<p>The Central Himalayas have witnessed the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature from the Mesolithic period, as evidenced by the Lakhuḍiyāra caves in Almora. This region encompasses the State of Uttarakhand, which has two administrative divisions, namely Garhwal and Kumaon, that are further divided into thirteen districts. This region shares its borders with the adjoining States of Himachal Pradesh, Nepal, Uttar Pradesh, and Tibet. The Central Himalayas are rich in biodiversity, making them the most coveted area for human settlements. Recently, amidst industrialisation and globalisation, this region has seen increased human interference. Hence, it is vital to sustain this area’s economy and culture by preserving natural resources. One must thus look back to the ancient strategies and mythologies created and adopted by the inhabitants of the Central Himalayas for protecting and preserving their natural resources. This paper attempts to explore the ethos of preservation intertwined with religious, cultural, and spiritual beliefs. Sources like epigraphs, Purāṇas, and folklores are used for discussing the ancient and cultural strategies of resource management. The symbiotic relationship between human settlement and the environment is discussed through religious practices and festivals like Phūl Deī and Harelā which promote the preservation of natural resources. For addressing contemporary challenges, the constitutional mandates and environmental legislations relating to the pollution of holy rivers and unchecked land acquisition are discussed as some of the legal interventions. Eco-feminist movements like <i>Chipko</i>, <i>Maiti</i>, <i>Rakshasutra</i>, and <i>Beej Bachao</i> are discussed for exemplifying the grassroots efforts for the conservation of natural resources. This study also addresses recent developments where holy rivers are given recognition as legal entities.</p>