayed in:
− Accommodation facilities of nearest tourism centres like, Badrinath,
Joshimath, Auli, Pipalkoti, Gopeshwar, Nandprayag, Karnaprayag,
Gwaldam, Gauchar, Rudraprayag, and other centres in Kedarnath Dham
region, etc.
− All Tourist Rest Houses and Bureau of the Department of Tourism
(GMVN/KMVN) in Uttaranchal state as well as in some TRHs in
neighboring states like UP, Himanchal Pradesh and major metros.
− All Forest Rest Houses/Offices in the Uttaranchal state
− Railway Reservation Counters of major metros, Department of Tourism
Counters at Railway Stations of major metros including near by railheads
like Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kotdwar, Ramnagar, Kathgodam,
Haldwani, Lalkuan, Tanakpur.
− Compartments of Luxury Trains, and narrow gauge Heritage Hill Trains
in India
− Lounges and Department of Tourism counters at all major Airports, as
well nearby airports of UP, Himanchal Pradesh, and in Uttaranchal, like
Jolly Grant/Dehradun, Pantanagar, Naini Saini/Pithoragarh, Gauchar,
Chinialisaud, etc., and Air India/Domestic Airline Terminals at overseas
airports.
− India Pavilion at venues of World Tourism Mart etc.
• More exposure is required through proper good quality brochures at various
above locations including the Forest Ranger’s Check-post at Valley of Flowers
Gate, various nearby Gurdwara of Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust,
Char Dham Temple Complex, and all Hotels/Lodges/Holiday Homes in

Uttaranchal state.
• The “Friends of Valley of Flowers Group” programme can keep a
computerised database of all those who visit Valley of Flowers after a
compulsory Nature Interpretation Program. Later on a regular basis it can
update them on newer happenings in the valley, better bloom, newer species
of flora and fauna if sighted, favourable climate, pictures of beautiful
landscape with different flowers as per specie specific bloom periods,
conservation issues, contributors to conservation, facts on monthly & total
visitors to valley, state-wise and nation-wise breakup of visitor profile, etc.
throughout the bloom season every year on Valley of Flowers own website.
Websites of GMVN, State and National Departments of Tourism, NIC site of
Chamoli District, and various Private Tour and Travel Operators should
provide updated and accurate information on the Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt
Region destination.
• Promotion through articles in print media like, travel & tourism related
supplements of various newspapers and magazines, in-flight magazines,
travel & tourism magazine in luxury trains like Palace of Wheels/Orient
Express, and advertisements from Department of Tourism & Department of
Forest (through Authorities of VOFNP/NDBR or Eco-tourism Cell), etc.
• Promotion through short documentaries which can be shown on:
− Television Channels (which broadcast programmes like nature based,
travel based, adventure sports based, pilgrimage based, and other general
news and entertainment channels)
− Video presentation during in-flight, in-luxury trains like Palace of
Wheels/Orient Express, and in airport lounges
Public Relations (PR)
The public relations strategy should be proactive in using the media as a
vehicle for promoting tourism to Valley of Flowers - Hemkunt region. The
following are recommended:
• The Consultants recommend that an active program of public relations and
awareness creation activities be immediately commenced. The target should
be the local community, which is going to gain the maximum benefit from the
tourism development and whose commitment to extending hospitality to
visitors will play a major role in determining visitor satisfaction.
• DoT should network with media releases in the international press,
particularly in key source markets such as USA and Western Europe, as well
as in promoting familiarisation trips and visits by travel writers.
• A slide and photo library should be developed and regularly updated.
• In order to create and maintain visibility amongst the travel trade,
participation at travel trade shows is recommended.
• Local population should be given a chance to participate in various activities

of PR as they will have a greater knowledge of the place and a passion to
improve revenue generation from tourism.
Human Resource Development
An important component of the total visitor experience is the quality and level of
services provided by all deliverers of that experience, that is, everyone who is
involved in one or another aspect of the tourism industry and is responsible for
'welcoming a visitor and sending back a friend'.
The importance of trained and skilled human resources for delivering the
desired tourism experience to visitors has been outlined in Chapter 11.
Quality of Visitor Experience

As discussed in the previous chapters, effort is made to improve the
quality of visitors’ experience through management and development
measures. It is very important to communicate this to the potential tourists.
Overcrowding and Overuse

Overcrowding and overuse should be discouraged in order to maintain the
beauty and attraction of the valley.
10.7 Proposed Visitor Management System

The markets today, are moving towards integration, breaking all barriers of
space and time, courtesy the technological advances made in various fields.
Tourism, as an industry, is not untouched by these technological advances
either. In fact, these advances present an opportunity to take tourism to new
heights. A visitor management system can go a long way in effective tourism
management in any region.
It is proposed to develop a web enabled Visitor Management System (VMS)
for Valley of Flowers - Hemkunt Belt. This can be developed separately or
can be integrated with the Uttaranchal tourism portal.
The main objectives of this web enabled VMS would be to make available a
database of all information pertaining to Valley of Flowers, Hemkunt Sahib
and the nearby tourist attractions; database of tour operators and
transportation facilities, data base of accommodation and other tourist
infrastructure (services and facilities) to the interested/potential tourists
and information seekers. In addition to this, data base of tourists would

also be captured. The VMS would also be a helpful tool to monitor the
visitor management by systematic collection of data.
Over the longer run, the system could take the shape of a portal through
which tourists can book the lodges/ hotels as well as prebook their entry to
the Valley. In case, in future, Uttaranchal state goes in for regulating
religious tourism through a policy, and recommends limiting the number of
tourists to Hemkunt Sahib, the portal could be used for reserving entry
from Govind Ghat.
The VMS will facilitate tourists visiting the region in a variety of ways as
indicated in the following Exhibit 12.4.
Some of the key components of the proposed VMS are discussed in the
following sections.
Tour
Operators
Database Hotels and
Restaurants
Database
Facilities and
Amenities
VMS Database
KMVN
Department of Tourism
Tourist
Attractions
Database
Visitor Management System

Visitor Management System
Tourists
Database
I N T E R N E T
General General General General

General Public
Exhibit 12.4: Schematic Diagram of a Visitor Management System
Database of Tourist Attractions

One of the most important components of the VMS would be an exhaustive
database of tourist attractions in the region. This would cover details like:
• Background history of Hemkunt and Valley of Flowers
• Pictures and maps of the attraction

• Facilities available for the tourists like tourist rest houses, hotels,
restaurants, lodges, shopping complexes, toilets, health centres, etc.
• List of Dos and Don’ts
• Brief on Local Sensitivities
• Other relevant information.
Database of Tour Operators and Modes of Transport
Another important piece of information that a tourist looks for before embarking
on a trip is about how to arrange the trip and how to move around in the region
upon reaching there. Normally, people rely on tour operators for taking care of
such hassles. It is thus imperative that an effective VMS must have a database of
tour operators operating within and outside the region. It must also give contact
details of such operators along with their tour itineraries, if any.
The VMS should provide information on travel by air, rail, road and on how to
reach various places in the region through these means. It must also give
exhaustive details of modes of local conveyance in the region including trek
paths. This could include details about rental charges, ticket prices, local
distances, booking/hiring facilities, types of conveyance, etc.
Database of Hotels, Lodges and Restaurants
Hotels, lodges and restaurants form an integral part of any tourism related
initiative. The VMS must invariably have exhaustive data of various
hotels/lodges and restaurants in the circuit, category of hotels, lodges and
restaurants, details of boarding-lodging facilities like rent, type of facility
offered, details of cuisine offered, details of services offered like laundry, heater
etc.
Database of Services and Facilities
This database should contain details on various services and facilities available
in the region. These may not be associated directly with tourism, but knowledge
about them usually helps a potential traveller decide in favour or against visiting
a place. This could include information on services and facilities like:
• Telecom facilities
• Medical facilities
• Power, drinking water and sanitation facilities
• Safety aspects and Police services
• Guide/Nature Interpreter hiring facilities
• Equipment hiring facilities for various tourism activities for trekking gear,
camping equipments, rain proof clothing, etc.
• Porters, mule operators and palki/dandi services
• Database of Tourist Opinion and Feedback
Database of Tourists
In addition to the data on number of tourists visiting the places, as captured at
present, the VMS must also capture data on the following aspects of tourists:
• Psychographic details like age group, income group, travelling patterns (in
groups or alone), spending patterns, eco-awareness, etc.
• Choice of destinations
• Preferred mode of travel
• Preferred accommodation types
• Vacation frequency, duration, time of year, etc.
• Other relevant information.
This information about a tourist can serve an important purpose of
establishing a rapport with tourist and would thus help in building on the
relationship. The tourist in this case might be an individual or a group of
individuals like a club, institution, corporate body, etc.
This database should be developed to capture the opinion and feedback of

tourists. An easy and practicable method of collecting the tourists’
feedback is through small, user-friendly questionnaire cards. These could
be placed in each room of every hotel/ lodge and the hotel management
should endeavour to get this filled by the tourists. There should be a facility
of filling these questionnaires directly on the Internet as well. All these can
then be brought to a central location like District Tourist Office or the
“Friends of Valley of Flowers ” Programme set-up with EDC/Department of
Forests, from where the aggregated information from these questionnaires
can be updated in the VMS.
Monitoring for Visitor Management

Monitoring of visitor management can be done by systematic collection of
data about visitors. A standard approach towards monitoring needs to be
established. This should take into account facility provision, strategic

planning, visitor satisfaction, generation of local employment and income.
The socio-economic and cultural impact of tourism also needs to be
monitored.
For this there is a need to develop comprehensive visitor-monitoring

software programme involving computer professionals. For field data
collection literate local people including women could be employed. The
monitoring programme should encompass, monitoring the environmental,
social, cultural and economic impacts of visitors in the park. Tour
operator’s/Service providers’ compliance to rules and standards also needs
to be monitored.
12.4.1 Features of VMS

For effectively serving the purpose, the VMS should have features like:
Central Repository of Data and Information
All the various databases described earlier must be linked to a central system, the
VMS. This system could be placed at a central location where all the data and
information can be collated and various meaningful analyses could be done.
These could be about most frequented tourist places, most wanted facilities, most
frequent travellers, etc. Such analyses can form the basis of further
developmental initiatives, could provide inputs to marketing strategy
formulation, etc.
Web-enabled
Most of the components of the VMS that require interaction with tourists should
be web-enabled, that is, these should be accessible via the Internet. Most tourists
would like to have a virtual tour on the Internet, of the intended place of visit
prior to the actual visit itself. Most people also like to get back home from the
tour and then provide a sincere feedback about the location at their own free
time. “Friends of Valley of Flowers Group” website would be an interesting way
for eco-tourists to get information on this region/interact.
12.4.2 Working of a Sustainable VMS
Application of VSM would involve an integration of:
• Information System for Visitors (ISV)
• Resource Management System (RMS)
• Tourism Management Information System (TMIS)

These can be diagrammatically presented as in Exhibit 12.5 below:
Information System for Visitors (ISV)
This system will be designed to provide interactive assistance to potential
visitors calling in at the Tourist Information Centres of the district and forest
department. The system will be also made available to the hospitality service
vendors like Hotels, Lodges, Restaurants, Travel agents, Booking offices, etc. The
information would largely comprise of:
• Information on Hemkunt and Valley of Flowers.
• Information on leisure, shopping and local specialities
• Attractions and Events
• Accommodation details and Tariffs
• Route map and distances
• Time table of Railway, Bus, Airways
• Availability of mules, palkis, time for trekking etc
• Guide and Visitor Facilities
• Emergency assistance reckoner
ISV Transactional Input - data processing function
• Reservations for Accommodation, Transport, Guide, Other Services etc
• Events and Festivals
• Special and Emergency announcements
• Tariffs and Discounts
• Tourist profile data collection
ISV Outputs - On-line output function
• Region write up
• Tour planning information
• Route planning
• Confirmed/Provisional Reservation
• Accommodation
• Air, Train, Bus, Taxi, Mules etc
• Guide and reception
• Sight seeing schedule

• Interactive Travel Counselling
• Statistics of Tourist profile
Hotels, Lodges, Information/visitor

Restaurants, Travel management facilities
agents Booking offices
IS
V RMS
VSM
TMIS
Resource Management System (RMS)

This system will be installed at various information/visitor management
facilitiesDepartment
for in-houseofmanagement
Tourism and allocation of resources to ensure
optimum level of service to tourists. The system will consist of integrated
package for inventory control, resource allocation, billing, and financial
Exhibit 12.5:
accounting Working
activities. ofsystem
The ISV, RMS
will and TMISofinthe
comprise a Visitor Management
following System
components
built around the commercially available software packages:
• Room allocation and Billing
• Transport/mule/palki allocation and billing
• Financial accounting
• Personnel management
RMS Base Inputs
• Resource quantity/ capacity and details
• Resource availability
• Suppliers address & rating
• Tariffs and charges
• RMS Transaction Inputs
• Customer details
• Record of services booked/provided
• Utilisation details
• Receipt of resources
• Financial Receipt/Payment
• RMS Outputs
• Reservation & billing
• Daily Resource Allocation
• Financial Accounting
• Resource procurement planner
• Capacity details
Tourism Management Information System (TMIS)
This information system will help Department of Tourism/Department of
Forests to forecast future requirements and develop a strategic plan for tourism
development in the state. The system will provide past statistics of visitations
and utilisation of available resources. From these statistics, the system will
generate different trends, tourist preferences, utilisation ratios and matrix for
future allocation. The system will also integrate media efforts and promotion
events with resulting visitations. Most of the inputs to the system will be
received from the other two systems.
TMIS Inputs
• Annual Budget preparation for the region under Capital and Revenue Heads
• Planned projects and progress
• Training Facilities
• Hospitality Standards & Certification norms

• Registration of Hospitality Services
• Alteration and Additions to Plans
• Tourism Media resources
• TMIS Transactional Inputs
• Revenue and expenditure
• Expenditure bills
• Survey reports
• Visitors’ Statistics, Tourist survey and trend analysis
• TMIS Output
• Economic Impact Model
• Time series analysis of capacity requirement and utilisation
Automation Approach
The system configuration envisages automation of most of the information
retrieval functions required for tourist support activities. The specific approach
for Data Collection, Software Development and Implementation is as follows.
12.4.3 Maintenance & Training
As per the prevailing trend of adaptation of information technology in the
service sector organisations, the existing staff should be suitably trained to carry
out the day-to-day house keeping, data collection and update, and operating
functions. This would entail bringing about IT culture in the organisation, which
can only be achieved by extensive training of staff at all levels.
Though the training schedule for each category of staff would depend upon the
actual system developed, however indicative training schedule/contents could
be as follows for different roles.
Manager
Course duration 3 weeks including 1 week hands on computer training. Course
contents will cover introduction to Hardware and Software, concept of MIS and
DSS, Data integrity and security, Data input and output channels, Maintenance
of hardware and software, Communication channels and tariffs, Database
management and house keeping function overview.
Supervisor
Course duration of 6 weeks including 2 weeks practical training on the system.
Course contents will cover hardware, software, database and housekeeping
functions, Data integrity and security, LAN and WAN fundamentals, Data and
LAN administrator functions in details, Extensive familiarisation with the
system.
Operator
Course duration of 4 weeks including 2 weeks of practical training on the system
Course will cover introduction to hardware, software and communication
technology being used in the system. Overview of input, output, database and
query functions, Extensive view of information data fields, their updating and
formulation of queries, Front office terminal function, local fault analysis,
generation of reports for customers.
12.4.4 Sustainable Visitor Management System
• Organisational change and management development - Several management
organisations will have to enhance their IT capabilities to support
management planning and the monitoring of programmes, expenditures and
visitors at the corporate and site management scales.
• People' orientation
• Quality assurance
• Regulatory requirements
• Funding requirements
For a sustainable and successful implementation of Visitor Management
System the flow chart of activities should be as follows in Exhibit 12.6.
The approach outlined above is the result of wide-ranging research, field

survey stakeholder consultation and analysis. However, it will remain
theoretical until an appropriate programme of pilot testing is undertaken.
Such piloting is the only way in which all aspects of the methodology can
be tested in a range of practical circumstances.
The proposed VMS could form the basis of a sustainability-based approach

central to the objectives of the future management of the region.
Vision Statement
Objectives and
Baseline data and site Standards
assessment
Monitoring and
Evaluation
Programs and
Implementation Prescriptions
Action Plan
Exhibit 12.6: Working of Sustainable Visitor Management System
ANNEXURE - A
References
The consultants had met/held extensive interactions over the two weeks of field
visit and stay in the study area with the officials of various government
departments, local eco-development committee, members of local host
community, and other stakeholders for getting their views, inputs and opinions
for preparing this master plan. This interaction was either in person or over
telephone. An indicative list of some of these individuals/ agencies is presented
below:
• Mr. J. Dash, ex-Joint Director General (MR), Department of Tourism, Govt. of

