Established in 1988, it aims to evolve an integrated management strategy, demonstrate their efficacy for conservation of natural resources and ensure environmentally sound development in the Indian Himalayan region.

Apart from its research and technology development activities, the institute serves the environmental or development based issues in the mountain regions along with other national and international organizations. GBPIHED introduces seven core programs in research and development activity. It mainly concentrates on land and water resource management, sustainable development of rural ecosystems, conservation of biological diversity and ecological economics.

GBPIHED features a decentralized set up with headquarters at Kosi-Katarmal and four units at Srinagar, Kullu, Gangtok and Itanagar. Libraries, plant nurseries, laboratories for tissue culture, soil and water analyses, weather stations and data processing and information systems are used for their programs.

Training camps, workshops for the public, particularly women, students, teachers and army personnel are organized.