Chennai, Sep 18
The Nilgiris Forest Department has issued a strict directive curbing tourism-related activities inside private tea estates, after an inspection revealed that estate managers were collecting entry fees from visitors to view a colonial-era bungalow and surrounding scenic spots.
Officials said the action followed a tip-off that a private tea estate in the Hungerford area, near Governors Shola, had been promoting the bungalow and a nearby hanging bridge on social media as must-visit tourist attractions.
The spot, reportedly used as a backdrop in a few films, began drawing significant footfall. Estate staff is alleged to have been charging Rs 100 per visitor as an "entry fee" and even imposing fines on those who accidentally strayed into the property.
Following the inspection, forest personnel penalised the estate management with a fine of Rs 1 lakh.
A case has also been registered under the Tamil Nadu Forest Act, 1882.
"No private estate has the authority to regulate or monetise tourism activities inside reserve forest boundaries or adjoining areas," a senior forest official said, warning that similar practices elsewhere would invite strict action.
The department has also deployed staff at the location to prevent tourists from entering the estate premises. Visitors arriving at the site have since been turned away.
Officials said the measure was necessary to ensure that protected forest zones are not commercialised under the guise of private property rights.
The Nilgiris, with its lush tea estates and historic bungalows, has long been a magnet for tourists.
However, conservationists argue that unchecked tourism in ecologically fragile areas such as Governors Shola could lead to environmental degradation.
Forest officials have cautioned all private estates and farms against advertising tourism activities online or offline, adding that they must seek prior clearance from the authorities before engaging in any such ventures.
The crackdown is part of a broader effort to regulate tourism in the Nilgiris, where the line between private holdings and sensitive forest zones is often blurred.
Authorities said the latest action should serve as a warning to other estate owners who may attempt to exploit natural heritage sites for profit without permission.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I support conservation, the government should also create proper regulated tourism opportunities. People want to experience these beautiful colonial bungalows and tea estates. Complete ban isn't solution - need balanced approach ðŸƒ
Was there last month and paid the entry fee! Didn't realize it was illegal. The estate staff made it seem like official charges. Glad authorities are taking action against such practices. Tourists need to be more aware too.
As someone who loves Nilgiris, I appreciate this action. The hanging bridge near Governors Shola is beautiful but too many tourists will damage it. Sustainable tourism is the need of the hour. Hope other states learn from TN's approach.
Vikram M
₹1 lakh fine is too less for such violations! These estates make crores from such illegal activities. Should be stricter penalties and maybe even cancellation of land leases for repeat offenders.
Interesting case of private property rights vs forest conservation. While estate owners shouldn't exploit forest areas, the government should also provide clear guidelines on what's permissible. Many tea estates have historic value worth preserving.
Social media promotion is the real problem here! Instagram and YouTube influencers made these spots viral without checking legality. Content creators need to be more responsible about promoting ec
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