India, New Delhi
• Mr. D. D. Mathur, Deputy Director (MR), Department of Tourism, Govt. of
India, New Delhi
• Dr. R. S. Tolia, Chief Secretary, Government of Uttaranchal, Dehra Dun
• Mr. M. Ramchandran, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of
Uttaranchal, Dehra Dun
• Mr. I. K. Pandey, Principal Secretary, Department of Finance, Government of
• Mr. N. N. Prasad, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Govt. of Uttaranchal,
Dehra Dun
• Mr. A. K. Ghosh, Additional Secretary, Department of Tourism, Govt. of
• Mr. Yatendra Kumar, ex-Additional Secretary, Department of Tourism, Govt.
of Uttaranchal, Dehra Dun
• Mr. Gambhir Singh, Additional Secretary, Department of Environment &
Forests, Govt. of Uttaranchal, Dehra Dun
• Mr. B. S. Burfal, Principal Conservator – Forests, Department of Environment
& Forests, Govt. of Uttaranchal, Dehra Dun
• Mr. S. Chandola, Chief Wild Life Warden, Department of Environment &
• Mr. A. S. Negi, Advisor – Wildlife, Government of Uttaranchal, Dehra Dun
• Mr. Rajiv Bhartari, Conservator – Ecotourism, Department of Environment &
• Mr. Samir Sinha, Director & Conservator of Forests, Nanda Devi Biosphere
Reserve, Department of Environment & Forests, Gopeshwar
• Ms. Jyotsna Sitling, ex-Director & Conservator of Forests, Nanda Devi
Biosphere Reserve, Department of Environment & Forests, Gopeshwar
• Mr. A. K. Banerjee, Divisional Forest Officer, Nanda Devi National Park,
Department of Environment & Forests, Joshimath
• Mr. V. K. Pathak, Managing Director, Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited
(GMVN), Dehra Dun
• Mr. Utpal Kumar Singh, ex-Managing Director, Garhwal Mandal Vikas
Nigam Limited (GMVN), Dehra Dun
• Mr. A. K. Dwivedi, Joint Director, Tourism Development Board, Uttaranchal,

Dehra Dun
• Mr. D. L. Shah, Chief Manager-Tourism, GMVN, Dehra Dun
• Mr. O. P. Vashishtha, Chief Manager (HQ), GMVN, Dehra Dun
• Mr. Madan Singh, District Magistrate, Chamoli
• The General Manager (Support Services), Pawan Hans Helicopters Limited,
New Delhi
• Tourist Reservation and Statistics Section, GMVN, Dehra Dun
• Mr. Binoy Thomas, Associate, U-DEC, Dehra Dun
• Office of the Revenue Inspector, Department of Revenue, Joshimath Tehsil,
Joshimath
• Office of the Executive Engineer, Provincial Division, PWD, Gopeshwar
• Office of the Executive Engineer, Jal Nigam, Gopeshwar
• Office of the Pariyojana Adhikari, UREDA, Gopeshwar
• Office of the Executive Engineer, Jal Sansthan, Chamoli
• Tourist Officer, Office of the Tourism Bureau, Gopeshwar and Joshimath
• Mr. Kunwar Singh Kunwar, Forest Range Officer, Ghangharia and Staff
• Office of the Patwari, Department of Revenue, Pandukeshwar
• Group Meeting and individual discussions with Local Host Community
Members of Bhyundar/Pulna village: EDC representatives like Mr. Bharat
Singh Chauhan, Mr. Raghuvir Singh Chauhan, Mr. Rajneesh Singh Chauhan;
Mr. Babloo Singh Chauhan, Trade Association Representatives, Mr. Satish
Singh Chauhan, Doctor, Telecommunications Officer, etc.
• Other EDC Members/Staff: Mr. Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Vice Chairman, EDC,
Bhyundar, Check-post members, and Cleaning Staff of EDC, Bhyundar
• Mrs. Shahshikala Singh Chauhan, Chairman, Mahila Mandal, Pulna
• Mr. Vijayendra Singh Chauhan, Sarpanch, Van Panchayat, Bhyundar
• Mr. Bhuwan Singh Chauhan, Member, Zila Panchayat, Bhyundar
• Mr. Nanda Singh Chauhan, Septuagenarian member of Bhyundar/Pulna
who had interacted with Frank Smythe and Ms. Legge in late 1930s
• Mr. Rajinder Singh, Administrator, Gurdwara, Govind Ghat
• Mr. Manjeet Singh, Manager, Gurdwara, Govind Dham /Ghangharia
• Mr. Sohan Singh, Manager, Gurdwara, Hemkunt Sahib

• Tourists of various nationalities apart from Indians – like, Britain, Canada,
Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Spain
• Tour Operators
List of Experts/Scholars interacted (at Dehra Dun & Lucknow)

• Prof. A. R. Nautiyal, Director, High Altitude Plant Physiology Research
Centre, H. N. B. Garhwal University, P.O. Box 14, Srinagar (Garhwal) –
246174, Uttaranchal, India
• Dr. C. P. Kala, Wildlife Institute of India, P.O. Box 18, Chandrabani, Dehra
Dun - 248 001, India
• Dr. H. M. Behl, Deputy Director & Area Coordinator Biomass Biology,
Environmental Sciences & Bioinformatics, National Botanical Research
Institute (NBRI), Lucknow - 226001, UP, India
• Dr. B. P. Nautiyal, H. N. B. Garhwal University, P.O. Box 14, Srinagar
(Garhwal) – 246174, Uttaranchal, India
• Dr. Sumit Manjkhola, G. B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and
Development, Kosi-Katarmal - 263643, Almora, Uttaranchal, India
• Mr. Jatin Srivastava, Project Fellow, NBRI, Lucknow - 226001, UP, India
• Mr. Harish Chandra, Junior Research Fellow (CSIR), NBRI, Lucknow -
226001, UP, India
• Mr. D. N. Mishra, Chief Conservator of Forests (Retd.), UP, Lucknow, India
(He was posted in the Valley of Flowers, Garhwal region in 1959-61.)
Relevant Acts & Literature Referred and Cited

• The Landscape Management Plan of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR)
for 2003-04 to 2012-13; Department of Environment & Forests, Uttaranchal,
India.
• Forest Policy – 2001, Government of Uttaranchal
• Tourism Policy – 2001, Government of Uttaranchal
• Eco-tourism Planning, Development and Management in Uttaranchal;
Department of Forests & Environment, Government of Uttaranchal, August
2003
• The Indian Forest Act, 1927 along with the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980:
Consolidated Guidelines for Diversion of Forest Land under the Forest
(Conservation) Act, 1980 and National Forest Policy, 1988; Natraj Publishers,
Dehra Dun; 2002
• The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; Wild Life Trust of India, New Delhi;
Natraj Publishers, Dehra Dun; 2003
• Joint Forest Management – UP Forest Project: Directional Guidelines, 1996;
Centre for Development Studies, UP Administrative Academy, Nainital
• Sustainable Tourism Development: Guide for Local Planners; A Tourism and
the Environment Publication; World Tourism Organisation, 1993.
• Reading Material on Ecology & Resource Development, Institute of Town
Planners, India.
• Technical Papers of 52nd National Town & Country Planners Congress on
Development of Hill Capitals, Shimla; Institute of Town Planners, India, 2003.
• Tourism Congestion Management at Natural & Cultural Sites – A Guidebook,
World Tourism Organisation Business Council, 2004, ISBN 92-844-0763-X.
• WHO/IUCN/WWF, Guidelines on Conservation of Medicinal Plants, IUCN
Gland, Switzerland, 1993.
Literature referred on Web

• Kunwar, Mohinder Singh (2002); Building A Model Plan for Biodiversity
Conservation and Socio-Economic Development of the People in the Buffer
Zone of the Valley of Flowers National Park based on Sustainable Eco-
Tourism (1997), Himalayan Action Research Centre, Dehra Dun published in
ENVIS Bulletin: Himalayan Ecology and Development, 10(2), 2002; pp 39-40
• Kala, C P, Ph.D (1998); Ecology & Conservation of Alpine Meadows in the
Valley of Flowers National Park
• Singh, T and Kaur, J (1980); The Valley of Flowers in Garhwal: An Ecological
Preview
• Monga, Sunjoy; Wildlife Reserves of India, published by India Book House,
Mumbai
• Michaud, Heather (1998); Walking in the Footsteps of the Guru:
Sikhs and Seekers in the Indian Himalayas - A Masters Research Project,
Department of Anthropology, University of Calgary; GoI Funded Research
through the India Studies Programme of the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute;
www.sikhnet.com/hemkuntsahib
• Tangri, Neil (2003); Waste Incineration – A Dying Technology; GAIA, July
2003; www.no-burn.org
• Incineration of Pet Packaging Articles and of Municipal Solid Waste

containing PET (2001); Association of Plastics Manufacturers in Europe,
Brussels
• Plastics: Recycling and Marking Codes; Recommended by British Plastics
Federation (BPF) and the Association of Plastics Manufacturers in Europe
(APME)
• Economic Evaluation of PVC Waste Management – A Greenpeace Brief on the
Report; Published by the European Commission, Brussels; 2000
• The Influence of PVC on the Quantity and Hazardousness of Flue Gas
Residues from Incineration - A Greenpeace Brief on the Report; Published by
the European Commission, Brussels; 2000
• Plastics Waste Management; Eco-Echoes, ICPE newsletter
• Polystyrene Products and Recycling; Polystyrene Packaging Council (PSPC);
www.polystyrene.org
• Eco-Recycle Victoria & Plastics and Chemical Industries Association
(PACIA), Australia
• SPI Plastic Container Coding System; The Environment and Plastics Industry
Council (EPIC), CPIA, Canada
• The Plastic Identification Code; Plastics New Zealand; www.plastics.org.nz
• Guideline on Plastic Coding System for Resin Identification; Environmental
Protection Department, Government of Hong Kong
• Felix, Charles W. et al (1990); “Utensil Sanitation: A Microbiological study of
Disposables & Reusables; Journal of Environmental Health; Vol. 53, No. 2,
pp.13-15, Sep.-Oct. 1990
• THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, EXTRAORDINARY, PART II -- Section 3 -- Sub-
section (ii), MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS,
NOTIFICATION, New Delhi, the 2nd Sep., 1999
• Information on Plastic Materials; Design inSite; www.designinsite.dk
• Density of Plastics; www.services.juniata.edu
• Polystyrene Disposal; www.ejnet.org/plastics/polystyrene/health.html
• Mountains of the World: Mountains, Energy and Transport; The UN
Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) and its 2001 Spring Session;
Prepared by Mountain Agenda, Centre for Development and Environment
(CDE), Institute of Geography, University of Berne, Hallerstrasse 12, CH-
3012, Berne, Switzerland
• Kornilova, Natalija & Rasin, Yuri (2002); Results and prospects of

development of ecological tourism in Crimea, by the example of the Yalta
mountain-wood natural reserve and other objects of natural-reserved fund of
Ukraine - A Case Study; Tourism in Mountain Areas and the Convention on
Biological Diversity: International Workshop for CEE Countries, 1st-5th Oct.
2002, Sucha Beskizdka, Babia Gora National Park, Poland; Organised by
Ecological Tourism in Europe, Bonn/Germany and Academy of Sciences,
Institute of Tourism, Krakow/Poland; Supported by German Federal
Ministry of Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety
• Comprehensive Transportation Management Plan for Parkland in South-
western Marin, California – Passenger Ropeway Technical Review, Technical
Memorandum # 6; August 2003
• HIMALAYAS ONLINE; Monthly internet newsletter for the mountaineers
and environmentalists from “The Himalayan Environment Trust, New
Delhi”; Vol.1 No.6: July 2002; www.himalayanenvironment.org
• www.himadventures.com
• www.stikage.com/map_valleyofflowers.htm
• www.indiantravelportal.com
• www.outlooktraveller.com
• www.datamatics.com
Literature referred on Other Journals, Reports, Books, etc.

• Agarwal, P.K. and Dadlani, M. 1995. Techniques in Seed Science and
Technology (second ed.) South Asian Publishers Ltd., India.
• Airi S., Rawal, R.S. Shar, U. and Purohit, A.N., Curr. Sci., 2000, 79, 1467-1471.
• Airi, S., Rawal, R.S., Dhar, U. and Purohit, A.N., ibid, 1997, 110, 29-34.
• And J. Kaur. The Valley of Flowers in Garhwal Himalaya : An Ecological
preview, in T.V. Singh’s Himalayan Ecology and Development Strategies pp.
117-122. New Delhi. 1980.
• Anderson, L. and Milberg, P. 1998. Variation in seed dormancy among
mother plants, populations and years of seed collection, Seed Science
Research, 8, 29-38.
• Annonymous. 1883-1970. Index Kewensis Plantarum Phanerogamarum. Vol.
1-2 (1883-1885) and 15 suppl. (1886-1970). Clarendron Press, Oxford.
• Anon, Action plan for Himalaya, G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan
Environment and Development, Kost Katarmal, Almora, 1992.
• Anonymous, 1985. The wealth of India – Raw materials Vol. 1 A, CSIR, New
Delhi.
• Arumugam, N. and Bhojwani, S.S., Can. J. Bot., 1990, 68, 487-491.
• Badola, R. 1998. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve: A study on socio-economic
aspects for the sustainable development of dependent population. Final
Report. Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun.
• Bahuguna, r., Purohit, M.C., Rawat, M.S.M. and Purohit, A.N.J. Plant Biol.,
2000, 27, 179-183.
• Bankoti, N.S.; Rawal, R.S.; Samant, S.S. and Pangtey, Y.P.S. 1992. Forest
Vegetation of Inner Hill Ranges in Kumaun, Central Himalaya. Tropical
Ecology, 33 (1) : 41-53.
• Baskin, C.C. and Baskin, J.M. 1998. Seeds: ecology, biogeography and
evolution of dormancy and germination, Academic Press. San Diego,
California.
• Bewley, J.D. and Black, M. 1982. Physiology and Biochemistry of seeds 2
viability Dormancy and Environmental control, Sprigler Verlag, Berlin.
• Bhadhwar, R.L. and Sharma, B.K. 1963. A not on the germination of
Podophyllum seeds. Indian Forester, 89, 445-447.
• Bhadula, S.K., Singh, A., Lata, H., Kuniyal, C.P. and Purohit, A.N. Plant
Genet. Res. Newsl., 1996, 10626-29.
• Bhandari, B.S.; Mehta, J.P.; Nautiyal, B.P. and Tiwari, S.C. 1997. Structure of a
Chir Pine ( Pinus roxburghii Sarg.) Community Along an altitudinal Gradient
in Garhwal Himalay. International Journal of Ecology and Environmental
Science, 23 : 67-74.
• Bhattacharya, A. and Chauhan, M. S. (1997); Vegetational and Climatic
Changes during recent pasta around Tipra Bank Glacier, Garhwal Himalaya;
Current Science, Vol. 72, No. 6, 25 March 1997, pp 408-412; Birbal Sahni
Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow 226007, India.
• Bhattacharyya A. Palacogeogr, Palacoclimatol, Palcacoccol., 1989, 73, 25-38.
• Bhattacharyya A. Pollen Spores, 1988, 30, 417 427.
• Bhattacharyya, U.C. 1964. Circaeaster agrestis Maxim. (Circaeasteraceae) – A
new record for North Garhwal Himalayas. Bull. Bot. Surv. India 6: 297-298.
• Bhattee, S.S. and Beniwal, B.S., Indian For., 1988, 114, 251-260.
• Bhojwani, S.S. and Arumuganm, N., Advances in Developmental Biology and
Biotechnology of Higher Plants (eds Soh et al.), The Korean Society of Plant
Tissue Culture, Korea, 1993, pp. 110-127.
• Biswas, K., Common Medicinal Plants of Darjeeling and Sikkim Himalaya,

