What is Eco Tourism?
The term Ecotourism is not new thing in human experience and it has been practiced in most developed and developing nation. There are numerous definitions of the term, but according to American-based Ecotourism society, Ecotourism is nothing but a purposeful travel to natural areas; to understand the nature and culture; to understand the effect of human interference in ecosystem; and ultimately produce economic opportunity to conserve natural resource which is beneficial to local people. I do not know how far one is justified, calling it the pivot or corner stone of progressive tourism. Ecotourism demonstrates the need of conservation of both cultural and natural environment with sustainable economic development including the participation of local people.
Progression of civilization has been harming ecosystem and now people are forced to live in a concrete jungle. At present time, people are searching places full of nature and diverse cultural experience. Ecotourism; therefore promotes tourism practices where we can enjoy nature-experience and help local people and their culture through economic development. It not only gives us places to feel the nature but it also teaches about sustainable use of resources, negative impact of human activity on environment, economic viability of tourism for local communities and responsibility towards the environment. Thus Ecotourism is defined as the “Responsible and purposeful travel to natural and cultural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well being of local communities”.