Study on tourism development and related landscape change in the wetland areas of Dal Lake, Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir: A theoretical review

Abstract

The paper aims to identify the changing landscape pattern in the Dal Lake region due to the tourism development and related livelihood practices. Dal Lake is of paramount importance and its contribution to the tourism sector is immeasurable. Its location, scenic beauty, enchanting surroundings, floating gardens, shikharas (small ornamental boats) and houseboat services make this lake more attractive and important compared to other wetlands and tourist destinations. Tourists are very enthusiastic and invest a lot of time and money to enjoy the natural beauty and services. This lake occupies an important place in the valley as its physical location makes it more attractive than other lakes. The study also analyses the major changes between land use classes. There was significant land exchange between different land use classes in the study site. This study identifies the major land use or land cover layers of Dal Lake region. This study also focuses on the problem related to tourism development and related landscape changes that exist within and around lake water.