Potential and prospects of ecotourism in Bhoramdev Wildlife sanctuary, Kabirdham

Abstract

Ecotourism, defined as responsible travel that conserves natural environments while benefiting local people, offers a pathway to combine biodiversity preservation with socioeconomic development. This study assesses the ecotourism potential of Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary in Kabirdham, Chhattisgarh, which lies within the critical Kanha?Achanakmar tiger corridor. The research identified a diverse portfolio of ecotourism services: six ecolodges that integrate indigenous?themed mud houses and cultural interpretation, three camping operators, four trekking providers, and five waterfalls, bird and butterfly?watching opportunities, both contributing to niche wildlife tourism. Cultural heritage sites further enrich the visitor experience. The sanctuary is inhabited by Baiga and Gond tribal communities, whose traditional livelihoods depend on forest resources. Findings indicate that ecotourism can generate sustainable financing for conservation, create local employment, and enhance awareness of the sanctuary’s unique biodiversity and heritage. Given the rich natural resources of Bhoramdev, exploring the scope of ecotourism in the region has significant importance for future development.