Ms Bengal Government Press West Bengal, 1956.
• Cavieres, L.A. and Arroyo, M.T.K. 2000. Seed germination of response to cold
stratification period and thermal regime in Phacelia secunda
(Hydrophyllaceae). Plant Ecology. 148, 1-8.
• Champion, H.G. and Seth, S.K. 1968. A revised survey of the forest types of
India. Government of India Publications. New Delhi.
• Chaudhary, D.K., Kaul, B.L. and Khan, S 1996. Braking seed dormancy of
Podophyllum hexandrum Royle ex Camb (Syn. P. emodi Wall. Ex
Honigberger). Jornal of Non Timber Forest Products, 3, 10-12.
• Chauhan, M.S. and Sharma C., Geol Sarr, India spl. Publi., 1996, 21, 257-269.
• Chauhan, N.S., in Natural Resources and Development in Himalaya (ed.
Verma, L.R.), Malhotra Publishing House, New Delhi, 2000, pp. 319-370.
• Cottam, G. and Curtis, J.T. 1956. The use of distance measure in
phytosociological sampling. Ecology, 37: 451-60.
• Curtis, J.T. and KcIntosh, R.P. 1950. The Interrelation of Certain Analytic and
Synthetic Phytosociological Characters. Ecology, 31: 434-455.
• Das S., Yadav D., Narang R. and Das N., 2002. Interrelationship between lipid
peroxidation, ascorbic acid and superoxide dismutase in coronary artery
disease, Current Science, Vol. 83 No. 4.
• Deevey E.S. Am.J. Sci., 1937, 33, 44-56.
• Dhar U., Manjkhola S., Joshi M. Bisht A.K. and Joshi M. 2002- Current Status
and future strategy for development of medicinal plants sector in
Uttaranchal, India, Current Science Vol. 83 No. 8.
• Dhar, U. & Samant, S.S. 1993. Endemic plant diversity in Indian Himalaya. I-
Ranunculaceae and Paeoniaceae. Journal of Biogeography 20: 659-668.
• Dhar, U. Samant, S.S. Rawal, R.S. & Sharma, S. 1997a. Studies on biota and
resource use pattern of the natives of Askot Wildlife Sanctuary of Kumaun
Himalaya, India. Tiger Paper 24(4): 12-18.
• Dhar, U., Manjkhola, S., Joshi, M., Bhatt, A., Bisht A.K. and Joshi M. 2002,
Current status and future strategy for development of medicinal plants sector
in Uttaranchal, India, Current Science Vol. 83 No. 8.
• Dhar, U., Rawal, R.S. & Samant, S.S. 1997b. Structural diversity and
representativeness of forest vegetation in a protected area of Kumaun
Himalaya, India. Implications for conservatin. Biodiversity and Conservation
6: 1045-1062.
• Ghildyal, B.N. 1957. A botanical trip to the Valley of Flowrs. Journal of

Bombay Natural History Society 54: 365-386.
• Dhar, U., Rawal, R.S. and Upreti, J., Biol. Conserv., 2000, 95, 57-65.
• Dhawan, B.N., Himalayan Biodiversity – Action Plan (ed. Dhar, U.)
Gyanodaya Prakashan, Nainital, 1997, pp. 111-114
• Duthie, J.F. 1906. Catalogue of the plants of Kumaon and of the adjacent
portions of Garhwal & Tibet based on the collections of Strachey &
Winterbottom during the year 1846-49, London.
• Duthie, J.F. Catalogue of the plants of Kumaon and of the adjacent portions of
Garhwal & Tibet based on the collections of Strachey & winterbottom during
the year 1846-49. London 1906.
• Eidtman, G. An Introduction to Pollen Analysis, Walthem. 1943.
• F. D. Pineda, C. A. Brebbia & M. Mugica (Editors); Sustainable Tourism, 2004,
WIT Press, www.witpress.com, ISBN 1-85312-724-8.
• Farooque, N. and Saxena, K.G., Environ. Conserv., 1996, 23, 75-80.
• Frankel, O.H., Brown, A.H.D. and Burdon, J.J., The Conservation of Plant
Biodiversity, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1995, p. 299.
• Frankland, B. and Wareing, P.F. 1962. Changes in endogenous gibberllins in
relation to chilling of dormant seeds Nature, 194, 313-314.
• Franz, C., Plant Res. Dev., 1993,37, 101-111.
• Gaur, R.D., Semwal, J.K. and Tewari, J.K., Bull. Med. Ethno Bot. Res., 1984, 4,
102-116.
• Ghildayal, B.N. A botanical trip to the Valley of Flowers. J. Bombay nat. Hist.
Soc. 54. 365-386. 1956.
• Ghosh, B. and Sen, S., J. Herbs, Spices Med. Plants, 1996, 4, 9-17.
• Giri, A., Ahuja, P.S. and Kumar, P.V.A., Plant Cell Tissue Org. Cult., 1993, 32,
213-218.
• Glowka, L., A Guide to Designing Legal Frameworks to Determine Access to
Genetic Resources, the World Conservation Union, IUCN, gland,
Switzerland, 1997.
• Gopinath, C.Y. 1980. The Valley of Flowers: Readers Digest (May issue): 100-
108.
• Grewal, S., Indian J.Exp. Biol., 1996, 34, 356-358.
• Gulati, A., Bharel, S., Jain, S.K., Abdin, M.Z. and Srivastawa, P.S., J. Plant
Biochem. Biotechnol., 1996, 5, 31-35.
• Gupta, A., Vats, S. K. and Lal, B., Curr. Sci., 1998, 74, 555-556
• Gupta, R.K. 1981. Boreal and arctic alpine element in the flora of Western
Himalaya. Vegetatio, 24 (1-3) : 159-175.
• Hajra, P.K. & Balodi, B. 1995. Plant wealth of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
Botanical Survey of India. Calcutta.
• Hajra, P.K. 1983. A contribution to the Botany of Nanda Devi National Park
Botanical Survey of India, Howrah.
• Halliwel, B., The propagation of Alpine Plants and Dwarf Bulbs, Pasten Press,
London, 1992, p. 79.
• Handa, S.S. 2000. Medicinal plants – Priority in Indian medicines diverse
studies and implications, RRL, Jammu (Paper of the month, Internet search).
• Harborne, J.B. and Baxter, H. 1996. Dictionary of Plant Toxins. John Wiley
and Sons, New York.
• Harborne, J.B. and Baxter, H., Dictionary of Plant Toxins, John Wiley, New
York, 1996.
• Haridasan, K.,J.N.E Council 1996, 16, 20-24.
• Hartmann, H.T. and Kester, D.E. 1989. Plant propagation: principles and
practices pp. 727, Printice Hall, New Delhi.
• Hedge, S.N., Arunachal for. News, 1988, 6, 27-29.
• Hendry, G.A. and Grime, J.P. 1993. Methods in comparative plant Ecology.
Chapman and Hall, London.
• J. Kaur, 1980. The valley of Flowers in Garhwal Himalaya: An Ecological
Preview, in T.V. Singh’s, Himalayan Ecology and Development Strategies,
pp. 117-122, New Delhi.
• Jackson, D.E. and Dewick, P.M., Phytochemistry, 1984, 23, 1037-1042.
• Jain S.K., Dictionary of Indian Folk Medicine and Ethnobotany, Deep
Publications, New Delhi, 1991.
• Jain, S.K. and Sastry, A.R.K., The Indian Plant Red Data Book, Department of
Environment, Botanical Survey of India, Government of India, 1984 vol. 1.
• Jain. A., MFP News, 1996, 6, 12.
• Joshi, G.C., Tewari, K.C., Tewari, R.N., Pandey, N.K. and Pandey, G.,
Himalayan Biodiversity Conservation Strategies (ed. Dhar, U.) Gyanodaya
Prakashan, Nainital, 1993, pp. 279-291.
• Joshi, H.C., Arya, S.C. & Samant, S.S. 1999. Diversity, distribution and
indigenous uses of medicinal and edible plants in a part of Nanda Devi
Biosphere Reserve I. Himalayan Biosphere Reserves 1 (1&2): 49-65.
• Joshi, N.K. and Tiwari, S.C. 1990. Phytosociological Analysis of Woody
Vegetation along an Altitudinal Gradation in Garhwal Himalaya. Indian
Journal of Forestry, 13(4) : 322-328.
• Kala, C. P. (1999); The Valleys of Flowers – A Botanical Paradise; Plant Talk –
19, October 1999, pp 26-28.
• Kala, C. P. (2002); Paradise Under Fire; Down to Earth, 15 June 2002, pp 46-48.
• Kala, C. P. and Farooquee, N. A. (2003); Traditional Wisdom, Equity and
Community Participation – Making the Commercialisation of Grasses in
Bhyundar Valley, Uttaranchal Himalaya a Success; Journal of Human
Ecology, Vol. 14, No. 3, pp 159-163.
• Kala C.P. 2002. The tussle over the valley has lost sight of the fundamentals of
conservation. Life and Nature.
• Kala, C. P., Rawat G. S., Uniyal V. K. (1998); Ecology and Conservation of
Valley of Flowers National Park, Garhwal Himalaya; Wildlife Institute of
India, RR-98/003.
• Kala, C.P. 1998a. Ecology and Conservation of Alpine Meadows in the Valley
of Flowers National Park, Garhwal Himalaya. Ph.D Thesis. Forest Research
Institute (Deemed University), Dehra Dun 180pp.
• Kala, C.P. 1998b. Ethnobotanical survey and propagation of rare medicinal
herbs in the buffer zone of the Valley of Flowers National Park, Garhwal
Himalaya, Report submitted to International Center for Integrated Mountain
Development, Nepal, 35pp.
• Kala, C. P. and Uniyal, V. K. (1999); Structure of Forest Vegetation along an
Altitudinal Gradient in the Valley of Flowers National Park and its vicinity,
Western Himalaya; Annals of Forestry – An International Journal of Forest
Sciences, Vol. 7, No. 1, June 1999, pp 60-69.
• Kala, C.P., Uniyal, V.K. and Rawat, G.S. 1995. An interim Report on the
Montane Grassland Project, Valley of Flowers National Park. Wildlife
Institute of India, Dehra Dun, 56pp.
• Kalkoti, B.S.; Pangtey, Y.P.S. and Saxena, A.K. 1986. Quantitative analysis of
High Altitude Vegetation of Kumaun Himalaya. Journal Indian Botanical
Society, 65 : 384-396.
• Kashiwada, Y. et al., J. Nat. Prod., 1995, 58, 392-400
• Kaur, J. 1977. The Valley of Flowers. A exploration survey of the Bhyundar
Valley along the Alakananda for Recreation Resources, planning of High
Altitude Flora. Tourism Recreation Research: Lucknow Vol. 2 No. 2, 1977.
• Khan, M.L.; Menon, S., and Bawa, K.S. 1997. Effectiveness of the protected
area network in biodiversity conservation: A case study of Meghalaya state.
Biodiversity and Conservation, 6: 853-868.
• Kirtikar, K.R. and Basu, B.D., Indian Medicinal Plants, Bishen Singh
Mahendra Pal Singh, Dehra Dun, 1984, vol. 3, p.697.
• Krishnamurthy, T., Kanra, G.V., Sharma, B.K. and Bhatia, K., Indian For.,
1965, 91
• Kuniyal J.C. and Jain A.P. 1999. Public Involvement in Environmental
Assessment of Solid waste Management in UP Himalayan Tourists’ Treks,
India- Environmental & Waste Management, 2 (4).
• Kuniyal J.C. and Jain A.P. 2000-2001. Tourists’ Involvement in Solid Waste
Management in Himalayan Trails: A Case Study in and Around Valley of
Flowers, India, Environmental Systems, Vol. 28(2) 107-131.
• Lange, D., Med. Plant Conserv. Newslett., 1997, 3, 16-17
• Magurran, A.E. 1988. Ecological Diversity and its Measurement. Croom Helm
Limited, London, 179pp.
• Mani, M.S. 1974a. Fundamentals of High Altitude Biology. Oxford and IBH
Publication.
• Mani, M.S. 1974b. Ecology and Biogeography in India. Hague W.Junk B.V.
Publ.
• Manjkhola S. and Dhar, U. 2002. Conservation and utilisation of Arnebia
benthamii (Wall. Ex G. Don) Johnston, a high value Himalayan medicinal
plant. Current Science, Vol. 83, No. 4, pp.484-488.
• Manjkhola S., Dhar U. and Rawal R.S., 2002. Treatments to improve seed
germination of Arnebia benthamii: an endangered medicinal herb altitude
Himalaya, Seed Sci. & Technol., 31, 571-577.
• Mathur, J. and Ahuja, P.S., Plant Cell Rep., 1991, 9, 523-526.
• Mathur, J., Ann. Bot., 1992,70, 419-422.
• Mathur, J., Plant Sci., 1992, 81, 111-115.

• Mehta, J.K. and Haridasan, K., Arunachal for, News, 1992, 10, 56-58.
• Nair, V.M.G., Recent Advances in Medicinal Aromatic and Spice Crops (ed
Raychaudhari, S.P.), Today and Tomorrow Printers and Publishers, New
Delhi, 1991, vol. I, pp. 39-51.
• Naithani, B.D. 1984, 1985. Flora of Chamoli district Vol. I&II. Botanical Survey
of India, Howrah.
• Naithani, H.B., Negi, J.D.S., Thapliyal, R.C. & Pokhriyal, T.C. 1992. Valley of
Flowers needs for conservation or preservation. Indian Forester 118: 371-378.
• Nandlal and Ahuja, P.S., Plant Cell Tissue Org. Cult., 1993, 34, 223-226.
• Nautiyal, A.R. Nautiyal, M.C. and Purohit, A.N. (eds), Harvesting Herbs-
2000, Bishen Singh Mahendra Pal Singh, Dehra Dun, 1997.
• Nautiyal, B.P., Pandey, N. and Bhatt, A.B. 1997. Analysis of Vegetation
Pattern in an Alpine Zone in Northwest Himalaya: A case Study of Garhwal
Himalaya with Reference to Diversity and Distribution Patterns. International
Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, 23 : 67-74.
• Nautiyal, M.C. and Purohit, A.N. Curr. Sci., 2000, 78, 1062-1063.
• Nautiyal, M.C., Rawat, A.S., Bhadula, S.K. and Purohit, A.N., Seed Res., 1987,
15, 206-209.
• Nayar, M.P. & Sastry, A.R.K. 1987, 1988, 1990. Red Data Book of Indian
Plants. Vol. I-III. Botanical Survey of India. Calcutta.
• Osmaston, A.E. 1927. A Forest Flora for Kumaon, Allahabad.
• Pandey, H.C., Arunachal For. News, 1988, 6, 72-82.
• Pandey, S. & Well, M.P. 1997. Eco-development planning for India’s Great
Himalayan National Park for biodiversity conservation and participatory
rural development. Biodiversity and Conservation 6: 1277-1292.
• Prakash C. and Uniyal V.K., 1999. Structure of Forest Vegetation Along an
Altitudinal Gradient in the Valley of Flowers National Park and its Vicinity,
Western Himalaya, Ann. For 7 (1): 60-69.
• Prakash, V., Himalayan Medicinal Plants Potential and Prospect (eds Samant,
S.S., Dhar, U and Palni, L.M.S.), Gyanodaya Prakashan, Nainital, 2002.
• Prasad, P., Plant Genet. Res. Newslett., 2000, 124, 1-8.
• Puri, G.S., Gupta, R.K.; Meher-Homji, V.M. and Puri, S. 1989. Forest Ecology:
Plant-form Diversity, Communities and Succession. Oxford and IBH
Publishing Co., New Delhi : 582pp.
• Quan, J.F. 1993. Vegetation and Animal Abundance Along an Altitudinal

