Jadung: Uttarakhand’s Newest Sustainable Tourism Hub for Astro-Tourism and Culture
The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) recently declared Jadung, an ancient village located near the Tibet border in Uttarkashi, as the latest tourist destination in Uttarakhand. Jadung is the first of five villages to be resettled and transformed into a sustainable tourism hub, offering activities such as astro-tourism, trekking, hiking, nature camps, and tribal culture experiences.
Jadung is a beautiful village located in the Himalayas and has remained unchanged over time. Its breathtaking scenery includes snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys. Visitors can experience the local culture and indulge in activities such as astro-tourism, trekking, hiking, nature camps, and tribal culture.
The Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Irrigation, Culture, PWD, Government of Uttarakhand, Shri Satpal Maharaj, flagged the first FAM tour to Jadung, expressing his excitement about the new initiative. He said, “Jadung is a great opportunity for visitors to experience the unique culture and beauty of Uttarakhand. The government is committed to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism in the state, and the introduction of Astro-Tourism will benefit the local communities and promote the state’s tourism sector.”
Jadung offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Uttarakhand’s traditional culture and is a hub for special interest tourism, such as astro-tourism. Visitors can enjoy stargazing without any light pollution. UTDB’s involvement in this initiative will not only help promote tourism in the village but also encourage sustainable tourism practices in the region, leading to the conservation of the local environment, culture and community.
The CEO of UTDB, Sachin Kurve, IAS, Secretary of Tourism, and CEO of UTDB, Government of Uttarakhand, said that visitors to Jadung can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience that combines stunning natural beauty, thrilling adventure activities, rich cultural heritage, and eco-friendly tourism options. The board aims to showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Uttarakhand and create more opportunities for tourism in the state.
UTDB has also been working towards developing and promoting lesser-known destinations in Uttarakhand, such as Jadung, to reduce the pressure on popular tourist destinations and promote sustainable tourism across the state. For adventure lovers, Jadung and its surroundings offer an array of activities such as trekking, hiking, bird watching, and nature camps. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the local culture by experiencing tribal culture and traditional architecture. Overall, it offers a rare opportunity for travellers to explore a destination that retains its natural charm and remains untouched by commercialization.