Himalayan cultural hub: Tehri Uttrakhand/

Abstract

The architectural thesis, titled “Himalayan Cultural Hub, Tehri, Uttarakhand”. A live project proposed by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) as part of the broader initiative,” Tehri Lake Development Project,” funded by the Asian Development Bank. The project aims to establish a Cultural Hub that promotes sustainable tourism while generating meaningful and long-term economic opportunities for the local communities of Tehri Garhwal. The need for this project arises from the growing challenges faced by the region, including limited diversification of tourism, seasonal economic fluctuation, youth unemployment, and high rates of out-migration due to a lack of local livelihood opportunities. Tourism in Uttarakhand has been largely confined to pilgrimage and wellness sectors, concentrated within a narrow seasonal window. This has led to overcrowding in certain months, environmental degradation, and economic instability for residents. Many villages in the region are witnessing a decline in population as younger generations migrate to urban centres in search of better employment, leaving behind vulnerable economies and fading cultural practices. There is thus an urgent need to create inclusive, place-based development models that support year-round economic engagement and cultural preservation. The design approach focuses on integrating traditional Himalayan architectural language with contemporary sustainable planning strategies. It emphasizes the use of local materials, climate-responsive construction, and active community participation. The Cultural Hub includes dedicated zones for art and craft workshops, vocational training centres, a “Haat” (marketplace), performance spaces, and public interaction areas. These components are designed to encourage skill-building, knowledge exchange, and entrepreneurship. The intended outcomes include empowering local artisans and marginalized groups, preserving and revitalizing regional heritage, offering meaningful cultural experiences to tourists, and strengthening the local economy. The hub is expected to generate employment across construction and operational phases, reduce migration by providing viable livelihood options, and promote Tehri as a sustainable, all-season tourism destination. Keywords: Cultural Centre, Sustainable tourism, Community livelihood