Party tourism in Corbett landscape raises concerns among locals & nature lovers
CHANCHAL GOLA/Ramnagar
The Corbett Tiger Reserve with the highest tiger populations among tiger reserves in India, has for long been famous for its big cats, elephants and other rich wildlife and forests visited by nature enthusiasts from across India and abroad. However, recent trends point towards a rising number of people visiting this area for ‘wild’ recreational events instead of the tranquility of nature with which this landscape is associated. Such activities often violate the law too. Increasing party tourism in resorts dotting this wildlife rich landscape is becoming a cause for concern considering the impacts of the changing face of tourism.
Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to promote destination weddings in Uttarakhand, the area surrounding Corbett National Park has also emerged as a popular venue for wedding celebrations, giving a significant boost to local tourism and employment. However, the changing nature of tourism has also raised fresh concerns. The Corbett landscape, once known for its peace, natural beauty and wildlife experiences, is increasingly witnessing complaints of late-night loud music, liquor parties and objectionable activities in some private resorts. Recently, the Kumaon chapter of Uttarakhand Against Noise Pollution was also launched in the Corbett landscape by locals who are raising their voice against noise pollution from such resorts. Environmentalists believe such activities are not only affecting the cultural identity of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand but are also disturbing the natural behaviour of wildlife in the surrounding forests.
The issue came under the spotlight on July 4 after Nainital district police raided a private resort at Sanwalde near Ramnagar and found 52 men and 10 women participating in a liquor-fuelled party involving obscene performances. According to the police, the raid was conducted following complaints of scantily clad dancers, cash being showered on performers and other objectionable activities during the event reportedly hosted by a pesticide company owner from Meerut in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh. Officials said that the women dancers were hired for Rs 10,000 each with the host also asking the resort manager for “extra service”. The police arrested the accused men and sealed the resort. According to officials, a case was registered under section 210/2026, 143 of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, Excise Act and the Juvenile Justice Act. The incident has triggered a wider debate across the State over the changing face of tourism in the Corbett region.
Local residents claim that this is not an isolated incident. They allege that some resort operators are encouraging such events in pursuit of higher profits. Large groups from Delhi, Haryana, Meerut, Gurugram, Noida and other cities reportedly visit this region primarily for weekend parties featuring alcohol and DJ nights. Loud music, high-intensity lighting and overnight vehicular movement are also said to be disturbing wildlife in the surrounding forest areas.
Wildlife experts believe it is essential to maintain a balance between tourism and environmental conservation in ecologically sensitive areas like Corbett. They warn that if regulations are not enforced strictly, the long-term impact could affect both wildlife conservation and the region’s natural identity. Corbett Tiger Reserve director Saket Badola said that people visiting the region solely for partying and obscene activities are not observing the true spirit of tourism in Corbett. He said it is the responsibility of resort owners and operators to not permit such unethical activities and to ensure that tourism remains responsible and respectful. He also stated that the Corbett administration has been taking consistent action against resorts violating norms related to late-night DJ systems and high-intensity lighting.
