Uttarakhand's Chhoti Haldwani region promotes rural tourism through Corbett village body

Chhoti Haldwani(Uttarakhand) - The Corbett Village Development Association (CVDA), a rural-based forum at Chhoti Haldwani in Uttarakhand has initiated a programme in which  urban kids and youngsters experience rural life and also enjoy adventure pursuits.

As a result, rural tourism has got a shot in the arm. According to the organisers, the response from the children and teenagers has been overwhelming.

Briefing media, Director of CVDA, Rajesh Panwar, said: “There are many urban children, who have not seen or experienced the rural environ; they have not seen agricultural fields, crops  and vegetables, and they also have not seen how to milk a cow. So, in the tour programme hosted by us, the children take part in numerous kinds of rural activities. Apart from that, we also

organise adventure activities and the response from these urban children has been overwhelming.”

Chhoti Haldwani is an obscure hamlet near Kaladhungi in Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.

The cottage where Col. Edward James Corbett, better known as Jim Corbett, the famous hunter and author turned conservationist (1875-1955) resided before retiring to Kenya in 1947 is  located here.

This cottage was converted into a museum and the adjoining sanctuary of Kumaon was named after him in 1957 as a mark of honour to him.

The CVDA is committed to keep up the legacy of Corbett and encourage urban youngsters to know more about the realities and romance of rural life.

Scores of students from nearby towns take part in the daylong outdoor camp organised periodically and later visit the Corbett Museum.

Often these youngsters also visit the Jim Corbett National Park.

Over the past two decades, rural tourism has gained prominence and many state governments and tour operators are coming forth with attractive packages to attract both domestic and  international tourists.