Changing landscape and ecotourism development in a large dam site: a case study of Tehri dam, India

This paper presents an analysis of the historical change in the local landscape of Tehri dam, the highest earth and land filled dam in India, and surroundings focusing on changes that transpired due to dam construction. Based on the qualitative data collected using interviews and participant observation, past changes in physical, economic, and social landscapes were examined from the perspective of displaced populations. The transformation involved the initial emergence of energy landscape followed by the recent development of tourist landscape in the region. This emerging tourist landscape from the existing energy landscape was found to be promising for the local economy and potential tie point for social and cultural life. Persistent efforts on part of locals, tourists, and government can effectively enhance ecotourism. There is a need of understanding the current and future landscapes in light of past, evolving the therapeutic dimensions of natural landscape.