Application of analytical hierarchy process and GIS for ecotourism potentiality mapping in Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh, India

The aim of this study is to identify potential ecotourism site using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographical information system (GIS) in Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh, India. For this analysis, 13 elements such as slope, topographic roughness, vegetation, surface water accessibility, elevation, protected area, climate, visibility, road proximity, village proximity, soil, groundwater and geology have been taken into consideration. Required spatial data and information were collected from satellite imagery and available maps. AHP is widely used to provide criteria and class weight, and GIS is effectively used for the identification of ecotourism suitable zone. The result reveals the fact that out of total geographical land of the district 41% area is considered as high to very high suitable zone for ecotourism site development.