AIPEN—a vibrant and intricate folk art of Uttarakhand—is more than just an artistic expression; it is a symbol of cultural heritage, spirituality, and the deep-rooted traditions of the hills. However, like many traditional arts, AIPEN is fading with time, and so is the identity it represents.
To preserve, promote, and integrate AIPEN into modern tourism, Samaarambh Foundation has launched the AIPEN Initiative, a transformative project that blends art, nature, and livelihood creation to uplift rural communities.
AIPEN: A Canvas for Cultural and Economic Revival
Village Beautification for Tourism – Every home in the village will be adorned with AIPEN paintings, surrounded by flower and vegetable gardens, turning entire villages into living art galleries that attract tourists and photographers alike.
- Empowering Rural Homestays – Locals will receive assistance in building and managing homestays, providing a sustainable source of income through inbound tourism.
- Plant-A-Tree (PAT) Initiative – In collaboration with the State Government, tourists and bikers entering the state will have the unique opportunity to plant a tree at designated green toll booths. Their details will be recorded, and state rest house staff will nurture the tree, sharing periodic updates with the “Guardian Tourist.” This emotional connection will encourage repeat visits and long-term tourism engagement.
- Environmental Conservation & Rejuvenation – By integrating eco-tourism, green cover expansion, and traditional art, the initiative will foster sustainable tourism while preserving Uttarakhand’s fragile ecosystem.
AIPEN is more than an initiative—it is a movement to restore heritage, empower communities, and redefine tourism as a force for good.
Join us in painting a brighter future—where tradition, sustainability, and livelihood go hand in hand.