Gradient in Western Himalaya. Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun, 70pp.
• Raina, R., Johri, A.K. and Srivastava, L., J. Seed Res., 1996, 22, 62-63.
• Ramakrishnan, P.S., Down to Earth, August 2000.
• Rao T.A., 1961. Some plant Records-IV, lbid. 3: 29-30.
• Rastogi, R.P. and Mehrotra, B.N., Compendium of Indian Medicinal Plants,
CDRI Lucknow and Publ & Information Directorate Lucknow, 1991, vol. I, p.
497
• Rau M.A. Flowering plants and Ferns of North Garhwal, Uttar Pradesh,
India. Bull. Bot. Surv. India 3: 215-261. 1961.
• Rau, M.A. 1961. Flora of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. Bulletin of Botanical
Survey of India 3: 215-251.
• Rau, M.A. 1961. Flowering plants and Ferns of North Garhwal, Uttar Pradesh,
India, Bull. Bot. Surv. India, 3: 215-261.
• Rawal, R.S. & Pangtey, Y.P.S. 1994. High altitude forests with special
reference to timber line in Kumaun, central Himalaya. In High Altitudes of
the Himalaya (eds. Y.P.S. Pangey & R.S. Rawal). Gyanodaya Prakashan,
Nainitial. Pp. 353-399.
• Rawal, R.S. and Dhar, U. 1997. Sensitivity of Timberline Flora in Kumaun
Himalaya, India: Conservation Implications. Arctic and Alpine Research, 29
(1): 112-121.
• Rawat, G.S. 2000. Ecology and Conservation of the Valley of Flowers
NationalPark, Garhwal Himalaya. Summary of the research project.
Biosphere Reserve 2 (1&2) : 76-77.
• Rawat, G.S. and Pangtey, Y.P.S. 1987. Floristic Structure of Snowline
Vegetation in Central Himalaya, India. Arctic and Alpine Research, 19: 195-
201.
• Rawat, G.S., & Uniyal, V.K. 1993. Pastoralism and plant conservation. The
Valley of Flowers dilemma. Environmental Conservation 20: 164-167.
• Rawat, Y.C. 1982. Plant biomass, net primary production and nutrient cycling
in oak forests. Eco. Res. Circ. Report.
• Rodgers, W.A. & Panwar, H.S. 1988. Planning a Wildlife Protected Area
Network in India. Vol I. The Report, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun.
• Rundel, W.P. and Writer, M.S., Tropical Alpine Environments Plant form and
Function (eds Rundel, W.P., Smith, A.P. and Meinzer, F.C.) Cambridge
University Press, Cambridge, 1994, pp 295-306.
• Samant S.S., Rawal., R.S. & Dhar, U. 1995. Epiphytic orchids of Askot Wildlife
Sanctuary in Kumaon Himalaya, India: Conservation Imperatives.
Environmental Conservation 22: 71-74.
• Samant, S.S. 1993. Diversity and status of plants in Nanda Devi Biosphere
Reserve. In scientific and Ecological Expedition to Nanda Devi. Report, Army
Head Quarters, New Delhi. pp. 54-85.
• Samant, S.S., Dhar, U. & Palni, L.M.S. 1998a: Medicinal Plants of Indian
Himalaya: Diversity Distribution Potential Values. Gyanodaya Prakashan,
Nainital.
• Samant, S.S., Dhar, U. & Rawal R.S. 1996a: Natural resource use by some
natives within Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve in West Himalaya.
Ethnobotany 8: 40-50.
• Samant, S.S., Dhar, U. & Rawal, R.S. 1996b. Conservation of rare and
endangered plants: The context of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. In
Conservation and Management of Biological Resources in Himalaya (eds. P.S.
Ramakrishnan, A.N. Purohit, K.G. Saxena, K.S. Rao & R.K. Maikhuri). Oxford
and IBH Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, Calcutta. Pp. 521-545.
• Samant, S.S., Dhar, U. & Rawal, R.S. 1998b. Biodiversity status of a protected
area of west Himalaya I. Askot Wildlife Sanctuary. International Journal of
Sustainable Development and World Ecology 5: 194-203.
• Samant, S.S., Joshi, H.C. & Arya, S.C. 2000. Diversity nativity and endemism
of vascular plants in Pindari area of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve-II.
Himalayan Biosphere Reserves Vol. 2(1&2): 1-29.
• Samant S. S., Joshi H. C., Pant S., and Arya S. C. (2001); Diversity, nativity and
endemism of Vascular plants in Valley of Flowers, National Park (VOFNP),
West Himalaya; Himalayan Biosphere Reserves Vol. 3 (1&2), pp 1-17; G.B.
Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Kosi-Katarmal
263643, Almora, Uttaranchal, India.
• Sastry, A.R.K. and Chatterjee, S., Setting Biodiversity Conservation Priorities
for India (eds Singh, s. et al.), WWF-India, 2000, vol. II, pp 467-473
• Schweinfurth, U. 1957. Die Horizuntale Und Vertikle Verbreitung der
Vegetation Himalaya. Bonner Geogr. Abh., 20: 1-372.
• Shah, Giri Raj, 1983. Wanderings in the Valley of Flowers, New Delhi.
• Shah, N.C., Keynote address at the International Workshop on Prospects of
Medicinal Plants, 4-9 November 1996.
• Sharma J.R., Mudgal, V. And Hajra, P.K., Floristic Diversity and Conservation
Strategies in India (eds Mudgal, V. and Hajra, P.K.) Botanical Survey of India,
Ministry of Environment and Forests, 1997, p.5
• Sharma, C. and Chauhan, M.S. Pollen Spares, 1988, 30, 395-408.
• Sharma, M.M. 1985. The Valley of Flowers, New Delhi.
• Singh, D.K. and Hajara, P.K. Changing Perspectives of Biodiversity Status in
the Himalaya (eds Gujral, G.S. and Sharma, V.), British Council Division,
New Delhi, 1996, pp 23-28.
• Singh, J.S and Singh, S.P. 1992. Forests of Himalaya, Structure, Functioning
and Impact of Man. Gyanodaya Prakashan, Nainital, 294pp.
• Singh, J.S. and Singh, S.P. 1987. Forest Vegetation of the Himalaya. Bot. Rev.,
53 : 80-192.
• Singh, T.V. 1978. The Valley of Flowers: A case for a Biosphere Reserve.
Journ. Himal. Studies, Srinagar.
• Smythe, F.S. The Valley of Flowers, London. 1938.
• Srivastava, A., Shukla, Y.N. and Sushil, K., J. Med. Aromat. Plant Sci., 1999,
21, 1131-1138.
• Stuiver, M. and Pearson, G.W. Radiocanbon, 1986, 28, 805-838.
• Tandon, V., Med. Plant Conserv. Newsl., 1996, 2, 12-13
• Troup, J.K. and Purohit, A.N., Proc. Indian Acad. Sci., 1980, 89, 61-65.
• Troup, R.S. 1921. The Silviculture of Indian Trees. Vol. I. Controller of
Publication, Delhi : 307.
• Utkarsh, G., Gadgil, M. and Rao, P.R.S., Curr. Sci., 1999, 77,1418-1425.
• Ved, D.K. and Tandon, V., CAMP Report for High Altitude Medicinal Plants
of Jammu-Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, FRLHT, Bangalore, 1988.
• Wadhwa, B. M., Rao, R. R., and Hajra, P. K. (1987); Botany of the Valley of
Flowers National Park and its Environs; Bulletin of Botanical Survey of India,
Dehra Dun, Vol. 29, Nos. 1-4, pp 126-175.
• Wadia, D.N. 1931. The syntaxis of the North West Himalaya, its rocks,
tectonics and orogeny. Journal of Geological & Mining Society of India 65:
189-200.
• Wadia, D.N. 1964. Himalayan mountains, their age, origin and subcrustal
relation. Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci., India, 30 A (6) : 843-63.
• Wadia, D.N. 1978. Geology of India. Tata McGraw Hill, Delhi, 508pp.
ANNEXURE - B
TYPICAL MESSAGE FOR LARGE SIGNBOARDS
PUNJABI
ENGLISH
AIR IS OUR GURU, WATER IS OUR FATHER, AND THE GREAT EARTH IS OUR MOTHER.
- GURU NANAK, SHLOK,
JAPJI SAHIB
This natural beauty was created by God and blessed by the Guru.
Please do not pollute the air, water, and earth.
Request
During your yatra to Sri Hemkunt Sahib we humbly request your seva:
1. Kindly do not throw any garbage out of the bus windows, onto the footpath,
or into the forests and streams.
2. As your personal seva, collect one bag of toffee wrappers, plastic bags, and other garbage
from along the yatra route, and put it in a dustbin.
3. As your jatha's seva, transport bags of collected garbage on each bus and car
from Govind Ghat to the city for recycling.
4. Tell your relatives, friends, and travelling companions about the importance
of keeping God's creation and the Guru's place clean.
Thank you for your seva.
TYPICAL MESSAGES FOR SMALL SIGNBOARDS ALONG

PATH
PUNJABI
HINDI
ENGLISH
TOFFEE WRAPPERS, FROOTI BOXES

PLASTIC BAGS, AND BUSCUIT PACKETS
DO NOT THROW THEM ON THE GROUND
THERE ARE DUSTBINS ALL AROUND!
GOD BEFORE ME GOD BEHIND ME

GOD BENEATH ME GOD BESIDE ME
KNOW THAT GOD IS EVERYWHERE
AND WITH ALL GOD'S CREATION TAKE CARE
GOD ADORNS THIS PLACE WITH GREEN

GURU WANTS YOU TO KEEP IT CLEAN
EVERY TREE AND STONE ALONG THE WAY

SAYS KEEP YOUR GARBAGE IN YOUR BAG
WHILE WALKING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE GURU

KEEPING THE SACRED PATH CLEAN IS UP TO YOU
ENJOY THIS BEAUTY

DON'T MAKE IT DIRTY
DIRTY IS UGLY
CLEAN IS LOVELY
STOP IT! DON'T DROP IT!

PUT THE WRAPPER IN YOUR POCKET
WHEN YOU SEE A DUSTBIN
THROW THE WRAPPER IN!
THE WATER IS BLUE THE FOREST IS GREEN

DO SOME SEVA TO KEEP THEM CLEAN
ON THIS PATH THE GURU WALKED

IF HE SAW THIS MESS HE WOULD BE SHOCKED
SO PICK UP THE RUBBISH YOU HAVE DROPPED
BEFORE YOU TAKE YOUR CLEANSING BATH

SEE TO THE CLEANLINESS OF THIS PATH
GOD AND GURU IN THEIR GRACE
BROUGHT YOU TO THIS SACRED PLACE

TO MAKE IT DIRTY IS A DISGRACE
Do not damage the plants and trees

God is present even in these
Do not throw garbage
Among the flowers and leaves
Throw it into a dustbin please
DO NOT POLLUTE THE FOREST AND STREAM

KEEP ALL OF GOD'S CREATION CLEAN
HEM GANGA IS A SACRED STREAM

ITS WATER IS PURE SO KEEP IT CLEAN
WHEN YOU COME TO THESE SACRED LANDS

DO SOME SERVICE WITH YOUR HANDS
WHEN YOU SEE A RUBBISH BIN
KINDLY THROW THE RUBBISH IN!
GURDWARA ANNOUNCEMENT
Beloved Sadh Sangat of the Guru, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh,

The Guru has blessed you to come to this sacred place: Tapo Asthan Sri
Hemkunt Sahib, where the tenth Guru meditated and became One with God.
Please take this message along with you on your yatra: the Guru is not just
INSIDE the Gurdwara. The Guru is everywhere. As Guru Nanak wrote in Japji
Sahib, "Air is our Guru, Water is our Father, and the Great Earth is our Mother."
The beautiful air, water, and earth that surround Sri Hemkunt Sahib were
created by God and blessed by the Guru. To disrespect them by polluting them
is equal to disrespecting the Creator Himself. We humbly request that you keep
God's natural creation clean.
Remember, when you go to Sri Hemkunt Sahib, you are walking where the Guru
walked: on the same soil, surrounded by the same mountains and water and
natural beauty. Think of the whole yatra route to Sri Hemkunt Sahib as the
Guru's place, as a Gurdwara. As you would at any Gurdwara, please do some
seva for the Guru. That seva means not throwing any garbage out of bus
windows, onto the footpath, or into the forests and streams along the yatra route.
That seva means not polluting the holy water of the Hemkunt Sarovar, the Hem
Ganga Stream, or the Alaknanda River.
As part of the YVDC earlier and present EDC works, dustbins have been
installed all along the yatra route. We humbly request that every time you see a
toffee wrapper, plastic bag, or any other garbage on the ground, you pick it up
and carry it to a dustbin. Please collect one bag of garbage as your seva toward
keeping Sri Hemkunt Sahib clean, beautiful, and sacred. Then, when you return
to Govind Ghat, load one or more bags of garbage onto every bus and car in your
jatha, and transport it back to the city for recycling. Our final request to you is
that you tell everyone among your friends, family, and travelling companions
about this important seva to keep Sri Hemkunt Sahib clean.
Thank you, and may you receive the blessings of the Guru.
ANNEXURE - C
PROPOSALS ENROUTE TREK PATH FROM GOVIND GHAT TO

