Jalpaiguri, Aug. 27: There is more to
wilderness than wildlife and a visit to Jaldapara Wild Life
Sanctuary during the pujas can prove it.
Cashing in on the cultural diversity of
the tribal communities that have lived in harmony with nature
from times immemorial, the forest department has planned cultural
entertainment programmes to spice up the tourists' stay in
the wilds of north Bengal.
This move, forest officials said, would
also the communities a source of income generation. `We came
up with this idea to promote tribal culture and give local
troupes a source of income. Tourists will also gain an insight
into the diverse and rich folk culture of the region,` said
forest minister Jogesh Burman. `We believe this added attraction
will draw more visitors once the tourist season sets in before
the pujas.` A forest department source said all the forest
bungalows of the state had already been booked for the pujas.
`We ought to build more bungalows to accommodate more visitors
to the region, but we cannot do that immediately because tourism
is not our main objective,` he said. The performances by tribes
like Rava, Mech and Toto, the minister said, would give the
tourists the perfect way to unwind after a hectic day of tracking
animals on elephant back and in jeeps. The department is also
chalking out plans to include tribal hamlets that surround
the forests in the package tour offered to visitors coming
to explore the wilderness.
`Apart from the forests, many tourists nowadays
are also planning their holidays in tea gardens. The tourism
department should ensure that facilities are upgraded in estates
that offer accommodation and develop trails to nearby villages
where the visitor can get a firsthand feel of the lives of
the local people and know about their cultures,` Burman said.
`We are thinking of discussing these prospects
with the authorities concerned,` he added.
The focus on cultural tourism would also
help revive the dying tribal art forms because souvenir-hunting
tourists would love to buy ethnic tribal mementoes, the minister
said. `Local tribal groups do not get any exposure and rarely
get an opportunity to showcase their talents. Apart from helping
them earn a living, such programmes will also give them a
fair amount of exposure,` he said.
`We are sure tourists will love the idea
of watching the tribal troupes perform during the evenings.
In fact, we feel this new concept will give tourism a much-needed
boost,` he said.
Courtesy
The Telegraph |
Home
| About Us | Contact
Us | Site Map | Feedback
