An Investigation of environmental impact of mountain tourism activities in Hunza: a tourist' s perspective

Abstract

Environmental impact of tourism is a critical issue in the mountain regions around the world. This research aims to study the tourists' perspective on the environmental pollution and their behavior about mountain tourism activities in Hunza valley. The data was collected by a set of questionnaires distributed among 300 foreign tourists, who visited Hunza during September, 2009 to October, 2009. Descriptive statistics along with one-way ANOVA was performed to analyze and test the hypotheses. The research outcomes revealed that eco-tourists identified more pollution in terms of human waste and animal litter, sanitation, scattered rubbish, noise pollution and crowding than mountaineers, trekkers and general tourists visiting Hunza. They strongly agreed that their behavior is positive towards environmental preservation, following the codes of conduct, local laws, customs and caring about health issues. Tourists staying for more than a week felt more pollution than those who stayed in Hunza for less than a week. Tourists also agreed to behave positively during their visit to Hunza. Furthermore, research revealed that group of more than 6 persons identified more pollution than those travelled in a small travel party size. The larger group also indicated that they behave positivly towards environmental preservation. Results of statistical analysis indicated that there are statistically differences in tourist's perception of environmental pollution and their behavior in terms of tourist type, travel party size and length of stay during their sojourn in Hunza. On the basis of results, researchers recommend to attract more eco-tourists in Hunza valley because of their friendly nature towards the environment.