GHANGHARIA
Sr. Development Components Unit Quan- Cost Phase Implmt. Funding (Pha
No. tity (Rs. in of Dvpt. Agency lakh
lakhs) MoT Publ
A. Signages
lakhs) MoT Publ
1 Standardised Signage Board at each km sqm 4.68 0.36 I DoF/ 0.36
point to indicate the distance from Govind PWD
Ghat-Ghangharia (13 boards) on both sides
of the board
2 Standard Signage Board before Pulna to sqm 1.44 0.11 I DoF/ 0.11
indicate the name of Bhyundar Ganga river PWD
and location of Cremation Ghat
3 Standard Signage Board at Bhyundar Ganga sqm 0.72 0.05 I DoF/ 0.05
bridge at 10 km point to indicate the name PWD
of river
4 Standardised Signage Board before sqm 0.72 0.07 I DoF/ 0.07
Ghangharia at Kanjila to indicate the PWD
location of Helipad
5 Standardised Signage Board at Valley of sqm 1.44 0.15 I DoF/ 0.15
Flowers - Hemkunt Sahib Junction after PWD
Ghangharia settlement to indicate the trek
path bifurcation
6 Standard Warning/Information Signage sqm 5.40 0.41 I DoF/ 0.41
Board for Waterfalls/Landslide/ Avalanche PWD
prone areas upto Ghangharia (10 boards)
/Cluster A Amenity (3 boards)/ Brief View
Information at Vista Points (2 Boards)
7 Standard Eco-Awareness Message Signages
along the trek route
a) Punjabi (1 Board x17 types of messages sqm 10.20 0.78 I DoF/ 0.78
with 2 text rows) EDC
b) Hindi (1 Board x14 types of messages sqm 88.80 6.75 I DoF/ 6.75
with 2 text rows) EDC
c) English (1 Board each for10 types of sqm 13.50 1.03 I DoF/ 1.03
messages with 2 text rows, 3 types of EDC
messages with 3 text rows, and 4 types of
messages with 4 text rows)
8 Small nature interpretation signages along sqm 16.88 0.07 I DoF/ 0.07
the rare trees and flora on the way upto EDC
Ghangharia (assuming 125 boards each of
0.45 m x 0.3 m size made up of MS
angle/sheets) painted as per the current
pattern followed by DoF
B. Land & Site Development
1 Construction of one-side 1.15 m high x sqm 14375.00 56.01 I DoF/ 56.01
12500 m long MS railing along one side of PWD
the trek path from Govind Ghat to
Ghangharia (excluding the portion of
Ghangharia settlement) as per the exisiting
design and painted in dark green
2 Earthwork in cutting for widening trek path cum 11437.50 2.14 I DoF/ 2.14
(12500 m long by average 6' or 1.2 m width PWD
incl. 1.525 m depth of side slopes cut in
triangular cross section till the base of 9"
thick stone masonry
3 Widening of Trek path base in stone cum 3375.00 19.66 I DoF/ 19.66
Kharanja/Masonry work (12500 m long by PWD
average 4 ft. or 1.2 m width and 9" or 0.225
lakhs) MoT Publ
m thick)
4 Pucca 1:2:4 CC path with 12 mm grooved cum 6000.00 268.87 I DoF/ 268.87
Herringbone pattern (100 mm x 212 mm PWD
size) on top surface, with dimensions as
12500 m x 1.8 m x 0.20 m thick under
pedestrian path and 12750 m x 1.2 m x 0.10
m thick under mule path
5 GI Wire mesh (24 gauge /144 mesh per sqm 14100 15.84 I DoF/ 15.84
sqm) bracing to hold hill side slopes upto 4' PWD
high along the mule trek path edge
(excluding portions of Kanjila flatter land )
6 Construction of one large Causeway at the
Avalanche point (9.25 km-9.30 km) after
Bhyundar village
a) Earthwork in cutting for retaining wall cum 110 0.02 I DoF/ 0.02
base (50 m x 2 m x 1 m deep) and 2 side PWD
embankment support slope walls (5 m x 1 m
x 1 m deep)
b) 6" thick Base CC 1:4:8 under retaining cum 17 0.22 I DoF/ 0.22
and wing walls PWD
c) RCC 1:2:4 retaining (50 m x 6 m deep x 0.5 cum 368 14.59 DoF/ 14.59
m wide on top edge & 1.75 m on base edge) PWD
and 2 wing walls (5 m x 6 m high on
Causeway edge end & 2 m high on other
end x 0.75 m wide)
d) RCC 1:2:4 Causeway slab (50 m x 5 m x cum 75 2.53 I DoF/ 2.53
0.30 m thick) PWD
e) Cost of Tor steel consumed @ 150 kg 66375 12.81 I DoF/ 12.81
kg/cum for Causeway slab, retaining and PWD
wing walls
f) Earth work in filling (in triangular pattern cum 658 0.15 I DoF/ 0.15
over existing slopes) behind retaining wall PWD
till the slab sub base CC
g) 6" thick CC 1:4:8 in Sub base of Causeway cum 34 0.45 I DoF/ 0.45
slab PWD
11 Small Cross Drainage Works across trek
path at approximate regular intervals of 10
such locations per km from Govind Ghat to
Ghangharia
a) Earthwork in cutting 4" deep below the cum 11.25 0.00 I DoF/ 0.00
stone masonry level x 1' wide x 3 m long PWD
under drain chamber and hume pipe
b) 3' thick CC 1:4:8 basework under drain cum 8.44 0.11 I DoF/ 0.11
chamber and hume pipe PWD
c) Plaster in CM 1:6 on side walls of drain sqm 112.50 0.05 I DoF/ 0.05
chamber PWD
d) 25 mm thick Flooring in CC 1:2:4 in drain sqm 45.00 0.04 I DoF/ 0.04
chamber PWD
e) Provision of 2 removable RCC 1:2:4 slab cum 3.38 0.11 I DoF/ 0.11
chamber covers (1’6" wide x 2’ ft long x 2" PWD
thick) per chamber with grated openings
(1'1/2" dia @ 4" c/c) under mule trek path
f) Tor steel used in RCC chamber cover @ kg 506.25 0.10 I DoF/ 0.10
lakhs) MoT Publ
150 kg/cum PWD
g) Provision of hume pipe (1’ dia x 6’ long) rm 225.00 0.50 I DoF/ 0.50
under pedestrian trek path PWD
12 Construction of small culverts (1 m x 0.5 m sqm 165.00 2.08 I DoF/ 2.08
span) for cross drainage under the trek path PWD
with minor retaining wing/support walls
and RCC slab of 1 m x 3 m x 0.15 m size for
about 55 small seasonal stream lines
observed that cross the trek path from
Govind Ghat to Ghangharia
13 Street Lighting from Govind Ghat till Pulna sqm 100 29.25 I DoF/ 29.25
along trek path (from 3 km to Suspension PWD
Bridge end @30m interval)
14 Street Lighting from Kanjila (near the sqm 25 9.81 I DoF/ 9.81
Helipad/Tented resorts till Ghangharia PWD
entrance (11.75 km to 12.5 km point @30m
interval)
15 Restoration of Electricity Supply System LS 6.50 I SEB 5
(damaged at various locations from
Bhyundar onwards) through connectivity to
grid (Initial Budgeted Lump Sump amount)
- a) Rs. 5 lakhs for restoration in year 1, and
b) Rs. 0.50 Lakhs for maintenance every
year thereafter
16 Construction of 5.95 m wide Road from km 5.00 106.50 I & II PWD 26.63
Govind Ghat/Pandukeshwar to Pulna
17 Approx. 84 m span Bridge near LS 200.00 I & II PWD 100.00
Pandukeshwar enroute to Pulna
18 Attractive Turntable Solid Waste Bins (@100 LS 130 1.14 I DoF/ 1.14
m interval) along the path from Govind EDC
Ghat to Ghangharia
C. Buildings & Allied Construction
1 Cluster A · at Pulna (near 3 km point), near
6 km point, and near 9.60 km point: 3
Clusters with temporary sloped roof
structures of corrugated GI sheet roof &
wall - painted in dark green
a) Snacks/ Fast food centre: 8 in numbers, sqm 480.00 9.63 I DoF/ 9.63
with a seating capacity of 15 people each EDC
(area of each unit = 20 sqm)
b) Souvenir Shop, 1 in number of size 20 sqm 60.00 1.20 I DoF/ 1.20
sq.m run by Mahila Mandal. This will also EDC
function as a tourist information desk and
First Aid Centre
c) Shauchalaya with 2 toilets each for men sqm 36.00 0.72 I DoF/ 0.72
and women on ‘pay & use’ facility (4 m x 3 EDC
m)
d) Septic Tank with Soak pit (2.5m x 2 m) sqm 15.00 0.53 I DoF/ 0.53
EDC
e) Covered Rest Shed with sides opened 1 in sqm 45.00 0.35 I DoF/ 0.35
number (area 15 sqm) EDC
f) Precast/welded mild steel benches - No. 15 0.26 I DoF/ 0.26
painted dark green (5 in each shed) EDC
lakhs) MoT Publ
g) The trek path between the cluster to be sqm 135.00 0.69 I DoF/ 0.69
partially covered over roof (3m x 15 m). EDC
h) Mule Shed with sides opened for 30 sqm 180.00 1.39 I DoF/ 1.39
mules (60 sqm approx.) at Cluster A EDC
i) Septic Tank and Soak pit for mule shed sqm 24.00 0.84 I DoF/ 0.84
(4mx2m) EDC
j) Large size waste collection pit of 4m x 1m No. 2 0.20 I DoF/ 0.20
x 1m size (dark green painted MS iron cage EDC
mounted on a masonry platform that can be
easily assembled & waste removed) to be
used by EDC cleaning staff to dump the
waste collected from trek path/sides &
enroute establishments - 2 Nos. (For Pulna
its already covered under Pulna head)
2 Cluster B – provided near 1.5 km, 5 km, 7.2
km, 8.5 km, 10.95 km and 12 km from
Govind Ghat: 6 Clusters with temporary
sloped roof structures of corrugated GI
sheet roof & wall - painted in dark green
a) Snacks/ Fast food centre: 6 in numbers, sqm 720.00 14.45 II DoF/
b) Drinking Water Facility (1000 litre low No. 6 0.22 II DoF/
density polythene moulded tank) EDC
c) Shauchalaya with 2 toilets each for men sqm 72.00 1.44 II DoF/
m)
d) Septic Tank with Soak pit (2m x 1.5 m) sqm 18.00 0.63 II DoF/
EDC
e) Covered Rest Shed with sides opened -1 sqm 90.00 0.69 II DoF/
in number (area 15 sqm) EDC
f) Precast/welded mild steel benches - No. 30 0.53 II DoF/
g) The trek path between the cluster to be sqm 180.00 0.92 II DoF/
partially covered over roof (3m x 10 m). EDC
h) Mule Shed with sides opened for 15 sqm 180.00 1.39 II DoF/
mules (30 sqm approx.) at Cluster B EDC
i) Septic Tank and Soak pit for mule shed sqm 22.50 0.79 II DoF/
(2.5mx1.5m) EDC
3 Cluster C – provided near 1.05 km, 2.10 km,
2.6 km, 3.9 km, 4.3 km, 6.75 km, 8 km, 10.3
km, 11.35 km from Govind Ghat: 9 Clusters
with temporary sloped roof structures of
corrugated GI sheet roof & wall - painted in
dark green
a) Drinking Water Facility (500 litre low No. 9 0.17 I DoF/ 0.17
b) Covered Rest Shed with sides opened - 2 sqm 270.00 2.08 I DoF/ 2.08
numbers (each of area 15 sqm). EDC
c) Precast/welded mild steel benches - No. 90 1.58 I DoF/ 1.58
4 Investment for setting up shops/food No. 63 63.00 I&II PVT
counters (L.S. @ Rs. 1 lakhs per unit which
lakhs) MoT Publ
includes the cost of space, furniture,
equipments, other goods, labour)
5 Additional set of 2 uncovered precast/ No. 140 2.46 I DoF/ 2.46
welded mild steel benches - painted dark EDC
green (2 ft. x 5 ft. size each) is also proposed
to be provided and disassembled after
tourism season along the trek path at an
interval of:
· At an interval of 0.25 km distance from
Govind Ghat till Cluster B at 1.5 km point
· At an interval of 0.20 km distance after 1.5
km point till 4 km point
· At an interval of 0.15 km distance after 4
km point till Bhyundar (at 8.75 km point)
· At an interval of 0.10 km distance after
Bhyundar till Ghangharia
6 Dark green painted temporary slope roof No. 15 0.30 I DoF/ 0.30
structure of corrugated GI sheet roof & wall EDC
- painted in dark green for 1 Urinal each @
0.5 km interval (1 m x 1m)
7 Septic Tank & Soak Pit (1m x 1.5m) sqm 22.50 0.79 I DoF/ 0.79
EDC
8 Dark green painted temporary sloped roof
of corrugated GI sheet roof (painted in dark
green) Vista Points enroute the trek path - 2
in No.
a) Temporary structure in 3m dia spread sqm 14.14 0.11 I DoF/ 0.11
EDC
b) 1.15 m high MS Frame & GI Pipe railing sqm 19.39 0.08 I DoF/ 0.08
EDC
c) Cost of Telescope LS 2.00 40.00 I DoF/ 20.00
EDC
9 Temporary sloped roof structure of LS 2 3.00 I BSNL 3
dark green for PCO Booths along with
telephone registration to be provided - One
at 6 km point along trek path at Cluster A
between Bhyundar & Pulna and another
near Kanjila Helipad area
D. Equipments/Other Infrastructure
1 Dress Uniform & other equipments for EDC
Members/ Cleaning Staff of Bhyundar &
Govind Ghat as well - for 15 members, 40
cleaning staff (including 1 each at Hemkunt,
Ghangharia, Pulna, & Govind Ghat
locations for handling waste compression
equipment units, and 1 for handling
Incinerator to be built as an existing
proposal at Govind Ghat), & 10 local
paramedics
a) 1 Set of Rainproof Jackets/Trousers, 1 Set No. 65 0.98 I DoF/ 0.98
of Waterproof shoes, and 2 Sets of EDC
Shirt/Trouser for each member/staff
lakhs) MoT Publ
b) Set of equipments like broom, waste No. 40 0.02 I DoF/ 0.02
holder/picker, etc. EDC
c) Photo-identity cards/certificates (EDC No. 1265 0.63 I DoF/ 0.63
members (15), cleaning staff (40), local EDC
paramedics (10) one person per pair of mule
(500), porters (400), four persons per palki
(300)
2 Initial procurement of good quality No. 3000 6.00 I PVT
raincoats (based on average load per day
for to & fro visitation) with “Valley of
Flowers” and “Sri Hemkunt Sahib” logos
embossed on the front and message of
“Keep Valley of Flowers – Hemkunt Region
Clean” printed at the back to be issued on a
security deposit to tourists
3 Initial procurement of Carry Bags/Hand No. 5000 1.00 I PVT
Bags woven out of Ringal grass/Jute bags
(jute may be procured from outside but
bags shall be crafted by the local
community) to carry lighter
belongings/food items
TOTAL 918.32 617.88 8
PROPOSALS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN VALLEY OF FLOWERS

lakhs) MoT Publ
A. Signages
1 Standardised Signage Board at each km sqm 1.80 0.25 I DoF / 0.25
point (5 boards) to indicate the distance PWD
within Valley of Flowers on both sides of
the board
2 Standard Signage Board at river crossings to sqm 3.60 0.51 I DoF / 0.51
indicate the name of streams/rivers (1 PWD
board each for Gushadhar Garh, river
Pushpawati, Dev Mangri Garh, Bistoli Garh,
and Donagair Garh)
3 Standard Warning/Information Signage sqm 2.16 0.31 I DoF / 0.31
Board for Landslide prone areas/Glacier (6 PWD
boards) along trek path within Valley of
Flowers
4 Standardised Signage Board in Valley of sqm 1.44 0.20 I DoF / 0.20
Flowers at Bamani Dhaur Junction to Khunt PWD
Khal indicating the trek path bifurcation
(including altitude at Bamani Dhaur)
5 Standardised Signage Board in Valley of sqm 1.08 0.15 I DoF / 0.15
Flowers indicate the trek path direction for PWD
Ms. Legges' grave and old Helipad
6 Standardised Signage Boards in Valley of sqm 1.44 0.20 I DoF / 0.20
Flowers at the junction of trek path to PWD
indicate locations separately to Ms. Legge's
grave and to Helipad
lakhs) MoT Publ
7 Nature Interpretation/Information Board at sqm 10.00 0.07 I DoF/ 0.07
3 Open Vista Points with small pictures & EDC
supporting text (1.5 m x 2 m size) and 1
board at Vista Point near Ms. Legge's grave
(1m x 1m size) made up of MS
angles/sheets painted as per the current
pattern followed by DoF
8 Coloured brochure/booklet (listing major No. 30000 2.10 I&II DoF/ 1.05
54 floral species and major fauna species EDC
with their pictures, bloom period, any other
brief etc. printed on a glossy A-2 paper of
size 18” x 23” printed on both sides and
with 12 folds) & 1 Trek Map with Flower
Composition brief on one side and Dos’ &
Don’ts/any other instruction on other side
(printed on good A-4 sheet of size 9” x 11”
in black & white for the 4-year project
period
the major trees and flora on the way EDC
(Assuming 150 boards displayed
alternatively as per the bloom cycle of flora
at VoF including those at Germplasm Bank/
Shadow Garden between Ghangharia &
VoF Entrance Gate, each of 0.45 m x 0.3 m
size made up of MS angle/sheets) painted
as per the current pattern followed by DoF
1 Laying of 3 ft. wide new dry Stone Kharanja sqm 1350 4.73 I DoF/ 4.73
path over narrow soil/bridle surface trail PWD
for 1.5 km stretch (in between VoF Entrance
and Bamini Dhaur point)
2 1.15 m high MS Angle/GI pipe railing as sqm 2875 20.82 I DoF/ 20.82
per existing design and painted in dark PWD
green for 2.5 km stretch (in between VoF
Entrance and Bamini Dhaur point)
3 4 Open Vista Points - one at 2 km point sqm 175 0.61 I DoF/ 0.61
(near the small glacier) with 25 sqm area EDC
and two more in the main valley each with
25 sqm area (these could be at those current
locations which have large rock boulders,
and one of 100sqm area around the Ms.
Legge's grave by cleaning the immediate
surroundings in a limited way between
these rocks and the existing trek path and
layinmg the same with dry stone random
rubble masonry surface)
4 Additional set of 20 uncovered No. 20 0.65 I DoF/ 0.65
precast/welded mild steel benches - painted EDC
dark green (2 ft. x 5 ft. size each) is proposed
at the 4 Open Vista Points on the cleared
random rubble masonry surface open space
(4 benches each at 3 smaller vista points & 8
lakhs) MoT Publ
benches at larger vista point at Ms. Legge's
grave) and disassembled after tourist season
1 Contruction of new Folding Bridge (painted No. 2 6.00 I DoF/ 6.00
in dark green) at Gushadhar Garh and PWD
Bistoli Garh
2 Temporary structure of corrugated GI sheet
roof/wall - painted in dark green for Rain
Shelter/Rest shed and fitted on soil/bridle
floor may be provided at every 0.5 km
interval starting from the VOFNP entrance
gate till the 3 km point only - 6 Rain Shelters
a) Temporary sloped roof structures (2.5 m sqm 60.00 0.57 I DoF/ 0.57
wide x 4 m long x 3 m high at centre) with EDC
steel truss frame and corrugated GI sheet
roof/wall painted in dark green
b) 4 precast/welded mild steel benches (2 ft. No. 24 0.78 I DoF/ 0.78
wide x 5 ft. long) painted in dark green and EDC
arranged in U-pattern in each shelter
dark green (2 ft. x 5 ft. size each) is also
proposed to be provided along the trek path
at an interval of 0.10 km distance after
Ghangharia till the 2 km point in Valley of
Flowers (as this stretch of path is relatively
steeper) - 14 x 2 = 28 benches and to be
disassembled after tourist season
4 Temporary slope roofed structures of No. 1 0.04 I DoF/ 0.04
corrugated GI sheet roof & wall - painted in EDC
dark green for single unit unisex toilet for
Urinal/WC use at each km (1m x 1m) till 3
km point only after VoF Entrance Gate - 3
Nos.
5 Septic Tank and Soak Pits (1m x 1.5 m) - 3 No. 1.50 0.10 I DoF/ 0.10
Nos. EDC
D. Equipments/Capacity Building/ Promotion
1 Expenses on Equipments/ Infrastructure for LS 150.00 I&II DoF 60.00
Forest Patrol Staff (incl. Digital Cameras for
vista points in VoF), Research works for
conservation/documentation and time
series monitoring
2 Initial trainings/ capacity building of the LS 200.00 I&II DoF/ 80.00
local community and other stakeholders. DoT/
EDC/
NGO
3 All advertising and promotional costs LS 150.00 I&II DoT 60.00
including Cost for short documentary
movie, promotion on TV /AIR/FM
channels, etc. in 4-years of project
implementation
4 Creation of Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt LS 50.00 I&II DoT/ DoF 20.00
Official Website and relevant Hardware,
lakhs) MoT Publ
hosting charges etc.
TOTAL 589.17 258.12 0
PROPOSALS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN HEMKUNT

