Ecotourism, in simple terms, is traveling to naturally rich areas with an exalted sense of responsibility. An eco tourist is a traveler who is strategically concerned about the well being of his area of travel, its people and its flora and fauna. Ecotourism, unlike ordinary tourism, emphasizes on the travelers not only to be sensitive to the cultural heritage and value systems of the local people but it also asks them to actively engage in spreading awareness about conservation of local cultural heritage and natural resources.
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The Aga Khan Cultural Services, Pakistan, has successfully restored pride in local history and culture by conserving monuments like Shigar Fort in Skardu and Baltit Fort in Hunza. The hitherto dilapidated buildings have turned into symbols of cultural and historical pride. Many people, in Hunza particularly, had to change even their political opinion after the international status gained by the Baltit Fort. Anti-Hunza state elements used to loath the Fort as a symbol of monarchy. But now they are not very vocal and praise the fort as a “contribution of their forefathers” to the glory of the state. Some even go a step ahead and claim the Fort to be a public property. No doubt such love for the symbol of culture and history is highly appreciable. It, in many ways, even improves the intellectual propensities of large segments of societies by providing newer horizons for thinking and helping them a deeper understanding of the cultural dynamics. This, in turn, facilitates ecotourism. People don’t stop at the brick and mortar buildings. They also realize, having gained better comprehension of their region’s resources, the worth of their region’s natural resources as well.
The economic and psychological impact of such conservation works has triggered more voluntary identification of places that the communities want to be conserved. The overall impact of this phenomenon has been a stupendous growth in tourist arrivals. A more balanced and stable change can now be expected in the quality of life of the people. The revived sense of ownership and uniqueness has, in many cases, been turned into highly profitable form of trade and commerce. Karakurum Areas Development Organization (KADO) has used the community’s confidence in the symbols of its culture to launch a highly successful handicrafts venture called Karakurum Handicrafts Development Program (KHDP).
Ismailimail 