Perception of local people and visitors towards ecotourism development in Jagadishpur reservoir

Ecotourism promotes stewardship of natural and cultural resources. However, local people tourists' opinions are necessary to promote ecotourism development. This study attempts identify prospective products assess visitor perceptions towards development in the Jagadishpur reservoir. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 50 households, 65 visitors, 7 key informants. used Friedman's rank test determine preferences for products, Fisher's exact quantify locals visitors' ecotourism. The findings showed that lakes/scenic beauty, bird watching highest rated by respectively. Local visitors perceived picnic spots view towers as additional development, no significant difference area is suitable ecotourism, biodiversity conservation, livelihood promotion locals. a was found perception between culture tradition. both positive terms suitability, livelihood, conservation. Detailed understanding prioritized can contribute more effectively. Furthermore, research on feasibility identified effectiveness fund allocation urgently needed develop wetland tourism sustainable way.