lakhs) MoT Publ
A. Signages
1 Standard Signage Board at Lakshman/ sqm 0.72 0.07 I DoF/ 0.07
Hem Ganga bridge just after Ghangharia to PWD
indicate the name of river
2 Standard Signage Board at Lakshman/ sqm 0.72 0.13 I DoF/ 0.13
Hem Ganga bridge about half a km before PWD
Hemkunt to indicate the name of river
3 Standardised Signage Board at each km sqm 2.16 0.31 I DoF/ 0.31
point to indicate the distance from PWD
Ghangharia to Hemkunt (6 boards) on both
sides of the board
4 Standard Warning/Information Signage sqm 2.16 0.31 I DoF/ 0.31
Board for Waterfalls/Landslide/ Avalanche PWD
prone areas upto Hemkunt (3 boards)
/Cluster A Amenity (3 boards)
5 Standard Signage Board at the Hemkunt sqm 4.32 0.81 I DoF/ 0.81
Sahib complex to indicate the location of PWD
Hemkunt Sahib (including the altitude),
Lokpal Temple, Proposed Helipad,
Hemkunt Sarovar, Lakshman / Hem
Ganga, and Shadow Garden/Germplasm
Bank at Hemkunt for high altitude flora
6 Standard Eco-Awareness Message Signage
displayed at Hemkunt Gurdwara premises
a) Punjabi (1 Board each for2 types of sqm 7.20 1.35 I DoF/ 1.35
messages with 2 text rows, and 1 request EDC
b) Hindi (1 Board each for2 types of sqm 7.20 1.35 I DoF/ 1.35
7 Standard Information Signage Board at sqm 3.60 0.67 I DoF/ 0.67
Lokpal Temple to provide brief history of EDC
the temple and Annual fairs
with rare trees and flora from Ghangharia EDC
to Hemkunt (assuming 50 boards) and at
Hemkunt (assuming 50 boards displayed
alternatively as per the bloom cycle of flora)
each of 0.45 m x 0.3 m size made up of MS
angle/sheets) including at High Altitude
Germplasm Bank/Shadow Garden at
Hemkunt painted as per the current pattern
lakhs) MoT Publ
followed by DoF
1 Development of Germplasm Bank / sqm 2500 7.19 I DoF 7.19
Shadow Garden for higher altitude species
like Brahmakamal, etc. at Hemkunt Sahib
(2500 sqm) on Forest Land
2 Heritage Conservation Works at Lokpal LS 5.00 I LMS 2.50
Temple/Surroundings
3 Construction of Helipad Surface (30 m dia.
corresponding to Final approach & Take-Off
Area - FATO)
a) Retaining wall - Earth work (2' deep x 3' cum 42.39 0.02 I DoF/ 0.02
wide) PWD
b) Retaining wall - Base CC (4" deep x 3' cum 7.07 0.23 I DoF/ 0.23
wide) PWD
c) Retaining wall - RR Masonry (1-1/2' deep cum 44.51 0.64 I DoF/ 0.64
x 2' wide lower layer + 1-1/2' deep x 1-1/2' PWD
wide upper layer)
d) Helipad - Compacted Base Earth filling cum 113.04 0.06 I DoF/ 0.06
(plinth - 1'8" deep x 6" wide, under flooring PWD
(6" deep)
e) Helipad - Base CC 1:4:8 (5" thick under cum 88.31 2.86 I DoF/ 2.86
flooring) PWD
f) Helipad - Top RCC 1:2:4 floor slab (5" cum 88.31 7.31 I DoF/ 7.31
thick overall with 2" overlap over the PWD
masonry wall width)
g) Helipad - Top RCC 1:2:4 floor slab: Cost kg. 13246.88 6.28 I DoF/ 6.28
of Steel @ 150 kg/cum consumption PWD
h) Helipad - Painting with highly retro- sqm 16.65 0.29 I DoF/ 0.29
reflective WHITE paint mixture containing PWD
glass beads or similar to provide visual
guidance in low light conditions for
marking 'H' strip (2 side strips of 3 m & mid
strip of 1 m clear dimensions & 0.40 m
width of these strips) and marking Landing
& Lift-Off Area (LLA) strip of size 7.35 m in
centreline radius from the centre of 'H'
marking & 0.30 m wide
i) LS cost for provision of wind speed and LS 0.10 I DoF/ 0.10
direction indicator mounted on pole to PWD
provide a visual guide to the wind speed &
direction (windsock shall be located outside
of the helicopter flight path envelop and
clear of turbulence affected areas)
j) LS cost for provision of two 4.5 kg CO2 LS 0.10 I DoF/ 0.10
Fire Extinguishers (available as close as PWD
practicable to the Helipad)
k) LS cost for provision of Helipad lighting LS 1.00 I DoF/ 1.00
(Options are - flood lights used in PWD
conjunction with retro-reflective markings
or ground level lights that identify the edge
of LLA and the FATO; while the power
source can be mains supply or solar
lakhs) MoT Publ
powered)
3 Construction of one-side 1.15 m high x 6250 sqm 9487.50 68.72 I DoF/ 68.72
m long MS railing along one side of the trek PWD
path and 1.15 m high x 1000 m long MS
railing on both sides along a separate pucca
step path in last 1 km stretch to Hemkunt as
per the exisiting design and painted in dark
green
4 Earthwork in cutting for widening trek path cum 1921.88 0.67 I DoF/ 0.67
(6250 m long by average 2' or 0.6 m width PWD
incl. 1.025 m depth of side slopes cut in
triangular cross section till the base of 9"
thick stone masonry
5 Widening of Trek path base in stone cum 843.75 9.14 I DoF/ 9.14
Kharanja/Masonry work (6250 m long by PWD
average2 ft. or 0.6 m width and 9" or 0.225
m thick)
size) on top surface, with dimensions as
6250 m x 1.8 m x 0.20 m thick for a common
path
7 GI Wire mesh (24 gauge /144 mesh per sqm 7200.00 15.03 I DoF/ 15.03
sqm) bracing to hold hill side slopes upto 4' PWD
high along the mule trek path edge (except
portion upto 13 km point ahead of
Ghangharia)
8 Small Cross Drainage Works across trek
path at approximate regular intervals of 10
such locations per km from Ghangharia to
Hemkunt
stone masonry level x 1' wide x 1.8 m long PWD
under drain chamber along the width of
trek path
chamber PWD
chamber PWD
chamber PWD
e) Provision of 3 removable RCC 1:2:4 slab cum 2.53 0.16 I DoF/ 0.16
chamber covers (1’6" wide x 2’ ft long x 2" PWD
thick) per chamber with grated openings
(1'1/2" dia @ 4" c/c)
150 kg/cum PWD
9 Construction of small culverts (1 m x 0.5 m sqm 3.60 0.08 I DoF/ 0.08
span) for cross drainage under the trek path PWD
with minor retaining wing/support walls
and RCC slab of 1 m x 1.8 m x 0.15 m size
for about 2 small seasonal stream lines
observed that cross the trek path from
lakhs) MoT Publ
Ghangharia to Hemkunt
10 Street lighting from the junction of route to sqm 50 19.63 II DoF/
Valley of Flowers / Hemkunt Sahib at PWD
Ghangharia till next 1.5 km cluster of
facilities on the Hemkunt route to facilitate
safe return of visitors in this last stretch
which may get dark sometimes due to bad
weather (@30m interval)
m interval) along the path from Ghangharia EDC
to Hemkunt
12 Solid Waste Compression Equipment at LS 1 1.01 I DoF/ 1.01
Hemkunt EDC
13 Large size waste collection pit of 4m x 1m x No. 1 0.25 I DoF/ 0.25
1m size (dark green painted MS iron cage EDC
enroute establishments – 1 No.
1 Cluster A · provided near 1.5 km, 3.5 km,
and 5.35 km points after Ghangharia
settlement towards Hemkunt: 3 Clusters
with temporary slope roofed structures of
dark green
a) Snacks/ Fast food centre: 4 in numbers, sqm 240.00 8.95 I DoF/ 8.95
b) A multi-purpose room functioning as sqm 30.00 1.12 I DoF/ 1.12
tourist information desk and first aid centre EDC
(10 sqm)
c) Shauchalaya with 2 toilets each for men sqm 36.00 1.34 I DoF/ 1.34
m)
d) Septic Tank with Soak pit (2.5m x 2 m) sqm 15.00 0.98 I DoF/ 0.98
EDC
e) Covered Rest Shed 1 in number (area 15 sqm 45.00 0.64 I DoF/ 0.64
sqm) EDC
f) Precast/welded mild steel benches - No. 15 0.49 I DoF/ 0.49
painted dark green ( 5 in each shed) EDC
g) The trek path between the cluster to be sqm 135.00 1.29 I DoF/ 1.29
partially covered (3m x 15 m). EDC
h) Mule Shed for 20 mules (40 sqm approx.) sqm 120.00 1.72 I DoF/ 1.72
at Cluster A EDC
i) Septic Tank and Soak pit for mule shed sqm 15.00 0.98 I DoF/ 0.98
(2.5mx2m) EDC
j) Large size waste collection pit of 4m x 1m No. 1 0.19 I DoF/ 0.19
x 1m size (dark green painted MS iron cage EDC
lakhs) MoT Publ
enroute establishments - 1 No. at 3.5 km
point
2 Cluster B - provided near 2.5 km, & 4.5 km
from Ghangharia: 2 Clusters with
temporary slope roofed structures of
dark green
a) Snacks/ Fast food centre: 2 in numbers, sqm 80.00 2.98 II DoF/
b) Drinking Water Facility (1000 litre low No. 2 0.14 II DoF/
c) Shauchalaya with 2 toilets each for men sqm 24.00 0.90 II DoF/
m)
d) Septic Tank with Soak pit (2m x 1.5 m) sqm 6.00 0.39 II DoF/
EDC
e) Covered Rest Shed 1 in number (area 15 sqm 30.00 0.43 II DoF/
sqm) EDC
f) Precast/welded mild steel benches - No. 10 0.33 II DoF/
g) The trek path between the cluster to be sqm 60.00 0.57 II DoF/
partially covered (3m x 10 m). EDC
h) Mule Shed for 10 mules (20 sqm approx.) sqm 40.00 0.57 II DoF/
at Cluster B EDC
i) Septic Tank and Soak pit for mule shed sqm 6.00 0.39 II DoF/
(2mx1.5m) EDC
3 Cluster C - provided near 1 km, 2 km, 4 km,
& 5.75 km from Ghangharia: 4 Clusters with
temporary slope roofed structures of
dark green
a) Drinking Water Facility (500 litre low No. 4 0.14 I DoF/ 0.14
b) Covered Rest Shed 2 numbers (each of sqm 120.00 1.72 I DoF/ 1.72
area 15 sqm). EDC
c) Precast/welded mild steel benches - No. 40 1.31 I DoF/ 1.31
4 Investment for setting up shops/food No. 19 19.00 I&II PVT
counters (L.S. @ Rs. 1 lakhs per unit which
includes the cost of space, furniture,
equipments, other goods, labour)
dark green (2 ft. x 5 ft. size each) is also
proposed to be provided along the trek path
at an interval of 0.10 km distance after
Ghangharia till Hemkunt (as this stretch of
path is relatively steeper and to ease the trek
such additional amenities are suggested)
and to be disassembled after tourist season
6 Temporary slope roofed structure of No. 5 0.19 I DoF/ 0.19
lakhs) MoT Publ
dark green for 1 Urinal each @ 0.5 km
interval (1 m x 1m)
7 Septic Tank & Soak Pit (1m x 1.5m) sqm 7.50 0.49 I DoF/ 0.49
EDC
8 Upgradation of 2 culverts/minor bridges No. 2 6.00 I&II DoF/ 3.00
for cross drainage of the larger streams (till PWD
one and half km before Hemkunt including
the Lakshman / Hem Ganga stream)
9 Construction of biogas plant based on LS 1 10.00 II DoF/
Langar waste at Hemkunt Sahib for EDC
heating/ lighting purposes.
10 Dark green painted temporary slope roofed sqm 36.00 1.77 I&II DoF/ 0.89
structure for Shauchalaya with 5 toilet seats EDC
each for men and women for pilgrims and
another set for Labourers (5 m long x 2.4 m
wide) at Hemkunt
11 Septic Tank with Soak pit (5m x 1.5 m) sqm 22.50 1.94 I&II DoF/ 0.97
EDC
12 Construction of dark green painted sqm 100.00 1.89 I DoF/ 1.89
temporary slope roofed structure of EDC/ ZP
corrugated GI sheet roof with sides opened
for Mule Sheds (50 mules at a time) at
Hemkunt Complex- approx. 100 sqm area
13 Septic Tank and Soak Pits for mule sheds at sqm 16.00 1.38 I DoF/ 1.38
Hemkunt Complex (4 m x 2 m) - 2 sets EDC/ ZP
14 Temporary slope roofed structure of LS 2 3.00 I&II BSNL 1
dark green for additional PCO Booths along
with telephone registration to be provided -
2 Nos. (1 at Hemkunt Sahib and another at
3.5 km point at Cluster A
TOTAL 417.51 351.83 1
PROPOSALS FOR DEVELOPMENT AT GHANGHARIA

