Tourism Development Plan – Nirmand

Nirmand is a small village located in the Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 1450m above sea level in the Sutlej valley. Nirmand is considered to be a sacrosanct place where Lord Parshuram is believed to have settled the Brahmins in a bid to eliminate the Kshatriyas, members of the warrior caste, from the face of the Earth. Nirmand has also been referred to as a ‘Harappan survivor’ by many historians. Some of the facts that ascertain the same are the presence of grid lines that form the village, the primary temple of Parashuram as the citadel and the role of the many fresh water springs in the village.

The architectural history of the village is also one to marvel at. Almost all the heritage structures have beautiful wooden and stone carvings on facades and doorways. The vernacular architecture is the backbone of the overall aesthetic quality of the village. At the same time it complements the traditional lifestyle of the villagers. Nirmand has been able to maintain its sanctity from the juggernaut of insensible human interventions in the name of development. However this seems to be under threat as traces of changing trend can be found in the peripheral developments. Therefore, this is the right time when a comprehensive and holistic approach has to be put into place.

INTACH has taken the initiative to prepare an integrated and holistic sustainable development plan for Nirmand.  Sustainable tourism, along with conservation and protection of the built heritage would be the major goals of this initiative. Enhancing prospects of tourism will not only help provide an alternative income for the villagers but would also act as an inspiration for the villagers to hold on to their traditions and preserve their mythology. Along with built heritage, steps need to be taken for the revival of traditional arts and crafts like wood carving, stone carving etc which have almost become extinct. Hence it seems imperative to protect this beautiful Himalayan abode and make it accessible for people to know and experience history in its living form along with the rejuvenating ambiance that it offers.