KARWAR: After the recent forest fire tragedy in Tamil Nadu that claimed the lives of 22 trekkers, several eco-tourism destinations in Karnataka have been shut. The Forest Department had stated that the parks will not be opened for trekking or other activities till the rains arrive.
While the move of the department has badly hit the adventure and eco-tourism activities in the state, Dandeli in Uttara Kannada stands in gain this season. Hundreds of tourists from many parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra are thronging this place for water sports activities, including 10-km-long white water rafting in Kali river.
Due to continuous drought for the last four years in the state, most of the rivers and streams have dried up. Only few rivers are left with some water. The water flow in these parts of Kali river is controlled by a dam and it gives an opportunity for the organisers to conduct white river rafting during summer months.
River-side resorts on the bank of Kali at Ganeshgudi are the main attraction. They are offering water sports activities, including kayaking and white water rafting. During weekends, more number of tourists visit here to enjoy bird watching, safari and many more offered by the resorts.
Umesh G E of Hornbill River Resort said the number of tourists has increased post March. “During weekend, there will be a good number of tourists. As school and college examinations have been completed, the families living in cities will plan tour to places like Dandeli. After April 10, the number of tourists arriving here will increase,” he said.
Moulangi eco-part located on the banks of Kali river near Dandeli is another attraction, where thousands of tourists arrive during weekends. For people from Hubballi and Dharwad, it is an ideal picnic spot.
Oumkar Umesh, owner of a homestay, said the number of tourists arriving here are gradually increasing. More number of tourists are expected after April 10.
During continuous holidays, tourists from Bengaluru, Mumbai and Hyderabad flock to Dandeli, which gives brisk business to homestays and resorts,” he said.
“Dandeli has been emerging as one of the best tourist spots in the district. More number of homestays, resorts and jungle lodges are making good business. All resorts and homestays have their own websites and offer good package for tourists,” he added.
Summer camps hit
Hubballi: With the the recent forest fire tragedy in Tamil Nadu and following ban on entry into forest areas, summer camps conducted in such places have been badly hit.
The organisers said there is fear among parents after the trekking tragedy in Tamil Nadu. Though the organising companies take precautions, the parents are wary.
Jog Falls in Shivamogga district, Sakaleshpur in Hassan district and Dandeli in Uttara Kannada district are the sought after destinations for summer camps. But due to ban on entry into the forest areas, a number of summer camps have been cancelled.
A home stay owner from Pansoli in Dandeli said while many tourists prefer water sports in Ganesh Gudi of Dandeli, there are no activities related to forests.