The Himachal Pradesh Tourism and Civil Aviation Department has submitted a Rs 29 crore detailed project report (DPR) to the Centre under the Swadesh Darshan-2 scheme, with approval expected in the coming months. If sanctioned, the project will transform the Ramsar-listed Pong Wetland into a globally recognised ecotourism destination, bringing much-needed attention to this overlooked natural gem.
The DPR, prepared by Voyants JV with IDECK, focuses on sustainable ecotourism development in the Pong Wetland, also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar. This man-made wetland of international significance spans 307 sq km across the Jawali, Fatehpur, Nurpur, and Dehra Assembly constituencies in Kangra district. It is home to a bird sanctuary, Rancer Island, the historic Bathu-ki-Ladi temples, and water sports facilities, attracting migratory birds in winter. However, despite its ecological and cultural significance, tourism infrastructure in the region has remained underdeveloped.
The proposed project aims to enhance the existing facilities while preserving the wetland’s natural beauty. At Nagrota Surian, a 7.5-acre site will be developed with tented accommodations, an eatery, parking, an information kiosk, and guided birding experiences. A few kilometres away, at Khabbal, a 5.9-acre nature camp will be set up, featuring a multipurpose tented hall, outdoor event space, souvenir shops, a food court, parking, and 32 tented accommodations. A nature trail will connect the two sites, offering visitors a seamless experience of the region’s rich biodiversity.
The master plan also envisions the creation of nature trails and a butterfly park, enhancing connectivity across the wetland and ensuring a more immersive experience for tourists. Officials estimate that with these developments, tourist footfall could increase fourfold over the next decade, generating significant employment opportunities for local communities.
District Tourism Officer Vinay Dhiman stated that, following the CM’s directive, the state tourism department has proposed a three-unit master plan to develop Pong Wetland into a major ecotourism hub. Sustainable eco-tourism facilities will be established in the Nagrota Surian (Sugnara and Khabbal) areas, while water sports and a wellness centre will be introduced in Khatiar to attract more visitors. A separate DPR has also been prepared for developing similar facilities in the Dehra area of the wetland.
Meanwhile, Dr HL Dhiman, a nominated member of the State Destination Management Committee (Swadesh Darshan-2), emphasised the need to upgrade road connectivity in the Pong Wetland area, particularly along the Dehra-Nagrota Surian-Jawali-Raja Ka Talab route. Converting this stretch into a national highway would significantly boost tourism, making the region more accessible to visitors from across the country.
With approval under Swadesh Darshan-2, the proposed tourism infrastructure is expected to elevate Pong Wetland to international standards, ensuring a balance between conservation and sustainable tourism.
