Corbett’s wildlife pays the price for growing wedding and party tourism
The Corbett tiger landscape has for long been famous for its tigers, elephants and other rich wildlife and forests visited by nature enthusiasts from across India and abroad. However, recent trends point towards a rising number of people visiting this area for wild recreational events, which often violate the law. Increasing party tourism in resorts dotting this wildlife-rich landscape is becoming a cause for concern.
Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to promote destination weddings in Uttarakhand, the area surrounding Corbett National Park has also emerged as a popular venue for wedding celebrations, giving a significant boost to local tourism and employment. However, the changing nature of tourism has also raised fresh concerns.
The Corbett landscape, once known for its peace, natural beauty and wildlife experiences, is increasingly witnessing complaints of late-night loud music, liquor parties and objectionable activities in some resorts. Recently, the Kumaon chapter of Uttarakhand Against Noise Pollution was also launched in the Corbett landscape by locals who are raising their voice against noise pollution from resorts. Environmentalists believe such activities are not only affecting the cultural identity of Devbhoomi (abode of gods) but are also disturbing the natural behaviour of wildlife in the surrounding forests.
The issue came under the spotlight recently after police raided a party at a resort in Sanwalde near Ramnagar. According to the police, the raid was conducted following complaints of obscenity, cash being showered on dancers and other objectionable activities during the event reportedly hosted by a pesticide company owner from Meerut in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh. The police arrested the accused and sealed the resort.
According to officials, a case was registered under section 210/2026, 143 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, Excise Act and the Juvenile Justice Act. The incident has triggered a wider debate across the state over the changing face of tourism in the Corbett region.
Local residents claim that this is not an isolated incident. They allege that some resort operators are encouraging such events in pursuit of higher profits. Large groups from Delhi, Haryana, Meerut, Gurugram, Noida and other places reportedly visit this region primarily for weekend parties featuring alcohol, DJ nights and even objectionable activities in some cases.
Loud music, high-intensity lighting and overnight vehicular movement are also said to be disturbing wildlife in the surrounding forest areas.
Wildlife experts believe it is essential to maintain a balance between tourism and environmental conservation in ecologically sensitive areas like Corbett. They warn that if regulations are not enforced strictly, the long-term impact could affect both wildlife conservation and the region’s natural identity. Corbett director Saket Badola said that people visiting the region solely for partying and obscene activities are not in keeping with the true spirit of tourism in Corbett. He said it is the responsibility of resort owners and operators not to permit such unethical activities and to ensure that tourism remains responsible and respectful. He also stated that the Corbett administration has been taking consistent action against resorts violating norms related to late-night DJ systems and high-intensity lighting.
