Impact of Climate Change on Himalayan Tourism Destinations

1. Introduction

Stretching across various countries in South Asia, the majestic mountain range of The Himalayas is known as the “Roof of the World”. The Himalayas is a beauty to behold with its towering peaks, breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Some of the highest peak of the world like the Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga are in this range where mountaineers, trekkers and adventure enthusiasts are attracted from around the globe. Apart from the beauty, the Himalayas also has great significance of culture and spiritual. For centuries ancient traditions, religions and indigenous culture has been flourishing in this mountain range. The Himalayan range is a popular destination among many tourists for cultural tours, spiritual retreats and even eco-tourism experiences because of its blend in cultural heritage which is beautifies by its stunning natural beauty. But regardless of how mighty the Himalayan range is, it is not immune to the various challenges like the retreating of glaciers, altered weather patterns and ecological disruption which occurs due to climate change. For the future generations to cherish and appreciate the Himalayan ranges it is important for the present generation to ensure longevity and vitality of the mountain range by putting in efforts to preserve the eco system and promote sustainable tourism practices.

Though the Himalayas offer a wide range of attraction, the climate change has a huge impact on the destination. The mountain range with its majestic landscape and fragile ecosystem is very much vulnerable to the effects of global warming. The region’s iconic attractions ad various tourism activities like the adventure tourism activities has been directly affected by the melting of glaciers, reduced snowfall, and also the altered weather pattern which is due to global warming. The Glaciers Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and landslides which occurs due to the retreat of the glaciers is a threat to the human settlement and infrastructure. Also the change of the pattern of precipitation and extreme weather conditions is also a very big issue for the adventure tourism which impact the safety of the visitor and various activities like trekking and mountaineering which have been feasible to the tourists. Climate change is also adversely affecting the balance in the ecosystem of the Himalayan region which results in the loss of biodiversity and even allowing the eco-tourism experience to lose their authenticity. These results in the need and requirement for implementing sustainable tourism practices and various adaptation strategies. For the Himalayan tourism destination to have resilience and long term sustainability, it is high time that the local communities, government and tourism stakeholders to collaborate and work towards the same goal. Taking into consideration of global warming and climate change while tourism planning, promoting various sustainable practices and supporting the conservation of natural and cultural heritage in mitigating the harsh effects of global warming and climate change and preserve the unique destination for the future generations to enjoy.