Abstract:
Horton Plains National Park (HPNP) is an area of high biodiversity and exceptional endemism
receiving high visitation (166,613 visitors in 2009), both by local and foreigners. Although, tourism
causes negative impacts on the environment, environmental valuation could be used for taking decisions
on natural resources management. The study shows that the recreational value of HPNP is Rs. 51.68
million rupees per year, but the total economic value could be many times higher than this. Calculations
showed the maximum revenue from the park could be obtained if the entrance fee is raised to Rs.
472.00. This may however reduce the present visitor number by 65%, but it will improve the total
revenue of the park by 314 %. These differences strengthen the common argument by both officials and
the public regarding insufficient allocation of man power and funds for natural resources management.
