Team Goemkarponn
SURLA: The Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) is pleased to announce the development of a new ecotourism campsite at the scenic Surla Forest.
This initiative aims to boost sustainable tourism while conserving the region’s rich biodiversity and promoting SAFE eco-friendly travel experiences for locals and visitors alike.
Located in the lush Western Ghats, the Surla Forest is renowned for its dense greenery, diverse flora and fauna, and tranquil environment.
The ecotourism campsite will offer a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the untouched beauty of the forest, all while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.
Key Features of the Surla Forest Ecotourism Campsite:
Eco-Friendly Accommodation: The campsite will feature eco-friendly cabins and tents constructed with sustainable materials, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
Nature Trails and Trekking : A network of nature trails will be developed, providing guided trekking opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore the flora and fauna of Surla Forest.
Bird Watching:The campsite will be a haven for bird watchers, with dedicated birding spots and scheduled bird-watching tours guided by local experts.
Local Community Involvement: The project will involve local communities in managing the campsite and conducting cultural workshops, creating economic opportunities while preserving traditional knowledge and practices.
Conservation Education: The ecotourism initiative will include an educational center to raise awareness about the importance of forest conservation and sustainable tourism practices.
The brain child behind this Eco-Tourism project at Surla, the Chairperson of Goa Forest Development Corporation, Dr. Deviya Rane, stated that, “As the Chairperson of the Goa Forest Development Corporation, I am proud to see the Surla Forest Ecotourism Campsite coming to life—a project close to my heart and inspired by a vision to harmonize tourism with nature conservation.
This initiative is not just about showcasing the pristine beauty of the Surla Forest but also about creating a sustainable model where ecology, education, and community empowerment thrive together.
Through this project, we aim to nurture a deeper connection between people and nature while ensuring the preservation of Goa’s unique biodiversity for generations to come, because Goa is not just about beaches, but beyond that.”
The Managing Director of the Goa Forest Development Corporation, emphasized the importance of sustainable development in the region.
“We are excited to introduce the Surla Forest Ecotourism Campsite as a model of responsible tourism. This initiative not only aims to provide visitors with an authentic experience of Goa’s natural beauty but also underscores our commitment to conserving our rich biodiversity”
Through this project, we hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for nature among tourists while creating sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
The ecotourism project at Surla Forest is aligned with the Government of Goa’s vision of promoting sustainable tourism and protecting the state’s unique natural heritage.
