Proposed geoheritage sites along the transects of the Lunavada and surrounding areas promoting sustainable tourism within NE Gujarat and SW Rajasthan, India

The Lunavada-Kadana Transect is an excellent area to display the geoheritage of the north-eastern region of Gujarat and south-western region of Rajasthan. It provides a diverse set of aspects to gawk at, stimulating the intrigue in one’s mind as well as bringing a heightened sense of appreciation for Earth processes. This paper provides a concise summary of four viable and easily accessible traverses across the region. The sites were selected after several detailed field seasons based on numerous factors such as individuality, scenic views, tourist attraction, peculiarity, uniqueness, and potential for tourism education as well as scientific studies. Additionally, they have been assessed with a quantitative scheme to determine their suitability for becoming geosites. The present study has narrowed down thirteen sites, which have a wide range of geological aspects. This variation in the range can promote the area to become a field geological museum and an arena to hone one’s field aptitude with a rich repository of literature published over the century. Such initiatives can also foster learning for sustainability by deepening our understanding of natural systems and encouraging responsible stewardship. Geosites are often overlooked and lost to the pages of obscurity buried within the pages of scientific literature; promoting them by granting the status of a Geoheritage site garners the attention of the masses as well as their appreciation for such features. Consequently, it becomes our duty to preserve such marvels as natural wealth for future generations through frameworks rooted in sustainable tourism and education for peace, ensuring that development is inclusive, mindful, and resilient.