Sirmaur Van Vihar: A new jewel in state’s eco-tourism landscape

Sirmaur district in Himachal Pradesh is all set to welcome tourists to a newly developed eco-tourism destination, Sirmaur Van Vihar. Situated along the National Highway-707, this scenic retreat offers a unique blend of nature, culture and knowledge. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, it promises visitors an opportunity to unwind in a serene environment while exploring the region’s rich heritage.

The Sirmaur Van Vihar project was initiated under the Eco-Tourism and Nai Rahein Nai Manzil scheme in 2022, with an aim to promote sustainable tourism. Developed over two acres near the Sataun Bridge, on the Paonta Sahib-Shillai National Highway-707, this project was completed with an investment of Rs 50 lakh. The Forest Department has ensured that the site is equipped with modern amenities, making it a perfect stopover for travellers exploring the region.

One of the key attractions of Sirmaur Van Vihar is the museum named ‘Sirmaur Ki Dharohar’, which provides an immersive experience into the history and traditions of the region. Tourists will get an opportunity to learn about the culture of Sirmaur, the traditions of the Hattee community and the legacy of the Sirmaur princely state. The museum also showcases local festivals, traditional Sirmauri cuisine, the flora and fauna of the district and the significance of medicinal plants found in the region. To maintain the museum and its facilities, a nominal entry fee will be charged.

Adding to the charm of Sirmaur Van Vihar is a cultural-themed cafeteria, where visitors will be treated to authentic Sirmauri delicacies. Inspired by the successful She-Haat initiative in Pachhad, this cafeteria will be managed by women from self-help groups. The Forest Department is set to sign an MoU with a local women’s group, ensuring that around 15–20 women gain financial independence through this initiative. Given the impressive turnover of She-Haat, which has surpassed Rs. 1 crore, the Van Vihar cafeteria is expected to be equally successful in providing a stable source of income for local women.

Nature lovers visiting Sirmaur Van Vihar will find themselves surrounded by lush greenery and the calming presence of the Giri river. The park has been thoughtfully designed to offer visitors a peaceful retreat, with comfortable seating arrangements and eco-friendly infrastructure. A unique highlight of the site is a natural water source, where a traditional bamboo water channel system has been installed to allow visitors to experience fresh, natural spring water. Facilities such as restrooms and designated relaxation areas have also been provided to enhance the overall experience.

This project holds special significance as it is part of the Paonta Sahib-Shillai-Gumma-Fedizpul National Highway-707 Green Corridor, which is in its final phase of development. Spanning over 100 km, this highway will soon offer travellers a well-planned eco-tourism experience, with Sirmaur Van Vihar emerging as a key attraction. Paonta Sahib, already renowned for its historic gurdwara, receives a steady influx of tourists from across the country and abroad. Located just 15–20 km from the city, Sirmaur Van Vihar will provide an additional reason for travellers to extend their stay in the region.

With its seamless fusion of heritage, ecology, and sustainable tourism, Sirmaur Van Vihar is poised to become a model destination in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh. This initiative not only adds value to the state’s tourism landscape but also creates economic opportunities for local communities, reinforcing the vision of responsible and inclusive tourism. As the project nears its official inauguration, it is expected to leave a lasting impression on visitors and establish itself as a must-visit attraction in the region.