From Mountain Trails to Nature Classrooms: 60 Local Guides Trained in Eco-Tourism at Jalori Jot
JALORI JOT Jot (KULLU), JUNE 18: Perched atop the breathtaking Jalori Jot Pass, more than 60 local guides underwent intensive hands-on training in nature guiding, biodiversity conservation and eco-tourism, equipping them with new skills to tap the region's growing tourism potential and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The two-day Nature Guide and Eco-Tourism Guide Training Programme, jointly organized by the Ani Forest Division and the Eco-Tourism Society, Jalori Jot, transformed the high-altitude Himalayan landscape into a live classroom where participants learned directly from nature at ground zero.
Renowned naturalist and birding expert Ankush Thakur trained the guides in identifying birds, wildlife and native flora, understanding ecosystems, interpreting nature for visitors and adopting professional guiding practices.
Participants were also introduced to modern citizen-science platforms such as eBird, Merlin Bird ID and iNaturalist, enabling them to document and monitor biodiversity scientifically.
A major highlight of the programme was the field-based practical session conducted across the forests and meadows of Jalori Jot.
Guides gained first-hand experience in birdwatching, wildlife observation, habitat interpretation and visitor management techniques while navigating real-world conditions in the Himalayan wilderness.
Speaking on the occasion, DFO Anni Dr. Chaman Lal Rao said capacity-building initiatives were crucial for strengthening community-led conservation and sustainable tourism.
"Such programmes not only enhance the skills of local eco-guides but also generate livelihood opportunities while promoting responsible tourism and wildlife conservation in the region," he said.
Trainer Ankush Thakur emphasized that local guides are the strongest ambassadors of Himalayan biodiversity.
"When guides understand the ecology, wildlife and natural heritage of their own landscape, they can offer richer experiences to visitors while contributing to conservation efforts," he said.
Participants welcomed the practical approach of the training and said it had deepened their understanding of the area's natural wealth.
Many expressed confidence that the newly acquired skills would help them improve visitor experiences and enhance their earning opportunities through nature-based tourism.
Organizers said similar programmes would be conducted in future to build a stronger network of trained local guides and promote responsible eco-tourism across the region.
The successful completion of the programme marks an important step towards creating a cadre of skilled nature guides who can serve as custodians of the Himalayas' fragile ecosystems while supporting sustainable economic growth in mountain communities.
#EcoTourism #JaloriJot #BiodiversityConservation #HimalayanLivelihoods
