Participative development strategy for ecotourism in the Hampi World Heritage Area (HWHA): assessment of the current situation in terms of demand and supply of tourism services and cultural activities; consultations with the stakeholders, in order to identify development priorities and the obstructions hampering the development of sustainable tourism in HWHA; identification of the specific actions needed to stimulate tourism development and diversification.

The austere, grandiose site of Hampi was the final capital of the last great Hindu Kingdom of Vijayanagar and has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1986. Nowadays, the area is one of the the most extraordinary tourism attractions in the whole of India, on account of its unique ruins and spectacularly beautiful natural setting, all encompassed in some 40 km².
The Government of Karnataka views sustainable tourism development in Hampi World Heritage Area (HWHA) as a means to equalize some of the current social imbalances, while creating income opportunities for the local population and preserving cultural and natural resources for future generations.
However, if not addressed, the touristic development in HWHA will amplify the present social imbalances, until it eventually becomes an unsustainable exercise.
Key elements of the strategy designed by HYDEA and partners Target Euro, ECCOM e HCI Consultants included site interpretation, circuit development, tourism infrastructure improvement, marketing plan and institutional strengthening.

From – To
2009 – 2010

Client
Dept. of Tourism, Bangalore

Funding
Local funds