lakhs) MoT Publ
A. Signages
1 Standardised Signage Board at the entrance sqm 1.44 0.15 I DoF/ 0.15
to Ghangharia to indicate the location and PWD
altitude above MSL, and Shadow Garden /
Germplasm Bank after Ghangharia
displayed at Govind Dham Gurdwara
premises
lakhs) MoT Publ
1 Development of Shadow Garden/ sqm 50000 78.50 I DoF 78.50
Demonstration Nursery/ Germplasm Bank
near Ghangharia between Lakshman Ganga
/ Valley of Flowers Entrance / Ghangharia
(in 5 ha or 50000 sqm area)
2 Street Lighting at Ghangharia market / No. 10 3.93 II DoF/
settlement (@30m interval) PWD
m interval) EDC
4 Solid Waste Compression Equipment LS 1 0.55 I DoF/ 0.55
EDC
enroute establishments – 2 No.
size) on top surface, with dimensions as 250
m x 3 m x 0.20 m thick over existing path
surface, with a mild slope towards centre so
that storm water drains out from the drain
running along the centre of the path
7 Small Cross Drainage Work along the centre
of trek path at Ghangharia settlement (with
lateral path surface sloping towards this
drain in the centre)
stone masonry level x 1' wide x 250 m long PWD
under drain chamber and 6 hume pipes x 25
m long
chamber and hume pipe PWD
chamber PWD
chamber PWD
e) Provision of removable RCC 1:2:4 slab cum 5.63 0.25 I DoF/ 0.25
drain covers (each 1’6" wide x 2’ ft long x 2" PWD
thick) with grated openings (1'1/2" dia @ 4"
c/c)
150 kg/cum PWD
lakhs) MoT Publ
g) Provision of hume pipe (1’ dia x 25m rm 150.00 0.45 I DoF/ 0.45
long) at approximate regular intervals of 25 PWD
m under pedestrian trek path & beyond
building portion towards lower slopes
1 Development of 2 - temporary tented resort
after the Ghangharia settlement in current
vacant lands on the side of trek path on land
rented every season/short-term leased from
Forest Dept. spread over approx. total of
0.25 ha. land - catering to 60 beds capacity
in 30 tents and 2 tents for 4 staff in each
resort, all these with attached toilet tents
a) Cost of tent set (main tent with 10' x 10' No. 34 6.22 I PVT
size & toilet tent with 10' x 5' size) - 17 tents
in each resort
b) Cost of plinth/base work & furnishings sqm 459.00 10.68 I PVT
(each resort with 2-bed 17 tents of 10' x 10'
size with toilet tents of 10' x 5 ' size) - 2
Resorts
c) Extra coverage for open rubble masonry sqm 114.75 0.29 I PVT
internal pathways (25% of tented base area)
d) Landscaping (20% of tented base area) sqm 91.80 0.29 I PVT
e) Septic tank and soak pit - each of 3 m x sqm 153.00 7.21 I PVT
1.5 m size (4.5 sqm)
2 Development of 6 - temporary tented resort
before end of Kanjila in current vacant lands
on the side of trek path on land rented every
season / short-term leased from Van
Panchayat spread over approx. total of 0.75
ha. land catering to 180 beds capacity in 90
tents and 2 tents for 4 staff in each resort, all
these with attached toilet tents
a) Cost of tent set (main tent with 10' x 10' No. 102 18.65 I&II PVT
size & toilet tent with 10' x 5' size) - 17 tents
in each resort
b) Cost of plinth/base work & furnishings sqm 1377.00 32.04 I&II PVT
(each resort with 2-bed 17 tents of 10' x 10'
size with toilet tents of 10' x 5 ' size) - 2
Resorts
c) Extra coverage for open rubble masonry sqm 344.25 0.87 I&II PVT
internal pathways (25% of tented base area)
d) Landscaping (20% of tented base area) sqm 275.40 0.86 I&II PVT
e) Septic tank and soak pit - each of 3 m x sqm 459.00 21.62 I&II PVT
1.5 m size (4.5 sqm)
3 Construction of temporary slope roofed sqm 20.00 0.54 I DoT/ 0.54
structure of corrugated GI sheet roof & wall GMVN
- painted in dark green for Information
Desk facility at GMVN TRH
4 Construction of another temporary slope sqm 20.00 0.54 I DoF/ 0.54
roofed structure of corrugated GI sheet roof EDC
& wall - painted in dark green to support
the existing VoF Information Centre at FRH
lakhs) MoT Publ
Complex
5 Development of Landscaped Recreation
Plaza on land leased from Forest Dept. near
the junction of Valley of Flowers-Hemunt
route and facing the Lakshman / Hem
Ganga Waterfall made up of temporary
sloped roof structure of corrugated GI sheet
roof - painted in dark green
a) 2 covered relaxation decks of area 25 sq.m sqm 50.00 0.17 II DoF/
each - cost of plinth work EDC
b) Cost of roof truss with corrugated GI sqm 50.00 0.34 II DoF/
sheet roof - painted in dark green, and with EDC
sides open
c) 1.15 m high MS/GI pipe railing painted sqm 46.00 0.24 II DoF/
in dark green along the decks with gate EDC
openings for access.
d) Precast/welded mild steel benches - No. 24 0.57 II DoF/
painted in dark green (2 ft. x 5 ft. size) - 12 EDC
nos. for each deck
6 Temporary slope roofed structure of sqm 50.00 1.35 I DoF/
dark green for additional Cloak room to be
developed for the tourists who do not wish
to carry their luggage for the trekking up
(each of approx. 25 sqm area) at Ghangharia
& Kanjila
7 Construct a Small Police Chowki building - sqm 50.00 2.30 I DoF/ 2.30
temporary slope roofed structure of EDC/
corrugated GI sheet roof & wall - painted in DoR
dark green (approx. 50 sqm) with some
furniture
8 Construct temporary slope roofed structure sqm 50.00 2.30 I DoF/ 2.30
of corrugated GI sheet roof & wall - painted EDC
in dark green for a small First Aid -cum-
Trauma Care Clinic building with 4 patient
beds (approx. 50 sqm) with some
equipments/ furniture
9 Assistance for some special equipment for LS 5.00 I DoH 5.00
Trauma Care Clinic at Ghangharia
10 Construction of temporary slope roofed sqm 500.00 5.17 I DoF/ 5.17
structure of corrugated GI sheet roof/wall - EDC/ ZP
painted in dark green with open sides for
Mule Sheds (200 mules at a time) at
Ghangharia- approx. 500 sqm area
Ghangharia (4 m x 2 m) - 5 sets EDC/ ZP
12 Construction of Cheap Dormitory sqm 300.00 13.78 I DoF/ 13.78
accommodation - temporary slope roofed EDC/ ZP
structure of corrugated GI sheet roof & wall
- painted in dark green (150 persons
capacity) for mule operators, porters, palki
carriers and which can also be used by EDC
cleaning staff - approx. 300 sqm area with
lakhs) MoT Publ
twin bunk bed system/furniture but
excluding toilets
13 Temporary slope roofed structure of sqm 112.50 3.03 I DoF/ 3.03
corrugated GI sheet roof & wall - painted in EDC/ ZP
dark green for Community Pay & Use Toilet
Complex for these labourers (4 seat, 2
urinals, 4 bath rooms) – 3 sets
14 Septic tank with soak pit - 3 sets (9 sqm sqm 27.00 1.27 I DoF/ 1.27
each) EDC
15 Construct a temporary slope roofed sqm 25.00 1.15 II DoF/
- painted in dark green for a Veterinary
Clinic (25 sqm approx.) incl. some
equipments/ furniture for emergency
veterinary needs
16 Construct another 4-seat Public Toilet after sqm 12.65 0.34 II DoF/
the end of Ghangharia settlement of the EDC
same size as at the entrance (4.6 m x 2.75 m)
in temporary sloped roof structure of
dark green
17 Septic Tank with soak pit (4.5 sqm) sqm 4.50 0.21 II DoF/
EDC
18 Major repairs in Ghangharia Turbine Plant LS 0.50 I UREDA/ 0
GS/ EDC
19 Provision for Covered Pucca Water Storage LS 25.00 II DoF/ JN
Tank and Purification System to cater about
more than 5000 persons per day in a peak
season
20 Temporary slope roofed structure of LS 4 6.00 II BSNL 3
dark green for additional PCO Booths along
with telephone registration to be provided -
4 Nos.
21 Temporary slope roofed structure of sqm 100.00 2.69 II DoF/
dark green for new Education-cum-Training
Centre-cum EDC Store/Disaster Shelter at
Ghangharia (100 sqm approx.)
D. Equipments
1 Projection Equipments/Furniture etc. for LS 5.00 I&II DoF/ 2.50
Upgradation of Nature Interpretation EDC
Centre at FRH Complex
TOTAL 274.24 130.54 3
PROPOSALS FOR DEVELOPMENT AT BHYUNDAR

lakhs) MoT Publ
A. Signages
1 Standardised Signage Board at Bhyundar sqm 1.44 0.11 I DoF/ 0.11
village to indicate the trek path bifurcation PWD
lakhs) MoT Publ
for Kagbhushandi trek
2 Standard Signage Board at Bhyundar Ganga sqm 0.72 0.05 I DoF/ 0.05
wooden bridge at Bhyundar village to PWD
to Bhyundar to indicate the location and PWD
altitude above MSL
1 Street Lighting at Bhyundar village (@30m No. 10 2.81 I DoF/ 2.81
interval) incl. inside the village and along PWD
trek path
1 Temporary slope roofed strcuture of sqm 48.00 0.93 I&II GS 0.46
dark green for Shauchalaya with 4 toilets
each for men and women for Local
Community at Bhyundar (8 m x 3 m) - 2 sets
2 Septic Tank with Soak pit (6m x 1.5 m) sqm 18.00 0.61 I&II GS 0.30
dark green for use as EDC Store/Disaster
Relief Shelter at Bhyundar (100 sqm)
4 Temporary slope roofed structure of LS 1 1.50 I BSNL 1
dark green for Satellite Phone for Bhyundar
village -cum- PCO Booth with telephone
registration- 1 No.
TOTAL 7.99 5.72 1
PROPOSALS FOR DEVELOPMENT AT PULNA

lakhs) MoT Publ
A. Signages
to Pulna to indicate the location and altitude PWD
above MSL
1 Street Lighting at Pulna village (@30m No. 10 2.68 I DoF/ 2.68
interval) PWD
2 New Parking Space if road is developed till sqm 500 1.95 II Owners
Pulna of Pvt.
Land/
EDC/ ZP
3 Masonry barriers along the parking space No. 94 0.42 II Owners
(1.5m long x 0.9m deepx 0.3m wide at of Pvt.
spacing of 4" for drainage openings) if new Land/
aprking space is developed EDC/ ZP
EDC
lakhs) MoT Publ
enroute establishments - 1 No.
1 Temporary slope roofed structure of sqm 48.00 0.88 I&II GS 0.44
dark green for Shauchalaya with 4 toilets
each for men and women for Local
Community at Pulna (8 m x 3 m) - 2 sets
2 Septic Tank with Soak pit (6m x 1.5 m) sqm 18.00 0.58 I&II GS 0.29
corrugated GI sheet roof/wall - painted in EDC/ ZP
dark green with open sides for Mule Shed
for 150 mules (350 sqm approx.) at Pulna
(only if the road gets developed till Pulna)
4 Septic Tank and Soak pit for mule shed at sqm 32.00 1.03 I DoF/ 1.03
Pulna (4mx2m) - 4 sets EDC/ ZP
dark green for use as EDC Store/Disaster
Relief Shelter at Pulna (100 sqm)
6 New Satellite Telephone Exchange at Pulna LS 15.00 II DOT/
in temporary sloped roof structure of BSNL
dark green
7 Temporary slope roofed structure of LS 1 1.50 I BSNL 1
dark green for PCO Booths along with
telephone registration to be provided - 1
No. at Pulna
8 Construct temporary slope roofed structure sqm 50.00 1.07 I DoF/ 1.07
of corrugated GI sheet roof & wall - painted EDC
in dark green for a Trauma Care Clinic
building with 4 patient beds(approx. 50
sqm) incl. some equipments/furniture
9 Assistance for some special equipment for LS 5.00 I DoH 5.00
Trauma Care Clinic at Pulna
TOTAL 34.92 15.32 1
PROPOSALS FOR DEVELOPMENT AT GOVIND GHAT

lakhs) MoT Publ
A. Signages
1 Standardised Signage Welcome Board at sqm 6.00 0.41 I DoF/ 0.41
Govind Ghat PWD
2 Standardised Signage Board at Govind Ghat sqm 1.44 0.10 I DoF/ 0.10
Cable Suspension Bridge/Trek Start Point PWD
to indicate the path/map of trek
3 Standardised Signage Board at Govind Ghat sqm 5.76 0.40 I DoF/ 0.40
lakhs) MoT Publ
Cable Suspension Bridge/Trek Start Point PWD
to indicate Cluster Amenities/facilities
available enroute trek path and their
distances ( 1 board each for Cluster A, B, C
and 1 board for Mule Shed & Medical
Facilities
4 Standard Signage Board at river Alaknanda sqm 0.72 0.05 I DoF/ 0.05
cable Suspension bridge at Govind Ghat to PWD
displayed at Govind Ghat Gurdwara
premises
m interval) EDC
EDC
enroute establishments - 2 No.
4 Acquisition of Land (assuming 50% of sqm 5000 4.94 I ZP 4.94
parking space on private land)
5 Additional Parking Space - 2 sets of 5000 sqm 10000 38.58 I&II ZP / PVT 9.65
sqm each.
6 Masonry barriers along the parking space No. 313 1.39 II ZP / PVT 0.35
(1.5m long x 0.9m deepx 0.3m wide at
spacing of 4" for drainage openings)
1 Development of low-rise (2-storey high) - 2
Hotel Resorts with total 300 bed capacity.
Each hotel will be on approx. 0.25 ha land
(some of these can come up at
Pandukeshwar as well if the road to Pulna
via Pandukeshwar is built)
a) Area of each resort with 150 beds sqm 3000.00 195.15 II PVT
capacity (150 x 10 sqm per bed) x 2 Hotel
Resorts
b) sqm 250.00 7.95 II PVT
Kitchen/Store/Reception/Administrative
spaces (125 sqm per Hotel Resort) x 2 Hotel
lakhs) MoT Publ
Resorts
c) Extra coverage for Corridors/covered sqm 487.50 15.50 II PVT
pathways
d) Extra coverage for open CC 1:2:4internal sqm 175.00 0.30 II PVT
pathways
e) Landscaping sqm 650.00 1.38 II PVT
f) Open space development for utilities like sqm 487.50 0.52 II PVT
septic tank & soak pit
2 Construction of temporary slope roofed sqm 30.00 0.55 I DoF/ DoT 0.55
- painted in dark green for Tourism
Information Centre/Nature Interpretation
Centre structure at FRH Complex
3 Construct another 4-seat Public Toilet made sqm 12.65 0.23 II DoF/
of temporary sloped roof structure of EDC
dark green before the start of trek to
Ghangharia settlement (4.6 m x 2.75 m)
4 Septic Tank with soak pit (4.5 sqm) sqm 4.50 0.14 II DoF/
EDC
structure of corrugated GI sheet roof/wall - EDC / ZP
painted in dark green with open sides for
Mule Sheds at Govind Ghat (300 mules at a
time) - approx. 750 sqm area
Govind Ghat (4 m x 2 m) - 8 sets EDC / ZP
structure of corrugated GI sheet roof & wall EDC / ZP
- painted in dark green for a Cheap
Dormitory accommodation (200 persons)
for mule operators, porters, palki carriers
and which can also be used by EDC
cleaning staff - approx.400 sqm area with
twin bunk bed system/furniture but
excluding toilets
corrugated GI sheet roof & wall - painted in EDC / ZP
dark green for Community Pay & Use Toilet
Complex for these labourers (4 seat, 2
urinals, 4 bath rooms) - 4 sets
9 Septic tank with soak pit - 5 sets (9 sqm sqm 45.00 1.43 I DoF/ 1.43
each) EDC / ZP
dark green for an additional Cloak room to
be developed for the tourists who do not
wish to carry their entire luggage for the
trekking up (approx. 100 sqm area)
11 Construct a temporary slope roofed sqm 50.00 1.86 I DoF/ 1.86
- painted in dark green for a Veterinary
Clinic (50 sqm approx.) incl. some
lakhs) MoT Publ
equipments/ furniture
12 Additional temporary sloped roofed LS 4 6.00 II BSNL 3
- painted in dark green for PCO Booths
along with telephone registration to be
provided - 4 Nos.
D. Equipments
1 Projection Equipments/Furniture etc. for LS 2.50 I&II DoF/ 2.50
Nature Interpretation Centre at FRH EDC
Complex
2 Wireless service between the Gurdwara at LS 2.50 I HST
Govind Ghat, Ghangharia and that at
Hemkunt for emergency connectivity with 3
handsets at each Gurdwara and 3 handsets
with Sevadars deployed along the trek path
(2 between Govind Ghat to Ghangharia & 1
between Ghangharia to Hemkunt)
TOTAL 310.77 51.12 3
ANNEXURE - D
An Indicative List of Individuals/Organisations/Websites that can provide
Information/run Tour Packages for Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Sahib is
enumerated below:
1. Adventure Activity Promoters

A-37, Vijay Nagar,
New Delhi, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-4310927, 7128114
E-mail: aapindia@hotmail.com
2. Adventure & Cultural Travel Company

3/6, D. B. Gupta Road,
New Delhi - 110055, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-3553270, 3612536, 3623760
Fax : 91-11-3553268
Email : info@travel-himalayas.com
Website : www.travel-himalayas.com
3. Adventure Garhwal
E-15 Shop No-2,
Plot N0-144/145 Ist floor,
Sector-8, Rohini,
New Delhi-110007, INDIA

Tel : 91 - 11 – 27948870, 27947265, 27297686
Fax : 91 - 11 - 25708542
E-mail : info@indianadventureportal.com
Website : www.indianadventureportal.com
4. All-IndiaTravel.com
409, Rajkamal-B Complex,
Near Sakar-III Building, Income Tax,
Ahmedabad, Gujarat – 380014, INDIA
Tel : 91-79-7582603
Tel : 91–9824053129 (Mobile - 24 hrs support)
E-mail : info@all-indiatravel.com & aitindia@icenet.net
Website : www.all-indiatravel.com
5. All India Tour Travel

Global E Travel Solutions (P) Ltd.
(Earlier known as Centrum Travels)
M-15, Greater Kailash-II
New Delhi – 110048, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-51522222 ( 10 lines)
Tel : 91-9810459453, 9810036506 (Mobile Nos.)
E-Mail : info@all-india-tour-travel.com
Website : www.all-india-tour-travel.com
6. CLUB TRAVELS
411, 4th floor, Jaina Tower- I
Dist. Centre, Janakpuri
Tel : 91-11-25611456, 25590701, 25590703
Tel : 91-9811072916 (Mobile)
Tel/Fax : 91-11-25611456
E-mail : club@bol.net.in
Website : www.indiatravelclub.com
7. C’More Travel and Tours Pvt. Ltd.

