THE CONCEPT OF ECO-TOURISM WITH REFERENCE TO WEST BENGAL

Abstract

Eco-tourism plays an important role in preserving the natural and local environment. Conscious tourism to a rural location and tourism that has relatively fewer negative impacts on the destination are called ecotourism. By conserving the environment through this tourism, a beautiful environment can be presented to future generations. Ecotourism, by definition, will have to be ecologically sustainable, educational, low-cost, and affordable. West Bengal also has a huge potential for ecotourism. Well-planned ecotourism can benefit both wild animals and the residents of the tourist area. Gajoldoba and Mon Chasa, two ecotourism sites in West Bengal, are briefly introduced here. Beside this, the impacts of ecotourism are also discussed with regard to future prospects.