National Wildlife Action Plan, 1983 had focussed attention on the importance of nature of human interactions with PA resources as critical to long-term bio diversity conservation. In this context, the potential of eco tourism as a strategy to link economic development and conservation of environmental and cultural heritage is clear and direct. The eco tourism, by definition, will have to be ecologically sustainable, educative and low cost and affordable. The guidelines of the Central Govt. do not permit Tourism in the Core Areas of the National Parks and Sanctuaries.

All the National Parks and Sanctuaries in West Bengal provide excellent opportunities for adventure and ecotourism as well as for nature education. Picturesque forest bunglows and rest houses located at vantage points within the sanctuary limits which are meant for touring forest officers are also made available for tourists when not in use by forest department officials. Tourists are encouraged to visit the nature trails and trekking routes, permits for which are given by the local forest offices. The government tourism department organises conducted tours to the Sunderbans and Doors. We have very informative Wildlife & Nature Interpretation Centres at Lava (Neora Valley National Park), Sukna (Mahananda WLS), Madarihat (Jaldapara WLS), Sajnekhali (Sunderban Tiger Reserve), Rajabhatkhawa ( Buxa Tiger Reserve), Lataguri (Gorumara NP), Kalimpong (Kalimpong Division Forests) and Bengal Natural History Museum, Darjeeling.

The information of booking of Forest Rest Houses can be had from Chief Wildlife Warden,West Bengal at ( bengaltiger@vsnl.com); Managing Director, West Bengal Forest Development Corporation Ltd at( wbfdcl@cal.vsnl.net.in ) ; Principal Chief Conservator of Forests,West Bengal at ( pccfwb@cal.vsnl.net.in ) ;while similar information for the tourist lodges can be had from the Tourism Department of Govt of West Bengal at ( wbtdc@cal2.vsnl.net.in ).