V-12 Green Park Extension, 2nd Floor
New Delhi - 110016 , INDIA
Website: www.vacationlink.htmlplanet.com
8. Divisional Forest Officer,

Nanda Devi National Park,
Joshimath, Dist. - Chamoli,

Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel/Fax : 91-1389-222179
9. Ecomantra Nature Awareness and Travel

Gala No.119, 5A,
Mittal Industrial Estate, Sakinaka.
Andheri East, Mumbai - 400 059.
Maharashtra , INDIA
Email : info@ecomantra.com
Website : www.ecomantra.com
10. EHOLIDAYSINDIA
A Division of Indovision Tours Pvt. Ltd.
1, DDA Commercial Plaza,
Nanak Pura, Moti Bagh-2,
New Delhi-110021 INDIA
Tel : 91-11-2 6113920, 26874411, 26873322
Tel : 91-9810515325 (Mobile)
Fax : 91-11-26874283
E-Mail : indovision@vsnl.com & info@eholidaysindia.com
Website: www.eholidaysindia.com
11. Foliage Outdoors

1161/6, Shivam,
Gharpure Colony,
Lane Opp. Hotel Pride,
Shivajinagar, Pune 411005
Maharshtra, INDIA
Tel : 91-20-5520501, 5512725
Tel : 91-9422306460, 98225508966, 9822329738, 9422319101 (Mobile
Nos.)
Fax : 91-20-4000454
E-mail : foliage@vsnl.net & info@foliageoutdoors.com
Website : www.foliageoutdoors.com
12. Garhwal Himalayan Explorations Pvt. ltd.

Opp. Union Bank of India, Kailash Gate,
Muni Ki Reti, Rishikesh - 249 201,
Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel : 91-135-2433478, 2438728, 2433155
Tel : 91-135-2431167, 2442267 (After Office Hrs.)

Tel : 91-9837055578, 9837355578, 9897055578 (Mobile Nos.)
Fax : 91-135-2431654
E-mail : himalayas@vsnl.com & himalayas@sancharnet.in
Website: www.thegarhwalhimalayas.com & www.rishikesh.org
13. GarhwalHimalayas.com
(Sole Property of Webline Services)
Orient Shopping Complex, Astley Hall,
Dehra Dun, Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel : 91-135-651586
Email : webline@vsnl.com
Website : www.garhwalhimalayas.com
14. Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd. (GMVN)

74/1, Rajpur Road,
Dehra Dun – 248001,
Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel : 91-135-2746817, 2749308, 2747898
Fax : 91-135-2746847
E-mail : gmvn@nda.vsnl.net.in
Website : www.gmvnl.com &
http://ua.nic.in/uttaranchaltourism/index.html
15. Global Airnet Services Private Limited

A 285, Defence Colony, IInd Floor
Tel : 91-11-24333783, 24333784, 24333785, 24333786
Tel : 91-9810713866, 9811405199 (Mobile Nos.)
Fax : 91-11-24333781
Website : www.indiavacationpackages.com
16. goIndiago.com
Website : www.goindiago.com
17. Great Indian Outdoors

6086, B-8, Vasant Kunj,
Tel : 91-11-26891626 (Voice)
Fax : 91-11-26891626
E-mail : info@greatindianoutdoors.com
Website: www.greatindianoutdoors.com
18. Great Indian Outdoors

10/802, Crystal Garden Estate
Gladys Alwares Road, Off Pokhran Road No. 2,
Thane – 406601 (Near Mumbai)
Maharashtra, INDIA
Tel : 91-22-5599 9873 (Voice)
E-mail : mumbai@greatindianoutdoors.com
Website: www.greatindianoutdoors.com
19. Ideas2Travel.com
(A Cherie Voyages & UserEase Software Venture)
Website: www.ideas2travel.com
20. Incredible India

Website : www.incedible-india.net
21. Incredible India Tours & Travel

C/o. Mr Paras Gupta /Anil Bhardwaj
412 ,Surya Kiran Bldg. 19, K.G.Marg,
New Delhi 110 001, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-51510459/60, 23351222/23
Fax : 91-11-23351164
E-mail: info@incredibleindiatours.org
Website : www.incredibleindiatours.org
22. IndiaHills
Website : www.indyahills.com
23. Indian Mountaineering Foundation

New Delhi
Website : www.indmount.org
24. IndianTravelPortal
Website : www.indiantravelportal.com
25. Indianvisit.com Pvt. Ltd. / TravelAgentforIndia.com

A Subsidiary of Indian Holiday Pvt. Ltd.
70, Lower Ground Floor,
World Trade Centre,
Barakhamba Lane, New Delhi – 110001, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-23714747, 23714646, 23312784, 23318383 (Tours)

Tel : 91-9811143684 (Mobile - 24 hrs support)
Fax : 91-11-23413121
E-mail : indianvisit@vsnl.com & services@indianvisit.com
E-mail : trafford@vsnl.com
Website : www.indianvisit.com, www.travelagentforindia.com,
www.indianholiday.com
26. India Outdoors,

169C, Dr Ambedkar road,
Dadar T. T. Mumbai
Maharashtra, INDIA
Tel : 91-22- 4125897, 4164785, 4186360
Fax : 91-22- 4166944
E-mail : info@indiaoutdoors.com
Website : www.indiaoutdoors.com
27. India-Tours.biz
Website : www.india-tours.biz
28. IndiaTourism
Frankfurt / Main
Basler Str. 46
D-60329 Frankfurt, GERMANY
Tel : 49 (69) 242949-0
Fax : 49 (69) 242949-77
Website: www.india-tourism.com
29. I.V. Associates Pvt. Ltd.,

12, Southern Avenue,
Maharani Bagh,
New Delhi-110 065, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-26326360, 26847684
E-mail : ivarma@vsnl.com
Website : www.ivsource.com
30. JALTOURS
C/o. Anil & Erika Chugh
Albert-Hirsch-Strasse 2d,
25335 Elmshorn, GERMANY
Tel : 041-21-103150 (Monday-Thursday)
Tel : 043-21-529221 (Friday)
Fax : 041-21-103149
Website: www.rendezvousindia.com
31. JourneyMart.com
M-69 Market, 2nd Floor
M Block Market,
Greater Kailash Part 1,
New Delhi - 110 048, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-26434056, 26434057
Fax : 91-11-26434058
Website: www.journeymart.com
32. Mr. Amrit Mann (Director)

Mann Tours India Pvt. Ltd.
UG-51, Palika Place
Panchkuian Road
New Delhi-110001, INDIA.
Tel : 91-11- 3733545, 3362300, 3746485
Tel : 91-9810008008 (Mobile)
Fax : 91-11- 3734715
E-Mail: tours@touroperatorsindia.com
Website : www.touroperatorsindia.com
33. Mr. Indresh Nautiyal

Tapovan Road (Near Doordarshan Kendra),
Ladpur, Raipur,
Deharadun, Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel : 91-94120 47492 (Mobile)
34. Mr. Justin Clarke

7, Vikram Vihar Ext., Lajpat Nagar 1V,
Tel : 91-11-26532323, 26226769, 26215158

Fax : 91-11-26965023
E-mail : rendezvous@vsnl.com
Website : www.rendezvousindia.com
35. Mr. Manoj Thapiyal

Adventure India Tours,
Dehra Dun, Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel : 91-135-2672450
Tel : 91-98370 90305 (Mobile)
E-mail : adventureindiatours@yahoo.com
36. Mr. Mangesh Nadkarni

The Hingora Trekking Club
Tel : 91-9821213644 (Mobile)
37. Mr. Rajen Singla, Managing Director

TRAVEL AGENT IN INDIA
103, First Floor, Jaina Tower - 1,
Dist. Centre Janakpuri
Tel : 91-11-25611456, 25590701, 25590703
Tel : 91-9811072916 (Mobile - 24 hours support)
Fax : 91-11-25611456
E-Mail: club@bol.net.in
Website : www.travel-agents-in-india.com
38. Mr. S. S. Kushwaha,

JSC RusIndTravel
Butysky Val 2,
Moscow 125047, RUSSIA
Tel : 7 (095) 995 - 8822 / 44
Fax : 7 (095) - 995 - 5455
E-mail : ssk@indiatravel.ru, ss-kushwaha@yandex.ru, & ssk@goa-india.ru
39. Mr. Vikas Dhawan

15A/38, Sarasawati Marg,
W.E.A Karol Bagh
Tel : 91-11-55461699, 25729237, 25789237
Tel : 91-9811857779 (Mobile)
Tel/Fax: 91-11-25789237
E-mail : indiglobe@vsnl.net
Website : www.etourismindia.com
40. Mr. Yogendra Kainthola

ThemeToursIndia.com,
Mumbai, Maharashtra, INDIA
Tel : 91-22-25333297
E-mail : yogie_k@hotmail.com & info@themetoursindia.com
Website : www.themetoursindia.com
41. Ms. Sigrid Kalpin

Russland-Asien-Reisen
(Comec G.mb.H.)
31, Lindwurmstr 80337,
Munich, GERMANY
Tel : 49 (089)-53 6060; 53-09 101/2/3
Fax : 49 (089)-53 6923
E-mail : comec@comec-gmbh.de & germany@incredibleindiatours.org
42. Path Finder Travels Pvt. Ltd.

Bharati Mehra (Director)
S-325, 2nd Floor,
Greater Kailash, Part-II,
Tel : 91-11-29219325, 29214782, 29210518, 32537724
Tel : 91-9810145533 (Mobile)
Telefax : 91-11-29210208
E-mail : info@indiatravelplan.com & kumaon@del3.vsnl.net.in
Website : www.indiatravelplan.com & www.himalaya-holidays.com
&
www.kumaonindia.com
43. Peak Adventure Tours Pvt. Ltd.

C/o. Mr B. K. Gupta
T 305 , DAV Complex DDA Shopping Center
(Opp. Samachar Apartments),
Mayur Vihar Phase I,
Tel : 91-11-22711292, 22713483
Tel : 91-9810155796 (Mobile)
Fax : 91-11-22711292
E-mail : peakadv@nde.vsnl.net.in
Website : www.peakadevnturetours.com
44. Peak Adventure Tours and Service International

Langley, British Columbia,
V1M 2W3, CANADA
Tel : (604) 888 0634
E-mail : info@peakadventures.ca
Website : www.peakadevnturetours.com
45. Renaissance Reizen (India) Pvt. Ltd.

17/9 (1st Floor), Old Rajinder Nagar,
Tel : 91-11-25811201, 25817202, 25741601, 25819688, 25765546
Fax : 91-11-25765547
E-mail : info@rrindia.com
Website : www.rrindia.com
46. Royalee (India) Tours & Travels Pvt.Ltd.

C/o. Mr. K.L.Soni / Ms. Leena Rawat
18, 3rd Floor, Satya Niketan,
Moti Bagh New Delhi-110021, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-26113912, 26883486, 26883491, 26873208
Fax : 91-11-24670922
E-mail : royaleindia@hotmail.com
Website : www.royaleeindiavisa.com & www.india-tours-
packages.com
47. Services International Ltd.

25/8,Guru House, Old Rajinder Nagar,
New Delhi-110060 (India)
Tel : 91-11-25782636/42/44, 25751550/51
Fax : 91-11-25749797, 25753656
E-mail : services@nda.vsnl.net.in & indiatravel@vsnl.com
Website : www.indiatravelinfo.com & www.india-travel.com
48. Skylark Adventure Tours & Holiday Resorts

Opp. State Bank Of India, Sharwan Nath Nagar,
Haridwar - 249401, Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel : 91-1334-221582, 266026
Fax : 91-1334-220943
E-Mail : info@skylarkadventuretours.com;
info@uttranchalpradesh.com; &
info@travelindiaonline.com
Website : www.uttranchalpradesh.com
49. THE HIMALAYAN CLUB

C/o. R.R. Muni & Co,
3a Navyug Mansion, Next to Grant Road Station (W)
Mumbai - 400 007
Maharshtra, INDIA
Tel : 91-22-2386 3192
E-mail : editor@himalayanclub.com
Website : www.himalayanclub.com
50. TheIndiaTravel.com
E-mail : experts@theindiatravel.com
Website : www.theindiatravel.com
51. TourMyIndia.com /TREKKING IN INDIA

86-C, Pocket-IV,
Mayur Vihar-I,
Delhi - 110 091, INDIA
Tel : 91-11-22717787
Tel : 91-9810352536 (Mobile)
E-mail : info@tourmyindia.com & info@trekkinginindia.com
Website : www.tourmyindia.com & www.trekkinginindia.com
52. TravellingtoIndia.com
Website : www.travelingtoindia.com
53. Travel Inn India Pvt. Ltd.

204, Adhunik Chambers,
13/29 East Patel Nagar

Tel : 91-11- 25725770, 25740263, 25780612, 25732561
Fax : 91-11- 25752563
E-mail : info@allindiatourism.com
Website : www.allindiatourism.com
54. United Touring Company

125, Vasant Apartment
New Delhi - 110057, India
Tel : 91-11-26149096, 26154083
Fax : 91-11-26154128
Website : www.north-india-travel-tour.com
55. Universal Trekkers

C/o. Mr. Vilas Joshi
29, Shubhankaroti Apartments,
Suvarnabad Colony, Pune – 38, INDIA
Tel: 91-20-5463731, 5380535
E-mail: vilasj2003@yahoo.com, niranjanmulay@yahoo.com
56. Uttaranchal Forest Development Corporation (UAFDC)

Aranya Vikas Bhawan,
73, Nehru Road, Dehra Dun,
Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel : 91-135-657610 Fax : 91-135-655059
E-mail : info@uafdc.com, uafdc@rediffmail.com, uafdc@yahoo.com
Website : www.uafdc.org
57. Uttaranchal Tourism Development Board (UTDB)

(Government of Uttaranchal)
3/3 Industrial Area, Patel Nagar,
Saharanpur Road, Dehra Dun – 248001,
Uttaranchal, INDIA
Tel : 91-135-2721289
Fax : 91-135-2624147
E-mail : nareshnp@sancharnet.in
Website : www.uttaranchaltourism.gov.in &
http://ua.nic.in/uttaranchaltourism/index.html
58. Vertex Expeditions

426/16 Civil Lines,
Gurgaon - 122001,
Haryana, INDIA
Tel : 91-124-2335107
Tel : 91-9810411258 (Mobile)
E-mail : info@visit-himalaya.com
Website : www.visit-himalyaya.com
59. Website: www.euttaranchal.com/uttaranchal_tourism/chamoli.php

TPD Govermnt

Caricato da

Informazioni sul documento

Titolo originale

Copyright

Formati disponibili

Condividi questo documento

Condividi o incorpora il documento

Opzioni di condivisione

Hai trovato utile questo documento?

Questo contenuto è inappropriato?

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

TPD Govermnt

Caricato da

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

Master Plan for Eco-Tourism in Valley of Flowers-Hemkunt Belt Executive Summary

MASTER PLAN FOR ECO-TOURISM IN

TATA CONSULTANCY SERVICES LIMITED

Sr. Title Page

List of Tables vii

List of Exhibits viii

Executive Summary ES-1

Sr. Title Page

Sr. Title Page

Sr. Title Page

Sr. Title Page

Sr. Title Page

Sr. Title Page

Sr. Title Page

Sr. Title Page

ERC Emergency Response Cell

IDA International Development Association

ROW Right of Way

VOFNP Valley of Flowers National Park

2.1 Salient Details of Trek Trail Route

2.1 Map Showing Route to Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Region

The Land-use at Ghangharia

5. Abundance of medicinal plants that are either rare or in

4. ECO-TOURISM DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

5. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

6. VALLEY OF FLOWERS & HEMKUNT BELT DEVELOPMENT

Flora and Fauna

Soil Conservation Measures

Germplasm Bank of Endangered Species of VoF (ex-situ

B. HEMKUNT DEVELOPMENT PLAN

• Upgradation of Ghangharia-Hemkunt Sahib Trek/Pedestrian Path.

C. MANAGEMENT/ INSTITUTIONAL MEASURES

A. DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR GHANGHARIA

B. DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR GOVIND GHAT

Health Care Facility

Options for Motorable Road to Pulna

surrounding geological structures are susceptible to the simultaneous cutting by two

Installation of Ropeway from Govind Ghat to Kanjila (near

Tourist Amenity Cluster

Tourist Circuit and Growth Centres Nearby

9. HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN

Need of an Emergency Response System in Project Area

Hazard Mitigation Plan and Emergency Response System

Proposals Amount (Rs - Lakhs)

*Refer Chapter 10 for details

External Assistance/ Funding Modalities

Table: Summary of New Proposals

TOTAL 2552.91 4.94 2547.97

Multiplier Effect of Tourism

• Training of women for their participation in Tourism

Chapter 2 presents situational analysis of the tourist development in the region.

2. TOURISM DEVELOPMENT – A SITUATIONAL

Though it is reported that

Sikhs come to the sacred

District : Chamoli, Uttaranchal

The Agustmuni to Badrinath / Ghangharia and return helicopter ride is of 35

Table 2.1: Salient Details of Trek Trail Route

From To Distance Route Remarks

From To Distance Route Remarks

From To Distance Route Remarks

Exhibit 2.1: Map Showing Route to Valley of Flowers- Hemkunt Region

7.5 Geology & Soil

Geologically the Valley of Flowers region falls